Shopping in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands is one of the most visited watersports destinations in the world, with diving being a top activity.  Still, there is more than enough to keep vacationers occupied on solid ground.  Shopping for souvenirs and discounted goods is one way to spend some of your time. 

The cost of living in the Cayman Islands tends to be higher than many places in the United States, and the United States Dollar (USD) is worth 20 percent less than the Cayman Islands Dollar (CI). 

The Goods

Despite the lower value of the U.S. Dollar in the Cayman Islands, there are plenty of deals to be had.  The products with the best value will be high quality goods from foreign countries that are often deeply discounted, and locally made handicrafts.

Like anywhere else in the Caribbean, you will find fun souvenirs in the Cayman Islands, such as key chains, shot glasses, t-shirts, post cards, and coffee mugs with the words “Cayman Islands.” These are affordable, widely available, and great options for you to bring home.  Perhaps you are looking for something a little more unique.  Artwork, shell jewelry, wood carvings and woven items make for excellent take homes, as well as bath and beauty products such as soaps, perfumes, and facial scrubs. Recently, underwater photography has begun to take off, so be on the lookout for art galleries that feature these unique prints.  Don't forget the edible items, like the oh-so-popular rum cakes, jams and jellies, seasons and salts, and locally distilled rums.

While locally made goods will undoubtedly provide visitors with the best deals, cameras and camera accessories are also available at excellent prices.  Jewelry is another option.  Name brands such as  Bacarrat, Cartier, Gucci, Lalique, Tiffany, and Versace are available at discounted prices throughout the Caymans.

Where to Shop

The best shopping in the Cayman Islands is found in George Town, where a good selection of duty free, luxury items can be purchased.  These are often discounted up to 30 percent, but it helps to know how much you would be spending back home so you can determine if you are getting a good deal or not.  Most of the shops here are located within walking distance of the cruise terminal, which makes it a very popular shopping locale.  Malls such as the Bayshore Mall and Island Plaza are located in the heart of George Town if department store shopping is your desire. 

In addition to the major shopping center that is George Town, dozens of other smaller shopping complexes can be found in other towns throughout the Caymans.  Grand Harbour Centre is one of the islands' newer facilities.  The Countryside Shopping Village is located in Savannah.

The best way to ensure that you are picking up a locally made craft is by visiting the Cayman Craft Market.  Not only is it a great location to browse carts set up by local vendors, but the park like setting provides a place for a relaxing stroll.  The Farmer's Market Cooperative is another location where you can support local vendors, by purchasing everything from produce to crafts.

Duties, Taxes, and Tips

Though there is absolutely no sales tax in the Cayman Islands, duty fees depend upon the item that is purchased.  Any item manufactured in the Cayman Islands, such as art, native crafts and jewelry, photography, and Tortuga rum cakes is duty free.  It is important that you are aware that some stores in the Cayman Islands use the phrase “duty free” in their title.  Do not be fooled.  Only stores in the airport or at the cruise terminal are completely duty free.  These other stores may have a few duty free items, but not all.

Shops in the Cayman Islands accept the legal currency, which is the Cayman Island Dollar, as well as the U.S. Dollar, traveler's checks, and major credit cards.  You will find that more stores are open between the hours of  9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

A few other tips to keep in mind are as follows:

• Cruise ship passengers descend upon  George Town early in the mornings, so if it is possible, save your shopping trips for the afternoons.  This will help you to avoid the crowds.
• Be aware that haggling and bargaining is not commonplace in the Cayman Islands as it is in some other Caribbean Islands.  Trying to do so with a salesclerk will be considered as poor form.
• It is illegal to export products made from turtle, as well as Caymanite. 

Whatever you plan to pick up, shopping in the Cayman Islands is a must.  Not only will you need to bring home souvenirs for your friends, but you'll want to make sure you choose something for yourself as well.  Be it a luxury item or a handmade craft, there are many great products to be found on the islands.