Whenever I travel anywhere around the world I always love to explore the local markets. They are a great way to experience the local culture, and North Queensland is no exception. So one of the best things to do in Port Douglas, if you’re staying in Tropical North Queensland, is to go for a browse around the Port Douglas markets.
These markets are definitely one of the more touristy markets in the region but they do have a cool tropical vibe and some interesting products that you would only find in the tropics.
The location definitely helps set the tone. You’ll find the Port Douglas markets located on the foreshore overlooking the Coral Sea underneath the palm trees.
These are some of the things you’ll find:
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]Food[/headline]
There are lots of food items on offer from gourmet treats to locally grown tea and coffee.
You can buy pickled chutneys, bags of nuts, fresh pineapple, fruit and vegetables, frozies or drink milk straight from the coconut with a straw.
In fact, this is probably one of the best things to do in Port Douglas markets. The coconut stand is usually one of the most popular stalls as you can tell by the line of people.
Once you’ve drunk the coconut juice, you can go back and get your coconut cut in half so you can enjoy the coconut flesh accompanied by banana and syrup.
A true North Queensland delicacy that you’re unlikely to find anywhere else.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]art[/headline]
Not surprisingly, the tropical lifestyle of Far North Queensland attracts an amazing variety of artists.
If you want to pick up some artworks to remind you of your visit this is the place to look.
You can buy original paintings of North Queensland locations and wildlife, aboriginal paintings and boomerangs, photographs of the region, pottery, glassware and sculptures.
There are even driftwood mobiles and coconut cups, candles and carvings.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]jewellery[/headline]
There are a lot of jewellery stalls and they are all so different from each other.
There’s everything from Bohemian beaded jewellery, colourful stones, elegant sterling silver designs, bright coloured chunky resin necklaces, shell jewellery and lots more.
And, for a truly tropical look, why not pick up some jewellery made from coconut shells?
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]clothing[/headline]
It wouldn’t be a trip to the tropics without a sarong so head to the markets to find your perfect design. There’s also a multitude of tropical kaftans and beachwear if you want something new to wear around the pool, as well as white embroidered lace products and boutique handmade kid’s clothes.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]unique market products[/headline]
And then there are windchimes, dream catchers, musical instruments, bags, rugs, wooden signs, temporary tattoos, tarot reading and much, much more.
The Port Douglas Markets are always really busy because it has such a wide variety of stalls with good quality products. You might need to park a few streets away if you’re driving but it’s worth the walk.
Having breakfast or a coffee and then browsing around the markets is one of the best things to do in Port Douglas.
[headline size=”small” align=”left”]travel nq fast facts[/headline]
- The Port Douglas markets are held in Anzac Park at the end of Macrossan Street
- They run every Sunday 8am-1pm.
