Quick Answer:
If you’re unsure, tip like this: restaurants 10–20% (only if a service charge isn’t already included), tours 10–20% or a flat thank-you tip, taxi drivers round up or 10%, and hotel staff small cash tips for great service.
1) Check the bill first (the #1 rule)
Before you tip, look for:
- Service charge / service fee (common at resorts and tourist restaurants)
- Gratuity included
- “Service” already added
If it’s already included, you can still tip extra for excellent service—but you don’t have to.
2) Restaurants & bars
- Sit-down restaurants: 10–20% depending on service, unless service is included
- Bars: $1–$2 per drink, or round up
- Beach shacks / small spots: rounding up is usually appreciated
Tip in cash when possible (especially at smaller places).
3) Taxis & drivers
- Short rides: round up to a clean number
- Longer rides: ~10% if the driver helps with bags or waits
- Private driver for the day: tip based on effort (helpful guide, stops, waiting, etc.)
4) Tours, boat trips, snorkeling, diving
Guides often split tips with crew, so tips matter.
- Group tour: 10–20% or a solid flat tip per person
- Private tour: more if they customize and go above-and-beyond
- Boat crew: tip the crew/guide if they’re attentive and safety-focused
5) Hotels & resorts
If you’re staying at a resort, small tips can dramatically improve service.
- Housekeeping: small daily tip (daily is better than one big tip at the end)
- Bellhop: per bag
- Concierge: tip if they book something complicated or save your trip
- Bartenders / pool service: small tips early can help with speed/attention
6) Cash vs card
- Cash is king for tips (faster, more likely the staff gets it)
- Keep a “tip stash” of small bills so you’re not stuck tipping $20 because you only have big bills.
7) The simple “don’t stress” method
If you don’t want to overthink:
- Restaurants: 15% if no service charge
- Tours: 10% or a flat tip
- Taxi: round up + a little extra for bags/waiting
Quick Spanish Summary (Resumen en Español)
Revisa el recibo primero: si dice “service charge” o “gratuity included,” ya está incluido.
Si no está incluido: restaurantes 10–20%, tours 10–20% o una propina fija, taxis redondear o ~10%. Mejor en efectivo.
FAQ
Do I have to tip everywhere in the Caribbean?
No. It varies, and service charges change the rule. Always check the bill.
What if service was bad?
It’s okay to tip less or not add extra if service was included.
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