Shop Talk

Paradise Islands: Shopping in the Bahamas

Besides the requisite sun, seafood, and sweet cocktails, the Bahamas offers its visitors a charming, low-key escape from the doldrums. To truly relax and unwind from daily life, you'll also relish the Bahamas' scenic views, warm sea breezes, and the opportunity to try new watersports! What else does the modern escapist need? Retail therapy, of course! In the Bahamas, you'll find a selection of shopping experiences. From boutiques and high-end fashion stores (at famed Atlantis!) to simple gift shops, vibrant "straw" markets, and basic retail stores, the Bahamas has you covered. So there's no excuse not to bring back the perfect souvenir!

Bargain Hunting

There's more than one way to secure a bargain in the Bahamas. First, you can score a bargain if you utilize the island tradition of haggling while you shop in Nassau's Straw Market. The colorful arts & crafts items, bags, and floor mats don't have price tags; you bargain with the vendor until you've agreed to an amount. Expect to see items made of local straw, wood, and shell at the straw markets.

Your other option is to simply cash in on savings buying everything duty free! Look in the store's window for the pink flamingo decal, which denotes the Bahamian government's mark of authenticity for the products. You will not argue with anyone at a booth or even have to calculate the math in these duty free shops. You browse, you select, you buy! Here's a list of typical duty free items: alcohol, cameras, crystal, leather, linens, jewelry, and watches.

Hot Deals

Some items aren't just "hot," they'll actually ignite! While in the Bahamas, take advantage of being able to buy these special items you won't find at home. This includes the inimitable Cuban cigar, the island famous Rum Cake, and your personal favorite alcohol - at duty free prices. Stock up while you can, but be aware of shipping laws and airport customs. Don't forget to enjoy the Bahamian sunsets after full days of island shopping!

Location Leads

Do yourself a favor and think about what type of shopping you'd be most comfortable with. If you want to start on familiar ground, try Grand Bahama Island with its large shopping center featuring both retail stores and local artisans. The International Bazaar Freeport Bahama is located near downtown and provides easy access to international goods. If you're in the mood to spend some cash, then treat yourself to the shops of Marina Village at Atlantis. With over 20 designer retail stores here, you'll be occupied for hours!

Head to Bay Street in Nassau if you're looking to purchase duty free clothes or perfume. Another handicraft mecca is Festival Place at Prince George's Wharf. And several Out Islands have little shops with jewelry and other local pieces. The Bahamas Craft Centre (in an art deco building on Paradise Island) houses another concentration of local work. This craft center has booths like a straw market, but the real appeal is that you get to see artisans at work while you shop. Check out the blown glass, driftwood pieces, Junkanoo art, and paintings.

As always, you may want to consult your charter yacht's crew about how to plan your shopping trip or where to score an unusual souvenir. Happy shopping!