The island of Grenada has not been overrun by tourism as much as some of the other Caribbean islands, which gives tourists an authentic Caribbean experience. If you have an upcoming trip to Grenada, you might be wondering about the preferred currency in Grenada. And if you are traveling from America you might be hoping to just use US dollars in conjunction with your credit cards, but can you use US dollars in Grenada? What is the best currency for Grenada?
The best currency to use while in Grenada is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). This will make transactions easier. Despite that, yes, US dollars are widely accepted around Grenada, but expect to lose a little money in exchange fees.
In this article we will discuss the best currency for Grenada in further detail, discussing these various topics:
- What is the official currency of Grenada?
- Can you use US dollars in Grenada?
- What is the best currency for Grenada? And why?
- How to exchange money in Grenada
- Does Grenada accept Canadian Dollars?
- Does Grenada accept Euros?
Official Currency in Grenada
The Eastern Carribean dollar is the official currency used in Grenada. Called EC for short, the EC is used by all seven members of the Organisation of Eastern Carribean States (OECS) and one associate member.
That means the EC$ can also be used in Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, and Anguila. So if you’re planning on touring any of those other countries any time in the future, hold on to any EC$ you have leftover in your wallet as you can always use the currency on any of those islands.
The current exchange rate 2019 is approximately 2.70 EC$ to 1 US$ (source).
Can you use US Dollars in Grenada?
Are you traveling from America and wondering if you can use US dollars in Grenada? Yes, US dollars are widely accepted throughout Grenada. But, of course, this does not mean that US dollars will be accepted everywhere.
If you plan to leave the heavy tourism areas and adventure around the island, there is a possiblity some local vendors might not accept US dollars.
Again, yes, if you choose to use US dollars, you will likely have no issue. But do expect to lose some money in exchange fees, and expect, in many cases, your change to come back in EC$.
Best Currency for Grenada
When traveling to another country, it’s usually easier, and considerate, to just use local currency. That’s why my recommendation is to use EC$ if at all possible. Transactions will go smoother and it will make it easier on the local businesses and vendors.
But if you are traveling from the United States and just don’t want to deal with the hassle of exchanging US dollars to EC$, then it is perfectly acceptable to just use US dollars. Again, there will be a possibility of encountering a vendor here or there that isn’t equipped for US dollars, but likely you will be fine. Also, you will likely accumulate EC$ just by getting change from local businesses.
How to Exchange Currency in Grenada?
Maybe you’ve landed in Grenada, but don’t know where to go in order to exchange your currency. To get the most favorable exchange rates for your currency, it’s recommended to go to a bank as they’re well equipped and used to dealing with exchanging currencies of all kind.
Most airports nowadays also have little kiosks that are set up for tourists of all kinds to exchange currency. So finding whatever works best for you is recommended, but be warned to stay away from any place that looks shady yet is offering currency exchange services as you can end up being ripped off.
To simply withdraw EC$, ask your hotel where a secure ATM is located. The hotel might have one on the premises.
Does Grenada accept Canadian Dollars?
Canadian dollars are not widely accepted in Grenada. It would be best to withdraw and/or exchange EC$ instead.
Does Grenada accept Canadian Euros?
Euros are not widely accepted in Grenada. It would be best to withdraw and/or exchange EC$ instead.
Grenada Currency Travel Tips
- When traveling be sure to get enough currency to fund yourself through the trip. Exchanging your currency multiple times overseas or even using your credit card at any available ATM can set you back massively with exchange fees.
- Once you reach Grenada, locate a safe ATM that you can use for withdrawing local currency if needed. As mentioned previously, your hotel staff should be able to direct you to a secure ATM location – the hotel may have one on site.
- Having $1 US bills on you is not a bad idea if you will be needing to tip. The smallest bank note in EC$ is the $5 bill. Having a few US singles on you may make tipping easier.