Bahamas currency made easy: What tourists should know
Planning a trip to the Bahamas?
One of the most common questions visitors ask is: What is the Bahamas’ currency, and how can you get the best exchange rate?
This guide will cover the official currency, exchange tips, design of banknotes, and how to spend confidently during your stay.
What is the Bahamas currency?
The official currency of the Bahamas is the Bahamian dollar (BSD).
The Bahamian dollar is pegged 1:1 with the US dollar, making conversion easy for visitors.
The Bahamas currency code is BSD, and the Bahamas currency symbol is $.
You’ll hear people refer to the Bahamian dollar and the US dollar interchangeably, but technically, the Bahamas’ currency is the Bahamian dollar.
If you’re wondering what is the currency of the Bahamas or what is the currency for Bahamas, this is it.
Locals and businesses accept both currencies, but change is usually given in Bahamian currency.
Bahamian dollars: Notes, coins, and symbols
The Bahamian dollar banknotes are known for their colourful designs and security features.
Bahamian dollar bills are issued in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.
You’ll spot the blue marlin on the $100 bill and portraits of figures like Sir Lynden O Pindling, Sir Stafford Sands, and Sir Cecil Wallace Whitfield.
Bahamian banknotes feature vibrant colours such as blue, green, yellow, red, orange, and even mint green or dark green.
These notes often highlight national symbols like the coat of arms, Spanish galleon, and lighthouse.
Coins have values of 1, 5, 10, 15, 25, and 100 cents. Both notes and coins are legal tender in the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.
Design features of Bahamian banknotes
The Crisp Evolution Series introduced modern security features including watermarks, metallic foil, and colour-shifting elements.
Each Bhamian dollar banknote tells a story with its detailed image, portrait, and vivid colour schemes, reflecting the country’s history and culture.
Figures like Queen Elizabeth II, Sir Milo, Sir Roland, and Sister Sarah appear across denominations.
Scenes such as the Family Island Regatta, Nassau Market, and the Royal Bahamas Police Force also feature prominently.
How the Bahamian currency connects to island life
Visitors are often surprised by how much the Bahamian dollar reflects the identity of the islands.
In small communities and on outlying islands, cash is often preferred, especially for tipping, small shops, and at local businesses.
While you’ll find card machines in most places in Nassau and the bigger resorts, carrying some coins and smaller denominations of notes makes life easier when exploring.
If you head to a street festival or local market, you’ll likely pay with cash.
Vendors may display colourful signs showing prices in Bahamian dollars and US dollars.
The future of currency in the Bahamas
While cash remains important, the Bahamas also leads the way with digital payment solutions.
The Sand Dollar, the Central Bank’s digital currency, is already used on many smaller islands.
Designed to make transactions easier for residents without easy access to banks, the Sand Dollar is also being trialled in certain shops and businesses.
This forward-thinking approach means the country is blending modern convenience with local traditions.
For travellers, it’s a sign of how the Bahamas continues to innovate without losing sight of its cultural roots.
How to handle money in the Bahamas: real traveller tips
If it’s your first time visiting, you might wonder what’s best for day-to-day spending.
The truth? A little planning goes a long way.
Mix it up
Most shops, resorts, and hotels accept cards, but don’t rely on them for everything, especially on the outlying islands.
Have cash for taxis, beach vendors, and small businesses where card machines may not work.
Watch for small change
Your change will almost always come back in Bahamian currency when paying with American currency.
This is fine, the Bahamian dollar holds the same value, but it means you’ll collect lots of local coins!
Plan your exchanges:
Exchange some Bahamanian dollars before you travel so you’re covered on arrival.
You can always use an on-island currency converter when you get there if needed, but make sure to check with official providers for the best rate on larger amounts.
Bahamas currency rates
Before you go, it’s wise to check the Bahamas currency exchange rate using a currency converter.
The Bahamian dollar is pegged at a fixed rate of 1 BSD = 1 USD, making conversions simple for travellers.
When exchanging British pounds for Bahamian dollars, you’re effectively exchanging GBP to USD, so comparing provider rates and fees will help you get the best value.
When changing Bahamas currency to GBP, it’s worth shopping around.
Some providers, like us at Manor FX, offer better rates than others.
Final tips
- Carry a mix of Bahamian dollar banknotes and coins. Small denominations are handy for tips, markets, or taxis.
- Use cards if you’re worried about secure payments. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted.
- Exchange currency at official providers. For the best Bahamian currency exchange rate and peace of mind.
- Check security features on notes. Look for watermarks, foil strips, and colour-shifting designs to ensure your money is genuine.
Need to buy Bahamian dollars before your trip?
Manor FX makes it simple to buy Bahamian currency online at great rates. Order today and have your currency delivered straight to your door. Or click and collect from our buruea de change in Datchet.
FAQs
What is the best currency to take to the Bahamas?
Both the Bahamian dollar and US dollar are legal tender. If you’re bringing cash, small denominations in either currency are practical.
Can I use US dollars in the Bahamas?
Yes, the US dollar is widely accepted, but change may be given in Bahamian dollars.
How much is $1 in Bahamas?
$1 USD equals roughly $1 Bahamian dollar, thanks to the currency peg.
How much is $100 in Bahamas?
$100 USD is equal to around $100 Bahamian dollars.
Does the Bahamas take US currency?
Yes, the American currency is widely accepted in shops, resorts, casinos, hotels, and businesses. However, expect your change in Bahamian dollars.
You can also use a debit card at many locations, but do check for foreign transaction fees with your bank.