Even from the outside this place has a style all its own. The large pastel Art Deco building occupies its own piece of land between Hurricane Hole Plaza and the Paradise Shopping Plaza. The sign outside states that 100 authentic boutiques are housed within the main building. Upon entering, it becomes obvious that "boutique" is a bit of an overstatement. However, the 100 booths here sell everything from clothing to woven straw goods to seashell crafts. The overall impression is of a large, sedate, impossibly tidy Straw Market.

One of the first tourist attractions you'll come across or hear about anywhere in the Bahamian Islands is this popular Straw Market. The one on Bay Street is enormous, busy and central. In fact, it is the heart of the downtown shopping district. Just about anything that can be woven with straw can be found here. Dolls, hats, handbags, place mats and other home items are for sale, and they're cheap. In addition, vendors hawk T-shirts, dresses, jewelry, wooden carvings and other souvenir items. Be prepared for bargaining during your visit to the Straw Market.