Currency
The official currency in St Lucia is Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), divided into 100 cents. Available denominations are EC$100, EC$50, EC$20, EC$10 and EC$5 for notes and EC$1, EC$25, 10 cents, 5 cents, 2 cents 1 cent for coins.
The Eastern Caribbean dollar is fixed to the US dollar at a rate approximately US$1.00 = EC$2.7.
The US dollar is accepted by many businesses in St Lucia, but the change may be given in EC$. To avoid costly mistakes, visitors are advised to always make sure if the quoted price is in US dollars or EC dollars.
Foreign Currency Exchange
Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, foreign exchange bureaus, hotels or stores. Best rates are generally given by banks and exchange bureaus. For best rates US dollar is the recommended currency to bring to St Lucia, but other major currencies - particularly British pound, euro or Canadian dollar - can be exchanged, too. A passport or other photo ID is required to exchange money.
ATMs
Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) can be found at most St Lucia's banks in Castries, Soufrière, Rodney Bay, and Vieux Fort. The machines accept international credit cards and bank cards with Cirrus and Plus logo and can be used for credit card cash advance or withdrawals using a bank card. The ATMs only dispense cash in Eastern Caribbean dollars.
Credit Cards
Visa, MasterCard and American Express are widely accepted at hotels, larger restaurants, car rental agencies or large shopping centers. Smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
Traveler's Checks
Traveler's checks can be exchanged at banks and larger hotels. Best rates are given for checks in US dollars.
Banking Hours
Banks are typically open from 8:30am - 3:00pm, Monday to Thursday, and 8:30am - 5:00pm on Fridays. Some banks are also open on Saturday mornings.
