A long layover in Alice Town is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at South Bimini Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 90 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BIM:
First, verify that you can enter Bahamas — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Ferry & Taxi takes about 90 minutes into Alice Town, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BSD is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Alice Town
If you head into Alice Town, here are two things worth checking out:
Radio Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Bimini Dolphin House is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Alice Town.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside BIM, you can spend time at BIM Terminal Waiting Area or try Bimini Souvenir Stand. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry & Taxi | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Ferry & Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Alice Town: Joe’s Conch Shack and Stuart’s Conch Stand. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for BIM Island Snack Bar or Departure Gate Cafe. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Budget for Your Alice Town Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Alice Town, budget roughly $48 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $25 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and BIM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Alice Town and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Luggage Storage at BIM
Luggage storage options at BIM can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Alice Town for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Need a Nap? Options at BIM
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at BIM.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Alice Town genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.