10 + 1 ST MAARTEN SHOPPING TIPS
St. Maarten has received many accolades as #1 shopping haven of the Caribbean. From Philipsburg’s famed Front Street to Simpson Bay boutiques, many districts contribute to its reputation. Let us suggest some special not too miss locations for bargains in random order:
1. Joes Jewelry
Joes Jewelry has been one of St. Maarten’s longest standing jewelry houses. It is located right under the St. Maarten house of parliament and next to St. Maarten’s landmark courthouse. It has a loyal clientele visiting every year.
2. AMAsterdam
This bar meets store is a great place to hang out when afternoon heat sets in during your Front Street shopping spree. In addition to unique souvenirs like Delft Blue portrayals of St. Maarten landmarks, it offers fun Amsterdam-inspired selfie opportunities nowhere else to be found on island. Ask the bartender – and he will show you…
3. Ballerinas
One of St. Maarten’s best known local jewelry store is Ballerinas, housed in a historical building along St. Maarten’s former salt shipping route on the junction of Front Street and the St. Maarten courthouse. It is run by the Mirpuri family and a trusted place to find your engagement ring or wedding band on St. Maarten. Ballerinas can also be found at St. Maarten’s Cruise Port.
4. SXM Nectar
Did you know St. Maarten has a highly reputed cosmetics brand? With various stores and wellness retreats on island, SXM Nectar is a famous spot for tourists to get a very functional “Made on St. Maarten” product to take home. When on island, their effective mosquito repellant can also be an asset. And don’t forget to indulge in a wellness and spa day in between of the shopping process.
5. Zhaveri
Since 1987, Zhaveri offers high quality diamonds, and the ability to custom design your desired jewelry. Zhaveri is on Front street, at 50 meters from AC Wathey square and the courthouse.
6. Le Dutch
This unique store is specialized in Dutch delicacies and products. From “Stroopwafels” to Dutch chocolate, do a tour of surprising things European Netherlands produces and are for sale in this Front street shop. Where else would you find it but under Holland House Beach Hotel.
7. Dazzling Gems
Family owned and run Dazzling Gems jewelry store was founded in 2005 and is located in the middle of bustling Front Street. It is dedicated to customer service and has a wide selection of fine jewelry.
8. Topper’s Rhum Store
Topper’s might be known very well as a must visit restaurant, it is also St. Maartens largest Rum distillery. Visit their restaurant meets bar meets tour and visitor center in Simpson Bay to bring an important St. Maarten export product home as tasty souvenir.
9. Diamonds International
This international Jewelry store has multiple locations on St. Maarten, amongst others on the corner of AC Wathey Square and Front Street and the cruise port.
10. Big Bastards
So a boardwalk beach bar might not the place you go looking for bargains at first, but a shirt coming with “Big Bastards St. Maarten” appears to be a sought after souvenir. Also available is the “little bastards” clothing line for smaller St. Maarten fans.
+1. Carrefour
Aside from jewelry, cosmetics and souvenirs, when in need of daily groceries on St. Maarten, there is always a Carrefour nearby to buy your essentials. Carrefour at Bush Road is Dutch side St. Maarten’s largest supermarket and provides a wide array of food and non-food items.