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At first glance, Cozumel’s retail scene doesn’t look promising: San Miguel’s seafront is lined with tacky souvenir emporiums and generic duty-free shops. But dig a little deeper into the backstreets, and you’ll find stores stocked with some of Mexico’s finest craftwork.
This massive, main-drag standout stocks crafts from all over the country – its pewter serving dishes and other housewares are particularly nice, if a little pricey.
One-of-a-kind paintings and photographs by island artists line the walls at this space, which also sells select craftwork and jewelry from around Mexico.
San Miguel’s main public market is crammed with the freshest produce, fish, and meat. In the surrounding shops, you can also pick up non-perishable gifts, such as colorful plastic kitchenware. Go early in the morning for the best selection and liveliest crowds.