John Downs
We reveal Australia’s must-visit destinations and uncover their hidden gems.
While Noosa Heads on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast often basks in the spotlight, Noosaville, just a short drive from Main Beach, is equally alluring. With a picturesque boutique strip overlooking the Noosa River, it’s a truly idyllic setting to soak up holiday vibes and a dose of retail therapy. A meandering river walkway and a constant parade of boats add to the laid-back feel, with an array of gourmet cafes satisfying the tastebuds as you shop to your heart’s content.
Coco + Bliss
John Downs
John Downs
John Downs
Stop 1 | Coco + Bliss
Exuding a luxe modern coastal feel, Coco + Bliss is filled with a curated collection of covetable pieces. The store was established by English architect, Sarah Waller and her discerning aesthetic is evident with cushions, fragrance, ceramics, handmade pieces, lighting, jewellery and potted greenery all chosen for their form and function. “I’m a good shopper and thought I’d put my experience into practice!” says Sarah. “Everything on the shelves is a piece I’d have in my own home, and I try to support local makers.” Sarah’s daughter, Tasmin, hand makes clay bead bracelets, while the talented staff are responsible for many of the other hand-crafted pieces in the store.
Must-haves: No.8 beaded bracelets, Kiki Vonk beaded hanger (above left), $99.95.
Open: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 10am-4pm.
Visit: Shop 20, The Islander Resort, Gympie Terrace, (07) 5449 8842.
Bookmark: cocoandbliss.com.au
Saffron
John Downs
John Downs
John Downs
Stop 2 | Saffron Noosa
For owner Shirley Fox, Saffron Noosa is the culmination of a long-held dream to have a store along this charming boutique strip. When a space became available six years ago, Shirley snapped it up, moved here from interstate and within four weeks opened the doors to her stunning Hamptons-meets-French provincial store, awash with beguiling homewares, furniture and accessories. “The atmosphere is amazing,” says Shirley. “Everyone who comes into the store is happy to be on holidays, or happy to live in such a magical part of the world.”
Must-haves: Madras Link ‘Leaf’ cushion, $110, and rectangular Madras Link ‘Aqua’ cushion, $69.
Open: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 10am-4pm.
Visit: 197 Gympie Terrace, (07) 5449 9770.
Bookmark: Follow Saffron Noosa on Instagram @saffronnoosa
Eclectic Style Noosa
John Downs
John Downs
John Downs
STOP 5 | Eclectic Style Noosa
Spread across more than 600 square metres, the word ‘big’ simply doesn’t convey the enormity of Eclectic Style Noosa. It’s best to set aside time to explore this smorgasbord of furniture, art and homewares, and to wander through the incredible displays ranging from dreamy boho bedroom set-ups to decadent dining tables laden with beautiful napery and tableware. Owners Norm and Kris Blurton’s global travels inspire the truly diverse range. Their philosophy centres on sourcing unique handmade pieces and recycled timber furniture from India and Indonesia, plus modern furniture and antiques from China.
Must-haves: Assam teak stool, vintage Indian wood-framed jali screen, $297.
Open: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 10am-4pm.
Visit: Shop 10, Noosa Homemaker Centre, Thomas Street, (07) 5470 2946.
Bookmark: eclecticstyle.com.au
STOP 3 | The River Read
Owned by sisters Lucinda Morley and Natalie Webster, this lovely space combines their three loves: books, pretty paper and coffee. A stone’s throw from the Noosa River, it’s a relaxing getaway for locals and visitors alike, with walls of books to peruse, an entire room devoted to children’s books and games, and a tantalising selection of cakes to complement freshly brewed Toby’s Estate coffee. Stationery lovers can also get their fix – pretty ranges hand-picked by the sisters include La La Land, Marini Ferlazzo, E. Frances Paper and cards by local designer, Lucky 44.
Must-haves: Dailylike wrapping paper book, $34.95, La La Land cold press natural soap, $9.95.
Open: Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm; Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 9am-4pm.
Visit: 2/203 Gympie Terrace, (07) 5473 0483.
Bookmark: theriverread.com.au
STOP 4 | Pandanus Culture
An explosion of vibrant colour and pattern imbues this packed store with a feel-good atmosphere. “We want to inspire people,” says Jo, who, along with husband, Murray, selects the diverse range of contemporary cushions, tableware, giftware and jewellery on offer. All things bright and bold are front and centre here, with outdoor rugs, beach umbrellas and cute curios clamouring for attention. “I love creating stories with the collections, so I’m always moving things around the store and Murray’s skill is creating bespoke timber furniture [pictured above],” says Jo.
Must-haves: Raybenge Design framed Noosa River print, $160; Anna Chandler placemats, $55/set of 4.
Open: Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm; Sun, 10am-4pm.
Visit: Corner Thomas Street and Gympie Terrace, (07) 5449 8883.
Bookmark: pandanusculture.com
While you’re there… The area is renowned for its spectacular waterways, so make the most of it on a Noosa Ferry cruise, which takes in the riverside town of Tewantin, Noosa North Shore and Main Beach. Try your skills at stand-up paddle boarding, enjoy a bushwalk on a scenic track in the Noosa National Park and load up with local produce at the Noosa Farmers’ Market held each Sunday at the local football grounds. Foodies may also enjoy taking a class at The Cooking School Noosa, which offers hands-on experience in patisserie, Japanese, French and South-East Asian cuisine, followed by lunch.
Visit more shopping precincts here.
