West Indies Shopping Guide: What to Buy & Where to Find It
Nestled in the shimmering turquoise waters where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean Sea, the West Indies are a treasure trove of culture, history, and artisanal brilliance, making my West Indies shopping guide an extra special one. Comprising 13 independent nations and 19 dependencies, this vibrant island culture captivates travelers with its breathtaking natural beauty, colorful culture and rich traditions.
On a recent cruise aboard the Sapphire Princess, I explored the islands of St. Thomas, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, and Antigua, uncovering their artistic heartbeats through distinctive art, crafts, fashion, and culinary delights.
A Glimpse into the History of Caribbean Arts and Crafts
Caribbean artwork is a mesmerizing tapestry of cultures woven over centuries. Influenced by African, Indian, European, and Middle Eastern traditions, the region’s art reflects a blend of ancestral techniques and innovative designs. From intricate wood carvings and madras textiles to pottery, basketry, and handmade jewelry, Caribbean artisans skillfully transform indigenous materials including seashells, driftwood, clay, bamboo, sea glass, and straw into vibrant works of art.
In the southern Caribbean, craft markets are the pulse of local creativity. Amidst many stalls of mass-produced trinkets and inexpensive souvenirs and gifts, hidden gems of art and crafts made by talented local hands await discovery—each piece is a story of resilience, tradition, and artistic talent.
Whether you're seeking paintings, crafts, décor, or wearable art, the markets of these islands offer a glimpse into the soul of the Caribbean and its history. Think of it as a cultural treasure hunt!
Let’s embark on a journey through the islands and their craft markets to uncover unique, authentic treasures that make the West Indies a creative paradise.
St. Thomas - A Haven for Art Enthusiasts
St. Thomas is a true haven for art lovers. While the downtown Vendors Plaza in Charlotte Amalie offers a bustling flea market atmosphere with mass-produced souvenirs, the real artistic treasures are found in the island’s many galleries and local boutiques.
Mango Tango Art Gallery
This vibrant gallery showcases fine art, prints, maps, and stationery, offering visitors a curated selection of Caribbean-inspired creativity.
Tropical Creations Gallery and Cultural Center
Resident artist Tulip Fleming transforms indigenous materials like gourds and coconuts into stunning hand-painted and burned designs. Her collection also features fashion, jewelry, and home décor.
Bajo el Sol Gallery, Art Bar, and Rum Room
If you are taking the ferry to St. John, check out this unique spot in Cruz Bay. The space combines a local fine art gallery with a bar serving craft cocktails and aged rums. The eclectic space embodies the island’s artistic and spirited heritage.
To discover more handcrafted shops in St. Thomas, check out my previous post NCL Eastern Caribbean Cruise.
Dominica - Where Tradition Meets Creativity
Dominica, often called “The Nature Island,” bursts with artistic energy in its craft markets and cultural centers. Meet some of the artists of the Dominica Arts and Crafts Producers Association in the following documentary.
The Rousseau Flea Market (The Old Market)
A historic landmark with cobblestone streets bustling since colonial times. This market offers an array of textiles, jewelry, spices, carved wood, straw baskets, and paintings.
Hidden among the stalls of the Old Market, you’ll find authentic handmade treasures that capture the essence of Dominica.
The Old Mill Cultural Centre
A blend of history and artistry, this site showcases machinery used centuries ago to harvest and process sugarcane. Its small art gallery features a variety of paintings by local artists, and an exhibit of madras textiles used in traditional Caribbean apparel and Sensay Carnival costumes.
Behind the Old Mill, a talented woodcarver creates modern sculptures and functional art, such as intricately carved headboards.
Visitors will also discover many smaller craft markets located near Dominica’s natural attractions such as the Emerald Pool, Titou Gorge, and Trafalgar Falls.
St. Lucia - The Rhythm of Caribbean Craftsmanship
St. Lucia’s vibrant craft scene immerses visitors in the island’s cultural heartbeat. Known for its pottery, wood carvings, spices, and rums, St. Lucia bursts with artisanal color and flavors.
Castries Market and Vendor Arcade
Renowned as the island’s largest craft and food market, this bustling hub offers everything from madras fashions and carved wood to locally made pottery and beaded jewelry.
Don’t miss the array of culinary delights, such as banana ketchup, hot pepper sauce, rum cake, and aromatic spices like nutmeg and star anise.
Choiseul: The Cradle of Craft
This quaint village in southwestern St. Lucia is renowned for its ancient pottery craft passed down by generations. The clay is gathered locally and meticulously handcrafted into functional and decorative pottery pieces, many of which are still used for cooking today.
Learn more about this historic craft in the documentary about Master Traditional Potter, Mary Leo, below.
Choiseul Art Gallery
Here you’ll discover an array of local paintings, pottery, jewelry, and more. The Gallery is also home to the Cultural Blend Museum, where visitors learn about St. Lucia’s history and traditions of crafting furniture, palm weaving, basketry, and more.
St. Lucia Rum Distillers
For a taste of the island’s craftsmanship, take the Rhythm of Rum Tour at this historic distillery, the last remaining distillery on the island. Sample a variety of local rums, each crafted with unique flavors that embody the spirited history of the Caribbean.
St. Kitts - A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
The art and crafts scene in St. Kitts is as dynamic as its lush landscapes. Handwoven textiles and fabrics, jewelry crafted from the sea, and inspiring art abound.
Amina Craft Market
Located at the edge of Port Zante, this market offers a mix of mass-produced and authentic handmade goods. Look out for Jenny Peet’s exquisite conch shell jewelry and Samaria Bradshaw’s colorful sea glass creations.
Caribelle Batik
This studio, found at Romney Manor, showcases traditional Indonesian batik techniques. Watch as artisans dye vibrant patterns onto textiles and browse their stunning collection of fashion and home décor.
Shell Works
Local artist Claudia Amory transforms foraged materials like tree roots and mother of pearl into extraordinary jewelry, home decor, and accessories. Visit her boutique at Palms Court Gardens for unique and sustainable artistic designs.
Dennis Richards Gallery
This contemporary gallery highlights the works of a renowned artist whose blend of traditional and modern techniques has gained him worldwide recognition.
Dennis’ remarkable art has earned him a place on several of St. Kitts’s official stamps. He also designed the 2024 Olympic pin for St. Kitts and Nevis!
St. Maarten - Where St. Maarten Shopping Blends with Artistic Charm
St. Maarten captivates with its world-famous St. Maarten shopping, seamlessly fusing luxury retail and authentic crafts. On the Dutch side, Philipsburg emerges as a major destination, where Front Street buzzes as the ultimate hub for duty-free items and world-class jewelry shops. Local vendors here offer handmade goods alongside prime St. Maarten shopping spots reminiscent of a West Indies shopping mall.
Venture deeper into Philipsburg on the Dutch side for more duty-free items and exquisite jewelry shops, plus the famous Guavaberry liqueur that embodies island flavors. Essential stops include Simpson Bay and Maho Village, featuring seaside boutiques stocked with electronics, fine china, and organic beauty products in a charming waterfront building.
Cross to the French side for a refined contrast, with the lively Marigot Market and the upscale Marina Port La Royale drawing the luxury shopper amid designer brands and more designer brands. Philipsburg's nearby Old Street adds quaint allure, while Grand Case on the French side tempts with sophisticated St. Maarten shopping infused with Caribbean artwork and cultural treasures.
Antigua - A Kaleidoscope of Color and Creativity
Antigua’s craft markets and galleries offer a vibrant mix of tradition and modern artistry. Artisans embrace their history and culture while expressing their love of Caribbean life.
The Craft Market in St. John’s
Located near the Public Market, this colorful hub features handmade clothing, accessories, and crafts that reflect West Indian traditions. Take time to chat with artisans to learn about the traditions and stories behind their creations.
Guava de Art
If you have time for a taxi ride, explore Antigua’s unique galleries that dot the island, such as Guava de Art.
This artist showcases the island’s deep-rooted artistic traditions, with a contemporary, even futuristic, interpretation.
Redcliffe Quary
Set in historic warehouses along the waterfront, this shopping district is a must-visit for art lovers and craft seekers. Highlights include the following.
Zemi Art Gallery
Offering an exclusive collection of original arts and crafts, this gallery is a treasure trove of authentic Caribbean creativity. The colorful paintings and sculptures depicting island life vibrate with authenticity and love.
The Goldsmitty
Home to the “Caribbean Corner,” this boutique features jewelry crafted from local conch, blue larimar, and petrified coral known as Antiguanite, found only in Antigua. Visitors can even polish their own stones for a personalized keepsake.
Rounding Out My West Indies Shopping Guide
My journey through the West Indies was a thorough celebration of artistry, culture, and creativity. Each market and gallery offered a unique perspective on the region’s rich heritage, brought to life by the talented hands of local artisans, and I hope you enjoyed the highlights here in my West Indies shopping guide.
From vibrant madras textiles and intricate wood carvings to handcrafted jewelry and culinary delights, every market tells a story of resilience, tradition, and love for the Caribbean.
By supporting local artisans, travelers bring home beautiful, one-of-a-kind authentic Caribbean treasures, and help preserve the traditions that make the West Indies so special. On your next adventure to this tropical region, dive into West Indies shopping at the craft markets, explore the galleries, savor the tastes through premier St. Maarten shopping, and let the vibrant spirit of the Caribbean fill your heart and your suitcase!
Love the artisan items featured in the Gallery District but can’t make the trip? Visit our SHOP page to discover similar handcrafted items made by local artisans, delivered straight to your door! I also share my favorite workshops, tours, and classes that turn global travel into a hands-on, unforgettable experience.
