Oceania
Money, cards and tipping in Tonga
TOPPa'anga
Money in Tonga
Mostly cash Cards work at resorts, bigger hotels and some restaurants; guesthouses, markets, taxis and outer islands are cash-only. US$1 ≈ T$2.39 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not customary or expected.
- ATMs: ANZ and BSP ATMs on Tongatapu and in Neiafu (Vava'u); not all foreign cards work, so bring backup cash.
- Paying by phone: Rarely accepted beyond resorts; carry cash.
- Price level: about 75% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nuku'alofa | Mostly cash | Cards at larger hotels and some restaurants; cash for markets, taxis, ferries and small shops. ATMs are in Nuku'alofa. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Tonga?
Not customary or expected.
Is Tonga cashless?
Mostly cash. Cards work at resorts, bigger hotels and some restaurants; guesthouses, markets, taxis and outer islands are cash-only.
What currency does Tonga use?
The Pa'anga (TOP). US$1 ≈ T$2.39 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Tonga Tourism Authority
- UK FCDO travel advice: Tonga
- Smartraveller: Tonga
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.