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Money & Etiquette
A practical guide for Japanese, Korean, and Chinese visitors — tipping is expected
Verified 2026 · Island Seeker Editorial
quick answer
Yes — tipping is expected in Guam. Guam follows US customs: tip 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, $10–$15 to taxi drivers, and $1–$2 per bag to hotel bellhops. Guam uses US Dollars (USD) exclusively and has no general sales tax — prices you see are the prices you pay at checkout.
Restaurants
15–20% of bill (sit-down service)
Taxis
10–15% (or round up to nearest $5)
Hotel bellhop
$1–$2 per bag
Sales tax
None — prices shown are final
Guam is a US territory and follows American tipping culture. Unlike Japan and South Korea — where tipping is not customary and can even be considered impolite — service workers in Guam expect and rely on tips as part of their income.
If you're visiting from Japan, Korea, or China, you may be unfamiliar with tipping. The key thing to know: skipping a tip at a sit-down restaurant is considered rude. A 15–20% tip on the pre-tax bill total is the standard expectation.
For sit-down restaurants with table service, tip 15–20% of the total bill. 15% is acceptable for average service; 18–20% is standard for good service; 20%+ for excellent service. Many locals tip 20% by default.
Fast food, food courts, and self-serve counter restaurants do not require a tip — though a tip jar may be present. You're not obligated to tip at these venues.
Some restaurants automatically add a service charge (usually 18%) for groups of 6 or more. Check your bill before adding an additional tip — the service charge replaces it.
To calculate 20% quickly: move the decimal point one place left (giving you 10%), then double it. For a $45 bill: $4.50 × 2 = $9 tip.
Taxis: Guam taxis do not use meters — agree on a fare before getting in. Tip 10–15% of the agreed fare, or simply round up to the nearest $5. For a $20 fare to Tumon, leaving $25 total is appreciated.
Tour guides and activity staff: $5–$10 per person for a half-day tour; $10–$15 per person for a full-day tour or snorkelling/diving excursion. Tip the guide directly in cash at the end of the tour.
Hotel bellhops: $1–$2 per bag. Hotel housekeeping: $1–$3 per night, left on the pillow or in a marked envelope. Valet parking attendants: $2–$5 when your car is returned.
Hotel concierge: No tip required for basic directions or recommendations. $5–$20 for sourcing difficult-to-get restaurant reservations or special arrangements.
Guam uses the US Dollar (USD) exclusively. Japanese Yen, Korean Won, and other currencies are not accepted at shops or restaurants. Exchange your money before or upon arrival.
Guam has no general sales tax added at checkout. Unlike many US states, the Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) is already built into shelf prices. The price you see on the menu or price tag is what you pay — no surprise additions at the register.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, JCB) are accepted almost everywhere in Tumon. Carry $50–$100 USD in cash for tips, market stalls, and smaller local eateries that are cash-only.
questions & answers
Do I need to tip in Guam?
Yes. Tipping is customary in Guam because it is a US territory. Service workers expect tips as part of their earnings. Tip 15–20% at sit-down restaurants, 10–15% for taxis, and $1–$2 per bag for hotel bellhops. Not tipping at a sit-down restaurant is considered rude.
Is there a sales tax in Guam?
No — Guam does not charge a general sales tax at the point of sale. There is a Gross Receipts Tax (GRT) paid by businesses, but it is built into listed prices. The price you see on a menu or price tag is what you pay. This is different from most US states, which add state sales tax at checkout.
How much do I tip at a restaurant in Guam?
15–20% of the total bill is standard for sit-down restaurants. 15% for average service, 18–20% for good service, 20%+ for great service. Check whether a service charge has already been added (common for groups of 6+) before leaving an additional tip.
What currency is used in Guam?
US Dollars (USD) only. Japanese Yen, Korean Won, Chinese Yuan, and other currencies are not accepted. Exchange your currency at the airport, your hotel, or a bank in Tumon before spending.
Can I pay by credit card in Guam?
Yes — Visa, Mastercard, and JCB are accepted at virtually all hotels, restaurants, and shops in Tumon. American Express is accepted at most upmarket venues. Smaller local restaurants, market stalls, and the Chamorro Village Night Market may be cash-only, so carry $50–$100 USD in cash.
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