11 Best Shopping in Martinique

At this group of shops, a major tourist attraction in the area, you can watch the creation of Arawak- and Carib-style pots, vases, and jars; plus, there are shops with interesting gifts, jewelry, and clothing, especially pareos (wraparound skirts). Several appealing restaurants (particularly the bakery) also make it a good stopover for lunch. There's also a go-kart track and kayaking.

This place is all about mood and mystique and ecosensitivity. Gift items at Bois Nature begin with scented soap, massage oil, aromatherapy sprays, and perfumes. Then there are wind chimes, mosquito netting, shell mobiles, and sun hats made of coconut fiber. The interior decor accessories are unique and worth carrying home on the plane, but they can also ship things home for you. The big stuff includes natural wood-frame mirrors and furniture à la Louis XV.

This is one of those artsy souvenir shops that is so chockablock full that you are fascinated, amazed at every turn. There are many small items that would fit in luggage, such as colorful, metallic sculptures. Some of the most fanciful items are home accessories. Luc Ferrari, a designer (and importer) of art deco, showcases his wares here.

Stop in here for French sailor jerseys in creative colors, youthful straw purses in bold hues, fun jewelry, and bathing suits.

Across from the Village Créole, this gallery combines Sophie and Henry, both in name and content. On sale are the originals and limited prints of a French couple who live aboard their sailboat and paint the beauty of the sea and the island, from exotic birds to banana trucks.

The trained staff here can formulate your very own eau du parfum from more than 50 available fragrances. The ingredients are natural and from the island. The store also sells soaps and body oils that include a natural bronzer with oil of roucou and a coconut oil base. One purse-size spray that everyone should carry is an anti-mosquito oil with eucalyptus and citronella. Many of the spray atomizers (non aerosol) are less than 3 ounces and can be carried aboard your homebound plane.

So you wanna look French? Femmes, this urban boutique is a good start, although the chic doesn't come cheap here. You will recognize some well-known brands like Paul Smith, Mellow Yellow, and Calarena, and the French shoes are nearly irresistible. The shop does have some good soldes (sales), though—and make sure you check the second level.

La Petite Boutique offers a unique children's collection, including jewelry, and madras dollies. There are also contemporary mini-styles from upscale kid companies.

Lynx Optique has the latest designer sunglasses from such major brands as Chanel, Gucci, Dior, Cartier, and Versace. (French designer brands are less expensive here.) And if you need a pair of prescription lenses or a repair, they can take care of that, too. The staff are professional, polite, and English is spoken. There are several locations throughout the island, this being the most centrally located.

Authentic Creole-style jewelry, popularized after the abolition of slavery and seen in many museums, is for sale here at the number-one jewelry store in Martinique. Most creations are in 18-karat gold, but 9-karat is an option.

Tendance Bikini is a beachwear paradise where you can find a wide variety of bathing suits, beach clothes, and "sandales" (slippers). The salespeople are friendly, and they can help you put an outfit together. You will notice Martinicans love a unique piece that stands out, especially in August for the famous sailing race: "le tour des yoles."