Shopping St. Lucia

Castries

Despite its relatively small size, shopping opportunities are unusually diverse,  particularly in Castries,  where everything from the finest imports to the most basic locals handicrafts are within easy walking distance of one another.

Because it is must-see stop for cruise ships visiting this region, Castries offers 2 large duty free shopping centers, Pointe Seraphine at the port of St. Lucia and La Place Carenage in downtown Castries on the harbour. Boat shuttles rum from the port to La Place Carenage.

If a cruise ship is in port on a Sunday, all the other stores in Castries may be closed but the two huge duty free malls will definitely be open.

Locally produced specialties include the famous clothing and household items from Bagshaws, known for employing original silk-screen print designs in a variety of ways. Islanders is a local label well-known for its high quality casual wear.

Those who want to take back home tropical scents created from fruits, flowers, woods and spices need to visit Caribbean Perfumes.

The Castries craft market is the best place for low-priced souvenirs like spice baskets, wood carvings, pottery and hand woven straw items.  Another souvenir option is the vendor’s market across the street from the craft market. Look here for T-shirts, leather goods and locally-made jewelry.

For a take-home taste of St. Lucia visit any Castries supermarket for hot sauces, spices and condiments produced by Baron Foods and Viking Traders. Both have won numerous awards locally and abroad.  The bottles may be heavy and bulky, but cruise passengers can stock up to their heart’s (and stomach’s) content.

Caribbean stamps long have been noted for their lively, colorful artwork. Collectors can buy first day St. Lucia covers and mint editions at the Philatelic Bureau located in the Castries central post office.

Rum is the true spirit of the Caribbean and you can sample some as part of a tour of Bounty Rum distillery just south of Castries in the town of Roseau.

Around the Island

At the north end of St. Lucia, the J.Q. Charles Mall at Rodney Bay has more than 50 stores, some open on Sundays between 9 and 4. This is probably the premier shopping stop with about every type store imaginable.

Going south from Castries, the Marina Village at Marigot Bay is one of the island’s most popular boating destinations. Catering largely to sailing craft, the marina also features several small boutiques, art gallery, small supermarket and banking facilities.

St. Lucia's major craft region is on its Southwest Coast around the town of Choiseul. Look for the Choiseul Arts and Crafts Centre at La Fargue and the Livity Art Studio between Choiseul and Soufrière town.

More large shopping malls are available in Vieux Fort and on the outskirts of Castries.  They will contain many of he same brand items you can find downtown but usually not the variety of locally-made crafts.

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