SHOPPING IN PARADISE
A Guide to Shopping in Philipsburg, Maho and Simpson Bay on St Maarten
With everything from designer jewelry and timepieces to chic fashions and locally made crafts, St. Maarten / St. Martin is a shopper’s haven. Attention shoppers: Bring an extra suitcase when vacationing in St. Maarten / St. Martin. Prices are low, and quality is high.
This pearl in the Caribbean chain boasts a long-standing duty-free status and a bevy of stores where prices are slashed on a range of top-shelf goods — everything from designer jewelry and sought-after electronics to brand-name fashions and fine wines and spirits.
St. Maarten / St. Martin has been a trade hub since the 17th century, when European settlers harvested salt from the island’s ponds and exported it around the globe. Now tourist spending fuels the local economy, in part, because the island has been a duty-free port since the 1930s.
Both Dutch and French sides of the island offer a wealth of shops filled with goods to capture the imagination and taste of every shopper. Come with us on a shopping tour and you’ll see what we mean.
Set Your Table With Style
Linen Galore has been serving customers for almost 40 years.
A table decked out in style sets the mood for food and an elegant evening everyone will long remember. The perfect dinner party involves more than good cooking — you also need to create a welcoming ambience and have the perfect décor.
While in St. Maarten / St. Martin, be sure to visit Linen Galore, a boutique on Front Street that’s a linen lover’s dream. For almost 40 years, it has drawn new and repeat patrons looking to top their tables with only the best.
The landmark store next to Holland House offers the island’s largest assortment of embroidered table linens and accessories. Linen Galore specializes in crochet lace, Belgian tapestries, Cluny lace, appliqué, embroidery and cutwork in linen, cotton, polycotton, polyester, stain-resistant and non-iron products. Choose from an array of tablecloths, runners, napkins and toppers. It’s a veritable treasure house of one-of-a-kind pieces from Europe, Asia and South America.
But it’s not just the quality of products that keeps customers coming to Linen Galore again and again. It’s the friendly Hemrajani family that owns and operates the place. Nanik “Nick” Hemrajani and son Rishi will make you feel a part of their family the minute you walk through the door.
Why not see for yourself? Stop by Linen Galore and let the Hemrajani family top your table in style. Your dinner guests will thank you.
Shopping in Philipsburg
The capital of St. Maarten is a charming, picturesque town. High-end shops dot Front Street and Back Street, the main thoroughfares. You’ll find jewelry, electronics, clothing and everything in between here and in connecting alleys.
Walking through the town is like going on a treasure hunt, and you’re apt to come away with more than Aladdin ever could have imagined. Look for that gift to mark a special occasion — an anniversary, engagement, graduation or milestone birthday.
Philipsburgis the best place in the Caribbean to get GIA-certified diamonds and gemstones, loose or showcased in handcrafted settings. Check out the jewelry and timepieces at Artistic Jewelers / Art of Time, Ballerina Jewelers, Bvlgari Boutique, Caribbean Gems, Diamonds International, Effy Jewelers, J Best Jeweler, Joe’s Jewelry International, Jewels by Love, Longines Boutique, Royal Caribbean Store and Zhaveri Luxury.
The latest models of electronics are often released here first. Boolchand’s, a celebrated name throughout the Caribbean, carries the most extensive line of cameras, phones, home entertainment systems and more. There’s also an exclusive Pandora store on Front Street.
Head to Linen Galore for a classic or seasonal table spread to add elegance and glamour to your feasts. The store is stocked with floor-to-ceiling displays of linen tablecloths, napkins and more. All patterns and color combinations are available for every season and décor.
Swimwear and slippers are Caribbean wardrobe essentials. Endless Summer Swimwear on Front Street and in Simpson Bay stocks designs right off the catwalk. Grab a cover-up and perhaps a hat to take your beach outing a notch higher. Need some sun bronzer or sunscreen? Head over to Philipsburg Pharmacy. The shelves there are stocked with essentials and more.
Also check out the latest collection of Polo Ralph Lauren and Armani at the JL store and accessorize with leather goods from Longchamps.
If you’re looking for trendy island wear and tropical vibes, raid the racks at ready-to-wear boutique Pacific Avenue. For a locally made souvenir, pick up a bottle (or two) of Guavaberry Liqueur, the island’s signature spirit.
Go for some Gouda cheese at Amsterdam Cheese & Liquor Store. Here, you’ll find an extensive line of fragrant cheeses, as well as island-made jams. The store also has a well-stocked liquor section, as do several of the stores along Front Street.
For those visiting the island in July or August, Philipsburg is home to a special shopping event called Koopavond. Koop means “to shop,” and avond is “evening” in Dutch. Shops open later, and artisanal crafters line parts of Front Street, Cyrus Wathey Square and the Boardwalk from late afternoon into the evening. There is a host of entertainment for the entire family.
Something For Everyone
Royal Caribbean Store, located in downtown Philipsburg, welcomes guests from all over the world to the friendly island of St. Maarten. The store offers a relaxed, family atmosphere. Having been on the island for the past 40 years and with extensive jewelry experience, they are able to carefully select high-quality, trending jewelry designs and offer them at the lowest prices. You’ll find a great selection of jewelry and quality pieces that you will not see back home for low discounted prices. St. Maarten is truly a tax- and duty-free destination unlike other islands who have their taxes built into their products.
The store offers diamonds and fine diamond jewelry in all different shapes and sizes. Each jewelry piece purchased comes with a guarantee and its evaluation papers — plus, the savings and deals at Royal Caribbean Store are a great advantage for everyone!
In addition to diamond jewelry, they also carry a wide range of silver and Larimar jewelry. Larimar is unique to the Caribbean because of its magnificent turquoise blue colors. Royal Caribbean Store truly has something for everyone, in all price ranges. Deepak, the owner, is confident that they will find you a great deal! Visit Royal Caribbean Store, the best place to buy your jewelry in St. Maarten.
Shopping in Simpson Bay & Cole Bay
There are some excellent shopping opportunities around Simpson Bay. Lined by a long stretch of sandy white beach, this is the place to seek out beachwear, apparel and other gifts to bring back home. Some visitors may not know that Simpson Bay was once a thriving fishing village and, although some residents still take to the seas, this little village also reels in food connoisseurs, shoppers looking for the best buys and those seeking entertainment options.
Fine wines, liquors and cigars are readily found along this bustling strip. In Simpson Bay, you can pick up locally made rums, luxury goods, clothing and more. If you’re in need of a bank or ATM, you’ll find those as well. Many of the restaurants here also feature boutiques that carry themed clothing and one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs.
Voted best pharmacy in St. Maarten, Simpson Bay Pharmacy carries an international assortment of medicines, cosmetics and personal-care products. If you forgot to pack your sunscreen or other beauty essentials, the helpful staff will help you find just what you need.
Cole Bay has experienced quite a bit of growth in recent years. Here you’ll find St. Maarten Nectar, which carries a wide array of locally made skin-care products and fragrances. Its popular mosquito repellents and sunscreens are made with natural ingredients and can also be found throughout the island in Philipsburgand Marigot, and at the Hair Salon & Wellness Spa at Oyster Bay Beach Resort. SXM Cosmetics are also made with natural ingredients.
Shopping in Maho
With shopping, dining and nightlife options, you can easily spend plenty of time in Maho. Located a short distance from Princess Juliana International Airport, Maho is often referred to as “a destination within a destination” — and for good reason.
The area has grown up around several resorts, including the all-inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort, Casino & Spa and the uber-luxurious Sonesta Ocean Point. You’ll find shops that carry beautiful jewelry, designer fashion, unique accessories and more.
Maho is also a great place to shop after hours. While shops in the main areas of Philipsburg and Marigot usually close around 6 p.m., Maho extends the shopping experience, sometimes late into the evening.
Maho Pharmacy is open daily, and it’s a great place to buy more than just medicines. Pick up St. Maarten-made products, as well as personal-care items and other essentials. Jewels & Beyond offers one-stop shopping with a wide selection of fine jewelry, timepieces, Cuban cigars, liquor, souvenirs, beach items and designer sunglasses.
St. Maarten / St. Martin may be a small island, but you’ll find everything you need and much more to fill an extra suitcase with unique treasures. Make time to discover some great deals and take something special back home with you to remind you of your visit.
Made in SXM
Take home a piece of paradise and relive the memories made in St. Maarten / St. Martin.
After a blissful vacation you may not want to leave St. Maarten / St. Martin. A souvenir made here is a great way to take some island vibe home with you.
You’ll find some unique items at Waste2Work. This inventive organization was born to repurpose debris left in the wake of devastating Hurricane Irma. Shipping pallets are transformed into benches; cans and bottles can have a second life as lamps. Waste2Work offers upcycling workshops, or you can just stop by to purchase a crafty piece to take home. Check out the goods at Airport Road 34.
Carry the island with you, literally, by acquiring your own Azitiz “Island of SXM” bracelet. The stylish bracelet features a cutout of the island in a circular disc attached to an adjustment cord. The discs, made from vegetal ivory (Tagua), come in a variety of colors to match your style and mood. Get yours at stores island wide.
The Art Box Gallery in Simpson Bayis another great place for jewelry to remind you of your tropical getaway. Jewelry designer Zdenka Kiric draws inspiration from the vibrance of the island and its people to create one-of-a-kind pieces. Her necklaces, earrings and other adornments are crafted from semiprecious stones, precious metals and freshwater pearls. Each piece calls out to be worn.
Guavaberry Liqueur, made from berries found high on the rolling velvet hillsides, is the national spirit. Berries are hand harvested and distilled in a process dating to the days of the first settlers. This was a traditional Christmas time drink to share with family and friends. Today, it celebrates the island’s culture and heritage. Pick up a bottle to remember your slice of island life from the Guavaberry Emporium on Front Street.
Another locally made product that captures the spirit of St. Maarten / St. Martin is Topper’s Rhum. Visit Topper’s Rhum Distillery and indulge in various flavors of this award-winning spirit, including Mocha Mama, Spiced, Coconut and Caribbean White.
Imagine combining the essence of balmy breezes, the earthiness of hills and the fragrances of exotic flowers. That’s exactly what you can do when you visit Tijon Parfumerie in Grand Case. Purchase a bottle of these idyllic island aromas or create your very own fragrance. Not sure how? No problem! Classes are available to guide you through the process.
If you’re looking for hand-rolled cigars, visit DAS Cigars for another unique island buy. Andi Siegers personally selects the best tobacco leaves for his cigars, ensuring that each one is a well-crafted masterpiece. As an added bonus, Siegers has flavored cigars and some that appeal particularly to women.
You can also raise a toast to a fabulous island vacation. Microbreweries have made their way to this spot in the Caribbean Sea. Tour and taste, then take home a sample of island-crafted beers from Caribbean Brewing Company and Pelikaan Brewery. Both breweries have created flavors that can be considered the essence of the island in a bottle.
If you’d rather wear your memories, Jolie Duzon clothing and accessories are island born like the brand’s multitalented designer, Zillah Duzon Hazel. Her clutch handbags and other creations pop with color and Caribbean vibe inspired by the “fierce and strong personality of women.” Find Jolie Duzon at Endless Summer boutiques, My Way Store in Maho Village or direct from the designer at jolieduzon.com.
Get and keep that island glow with an island-made natural line of skin-care products and fragrances from St. Maarten Nectar. The brand started in the Simpson Bay kitchen of Nalia Muriel. There she created her own skin-care products to treat her sensitive skin. Since then she has grown her product line to include many more all-natural products, which you can find at various outlets on the island or at the boutique in Simpson Bay.
Bold and Beautiful
Jolie Duzon–brand fashions epitomize St. Maarten style.
You can’t mistake a clutch from Jolie Duzon. The brightly colored, hand-painted bags have become a trademark of island elegance with a pop of European flair.
The brand created by St. Maarten designer Zillah Duzon Hazel was born of the designer’s love of style, form and a fondness for the bold. She started off in clothing, making one-of-a-kind outfits for men and women. She has grown into a sought-after designer for major events such as Carnival queen pageants and weddings.
Duzon Hazel recently poured her creativity into clutches. She starts with a blank canvas. From there, her passion takes shape in the form of interlocking geometric patterns and flowing free-form designs.
Once she has come up with an idea, she dips her brush in paint and sets to work on drawing images. The result is a unique piece of fabric ready for cutting and crafting into a wearable work of art. The clutches, with fun tassels like all Jolie Duzon pieces, are fitted with a gold coin engraved with the maker’s mark.
Duzon Hazel says she hopes her clothing and accessories “make women feel pretty, beautiful and confident.” Jolie means “pretty” in French, and the designer’s brand lives up to its name. “My passion is to create beautiful clothing that will make women feel confident about themselves and their ability to achieve their goals in life.”
At age 8, Duzon Hazel was sketching dolls and adding bursts of color to their outfits. By age 10, she had graduated to cutting out miniature figures of women on cardboard and clothing them in fabric. Soon she was making “papercut” dolls for girls in her class. Later, she would study economics in The Netherlands, but it wasn’t her passion.
So Duzon Hazel enrolled in the Amsterdam Fashion Institute’s Design and Style program. It was here that she began to imagine Jolie Duzon, and in 2011 she launched the brand in Rotterdam. Now Jolie Duzon is a recognizable St. Maarten brand.
You can find Jolie Duzon creations at Endless Summer Swimwear boutiques, My Way Store in Maho Village or direct from the designer at jolieduzon.com.
Caribbean Brewing
Proudly brewed and bottled in St. Maarten.
St. Maarten’s beer scene has always been dominated by international companies with no local beer truly representing our island — until Caribbean Brewing Company opened in early 2019, providing St. Maarten with the highest-quality local beers. The company prides itself on its consistency, drinkability and variety. All of their beers are made fresh with the finest malts, hops and natural ingredients. Beers are organic, unfiltered and unpasteurized and don’t contain any corn syrup or preservatives.
Their inspiration for the beer is derived from the rich history of St. Maarten / St. Martin and the extraordinarily diverse people living on the island. They brew five beers: the lightest option, SXM Light; their best-selling Dutch Blonde Ale; a rich clean-tasting flagship beer, San Martin Premium Beer; Pirate’s Edition IPA and the cleverly named dark stout, 1863, which represents the latitude and longitude of the island. You can find Caribbean Brewing Company beers at local supermarkets, bars, restaurants and hotels on both sides of the island.
Insider tip: They offer a unique brewery tour that gets you up close and personal with the entire beer making process — from milling the ingredients and brewing the beers to bottling the beers with the latest state-of-the-art technology. And to top it off, don’t forget to taste all of the beers during an all-you-can-drink session in their Tap Room.