Planning a trip to Punta Cana? Understanding the local currency is essential for a smooth, stress-free vacation. The Dominican Peso (DOP) is the official currency of the Dominican Republic, but US dollars are widely accepted throughout the tourist areas. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about money in Punta Cana—from exchange rates and ATM locations to tipping etiquette and how much to budget for your trip.
In This Guide
- Dominican Peso Basics
- Banknotes & Coins
- USD vs Pesos in Punta Cana
- Where to Exchange Money
- ATM Guide
- Credit Cards
- Tipping Guide
- How Much to Budget
- Money Safety Tips
- FAQs
Dominican Peso Basics
The Dominican Peso (symbol: RD$, code: DOP) is the official currency of the Dominican Republic and has been in circulation since 1844. Here’s what you need to know:
| Official Name | Dominican Peso |
| Currency Code | DOP |
| Symbol | RD$ or $ |
| Subunit | Centavo (100 centavos = 1 peso) |
| Central Bank | Banco Central de la República Dominicana |
| Exchange Rate | ~58-60 DOP = 1 USD (check current rates) |
Important: Exchange rates fluctuate daily. As of early 2025, the rate hovers around 58-60 pesos per US dollar. Always check current rates before exchanging large amounts. You can find live rates at your bank, xe.com, or Google by searching “USD to DOP.”
Banknotes & Coins
Banknotes
Dominican banknotes come in the following denominations:
- RD$20 – Orange color, features Gregorio Luperón
- RD$50 – Gray/purple color, features the Cathedral of Santa María la Menor
- RD$100 – Red/maroon color, features Francisco del Rosario Sánchez
- RD$200 – Blue color, features the “Hermanas Mirabal” (Mirabal Sisters)
- RD$500 – Purple color, features Salomé Ureña de Henríquez
- RD$1,000 – Green color, features the National Palace
- RD$2,000 – Pink/fuchsia color, features Emilio Prud’Homme and José Reyes (National Anthem creators)
Tip: The RD$1,000 and RD$2,000 notes can be difficult to break at small vendors. Try to keep smaller denominations (RD$100, RD$200, RD$500) for everyday purchases.
Coins
Coins are used less frequently by tourists but include:
- RD$1 peso
- RD$5 pesos
- RD$10 pesos
- RD$25 pesos
Centavo coins (1, 5, 10, 25 centavos) exist but are rarely used due to low value. Most transactions round to the nearest peso.
USD vs Dominican Pesos in Punta Cana
One of the most common questions visitors ask is: “Should I use dollars or pesos?” Here’s the truth:
Where US Dollars Are Accepted
- All-inclusive resorts
- Tourist restaurants and bars
- Gift shops and souvenir stores
- Tour operators and excursion companies
- Taxis serving tourist areas
- Airport shops and services
Where Pesos Get Better Value
- Local restaurants outside resorts
- Street vendors and markets
- Local transportation (guaguas/public buses)
- Small shops in towns like Higüey or Bávaro
- Supermarkets
The Exchange Rate Problem
When you pay in USD at tourist establishments, vendors typically use a lower exchange rate than the official rate—sometimes significantly lower. For example, if the official rate is 59 pesos per dollar, a vendor might calculate at 50:1. This means you’re effectively paying a 15-20% premium.
Bottom line: For tourist activities, USD is convenient. For local experiences and better value, exchange some money for pesos.
What About Euros?
Euros are accepted at some tourist establishments, but beware: many vendors quote euros at the same rate as dollars (1:1), even though euros are worth more. ATMs in the Dominican Republic do not dispense euros—only pesos and sometimes USD. We recommend European visitors bring USD or exchange to pesos upon arrival.
Where to Exchange Money
Several options exist for exchanging currency in Punta Cana, each with pros and cons:
Banks
Best rates, most secure. Major banks in the Dominican Republic include:
- Banco Popular – Most branches nationwide
- BanReservas – Government bank with competitive rates
- BHD León – Modern facilities
- Scotiabank – Canadian bank with English-speaking staff
Hours: Typically 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM weekdays, some open Saturday mornings. Expect to show your passport.
Exchange Bureaus (Casas de Cambio)
Good rates, convenient hours. “Casas de cambio” are dedicated exchange offices found in tourist areas. They typically offer rates close to banks with longer operating hours. Look for licensed establishments displaying their rates clearly.
Hotels
Most convenient, worst rates. Hotel exchange services charge a premium for convenience. Expect rates 5-10% worse than banks. Only use hotel exchange for small amounts when you need pesos urgently.
Punta Cana Airport
Convenient for arrival, middling rates. Exchange bureaus operate in both arrivals and departures at Punta Cana International Airport. While rates aren’t as good as banks, exchanging a small amount upon arrival gives you cash for tips and taxis.
Warning: Never exchange money with individuals on the street. Black market exchanges may offer tempting rates but often involve counterfeit bills or scams.
ATM Guide for Punta Cana
ATMs offer one of the best ways to get Dominican Pesos at competitive rates. Here’s what you need to know:
Major Banks with ATMs
- BanReservas – Widely available, often in resorts
- Banco Popular – Large network, reliable machines
- BHD León – Found in shopping areas
- Scotiabank – Good for Canadian bank customers
ATM Locations in Punta Cana
- Most all-inclusive resorts have ATMs on-site
- Punta Cana Village shopping area
- Downtown Bávaro
- Palma Real Shopping Village
- San Juan Shopping Center
- Punta Cana International Airport
Withdrawal Limits & Fees
- Typical limit: RD$10,000-30,000 per transaction (~$170-$500 USD)
- Local ATM fee: RD$200-400 (~$3-7 USD) per withdrawal
- Your bank’s fee: Check with your bank; typically $3-5 USD plus foreign transaction fees
- Daily limits: Your home bank may limit foreign withdrawals
ATM Tips
- Decline Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) – If asked to pay in your home currency, always choose “pesos” for better rates
- Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks
- Use ATMs inside banks when possible for security
- Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees
- Keep your PIN secure and cover the keypad
Credit Cards in Punta Cana
Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but cash remains essential for many situations.
Card Acceptance
- Visa – Widely accepted everywhere
- Mastercard – Widely accepted everywhere
- American Express – Accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants, limited at smaller shops
- Discover – Limited acceptance
Foreign Transaction Fees
Most US credit cards charge 1-3% foreign transaction fees. Consider getting a no-foreign-transaction-fee card before your trip. Popular options include Chase Sapphire, Capital One Venture, and many travel rewards cards.
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Scam
When paying by card, merchants may offer to charge you in USD instead of pesos. This “convenience” actually costs you 3-7% more due to poor exchange rates. Always pay in the local currency (DOP) and let your bank handle the conversion.
When You Need Cash
- Tipping (essential in the DR!)
- Street vendors and markets
- Small restaurants and colmados (corner stores)
- Taxi rides
- Beach vendors
- Some tour operators for gratuities
Tipping Guide for Punta Cana
Tipping is an important part of Dominican culture and a significant income source for service workers. Here’s a comprehensive tipping guide:
Hotel Staff
- Housekeeping: $1-2 USD per day, left on pillow or nightstand
- Bellhop/Porter: $1-2 USD per bag
- Concierge: $5-10 USD for special assistance
- Room service: $2-3 USD per delivery (even at all-inclusive)
Restaurants & Bars
- Restaurants: 10-15% of the bill (check if “propina” is included)
- Bars: $1 USD per drink or 10-15% of tab
- All-inclusive restaurants: $1-2 USD per person per meal
- Pool/beach bartenders: $1 USD per round
Tour Guides & Drivers
- Tour guides: $5-10 USD per person for half-day tours, $10-20 for full-day (like Saona Island tours)
- Drivers: $3-5 USD per person
- Boat crew: $5-10 USD per person (on party boat cruises or catamarans)
Tipping Currency
US dollars are preferred for tips throughout Punta Cana. Small bills ($1, $5, $10) are ideal. Pesos are also appreciated, especially for local services. Bring plenty of $1 bills from home—they’re gold in the DR!
How Much to Budget for Punta Cana
Budget expectations vary widely depending on your travel style. Here’s a realistic breakdown:
Budget Traveler: $50-80 USD/day
- Staying at budget hotel or guesthouse
- Eating at local restaurants (comedores)
- Public transportation
- Free beach activities
- Occasional beer or drink
Mid-Range Traveler: $100-150 USD/day
- 3-4 star hotel or modest all-inclusive
- Mix of hotel and local dining
- 1-2 organized excursions during trip
- Occasional taxi rides
- Shopping and souvenirs
Luxury Traveler: $200+ USD/day
- 5-star resort or premium all-inclusive
- Fine dining and premium drinks
- Multiple excursions and private tours (like Scape Park)
- Spa treatments
- Shopping at high-end stores
All-Inclusive Tip Budgets
Even at all-inclusive resorts, budget for:
- Tips: $100-200 USD for a week-long stay
- Excursions: $50-300+ depending on activities (from ATV tours to catamaran cruises)
- Souvenirs/shopping: $50-200
- Off-resort dining: Optional, $20-50 per meal
Money Safety Tips
Punta Cana is generally safe for tourists, but taking precautions with your money is wise anywhere you travel:
General Tips
- Use your hotel safe for passports, extra cash, and backup cards
- Carry only what you need for the day
- Split your money between multiple locations (wallet, hidden pouch, safe)
- Avoid flashing large amounts of cash in public
- Keep receipts for large purchases and ATM withdrawals
ATM & Card Safety
- Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit areas
- Check for skimmers – wiggle the card slot before inserting
- Cover your PIN when entering
- Keep your bank’s phone number handy for card emergencies
- Set up transaction alerts on your cards
What to Avoid
- Black market exchanges – High risk of counterfeit bills and scams
- Carrying all your cash at once
- Leaving money visible in your vehicle or hotel room
- Using damaged or marked bills – they may not be accepted
Preparing for Your Trip
By understanding the currency situation in Punta Cana, you can focus on enjoying your vacation instead of worrying about money. Here’s a quick pre-trip checklist:
- Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates
- Get small bills ($1s, $5s, $10s) for tips
- Consider a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card
- Download a currency converter app
- Research current exchange rates before you go
- Plan your tip budget separately
Whether you stick to dollars at your resort or venture out with pesos to explore local culture, you’ll find managing money in Punta Cana straightforward with a little preparation. Enjoy your trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used in Punta Cana?
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), symbolized as RD$. However, US dollars are widely accepted throughout tourist areas in Punta Cana, including resorts, restaurants, and tour operators.
Should I bring cash or use cards in Punta Cana?
Bring a combination of both. Credit cards work well for hotels, restaurants, and shops. Cash is essential for tips, street vendors, local transportation, and small purchases. US dollars in small bills are particularly useful for tipping.
Can I use US dollars everywhere in Punta Cana?
US dollars are accepted at most tourist-oriented businesses, but not everywhere. Local restaurants, colmados (corner stores), public buses, and vendors outside tourist zones may only accept pesos. Having some local currency is recommended.
What’s the best currency to bring to Punta Cana?
US dollars are the most practical foreign currency to bring. They’re widely accepted, easy to exchange, and preferred for tips. Euros can be exchanged but often receive unfavorable rates. Canadian dollars should be exchanged to USD or DOP upon arrival.
Where can I exchange money in Punta Cana?
Money can be exchanged at banks (best rates), exchange bureaus (casas de cambio), hotel front desks (worst rates but convenient), and ATMs (competitive rates, minor fees). Avoid black market exchanges on the street.
How much should I tip in Punta Cana?
Standard tips: $1-2/day for housekeeping, $1-2 per bag for bellhops, 10-15% at restaurants (check if propina is included), $1 per drink at bars, and $5-10 per person for tour guides. USD is preferred for tips.
Do taxis in Punta Cana accept credit cards?
Most taxis are cash-only. Some resort taxis and transfer services may accept cards, but always have cash (dollars or pesos) ready for taxi rides. Negotiate the fare before getting in.
Is the Dominican Peso the same as the Mexican Peso?
No, they are completely different currencies. The Dominican Peso (DOP) and Mexican Peso (MXN) have different values and are not interchangeable. Only Dominican Pesos or USD are accepted in the Dominican Republic.
What is the symbol for Dominican Pesos?
The Dominican Peso uses the symbol RD$ or sometimes just $. To avoid confusion with US dollars, look for RD$ or “pesos dominicanos” on price tags. The international currency code is DOP.
Do I need to bring a lot of cash to an all-inclusive resort?
Even at all-inclusive resorts, bring $100-200 in small bills for tips (housekeeping, bartenders, restaurant staff, spa, etc.) plus extra for optional excursions, souvenirs, and off-resort activities. Tips make a real difference for staff.
What currency do casinos in Punta Cana accept?
Most casinos in Punta Cana accept both Dominican Pesos and US dollars. Some also accept credit cards for cage transactions. Chips are typically purchased in the currency you present.
Are ATMs available at Punta Cana Airport?
Yes, ATMs are available in both the arrivals and departures areas of Punta Cana International Airport. Major bank ATMs (BanReservas, Banco Popular) dispense Dominican Pesos. Some may also offer USD withdrawal options.
Plan Your Punta Cana Excursions
Now that you know how to handle Dominican Republic currency, it’s time to plan your adventures! Our most popular excursions include:
- Saona Island Tour – Full-day paradise escape with natural pools ($89-129)
- Buggy Adventure – Off-road excitement through the countryside ($79-99)
- Scape Park – Cenotes, zip lines, and cave swimming ($149-189)
- Party Boat Cruise – Snorkeling, music, and Caribbean vibes ($69-89)
- Santo Domingo City Tour – Historic Colonial Zone exploration ($99-129)
- Monkeyland – Meet squirrel monkeys in their habitat ($69-89)
Tip: Most excursions accept USD or can be paid by credit card online. Bring small bills for guide and driver tips!
→ Browse all Punta Cana excursions
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency is used in Punta Cana?
The official currency is the Dominican Peso (DOP), symbolized as RD$. However, US dollars are widely accepted throughout tourist areas in Punta Cana, including resorts, restaurants, and tour operators.
Should I bring cash or use cards in Punta Cana?
Bring a combination of both. Credit cards work well for hotels, restaurants, and shops. Cash is essential for tips, street vendors, local transportation, and small purchases. US dollars in small bills are particularly useful for tipping.
Can I use US dollars everywhere in Punta Cana?
US dollars are accepted at most tourist-oriented businesses, but not everywhere. Local restaurants, colmados (corner stores), public buses, and vendors outside tourist zones may only accept pesos.
What's the best currency to bring to Punta Cana?
US dollars are the most practical foreign currency to bring. They're widely accepted, easy to exchange, and preferred for tips. Euros can be exchanged but often receive unfavorable rates.
Where can I exchange money in Punta Cana?
Money can be exchanged at banks (best rates), exchange bureaus (casas de cambio), hotel front desks (worst rates but convenient), and ATMs (competitive rates, minor fees). Avoid black market exchanges on the street.
How much should I tip in Punta Cana?
Standard tips: $1-2/day for housekeeping, $1-2 per bag for bellhops, 10-15% at restaurants (check if propina is included), $1 per drink at bars, and $5-10 per person for tour guides. USD is preferred for tips.
Do taxis in Punta Cana accept credit cards?
Most taxis are cash-only. Some resort taxis and transfer services may accept cards, but always have cash (dollars or pesos) ready for taxi rides. Negotiate the fare before getting in.
Is the Dominican Peso the same as the Mexican Peso?
No, they are completely different currencies. The Dominican Peso (DOP) and Mexican Peso (MXN) have different values and are not interchangeable.
What is the symbol for Dominican Pesos?
The Dominican Peso uses the symbol RD$ or sometimes just $. The international currency code is DOP.
Do I need to bring a lot of cash to an all-inclusive resort?
Even at all-inclusive resorts, bring $100-200 in small bills for tips (housekeeping, bartenders, restaurant staff, spa, etc.) plus extra for optional excursions, souvenirs, and off-resort activities.
What currency do casinos in Punta Cana accept?
Most casinos in Punta Cana accept both Dominican Pesos and US dollars. Some also accept credit cards for cage transactions.
Are ATMs available at Punta Cana Airport?
Yes, ATMs are available in both the arrivals and departures areas of Punta Cana International Airport. Major bank ATMs (BanReservas, Banco Popular) dispense Dominican Pesos.
