Big Rock Supermarket: Windwardside's Grocery Lifeline
The island's biggest — and cheapest — grocery run, tucked into the heart of Windwardside.
Why Go
On an island where every ounce of produce arrives by boat, Big Rock is where Saba stocks its kitchen. It's the largest supermarket in Windwardside, officially confirmed as the cheapest food store on the island, and the unofficial community bulletin board for what's fresh, what's coming, and who's headed up the hill.
The Experience
Step inside and you'll immediately understand the rhythm of island life. The aisles are compact but surprisingly complete: frozen meats, pantry staples, dry goods, a small pharmacy corner, cleaning supplies, and — famously — around two dozen varieties of rum, including the local Saba Spice. Fresh produce is the star on Wednesdays, when the shipment arrives from St. Maarten and the shelves briefly overflow with greens, tomatoes, herbs, and fruit before locals sweep through. Staff are chatty, prices are marked, and if you linger by the front door you'll likely catch a ride to wherever you're going next — Big Rock's forecourt doubles as one of the island's most reliable hitchhiking spots.
What to Try
Grab a bottle of Saba Spice (the island's signature rum-based liqueur infused with fennel and local herbs) as a souvenir that actually tastes like where you've been. Stock your villa or cottage kitchen with Wednesday-fresh produce, pick up sandwich fixings for a Mount Scenery hike, and don't skip the freezer aisle if you're self-catering — the frozen meats and fish are the backbone of most home-cooked dinners on the island. Cold drinks, sunscreen, and basic first-aid supplies round out the classic Saba shopping list.
Insider Tip
Time your big grocery run for Wednesday afternoon or Thursday morning — that's when the produce boat has just landed and selection is at its peak. By the weekend, the fresh section thins out fast. If you're staying more than a couple of days, do a quick price walk between Big Rock and the smaller shops; Big Rock consistently comes out cheapest in island-wide comparisons, but a few specialty items may only turn up elsewhere. And if you need a lift up to Windwardside from The Bottom or down to the harbor, standing near Big Rock's entrance with a friendly wave is basically the island's Uber.
The Practical Stuff
Located in the center of Windwardside, Saba, on the main road through the village — walkable from most Windwardside guesthouses and cottages. Cash (USD) and cards are generally accepted; small bills are appreciated. Hours follow standard island retail rhythms (mornings through early evening on weekdays, shorter hours Sunday) — confirm locally before a late run. Parking is limited; most visitors walk in. Fresh produce restocks Wednesdays via the St. Maarten supply boat.
Pair It With
- Amonhana Guide — After stocking the pantry, walk over for a sit-down meal — a natural pairing when you don't feel like cooking what you just bought.
- Angelina's Saba By OwAiChie: Food and Drinks Guide — Grab dinner and drinks nearby once your groceries are safely dropped at your guesthouse.
- Barney's Ground Guide — Pack a picnic from Big Rock's shelves and head to this local activity spot for an easy afternoon outing.
- Big Stone Guide — Pick up water, snacks, and sunscreen at Big Rock before tackling this Saba activity — everything you'll want is on one shopping list.
