Puerto Rico is truly the shopping capital of the Caribbean. The island boasts the largest shopping mall in the region, two major outlet malls, a host of high-end boutiques, great gift shops and literally thousands of places where you can find unique and sought-after items. Here, you'll find everything your heart desires and more.
Old San Juan's cobblestone streets are lined with jewelry stores, upscale boutiques, souvenir shops, art galleries, specialty stores and designer factory outlet stores. Beneath the picturesque balconies, you'll find some of the most unique items as well as great deals on jewelry, china, crystal and fashions, with prices that rival almost any other destination in the Caribbean.
The Condado area is full of chic boutiques and upscale designer stores with high-end items such as writing instruments, luggage and purses, shoes, clothing, crystal, jewelry and fashion home furnishings and accessories. These stores are concentrated on Ashford Avenue—in and around the major hotels—while some of the most exclusive can be found surrounding the Window to the Sea, or Ventana al Mar.
Isla Verde has lots of souvenir and beachwear stores lining Isla Verde Avenue, while inside many of the major oceanfront resorts you'll find exclusive boutiques filled with luxurious gifts, fashions, jewelry and art.
If you're looking for a suburban-American shopping mall experience, you're never very far away from one, no matter where you are on the island. The Caribbean's largest shopping mall, Plaza Las Américas, is a short drive from Old San Juan, Condado and Isla Verde. Here you'll find well over 300 stores, including many major flagship names, 21 cinemas and more than 40 eateries. There are dozens of other top-notch malls, including one just minutes east of the airport and others in most major cities around the island. There are also two major outlet malls, one in the north-central town of Barceloneta and the other in the eastern town of Canóvanas. Most malls are open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
A Few Favorite Buys
Santos Look for these strikingly unique and beautiful handcarved figures of saints and other religious figures that can range in price from $3 to more than $100.
Vejigante masks Bright colorful masks made of papier-mâché and coconut husks that appear during carnival celebrations and festivals . Also common as home decor pieces.
Mundillo lace Fine hand-made bobbin lace that usually comes in the form of table linens, handkerchiefs and baby clothing.
Local rum The island is home to the world-famous Bacardi Rum Factory, the world's largest rum producer. There are also a number of other international brands with a presence in Puerto Rico. Take home as much as you like!
Locally harvested coffee The second most popular souvenir among island visitors is the inexpensive but irresistibly rich mountain-grown java.
Fine jewelry The selection is unbelievable and the prices are very competitive.
Hand-rolled cigars Cigars made from Puerto Rican or Dominican tobacco leaves are plentiful in local shops. There are also many upscale cigar shops selling well-known brands and accessories.