Anguilla’s pristine beaches and upscale resorts make it a Caribbean favorite, but understanding money in Anguilla and how currency works is essential for a smooth and stress-free getaway. Whether you’re dining by the sea, island-hopping, or tipping hotel staff, knowing how to pay is key. This guide explains what currency to bring, how to get money and currency in Anguilla (Eastern Caribbean Dollar – XCD), tips for cash and card use, and the most important dos and don’ts. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy Anguilla without surprise fees or payment hassles.
How to pay in Anguilla – cash or card?
In Anguilla, both cash and card payments are used, but cash remains essential for many transactions, especially outside the main tourist areas. U.S. dollars are widely accepted alongside the East Caribbean dollar, and while most tourism-focused services take cards, smaller establishments often prefer cash.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Taxis and local rides almost always require cash.
- Street Vendors and Markets: Beach shacks, craft markets, and small stalls are cash-based.
- Small Businesses: Local eateries, independent shops, and service providers often prefer cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Many smaller, budget accommodations require cash payment on arrival.
- Tips and Gratuities: Tipping in cash is standard in restaurants, hotels, and for guides.
- Remote Areas: Outside main tourist zones, card facilities may be limited.
You can use card for:
- Hotels and Resorts: Most larger accommodations accept Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes AmEx.
- Restaurants: Mid-range and upscale restaurants in tourist hubs generally accept cards.
- Retail Stores: Tourist shops, boutiques, and supermarkets often support card payments.
- Car Rentals and Tour Operators: Larger operators usually take cards.
- Online Bookings: Flights, accommodation, and activities can be booked using cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Anguilla?
The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD) is the official currency in Anguilla, and it’s the best currency to take if you want to avoid unnecessary fees.
That said, US Dollars are widely accepted across the island, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist spots. But beware – change is usually given in XCD, and the exchange rate can be unfavorable.
So while you can get by with USD, you’ll save money by using local currency. If you’re bringing cash, consider a mix of XCD and USD, or use an international card with low fees where accepted.
Where to get currency in Anguilla?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Anguilla. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Banks for currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Anguilla
Establishments with POS machines readily accept Visa and Mastercards for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Anguilla
If you’re withdrawing money in Anguilla from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa and Mastercards. Some of them also accept Plus and Cirrus cards. Others like CUP, American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Anguilla?
It’s wise to bring a small amount of Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) before traveling to Anguilla for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small shops. That said, many foreign banks don’t carry XCD, and rates outside the region may be less favorable.
A better option is to withdraw XCD from ATMs upon arrival. ATMs are available in The Valley and other populated areas.
If you prefer exchanging cash, do so at local banks in Anguilla for better rates than at the airport. USD is widely accepted on the island and can also be exchanged locally if needed.
Where to withdraw money in Anguilla
You can withdraw money in Anguilla at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Anguilla are those owned by popular banks such as:
- National Commercial Bank of Anguilla (NCBA), and
- Republic Bank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Anguilla.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Anguilla.
Where to exchange currency in Anguilla
Common places to exchange currency in Anguilla are banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: Dedicated exchange offices are rare. Most travelers rely on banks or hotel front desks to exchange foreign currency. Some ATMs may dispense USD or XCD, depending on the card issuer.
Banks Offering Currency Exchange Services are:
National Commercial Bank of Anguilla
Republic Bank (EC) Ltd.
Banks typically operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with limited hours on Fridays.
Tip: Bring small USD bills – they are often accepted 1:1 in shops and restaurants.
You can find good currency exchanges in Anguilla using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Anguilla. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: They have the highest fees and poorest exchange rates. Wait to get to the city to exchange cash.
Is carrying cash in Anguilla safe?
Carrying cash in Anguilla is generally safe, as the island has a low crime rate and a relaxed atmosphere. However, as in any tourist destination, it’s still a good idea to take basic precautions to avoid loss or petty theft.
To safely carry cash in Anguilla:
- Bring only the amount of cash you need for daily expenses – especially for taxis, tips, or small vendors.
- Use a crossbody bag or secure wallet to keep your money accessible but safe.
- Don’t flash large sums of money, even in casual beach or resort settings.
- Split your cash between different spots – wallet, travel pouch, or even your partner’s bag.
- Use ATMs located inside banks or hotels rather than standalone street machines.
- While many restaurants and shops accept cards, some smaller vendors may prefer cash, so plan accordingly.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Anguilla
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
Download ATM Fee Saver now.
