There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Arthur’s Town into a quick city adventure. From ATC, the local transport can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of ATC:
- Can you legally enter Bahamas? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Arthur’s Town:
Start with Arthur’s Town Beach. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Then, if time allows, make your way to St. Andrews Anglican Church. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ATC, you can spend time at Arthur’s Town Airport Observation or try Local Island Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Arthur’s Town Local Grill and Island Breeze Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Arthur’s Town.
- At the airport: ATC Airport Snack Bar and Bahamian Bites Stand will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Transport from Arthur’s Town Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Arthur’s Town Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Arthur’s Town:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Storing Your Luggage at Arthur’s Town Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at ATC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Arthur’s Town’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ATC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Bahamas and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at ATC
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 ATC.
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
A layover in Arthur’s Town is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Arthur’s Town.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.