Ocean Nails and Beauty

"I love my job, but I love people even more," smiles Alicia Tran, the owner of Ocean Nails and Beauty.

Her beauty salon is tucked into a cul de sac of Victoria Street and Alicia has been the owner of the business since 2021.

Born in Vietnam, Alicia was just fifteen years old when she left her family behind. “I arrived in Australia in 1995 after spending nearly five years in a Hong Kong detention centre as a refugee,” Alicia recalls. “It was scary and challenging.”

In Melbourne Alicia earned a degree in business accounting and worked in the field for a while but found it wasn’t her calling. Retail came next, and eventually, beauty.

“I don’t know why, but I love the smell of nail polish!” she laughs. “It sounds strange, but it sparked something in me.”
In 2015, Alicia joined Ocean Nails Beauty as an employee, quickly becoming a favourite among clients for her detailed work and warm personality. When the previous owner decided to sell, Alicia took a leap of faith. “I loved the clients, the community, and the work. It just made sense.”

For Alicia, her business is not just about perfect nails—it’s about building connections and creating a space where everyone feels cared for. From bio gel treatments, SNS manicures to waxing, Alicia and her team serve their clients seven days a week.

What truly sets Alicia apart is her genuine love for her community. Many clients have been loyal for years, returning for both the top-notch services and the warmth they feel when they walk through the door.

“Every client is special to me,” Alicia says. “Seeing familiar faces and sharing laughs makes it all worthwhile.”

Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna Encio