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).
Booking restaurants, food tours, or experiences? browse Caribbean tours & experiences.
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.)
Need airport transfers or day drivers? compare car rentals & transport options.
4) Tours, boat trips, snorkeling, diving
Guides often split tips with crew, so tips matter.
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Save time (and usually money) by booking tours, attractions, and museum tickets online—great for planning ahead in popular cities.
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- Buy tickets online in advance (less hassle on trip day)
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- 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
Compare snorkeling, diving & boat tours: find Caribbean tours & boat trips.
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
Compare hotels & resort options: search Caribbean hotels on Expedia.
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.
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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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