Money, Budget, and Shopping in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Money

Currency

Currency: East Caribbean dollar (100 cents)

Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 EC$

Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10 and 25 cents + 1 and 2 EC$

Exchange:

The East Caribbean dollar, known in English as East Caribbean dollar or EC dollar, is also the currency of seven other islands in the region, members of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, which are Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia. Since 1976, the East Caribbean dollar has had a fixed exchange rate with the US dollar: 1 US$ = 2.7 EC$.

Exchange

You can exchange money upon arrival at banks in the archipelago or use their ATMs (except on Mayreau, which has none). Banks are generally open weekdays from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (5:00 PM on Fridays).

Which currency to bring

While the official currency is the East Caribbean dollar, it is still possible to pay almost everywhere in US dollars (though change will be given in the local currency). Often, prices are listed in US dollars rather than East Caribbean dollars. Be careful and confirm the currency, as the difference is significant: 1 US$ = 2.7 EC$.

As for which currency to bring, simplicity is best. Even if euros are accepted (not always at a good rate) or can be exchanged for East Caribbean dollars, it’s better to come with US dollars. The advantage is that even if you have some left at the end of your trip, you’ll always have the opportunity to use or exchange them easily elsewhere.

Payment methods

Card payments, like US dollars, are widely accepted on the island. Still, bring some East Caribbean dollars for small expenses if you’re staying a while, and watch out for bank fees if you make too many small purchases or withdrawals.

Upon return

The simplest option is to end your trip with mostly US dollars, which you can always use or exchange easily on another trip if you have any left.

Budget

Overall, Saint Vincent and Bequia are the least expensive islands. Larger and more populated, they offer more choices and "competition" compared to the others, where services and infrastructure are often limited. This means your budget will depend not only on the activities you plan but also on the type of accommodation you seek, the season, and the islands you visit. You can expect around 45 € per person per day (for two) in the best-case scenario, and more broadly around 70 € in high season or for more flexibility. However, within this range, you won’t be able to afford inter-island cruises if you want to stay within budget.

What can be expensive

Mustique, Canouan, and the private islands compared to the others.

Flights from Europe or Canada.

Inter-island cruises.

What can be inexpensive

Family-run guesthouses.

Eating local food.

Public minibus rides.

Price range

Budget double room: expect around $30–40 US for the cheapest double room in a guesthouse.

Mid-range double room: between $60 and $100 US for more options.

Snacks or local restaurant meals: well under $5 US at markets or for snacks.

Mid-range restaurant meals: around $10 US.

Budget car rental:

Bus fare: between $0.50 and $3 US depending on the route.

Taxi fare:

Short inter-island cruise: