Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Cat Island. New Bight Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside TBI
Before heading into Cat Island, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Bahamas vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Cat Island is roughly 30 minutes from TBI via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from New Bight Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Cat Island is the local transport, 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 local transport is usually the smarter call.
Bag Storage Near TBI
Luggage storage options at TBI 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 Cat Island for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to Budget for Your Cat Island Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Cat Island might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$15 USD
- A meal: ~$30 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$55 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Cat Island
For a layover visit to Cat Island, we’d suggest The Hermitage at Mount Alvernia and New Bight Beach. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at TBI, check out TBI Terminal Observation or Local Souvenir & Craft Display to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In Cat Island
If you make it into town, Arthur’s Bakery & Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Tropic Breeze Beach Bar & Grill.
Inside TBI
If you’re staying in the terminal, TBI Refreshment Counter is your main option. Island Brew Coffee Stop works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TBI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Cat Island itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Bahamas that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at TBI, 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 Cat Island doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from TBI, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.