Saint Lucia uses the Eastern Caribbean dollar, written EC$ or XCD, and US dollars are widely accepted across the island. Paying for things is refreshingly simple, whether you are settling a resort bill in Rodney Bay or buying a plate of green fig and saltfish from a market stall. A few details help your money go further: when to use a card, when cash is the smoother choice, and how service charges and tips work.
What currency does Saint Lucia use?
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is shared by eight island nations and territories and issued by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank. It has been pegged to the US dollar since 1976 at a fixed rate of EC$2.70 to US$1, which makes converting prices easy: EC$27 is about US$10. Notes come in EC$5, 10, 20, 50 and 100.
Can you pay in US dollars in Saint Lucia?
Yes. Hotels, restaurants, tour operators and taxis widely accept US dollars, and many tourist services quote their prices in them. Change is often given in EC dollars, so confirm which currency a price is in before you agree to it.
Cards, ATMs and when to carry cash
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, larger shops and established tour providers. ATMs at bank branches and shopping centres across the island dispense EC dollars.
Cash comes into its own beyond the resort. At Castries Market on a Saturday morning or the Friday fish fry in Anse La Raye, EC dollars in small notes make every purchase easier. Our street food tips for first-time visitors show where to find the island’s most flavourful stalls.
Tipping and service charges
Many hotel and restaurant bills include a 10% service charge, and taxes may also be added, so check whether a quoted price includes them. Where no service charge appears, a tip of around 10 to 12% is customary. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, spa therapists and tour guides also appreciate a tip for attentive service.
For a wider view of your budget, see what to expect from the cost of a Saint Lucia holiday.
Settle the essentials before you arrive
Banking hours, electricity, entry requirements and more are gathered on our Plan Your Trip page. With the practical details settled, your days can belong to the island.
FAQ
The Eastern Caribbean dollar (EC$ or XCD), fixed at EC$2.70 to US$1.
Most established tour operators accept major credit cards and US dollars. Smaller, family-run operators may prefer cash, so confirm the payment method when you book.
Yes, there are currency exchange booths at the airport. Many hotels can also exchange money at the front desk, and banks are open Monday to Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Not usually. US dollars and major cards cover most purchases, and ATMs dispense EC dollars on arrival. A small amount of EC dollars is handy for markets and food stalls.
