Palau
Money in Palau: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use US dollars everywhere; bring enough cash for small shops, taxis and permits (about $20‑$30 per day) and rely on cards at hotels and larger businesses. Switch to cash if an ATM is unavailable or a vendor insists.
More
GuidePalau
Key facts
- Currency
- US dollar (USD)
- Cash necessity
- Medium – needed for small shops, taxis, permits
- Card acceptance
- Widely accepted at hotels, dive shops and larger restaurants
Currency and payment overview
Palau uses the US dollar for all transactions. ATMs are available in Koror and a few other tourist spots, but they can run out of cash, so keep a reserve of bills.
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are accepted at most hotels, larger restaurants, dive operators and tour agencies. Small market stalls, local taxis and permit offices often require exact cash.
Typical cash needs: $20‑$30 per day for meals at local eateries, souvenir purchases and permit fees. Larger purchases (dive packages, resort stays) can be paid by card.
- ATMs: Koror (city centre, airport), Airai (near airport), some resorts – check availability daily.
- Cards: Bring a chip‑and‑pin card; contactless may not work everywhere.
- Cash: US$5, $10, $20 bills are most useful; $1 coins are common for small tips.
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory in Palau but is appreciated, especially in tourism‑focused services.
Restaurants: round up the bill or leave 5‑10 % for good service. In upscale venues a 10 % tip is standard.
Tour guides and dive instructors: US$5‑$10 per person per day is typical; larger groups may give a collective tip of US$20‑$30.
Taxi drivers: round up to the nearest dollar; no extra tip needed for short rides.
- No tip needed for basic purchases (groceries, market stalls).
- If you receive exceptional service, feel free to add a small extra.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Palau?
Palau uses the US dollar (USD) for all purchases, from street food to resort stays.
Should I use cash or a card in Palau?
Use cards at hotels, larger restaurants and tour operators; keep cash for small shops, taxis and permit offices.
How much should I tip in Palau?
Tip 5‑10 % at restaurants, US$5‑$10 per day for guides/divers, and round up taxi fares. No tip is required for basic purchases.
Are ATMs reliable in Palau?
ATMs exist in Koror and near the airport but can run out of cash. Carry enough US dollars for a few days, especially on weekends.
Can I use my phone to pay in Palau?
Contactless payments are not widely accepted. Bring a chip‑and‑pin card and cash as backup.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Palau
Loading…
Was this useful?