Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific - Birthday Celebration in Port Douglas

My partner and I, along with our 2 best friends, are going to Port Douglas for his 44th birthday next March. Can anyone provide me with suggestions for a nice celebration? Best bakery for a cake? Florist for flowers? Shop for balloons? Restaurant with best view/ food for a celebration? Something special/ unique? All suggestions are appreciated- thanks!

and I don't remember the name, but there was an outdoors restaurant that was situated throughout a nest of trees. Mrs. M and the kids, then 12 and 14, thought that it was pretty cool eating in the trees, but it was very humid early in the evening.

I don't remember eating anywhere that had an outstanding view. There is a shopping area near the dock that we took out Barrier Reef trip from that had some restaurants, but they weren't that nice.

Have fun and drink some Boag's - beer from Tasmania.

Swimmin' M

http://www.cairnsdining.com/suburb_Port+Douglas

not much of an experience report, but a complete list with info`s.

Restaurant with best view/ food for a celebration? Something special/ unique? All suggestions are appreciated- thanks!

M2Swim is probably thinking of Nautilus (http://www.nautilus-restaurant.com.au/index.htm) It's trendy to criticize the place but it still provides a great dining experience, at a price, in a magic setting. It's a superb place for celebrations as the palm trees tower over you giving the impression of being inside a vaulted ceiling cathedral.

The other recommendation I'd have is Flames in the Forest (http://www.flamesoftheforest.com.au/index.html). However, it may not re-open until late March, perhaps too late for you. The food is adequate, the wines are limited but the setting and experience is unique. I'd guarantee your partner will remember it long after many other birthdays are forgotten.

Thanks for all your suggestions- does anyone have first-hand info re: Swish Port Douglas?

I believe Swish ceased to exist a couple of years ago.

I like Nautilus. Beautiful scenery and great food.

Most of the other places are more casual spots so perhaps not up to birthday party standards. For great seafood I like 4FISH, but again, very casual. They have outdoor dining that overlooks the harbor.

I like Nautilus. Beautiful scenery and great food.

Most of the other places are more casual spots so perhaps not up to birthday party standards. For great seafood I like 4FISH, but again, very casual. They have outdoor dining that overlooks the harbor.

Thanks, Molly- it doesn't have to be real splash- casual is just fine, but would like something special. I'll look into your suggestions. Thanks again!

Other options to look at while you are here: 2 Fish Restaurant (http://www.2fishrestaurant.com.au/about_2fish_restaurant.htm)*, On The Inlet, Salsa Bar and Grill, Zinc Restaurant. If you happen to find yourself in Palm Cove at any point, Nu Nus is probably the current best restaurant in the whole region.

* The owner, Jeff Gale, previously operated Swish.

I'll be in Port Douglas in just over a week. If you'd like I can pick up some of the various flyers or brochures and mail them to you when I get back to the US. I'd be happy to snap a few pictures too if we're not going out of our way.

Jeff