Top 10 Must-Have Items in St. Thomas

With numerous duty-free options, upscale boutiques, and a variety of local arts and crafts, shopping in St. Thomas is an experience you won't want to miss. You can easily return home with a suitcase brimming with souvenirs and gifts that will remind you of your Caribbean getaway. Exploring local shops is also a delightful way to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and hear stories from the artisans behind the beautiful items available here.

The best shopping destinations in St. Thomas can be found along the harbor in Charlotte Amalie, as well as at local malls, shopping centers, art galleries, and Vendors Plaza, an outdoor market filled with souvenirs, handmade goods, and crafts. Not sure what to look for during your shopping adventure? This guide to the top 10 items to buy in St. Thomas will be helpful.

1. Personalized Leather Sandals

Comfortable, durable footwear is essential for any traveler. Get your custom-fitted sandals in St. Thomas to ensure your feet remain happy and energized for the duration of your exploration around the city and beyond. Choose from a wide array of colors and styles, and you can add arch support if needed. If your stay in St. Thomas is brief, you can opt for semi-custom sandals, which can be ready in just one visit.

2. Jewelry

St. Thomas is renowned for its diamond shopping. You'll find numerous luxury jewelry stores here, but prices can vary significantly, so if you're looking for the best deal, be sure to explore and do your homework. Even if diamonds aren't on your shopping list, the local jewelry shops are definitely worth a visit. You'll uncover unique, handcrafted creations by local artisans that fit any budget.

3. Rum

Rum plays a vital role in the drinking culture of the Caribbean, and St. Thomas, with its rich pirate history, is no exception. The production of rum began as a way to make use of sugar production waste in the 17th century and quickly evolved into a thriving industry that remains robust today. Distillers in St. Thomas adhere to traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Be sure to sample local rum and purchase a few bottles to take home, allowing you to relive your island adventures and share them with friends.

4. Moko Jumbie Dolls

Moko Jumbies, stilt dancers adorned in masks and vibrant costumes, often appear in celebrations across the Virgin Islands. These towering figures are believed to elevate themselves to spot evil spirits from a distance, warding them off with playful mockery. Bring home a Moko Jumbie doll as a keepsake of this intriguing tradition.

5. Cookbooks

If you or someone special enjoys cooking and has a passion for Caribbean cuisine, a local cookbook makes an ideal gift. It’s not just a decorative item to collect dust; this cookbook will be a staple in your kitchen, allowing you to share delightful dishes with loved ones. Create delicious Callaloo soups and meat patties, and explore other unique recipes you might not have had the chance to sample during your vacation.

6. Hot Sauce

When you think of Caribbean cuisine, one of the first things that comes to mind is the vibrant hot pepper sauce. Available in striking red and green varieties, each island boasts its own unique recipe. Known for its fiery heat and zesty flavor, St. Thomas hot sauce will bring a distinct Caribbean kick to your everyday meals and makes for a fantastic gift as well.

7. Shipwreck Coins

The pirate lore of the Virgin Islands captivates both adults and children. Discover hidden treasures and delve into the tumultuous world of the 16th century at a museum dedicated to piracy, showcasing artifacts retrieved from the ocean, including bottles, chests, coins, and weapons. Choose a maritime keepsake or an authentic shipwreck coin from the museum’s gift shop.

8. Sea Glass Gifts

Transform discarded bottles and jars that have found their way into the ocean into stunning textures, shapes, and colors. Local artisans utilize sea glass to embellish various creations, crafting unique pendants, bracelets, and ornaments. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, and the artists are eager to share the stories behind their work.

9. Handicrafts from Indigenous Materials

St. Thomas souvenir shops will amaze you with exquisite handcrafted gifts made from locally sourced materials such as cala, coconut, and bamboo. Select from a wide array of beautifully adorned bowls, vases, drums, and jewelry. Often, the very artisans who crafted these items will be selling them, offering you a personal insight into their creative process.

10. Local Art

St. Thomas boasts a vibrant community of artists, art galleries, and shops where you can explore local artwork in numerous styles, including oils, watercolors, silk screening, wood turning, and sculpture. The friendly staff are always eager to share the stories behind each piece, along with fascinating anecdotes about life in St. Thomas. If you're seeking a deeper understanding of the Caribbean, perusing local art will create a lasting bond with the island's culture and creativity.

Note: Activities onboard, shore excursions, and dining options may differ depending on the ship and destination.