Caribbean Currencies

You’ll find that US currency is accepted on many Caribbean islands, although you’ll often receive change back in the local currency. Many visitors never exchange their dollars into local currency on many islands (such as Jamaica).

We recommend using a credit card for everything but tips and street purchases. Besides avoiding the hassle of currency conversion (and back again when you leave), you’ll usually receive the best possible exchange rate on a credit card. The credit card company shops for the best exchange rate for you—saving you some extra pennies and time.

You'll find that the French islands now use the Euro, although dollars are seen more frequently.

Other islands, such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominican Republic, Cayman Islands, and Bahamas, have their own currency used only by that island.

Several islands use Eastern Caribbean or EC currency (not to be confused with EU); this money can be used in locations including St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Lucia, Antigua, and Anguilla.

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