Is cash still widely used?
Moderately. Tourist resorts on Ambergris Caye and in Placencia have good card acceptance. Water taxis, local restaurants, village guesthouses, and transport between destinations require Belize dollar cash. USD is accepted everywhere at a 2:1 fixed rate.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Belize City, San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), and larger towns. Belize Bank and Atlantic Bank machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around $5 BZD per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in tourist areas; very limited in rural Toledo and remote cayes
- USD is accepted at a fixed 2:1 BZD rate throughout the country
Card acceptance
Moderate at tourist resorts and larger businesses. Local transport, market vendors, and village businesses require cash.
Tips for travelers
- USD is the easiest currency to use — accepted everywhere at 2:1
- Carry Belize dollars for water taxis, local food, and village stays
- The Blue Hole dive is world-famous — operators accept cards
- Tipping 10-15% is customary in tourist restaurants