Retail outlets in Port Douglas continue to struggle despite indications visitor numbers have increased, according to Port Douglas Chamber of Commerce board member, Doug Calvert.

Mr Calvert, who himself owns a number of retail outlets in town, said that while a formal survey of local businesses has yet to be undertaken he suspects it has been another tough year for many.

"The fact is that this year is worse than last year.

"My gut feel is that there seems to be more (visitors) around than last year, but as far as their spending in retail, no (it's down).

"It's a tough year, but that's Australia wide, that's world wide. It's a case of making us the best tourist town in Australia, and trying to defend our position in the market place as best we can.

"Things like the waterfront are so important. Any money we can get from anywhere to do anything (is needed)!" he said with a laugh.

Mr Calvert said that despite being relatively unaffected by the severe weather events of earlier in the year, the region has suffered as a consequence.

"Cyclone Yasi was a disaster. It left us in a tourist wasteland until the school holidays came. Provided we don't have that next year, hopefully we'll be in a better position.

Executive Officer for Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree, Doug Ryan, said if occupancy was anything to go by, visitor numbers have increased.

"It's slightly up on last year. Last year was up by 6% on the previous year, so that augers well. Unfortunately it was the first quarter that killed us.

"If you look at July occupancy was around 80%. It softened off about mid-August and the beginning of this month down to around about 70%.

"The prediction is for the school holidays and into October, that many properties, the average will be up around 85%, many properties will be at 100%."

Do you run a local business? Let us know your experience in 2011.