Is American Express (Amex) accepted in Bahamas?

Amex got through once at a fancy rooftop bar in Nassau, but declined at every dive bar and ATM. Mastercard worked at CIBC ATM and local shops without a hitch. Visa/Mastercard coverage in Bahamas is much broader than Amex. I recommend using Amex sparingly and keeping a Visa or Mastercard on hand for daily transactions.

Tried Amex at a local grocery store in Freeport - no go. The cashier asked if I had Visa; that worked fine. ATM attempts with Amex failed entirely. Don’t rely on American Express in the Bahamas. Virtually every place - from ferry counters to souvenir stands - accepts Visa or Mastercard, so bring one of those as your primary card.

During two months in Nassau and Eleuthera, Amex was accepted only at upscale hotels. Even Scotiabank ATMs declined it. On the other hand, my Chase Sapphire Preferred Visa and Revolut Mastercard worked flawlessly for ATM withdrawals and purchases. Visa and Mastercard are the most reliable credit cards in the Bahamas. Bring Amex as backup - don’t depend on it.

I brought my Amex hoping to avoid fees, but it was declined at most roadside conch shacks and cash machines. My Visa Debit worked everywhere, from chain restaurants to taxi payments. American Express acceptance in Bahamas is limited. It works only at larger resorts or luxury restaurants. Always carry Visa or Mastercard as your primary payment method.