Shopping in Puerto Rico

SWhat to Buy, Where to Shop & Local Finds

Shopping in Puerto Rico is more than just retail—it's an experience that blends modern malls, local artisan markets, and unique cultural finds. From luxury brands in San Juan to handmade crafts across the island, there's something for every style and budget.

Where to Shop in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico offers a mix of large shopping centers, boutique districts, and local markets.

Shoppers from the Caribbean and beyond are drawn to metropolitan San Juan, Plaza Las Americas in Hato Rey is the largest shopping mall in the Caribbean, containing 190 stores, including J.C. Penney's, Sears, Macy's, and dozens of smaller stores for clothing, gifts, electronics, cosmetics, etc. (787) 767-1525.

Other Shopping Areas:

• Plaza Carolina in Carolina
• Río Hondo in Levittown
• Plaza del Carmen in Caguas
• Mayagüez Mall in Mayagüez
• Plaza de Aguadilla in Aguadilla
• Plaza del Caribe in Ponce

In almost all cities there are regional commercial centers. Retail stores like: Sears, Wal-Mart, Kmart and JCPenny anchor shopping centers and malls alongside locally owned shops and island chain stores.

Do not forget that Puerto Rico is a large producer of rum, with many different types ranging from light rums for mixing with soft drinks to dark brandy-type rums. Hand made cigars can still be found in Old San Juan and Puerta de Tierra. A wide variety of imported goods from all over the world are available. Local artesanías include wooden carvings, musical instruments, lace, ceramics, hammocks, masks and basket-work.

What to Buy in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rican Rum

Puerto Rico is known as the Rum Capital of the World. From light rums to premium aged varieties, it's one of the most popular souvenirs to take home.

Local Crafts (Artesanía)

Handmade goods reflect Puerto Rico's culture and heritage.

Popular items include:

• Wooden carvings (santos)
• Handmade masks
• Hammocks
• Ceramics and pottery
• Lace and embroidery

For information about island crafts and visits to island artisans, contact:

• Fomento Crafts Program (787) 758-4747 Ext. 2291.
• Puerto Rico Tourism Company artisan office (787) 721-2400 Ext. 2201, 2080.
• Institute of Puerto Rican Culture Popular Arts Center (787) 722-0621.

Puerto Rican Coffee

Coffee grown in Puerto Rico's mountains is rich, smooth, and highly regarded. A perfect gift or personal treat.

Cultural & Musical Items

From handmade instruments to locally inspired art, Puerto Rico offers meaningful items tied to its musical roots.

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