Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
It's true that the island sparkles with its myriad outdoor activities—diving, snorkeling, sailing, swimming, and sunning—but shopaholics are drawn to the sparkle in the jewelry stores. The huge array of stores is almost unrivaled in the Caribbean. In addition, duty-free shops can offer substantial savings—about 15% to 30% below U.S. and Canadian prices—on cameras, watches, liquor, cigars, and designer clothing, but not always, so make sure you know the U.S. price of anything you intend to buy to know if you're actually getting a deal. Stick with the big vendors that advertise in the tourist press, and you will be more likely to avoid today's ubiquitous fakes and replicas. On both sides of the island, be alert for idlers. They can snatch unwatched purses.
Prices are in dollars on the Dutch side, in euros on the French side. As for bargains, there are more to be had on the Dutch side; prices on the French side may sometimes be higher than those you’ll find back home, and the fact that prices are in euros doesn't help affordability. Merchandise may not be from the newest collections, especially with regard to clothing, but there are items available on the French side that are not available on the Dutch side.
One of St. Maarten's oldest jewelers, which has two Philipsburg locations (22 and 40 Front Street), is known for its wide selection of watches and jewelry—including exclusive, one-of-a-kind pieces—its impeccable customer service, and its competitive prices.
A fixture on Front Street for decades, Zhaveri has a huge selection of loose diamonds, jewelry (some of it exclusive), watches, and gifts, plus designer handbags from Hugo Boss, Georgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Kartell, Furla, and Carmen Sol. Prices are highly competitive.
Look for pieces by Tacori and Calvin Klein, as well as watches by Bell & Ross, Franck Muller, and other luxury brands at this very popular jewelry store.
From swimsuits to accessories, Beach Life Concept has everything you need for a stylish beach day. What's more, there's a selection of items for men, women, and children (those trendy floaties are especially hard to resist!).
With a mint-green storefront, it's hard to miss this go-to spot for unique, chic, and joyful souvenirs designed by French artist Espa, who fell in love with the island. Options include magnets, T-shirts, postcards, and illustrations.
This store has an enormous selection of perfume and cosmetics.
Fine jewelry, crystal, and china from many top brands are all available at this establishment, which has two stores in Philipsburg (at 2 and 80 Front Street).
On Rambaud Hill, between Marigot and Grand Case, this gallery carries original paintings—as well as lithographs, posters, and postcards—by the late artist Alexandre Minguet, who specialized in depicting island flora and landscapes. His daughter now manages the gallery.
Located in the Hope Estate area, this chic, family-owned boutique has a well-curated selection of fashion, accessories, home decor, and Caribbean-inspired items. The stylish café is open for breakfast and lunch and serves dishes featuring fresh ingredients.
Specializing in diamonds, both loose and used in jewelry, this shop also carries watches.
Although the main store has the largest selection, all of this chain's multiple SXM outlets stock a little of everything—from colorful hammocks to handmade jewelry to local guavaberry liqueur.
The beach attire, accessories, and souvenirs at this colorful boutique are trendy, artsy, and fun.
With a chic French aesthetic, two restaurants, and a variety of clothing boutiques (including Lacoste) and cosmetics shops (like L'Occitane), this mall is worth a stop—if only to window shop and cool off in the air-conditioning.
Sign up for Travel Tips & News
Thank you for your interest!
