The Marshall Islands might be small, but it’s packed with culture, history, and unique items that make for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. If you’re looking to bring a piece of the islands back home, you’re in luck! Local markets and small shops here offer everything from handmade crafts to locally produced goods that you won’t find anywhere else.
Let’s go over some of the best souvenirs to get in the Marshall Islands and where you can find them. Whether you’re a fan of handcrafted art, textiles, or unique jewelry, there’s something for everyone.
1. Woven Baskets and Mats
If you’re looking for something traditional, locally woven baskets and mats are a fantastic pick. Women in the Marshall Islands have been weaving items from palm fibers for generations. These are not only beautiful but highly durable. You’ll find baskets in various sizes, from small ones perfect for keys or small trinkets to larger ones ideal for storing things at home.
The same weaving technique is also used to create intricate mats. These mats, often used as floor coverings or wall decorations, are designed with local motifs and patterns. They’re lightweight, which makes them easy to pack in your luggage, too!
Where to buy:
Check out the local markets in Majuro or Ebeye. The Alele Museum Gift Shop in Majuro is a good place to start. You can also find these items at roadside stalls or smaller local markets, especially if you’re visiting outer islands.
2. Shell Jewelry
The Marshall Islands are surrounded by crystal-clear waters full of amazing marine life. This abundance of ocean life inspires beautiful shell jewelry. The locals craft necklaces, bracelets, and earrings from seashells, coral, and sometimes even shark teeth.
If you’re looking for a reasonably priced small gift that screams island vibes, this is the one. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and something that can easily be worn to remind you of your tropical getaway.
Where to buy:
Majuro has several street vendors who sell shell jewelry. You can also find these in craft markets or local stores near the popular tourist spots. Don’t hesitate to ask your hotel for nearby recommendations.
3. Traditional Stick Charts
One of the most unique items you’ll find in the Marshall Islands is the stick chart. These traditional navigational tools were used by local mariners to travel across the Pacific. The charts are made of sticks and seashells and were designed to represent ocean swells, wind directions, and island locations. They’re both historical artifacts and beautiful pieces of art.
While the modern world has moved on to GPS, these stick charts stand as a reminder of the skill and ingenuity that Marshallese sailors had in navigating vast distances using just the natural environment. They make a great cultural souvenir and add a meaningful touch to your home decor.
Where to buy:
The best place to find a traditional navigational stick chart is at the Alele Museum in Majuro. They occasionally have handcrafted replicas made by local craftsmen. You might also find them at some specialty shops in Majuro.
4. Coconut-based Products
Coconuts are life in the Marshall Islands! Locals use every part of the coconut for food, drinks, and crafts. When looking for coconut-based souvenirs, you’ll find coconut oil, soaps, lotions, and even snacks. Coconut oil is particularly popular due to its multiple functions—many use it for cooking, skincare, or even as a hair conditioner.
These products are not only natural and organic but also carry a distinct tropical fragrance that will remind you of the islands every time you use them.
Where to buy:
Look for these products in local health shops or markets in Majuro. Some hotels and tourist centers might also sell locally produced coconut-based items.
5. Local Wood Carvings
If you’re into more substantial souvenirs, check out the local wood carvings. These often depict maritime life, with carvings of sharks, fish, and traditional canoes being especially common. Some of the carvings you’ll find are small and perfect for a shelf or mantle, while others are larger statement pieces that can work as striking home decor.
Marshallese woodcrafts make for a great, personal gift since each piece is unique and often created from local wood like breadfruit or palm trees. Just make sure to check local customs rules about bringing wood items back home!
Where to buy:
You can find these wood carvings in souvenir shops in Majuro, especially in the areas near the main markets or tourist centers. They are also for sale in some gift shops at hotels and resorts.
6. Handpainted Pandanus Textiles
The pandanus plant plays an integral role in Marshallese life, and its leaves are woven into everything from mats to textiles. One of the best souvenirs to get is a handpainted pandanus textile, sometimes in the form of a sarong or wrap. These textiles can be used as scarves, tablecloths, or wall hangings. Locals often meticulously hand-paint traditional designs onto these leaves for a unique piece of art you can wear or display in your home.
These textiles are lightweight and take up almost no space in your suitcase, so you can easily grab a few as gifts for friends and family.
Where to buy:
Visit the local craft markets or souvenir shops in Majuro for handpainted pandanus products. Some artists sell their goods directly at kiosks or shops near the main hotels. Be sure to ask if they have any made-to-order options!
7. Handcrafted Coconut Jewelry
Besides shell jewelry, jewelry made from coconuts is also quite popular in the Marshall Islands. Coconut shells are carefully cut and polished to make necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Sometimes they’re mixed with other local materials like shells or coral for an added touch.
They’re eco-friendly and a perfect accessory to remind you of your time in the Pacific. Plus, being made from locally sourced coconuts, these pieces have a special connection to the islands you won’t find in mass-produced souvenirs.
Where to buy:
Look for coconut jewelry at stalls in the public markets or small shops in Majuro. In particular, markets near the docks often have a wide selection of locally made jewelry.
8. Postcards and Local Art Prints
Postcards never go out of style as a travel souvenir. The Marshall Islands have many talented photographers and artisans capturing the beauty of the islands in their work. You’ll find post cards with vibrant views of the beaches, coral reefs, and local life. Art prints are another great way to take a piece of the islands home with you. Many artists create colorful depictions of island scenery and local wildlife, making it easy to find something that fits your taste.
If you’re a fan of supporting local artists and getting inexpensive but meaningful items, postcards or an art print is an easy choice. Plus, they’re super easy to pack and transport!
Where to buy:
Postcards and art prints can be found in many locations, from the Alele Museum Gift Shop to the street kiosks around Majuro. Some artists also sell directly online if you want to browse and order before you get to the islands.
9. Local Spices and Foods
If you love cooking, bringing back some local spices from the islands can make for a fun and delicious souvenir. Some markets in Majuro might sell spices that are commonly used in local dishes or dried seafood that’s a key part of island cuisine. If you’re a fan of trying out new recipes, these little finds can be a great way to bring the flavors of the Marshall Islands back to your own kitchen.
Coconut candy is another sweet treat you can bring home. Made primarily from grated coconut and sugar, it’s a tasty snack that embodies the flavors of the islands. It also makes for a thoughtful gift for foodie friends waiting back home.
Where to buy:
The main public market in Majuro sells local food products and some spices. Check for vendors selling other small treats or snacks that are portable and easy to take home.
Wrapping Up
The Marshall Islands offer an array of unique, handmade items that capture the beauty and culture of the islands. Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, locally inspired jewelry, or practical items like coconut oil, there’s something for everyone. Visit the local markets in Majuro and Ebeye or explore smaller stalls on the outer islands to find items that tell a story and remind you of your adventure.
Grab a souvenir for yourself—or a gift for a friend—and bring a piece of the Marshall Islands home with you!
Leave a reply