If you are hoping to find locally made crafts and products during your visit to Roatan, and will be stopping in Coxen Hole, you are in for a treat! Coxen Hole, located on the western end of the Island of Roatan, is the island's cruise ship port. This fact makes Coxen Hole one of the most visited part of the island and is therefore a very desirable location for shopkeepers.
The local shopkeepers are always pleasant and are never aggressive or pushy with their goods. Pan handling on the streets is rare (usually children, carry a roll of quarters and make some smiles!) and is discouraged by the local police who are about on foot. You are always greeted with a friendly smile and more often than not, an English "Hello". Most storekeepers do speak some English. All items that are for sale will be marked or quoted in American Dollars.
Most of the shops are small, many are open air with only a roof. Most of the crafted items are native to Roatan and/or mainland Honduras. You will find a large assortment of carved wooden items including bowls, masks, canes and children's toys. Also to be found are blankets and hand sewn articles of clothing, many for small children. Hand thrown pottery and carved slate items also abound. A more commercial storefront featuring things such as jewelry and bath products is located a short ways east of the cruise ship terminal. Be sure to go into one of the small local grocery stores and try one of the canned fruit sodas! Your shopping experience in Roatan will be warmly remembered for many years to come.