St. Lucia is a treasure trove of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes and bustling markets, making it a prime shopping destination in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for artisan crafts, exotic flavors or something uniquely Lucian, the island offers a variety of memorable goods that are perfect for taking home. Here’s your guide to what to buy in St. Lucia to ensure you leave with a piece of this paradise.
1. Local Art
St. Lucia boasts a rich artistic community with talents spanning from intricate paintings to rustic sculptures. Local galleries and street vendors are filled with one-of-a-kind pieces depicting the island's stunning landscapes and culture. Buying local art not only supports the artists but also helps preserve the cultural heritage of St. Lucia.
2. Banana Products
Bananas are one of St. Lucia's key exports and are incorporated into various products. Look for banana ketchup, banana chips and even banana rum! These products are a tasty and unique reminder of the island's flavors.
3. Rum
Caribbean islands are famed for their rum and St. Lucia is no exception. Distilleries like St. Lucia Distillers offer a variety of premium rums that are perfect for rum aficionados. Consider a factory tour where you can purchase bottles directly from the source.
4. Spices
The spice market in St. Lucia is vibrant. Nutmeg, cinnamon and cloves are just a few of the fragrant spices grown on the island. Packaged beautifully, these spices make fantastic gifts for the cooks in your life or as a way to bring the flavors of the Caribbean into your kitchen.
5. Sea Island Cotton Products
Renowned for its quality, Sea Island cotton is grown locally and used in a variety of products, from clothing to accessories. Soft and luxurious, items made from Sea Island cotton offer a touch of Caribbean luxury.
6. Hot Sauce
St. Lucian hot sauce, often made with local Scotch bonnet peppers, is a must-buy for spice lovers. It’s widely available in markets and grocery stores and comes in various levels of heat to suit any palate.
7. Handmade Jewelry
The craft markets of St. Lucia are a fantastic place to find handmade jewelry featuring local stones and materials. These pieces often reflect the natural beauty of the island and can range from elegant to distinctly rustic.
8. Wooden Carvings
Talented local artisans carve beautiful items from the island’s abundant forests. Look for bowls, utensils, decorative items and even furniture, each piece telling the story of St. Lucia's natural beauty.
9. Batik and Madras Fabric
St. Lucia is known for its colorful batik and madras fabrics. These materials are used in everything from clothing to household decorations. Buying these fabrics gives you a versatile souvenir that can be turned into anything from dresses to tablecloths.
10. Chairman's Reserve Spiced Rum
This locally produced spiced rum is a favorite among both locals and visitors. With its smooth taste and hint of spice, it’s an excellent addition to your liquor cabinet or a great gift for a friend back home.
Discover St. Lucia Shopping Excursions
For those interested in a comprehensive shopping experience, consider participating in a St. Lucia shopping shore excursion. These excursions are designed to show you the best of what to buy in St. Lucia, from bustling local markets to high-end boutiques. They offer convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the products and their origins.
- Magical Marigot Bay: Take an unguided bus transfer to Marigot Bay, where you can explore at your own pace. Known for its stunning natural beauty and as a filming location for "Doctor Doolittle," Marigot Bay is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants and bars. Create your own itinerary and enjoy shopping in a picturesque setting or relax on a secluded beach, easily accessible by ferry.
- See the Pitons by Bus: Experience the iconic scenery of St. Lucia with a bus tour that includes several stops for photos and shopping. From the breathtaking views at Marigot Bay and the Beacon Restaurant overlooking the famous Pitons to a local chocolate factory and Horizons for coastal views, this tour offers a mix of natural beauty and local shopping opportunities that capture the essence of St. Lucia.
What to Buy in St. Lucia?
When considering what to buy in St. Lucia, embrace the island's rich offerings that showcase its vibrant culture and natural resources. Top picks include locally produced rum and banana-based products, which reflect the island's agricultural heritage. Artisan crafts like handmade jewelry, wooden carvings and Sea Island cotton products are perfect for bringing a piece of St. Lucia's artisanal skill home. Each of these items offers a unique way to remember and celebrate your visit to this enchanting Caribbean island.
