The 8 Best Souvenirs to Purchase in La Romana

La Romana is among the most sought-after tourist and cruise spots in the Dominican Republic, and for good reason. This Caribbean port city boasts a rich tapestry of history and cultural influences. If you’re visiting this coastal gem for the first time, you might want to explore the unique items you can buy in La Romana for your loved ones or yourself. Here are the eight must-have souvenirs and gifts from this popular destination:

1. Coffee from the Dominican Republic

If you’re a coffee lover, make sure to grab some Dominican coffee during your visit to La Romana. Coffee is one of the country’s key crops, so you’ll have no shortage of Dominican coffee beans to take home from your cruise. The primary variety produced here is Arabica, known for its mild flavor, while locals also enjoy the stronger Robusta. After savoring some genuine Dominican coffee, consider choosing a blend of beans that suit your aroma and flavor preferences to bring home as a delightful gift.

a bag of Arabica coffee beans from the Dominican Republic

2. Munecas Lime (Faceless Dolls) Ornaments

Stroll through the local artisan markets in La Romana, and you will undoubtedly encounter one of the most iconic symbols of Dominican culture: the faceless dolls, or Munecas Lime. These charming dolls have been cherished as souvenirs since the 1980s, yet their origins trace back to the 16th century. The absence of faces represents the rich blend of cultures and ethnicities that characterize the Dominican Republic. Available in various sizes and a vibrant array of colors, these ornamental dolls make for a truly unique gift. While most are crafted from clay, you can also find them made from different materials.

rows of Munecas Lime souvenirs, the distinctive faceless dolls from the Dominican Republic

3. Amber and Larimar Jewelry

As you shop in La Romana, you will discover a wide selection of jewelry, but none are as distinct and representative of the region as amber and Larimar pieces. Amber is available in various forms, including bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. However, for a gem that is truly emblematic of the Dominican Republic, be sure to visit local artisan shops during your shore excursion to find Larimar jewelry. This stunning sea-blue gemstone, exclusive to the Dominican Republic, is the nation's official gem. Its unique patterns resemble flowing ocean waves, making it a perfect keepsake to commemorate the wonders of the Dominican Republic and your time in La Romana.

a variety of necklaces and other jewelry crafted from Larimar

4. Cigars

If you’re a cigar aficionado or want to pick up some for a friend back home, La Romana is the perfect destination to find unique options. Here, you can discover woodsy and spicy flavors, and even varieties infused with pickled ginger. Hand-rolled cigars are plentiful, especially since La Romana houses the largest hand-rolled cigar factory in the world.

a Dominican man expertly rolls cigars by hand

5. Terracotta Pots

If you have a passion for gardening, be sure to visit one of the local artisan shops to find a charming terracotta pot. These distinctive, intricately designed pots are handmade in this region of the Dominican Republic. You can easily locate these planters while exploring the unique village of Altos de Chavon, known for its historic Mediterranean atmosphere and home to many local artists.

6. Woodcrafts

From Dinogo masks to vibrant replicas of native wildlife, La Romana showcases a wide array of wooden souvenirs. One of the benefits of choosing woodwork as a keepsake is that you can find small, lightweight items that are easy to pack in your luggage. These wooden carvings also make excellent gifts for your family and friends back home.

an assortment of wooden souvenirs available in La Romana

7. Rum

The Dominican Republic is renowned for its rum, and La Romana provides numerous opportunities to purchase some of the finest selections while on your shore excursion. You can opt for a light brown rum for a milder flavor, or choose robust dark rums aged in European oak sherry casks, perfect for enhancing the rum's profile.

8. Taino-Inspired Artwork

Take home a piece of indigenous culture by purchasing Taino-inspired art. The Taino were the native inhabitants of the Caribbean who thrived in the Dominican Republic between 1000 and 1500 AD. Their belief system was expressed through stylized art, often featuring amulets, cave paintings, and engravings. La Romana offers an extensive range of Taino-inspired art, including paintings, engravings, and pottery for you to collect as souvenirs.