The Bahamas enjoys a vibrant and stable economy as the third wealthiest country in the Americas. The primary industries are tourism and offshore banking with interests in seafood exports, pharmaceuticals, distilling, shipping and container services, aragonite mining and sea salt. 

Currency

The local currency in The Bahamas is the Bahamian Dollar (BSD), which is the equivalent of one (1) United States Dollar (USD). You can spend both US and Bahamian dollars interchangeably, but note that you may not always get US dollars back as change. It is best if you arrive with a combination of cash, debit and/or credit cards and even travellers’ cheques.

Banks

Brick-and-mortar commercial consumer bank branches are found on major islands in The Bahamas Normal banking hours of Monday through Friday, 9:30AM to 3PM and Friday to 4:40PM. You should speak with your concierge or call ahead of time. Most banks are Canadian or Bahamian and offer a full range of banking services including currency exchange and wire transfers. A notable exception is the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) which will not exchange your money or perform most expected banking functions if you do not have an account with them.

ATMs

Automatic Telling Machines (ATMs) are also called Automatic Banking Machines (ABMs) and are located on most islands attached to banks or in hotels, casinos, airports, gas stations, shopping areas and similar locations. Family Island ATMs are located at a commercial bank and some more remote islands may not have any form of cash service. 

Credit Cards

Businesses on Islands that have ATMs usually accept debit and credit cards for direct payment. Visa and Mastercard bank cards using the Cirrus, Plus, Honor or Maestro networks are the most widely accepted cards. Some locations in more high-end or touristy areas may also accept American Express and Diners Club cards.