The duty free status of St. Maarten/St. Martin offers many possibilities for the visitors to the island. The following are the island’s main shopping districts.
Philipsburg
Philipsburg, the capital of the Dutch side is the unavoidable shopping paradise, of course at Duty Free prices! Front Street, Back Street, Old Street represent a wonderful shopping world to spend a day for your pleasure. Prestigious jewelers, electronic stores and the latest trends fashion boutique are all located in Philipsburg. The stores are typically open from 9:00 or 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Some of the stores also open for a few hours on Sunday morning if there is a cruise ship in town.
Front Street is still the main shopping area. It is a treasure chest overflowing with diamonds of every size, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, tanzanites and any other gemstone you can think of!, pearls, engagement rings, wedding bands, gold, platinum and all of the world’s largest and most recognized watch brands. Do not forget the variety of electronic goods such as cameras, camcorders, laptops, PDAs and more in addition to designer brands such as Liz Claiborne, Coach, Furla and a lot more!
Old Street, with is Creole style facades, offers some inspiring boutiques and is a pleasant stroll to explore the unique shops or indulge in some French delicacies or Belgian chocolates. You can take some great pictures here. And you can not miss the trip to Sint Rose Arcade and the Boardwalk for both shopping and dining. TheBoardwalk is located on Great Bay Beach and is scattered with a selection of restaurants. It is the perfect spot to take a break from your shopping spree and grab a bite to each or enjoy a tropical cocktail while looking out over Great Bay.
Marigot
Who needs to go to Europe to shop when all the top European Fashion houses are located in Marigot, the capital of the French side…Designer clothes, name brand handbags & accessories, jewels, watches, electronics, cigars and liquors just to name a few. Stores are generally open from 9:00 or 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Monday through Saturday.
Front de Mer (Port Road) offers a colorful open air local craft market for some authentic souvenirs and clothing. Located close to the craft market is Le West Indies shopping mall – air conditioned mall with high end items. And of course do not forget to go into the heart of Marigot to visit Rue du General de Gaulle and the exquisite little plaza marina, Marina Royale. This whole area has wonderful ‘haute couture’ boutiques, jewelry, fine wine stores, French ‘epiceries’ and great restaurants located along the waterfront. Marina Royale is always the perfect ending to a day of shopping in Marigot so that you may enjoy a gastronomic treat after a day of shopping.
Maho
The Maho shopping area located at Maho Beach Resort is open late into the evenings seven days a week. You will find a fine selection of designer items, fine jewelry, beach wear and gift items.
While on island, your rental specialist will be happy to assist with recommendations and suggestions based on what you are looking to buy.