What Money is Used?

St Lucia uses the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). Learn how it works, where to get it, and the best ways to manage money on the island.

What currency is used in St Lucia?

If you're planning a Caribbean getaway, considering investing in property, or doing business with local suppliers, understanding St Lucia’s currency is essential. This guide is written for tourists, expats, and international business owners who want to navigate payments, exchanges, and pricing confidently. We'll explain what currency is used in St Lucia, how it works, and offer practical advice to help you avoid unnecessary charges or confusion.

St Lucia’s official currency: the Eastern Caribbean Dollar

The official currency of St Lucia is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, abbreviated as XCD and commonly represented by the symbol EC$. It has been the island’s official currency since 1965 and is used across several countries and territories in the Eastern Caribbean.

The Eastern Caribbean Dollar is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed exchange rate of EC$2.70 = US$1, which offers price stability and simplifies currency conversion for visitors from the United States and elsewhere.

Coins are issued in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, and 25 cents, and EC$1. Notes are available in EC$5, EC$10, EC$20, EC$50, and EC$100 denominations.

Who uses the EC dollar in St Lucia?

The EC dollar is used by locals and visitors across St Lucia, including in major towns such as Castries, Soufrière, and Rodney Bay. It is the only legal tender, meaning it must be accepted for all public and private transactions—whether you're paying for accommodation, buying food at a market, or booking a boat tour.

St Lucia shares its currency with seven other members of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), including Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St Kitts and Nevis, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Montserrat, and Anguilla.

Can you use US dollars in St Lucia?

Yes—but with limitations. US dollars are widely accepted in hotels, tourist attractions, and some larger shops, especially those catering to foreign visitors. However:

  • The exchange rate used by vendors may vary, so it’s often not in your favour.

  • Change is usually given in EC dollars, which can create confusion if you're relying solely on USD.

  • Local businesses, taxis, and small vendors prefer or require EC dollars, especially outside tourist areas.

Because of this, it’s advisable to carry and use EC dollars for most purchases, especially when travelling away from resorts or into more rural areas.

How the Eastern Caribbean Dollar works

The EC dollar is managed by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), which oversees monetary policy and currency issuance for all eight participating territories. The fixed peg to the US dollar means that exchange rates are predictable and stable.

This makes it easier for travellers and businesses to plan and budget without worrying about volatile currency fluctuations, a common issue in many other parts of the world.

Benefits and considerations of using EC dollars

Benefits:

  • Stable value due to the fixed US dollar peg.

  • Shared across multiple countries, making regional travel easier.

  • Accepted everywhere in St Lucia, even in rural villages or small vendors.

Considerations:

  • Limited availability abroad—you may not be able to get EC dollars before travelling.

  • Exchange rates for USD purchases may not be favourable in tourist zones.

  • Card acceptance is not universal—especially in local markets or taxis—so cash is still important.

Smart money tips for visitors to St Lucia

  • Withdraw EC dollars locally from bank-affiliated ATMs, such as those run by Bank of St Lucia, First Caribbean International Bank, or Republic Bank.

  • Avoid airport exchange kiosks, which tend to offer less competitive rates.

  • Use a debit or travel card with no foreign transaction fees when possible.

  • Always ask for the price in EC dollars to avoid inflated USD charges.

  • Carry small denominations for tipping, taxis, and shopping at local stalls.

FAQs

Can I use British pounds in St Lucia?
No. Pounds are not accepted for payment. You’ll need to convert GBP to EC dollars or use a debit/credit card with good exchange rates.

Is it better to exchange money before travelling or after arrival?
It's often better to withdraw cash on arrival from a local ATM. Exchange rates are usually more competitive than high-street currency converters.

Are credit cards accepted?
Yes, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops. However, cash is still important for small purchases, markets, and transport.

What’s the tipping culture in St Lucia?
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. A 10–15% tip is appreciated in restaurants. For taxi drivers and tour guides, tipping is welcome for good service.

Real-world example

A traveller from the UK arrives in St Lucia with £400. They use a fee-free travel debit card to withdraw EC$1,400 from a local ATM. They use EC dollars for taxis, meals at beach cafés, and entry fees to nature parks. At a resort, they pay for their room in US dollars but notice the hotel’s exchange rate is EC$2.50 to the dollar—less favourable than the official rate. By using EC dollars for most transactions, they save money and avoid unnecessary currency confusion.