Port of Spain, the vibrant capital of Trinidad and Tobago, is a city full of rhythm, color, and culture. Known for its Carnival celebrations, rich Creole heritage, and lively markets, it’s a place where music and craftsmanship go hand in hand. Whether you’re passing through before heading to the beaches or spending time exploring the city, there are plenty of memorable and meaningful souvenirs to take home.

From handcrafted jewelry to flavorful sauces, shopping in Port of Spain is a flavorful and festive experience in itself.

Here’s your full guide to the best souvenirs to buy in Port of Spain — plus where to shop and helpful tips for finding authentic goods.

Top 10 Souvenirs from Port of Spain

1. Steelpan Miniatures

As the birthplace of the steelpan (steel drum), Trinidad takes pride in its musical legacy. Miniature steelpans — often made of metal or ceramic — are a favorite among visitors and represent the soul of Trinidadian music. These are commonly found at cultural gift shops and music stores.

2. Local Hot Sauces and Pepper Jelly

Trinidadians love their heat, and the island produces some of the spiciest and most flavorful pepper sauces in the Caribbean. Look for sauces made with scorpion or habanero peppers, and consider bringing back a jar of pepper jelly for a sweet-spicy kick. These are widely sold at supermarkets, craft markets, and gourmet shops.

3. Calypso and Soca Music CDs or Merch

Music lovers often pick up Soca or Calypso compilations from local artists, especially around Carnival season. Some shops also sell concert t-shirts, posters, or vinyl reissues, celebrating Trinidad’s musical history.

4. Carnival Masks and Accessories

Carnival is the heartbeat of Port of Spain, and many shops sell miniature feathered masks, beadwork, and sequined headpieces. These colorful items make festive keepsakes and reflect the creativity of local designers.

5. Cocoa and Chocolate Products

Trinidad is known for growing high-quality Trinitario cocoa, and a few local chocolatiers produce single-origin bars, cocoa nibs, and cocoa balls (used to make traditional hot cocoa tea). These are a hit with food lovers and can be found at specialty stores or farmers’ markets.

6. Handmade Jewelry

Artisans often work with coconut shells, calabash, sea glass, and native seeds to create bold, eco-friendly jewelry. These pieces are commonly sold at art fairs, craft markets, and cultural festivals, often directly by the makers.

7. Rum from Trinidad Distilleries

Trinidad produces award-winning rums — including the famous Angostura brand. From premium aged blends to unique spiced varieties, these bottles are widely available and make excellent gifts (or souvenirs for your own collection).

8. Embroidered or Batik Textiles

Look out for hand-dyed batik scarves, sarongs, or tablecloths in vibrant Caribbean colors. These are popular among visitors and often feature tropical or folkloric patterns. They’re lightweight, practical, and support local textile artists.

9. Local Spices and Seasonings

Bring the taste of Trinidad home with spice blends like green seasoning, curry powder, or geera (cumin). These are frequently found at local markets and packaged for travel, making them great culinary gifts.

10. Carved Calabash and Wooden Art

Crafted from gourds or local wood, these bowls, cups, and decorative carvings are common in artisan markets. Some pieces are etched with island symbols, birds, or Carnival dancers — unique and full of local character.

Where to Shop in Port of Spain

• The Craft Market at Queen’s Park Savannah:

A favorite among both locals and visitors, this outdoor market offers handmade jewelry, masks, wood carvings, and textiles — with many items sold directly by the artisans.

• Piarco International Airport Shops:

Great for last-minute rum, chocolate, hot sauce, and music-themed souvenirs, often packaged for easy travel.

• The Falls at Westmall:

One of the city’s main shopping centers, it includes stores that carry locally produced gifts, clothing, and gourmet food items.

• Art Society of Trinidad and Tobago (St. Clair):

For more artistic souvenirs and prints, the Art Society’s gallery shop showcases the work of local painters, sculptors, and craft makers.

• Green Market Santa Cruz (weekends):

A short drive from Port of Spain, this eco-conscious market features organic produce, handmade goods, chocolate, and soaps, all with a local and sustainable focus.

Shopping Tips for Port of Spain

• Support local creators. When possible, buy directly from artisans — not only do you get more unique items, but your purchase supports local craftsmanship.
• Pack sauces and rum carefully. Liquids need to be packed in checked luggage (or bought duty-free). Many shops offer travel-safe packaging.
• Prices can vary. Expect slightly higher prices in malls and tourist zones. Markets often offer better deals — and sometimes, a little polite haggling is welcomed.
• Look for “Made in T&T” labels. These indicate authentic local products rather than imported goods sold as souvenirs.
• Visit before or after Carnival. If you’re around Carnival season (January–February), you’ll find a broader range of costume-related items and music merchandise.

Final Thoughts

Souvenir shopping in Port of Spain is just as colorful and expressive as the city itself. From the rhythm of the steelpan to the heat of local pepper sauces, each item tells a story of Trinidad’s passion, flavor, and creativity. Whether you’re heading home with a bottle of aged rum or a handcrafted mask, your souvenir will carry a little piece of the island’s heartbeat with it.