A Taste of St Maarten’s Heart: Guavaberry
Walk through the cobbled streets of Philipsburg or the breezy hills of the French side, and chances are you’ll hear whispers of Guavaberry—not just the drink, but the story it carries. Guavaberry in St Maarten isn’t just a spirit you sip—it’s a symbol of identity, of holidays, of generations that passed down a recipe rooted in joy, family, and a little Caribbean mischief.
If you only try one local drink while visiting, let it be this.
What is Guavaberry?
Despite the name, guavaberries aren’t guavas. They’re small, tart berries that grow wild in the island’s central hills. Reddish or golden in color, they’re prized not for sweetness, but for their complexity—floral, slightly spicy, and deeply aromatic. Local families have harvested them for centuries to create Guavaberry liqueur, a blend of aged rum, cane sugar, spices, and these rare berries.
The result? A smooth, warm drink that tastes like the holidays and history all at once.
Guavaberry’s Role in St Maarten Culture
For many islanders, Guavaberry is Christmas. It’s a tradition, a memory, a gift exchanged in glass bottles or served with cheer at family gatherings. In the past, families would make their own batches at home, aging it in reused bottles, and guarding the recipe with the same care they gave to their Johnny Cakes or saltfish stew.
But the spirit goes beyond the season—it’s part of the island’s culinary soul. Even today, locals enjoy it in coffee, over ice cream, or mixed into a Guavaberry colada under a palm tree.
Where to Taste Guavaberry in St Maarten
You don’t have to wait for Christmas. Today, visitors can enjoy this flavorful tradition in a variety of settings—some steeped in history, others designed for tasting and souvenirs.
1. Guavaberry Emporium, Front Street (Philipsburg)
Housed in a historic 18th-century building, this charming storefront is the official home of Guavaberry St Maarten. Step inside to sample liqueurs in various flavors, browse jams and hot sauces, and learn more about how the drink is made. Staff often share stories that make every sip more meaningful.
2. Local Beach Bars and Restaurants
Ask for a Guavaberry cocktail or a Guavaberry punch. Many local bartenders will gladly mix one up—with a smile and maybe a story.
3. Gift Shops & Markets
From Marigot to Simpson Bay, small bottles are widely available. They make meaningful souvenirs with real cultural weight.
Why Guavaberry Is More Than a Drink
Guavaberry is one of the few remaining truly indigenous flavors of St Maarten—not imported, not replicated, and not mass-produced like other rums. It’s unique to the island, and that makes it powerful.
It also holds a special place in storytelling and island folklore. Some say Guavaberry brings good luck. Others joke it can cure a cold—or start a romance. Either way, it has a way of showing up at just the right moment, usually with music playing in the background.
Ideal For:
- Cultural explorers seeking authentic local flavor
- Food and drink lovers wanting to go beyond the usual rum punch
- Souvenir hunters looking for something meaningful (and packable!)
- Holiday travelers visiting during the festive season
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Guavaberry taste like?
It’s slightly sweet, mildly spicy, and fruity with herbal undertones. Think Caribbean mulled wine, but smoother.
Is Guavaberry alcoholic?
Yes. It’s made with aged rum and typically bottled at 30% alcohol by volume.
Can I bring Guavaberry home?
Yes! Travelers often bring home sealed bottles as gifts or keepsakes. Check your country’s duty-free regulations for limits.
Is Guavaberry the national drink of St Maarten?
It’s widely regarded as the signature liqueur of the island—especially during holidays.
A Cultural Sip You Won’t Forget
There’s something special about drinking Guavaberry in St Maarten, especially when you know the story behind it. Whether you’re sipping it under a sea grape tree or pouring it back home while telling travel tales, the taste lingers in more ways than one.
Add it to your must-try list. It’s not just a drink—it’s an island memory, bottled.
