Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Canouan Island gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from CIW to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Taxis / Resort Shuttles, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Canouan Island, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Canouan Island is roughly 30 minutes from CIW via Taxis / Resort Shuttles. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in XCD. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
The Best Way Into Canouan Island from CIW
The most straightforward way into Canouan Island is the Taxis / Resort Shuttles, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxis / Resort Shuttles is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Canouan Island:
Transport to the city and back runs about $13 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $25 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $48 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Canouan Island, two standouts are:
- Godahl Beach (Pink Sands Beach) — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
- Canouan Estate Golf Course Viewpoint — On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside CIW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Canouan Airport Waiting Area
- Small Souvenir & Gift Counter
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: L’Ance Guyac Beach Bar & Grill and The Lagoon (Mandarin Oriental Canouan) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Canouan Island.
- At the airport: Canouan Airport Snack Bar and Canouan Airport Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Storing Your Luggage at Canouan Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at CIW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Canouan Island’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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CIW is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Canouan Island 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CIW, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Canouan Island 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 Canouan Island.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.