Beach Life Concept
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!).
3 Best Places to Shop in St. Martin and St. Maarten
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.
Export Happiness
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.
West Indies Mall
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.
