Oceania
Money, cards and tipping in Samoa
WSTTala
Money in Samoa
Mostly cash Cards work at resorts and larger shops in Apia; beach fales, buses, taxis, markets and village entry fees are cash. US$1 ≈ WS$2.74 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not expected and not part of local custom.
- ATMs: ATMs at Faleolo airport, in Apia and in Salelologa on Savai'i; few elsewhere, so carry cash.
- Paying by phone: Contactless cards and phones work only at resorts and bigger Apia businesses; elsewhere it's cash.
- Price level: about 63% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apia | Mostly cash | Cards work at larger hotels and some restaurants; bring cash for buses, markets, fales and village visits. ATMs are in Apia. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Samoa?
Not expected and not part of local custom.
Is Samoa cashless?
Mostly cash. Cards work at resorts and larger shops in Apia; beach fales, buses, taxis, markets and village entry fees are cash.
What currency does Samoa use?
The Tala (WST). US$1 ≈ WS$2.74 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Samoa Immigration (MPMC)
- Samoa Tourism Authority
- UK FCDO travel advice: Samoa
- Smartraveller: Samoa
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.