The major villages of Chaweng, Nathon, Lamai and Maenam all have central commercial districts. For daytime shopping most people head for Nathon, where a wide variety of shops are open all day. Chaweng Center's night market, located along Chaweng's main street and surrounded by many restaurants, stays open well into the evening.

If you're looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of options, ranging from colourful carved soaps to chopsticks and coasters made from local coconut wood. There are also several art shops selling reproductions of famous works of art at very reasonable prices.

Many labor intensive items are produced locally, such as custom tailoring, and some of the handmade crafts found on the market. There are also several jewelry manufacturers on the island. Many of these items can be bought at very favorable prices.