St. Martin / St. Maarten Shopping / Boutiques / Shops / Magasins

Shopping on the Dutch Side

Cameras and electronics as well as Dutch imports (Delft china, cheeses and beer) are good buys, as are crystal, china, jewelry and watches, designer fashions, leather, perfumes and cosmetics, tobacco products, imported wine and spirits, plus linens and flatware, all of which sell for substantially less than in the US. English is widely spoken.

The main shopping areas are in Philipsburg which is well known for its duty-free values. When the big cruise ships are in, crowds can be intense in this part of the island. Other shopping options include the Maho plaza and Plaza del Lago near the Simpson Bay Yacht Club. Most shops are open Monday - Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00, and some may open on Sunday for cruise ship passengers.

Local handicrafts can be found at numerous markets and shops, while paintings, lithographs and prints by island artists can be purchased at galleries located in Philipsburg and Simpson Bay.

Netherlands Antilles guilders (ANG), US dollars, traveler’s checks and credit cards are accepted in most shops.

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Please click here for a directory of Dutch side shopping options.

Please click here for a directory of Dutch side art galleries.

Shopping on the French Side

Because St. Martin is a duty-free port, shopping is a very popular activity for visitors. Famous name perfumes, crystal, china, jewelry and designer fashions sell for substantially less than in the US. The same is true for fine liqueurs, cognacs and tobacco products. Chic resortwear is available in the distinctive boutiques of Marigot and in many hotel shops. Prices are quoted in euros and dollars. With so many American visitors, English is widely spoken.

Galleries throughout St. Martin exhibit and sell works by the island’s many renowned painters and sculptors. Local handicrafts can be found at numerous markets and shops.

In Marigot, where the majority of shops and boutiques are found, store hours are generally from 9:00 to 18:00 or 19:00, Monday through Saturday (although some establishments close for the traditional two or three hour lunch). If cruise ships are in on Sundays and holidays, some of the larger shops reopen.

Euros, US dollars, traveler’s checks and credit cards are accepted in most shops.

Please click here for a universal currency converter.

Please click here for a directory of French side shopping options.

Please click here for a directory of French side art galleries.