Is cash still widely used?
Moderately. Samoa has reasonable card acceptance at tourist hotels and restaurants in Apia. Outer villages, beach fales (traditional guesthouses), local markets, and transport require tālā cash.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Apia. ANZ Samoa and Westpac Samoa machines accept foreign cards.
- Fees are around 10 WST per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Good availability in Apia; limited elsewhere
- Withdraw cash before visiting remote villages or Savai’i island
Card acceptance
Moderate in Apia and tourist hotels. Local businesses, beach fales, and villages require cash.
Tips for travelers
- Samoa has some of the Pacific’s most authentic and traditional culture
- Beach fales are the quintessential Samoan experience — always cash
- To Sua Ocean Trench is one of the Pacific’s most beautiful natural pools
- Tipping is not customary in traditional Samoan culture