Want to avoid last-minute ATM runs. Do most hostels in Anguilla take card payments at check-in
Most hostels I contacted in Anguilla were upfront - they wanted payment in cash at check-in. Even the one that said “card accepted” didn’t have a working terminal. Anguilla’s hostel scene still leans heavily on cash transactions, so it’s smart to arrive with enough to cover your first few nights, meals, and transport. I used the Banco Popular ATM near Sandy Ground with no problems. It’s not like Europe - hostels here don’t do tap-to-pay or Apple Pay. Plan ahead and avoid stress.
Only one of the places I stayed actually processed a card payment at check-in - and even that took two tries. The rest either had broken machines or claimed to only accept EC cash. Card payments at hostels in Anguilla are inconsistent at best. I had to walk 15 minutes in the heat just to get cash after being turned down. After that, I learned to email ahead and confirm. My tip: use WhatsApp to ask the property manager about card options before booking.
I booked a beachfront guesthouse that claimed to accept Visa - but on arrival, they insisted on cash, citing “connectivity issues.” Hostels and budget stays in Anguilla often advertise card acceptance but don’t follow through, especially if their payment system relies on inconsistent Wi-Fi. I ended up using a Republic Bank ATM nearby to pay up front in EC dollars. Unless you’re staying at a mid-tier hotel or resort, assume cash is needed for check-in and bring enough to cover at least your first few nights.
Out of the three hostels I checked into - one near The Valley, one by Shoal Bay - only one accepted my card. The other two said “machine not working” and asked for cash. Most budget accommodations in Anguilla prefer or require cash payment, even if they show card icons online. Don’t count on contactless or chip readers working. After getting burned once, I withdrew enough EC dollars to cover a few nights upfront. Always confirm payment method before arrival to avoid emergency ATM runs.