For travelers with a layover in Cockburn Town, the proximity of ZSA to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 60 minutes via Taxi / Walk, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave ZSA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Bahamas. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Cockburn Town takes about 60 minutes by Taxi / Walk. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Cockburn Town from ZSA
From ZSA, the Taxi / Walk gets you to Cockburn Town in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Walk offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at ZSA
Luggage storage options at ZSA 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 Cockburn Town for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Cockburn Town might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$25 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$48 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Cockburn Town, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Cockburn Town
Two recommendations for your time in Cockburn Town:
Start with Dixon Hill Lighthouse. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Columbus Monument at Long Bay. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ZSA, check out Main Terminal Seating Area or Local Craft Display (Seasonal) to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near ZSA
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Cockburn Town: Oasis Restaurant & Bar and Rake & Scrape Bar & Grill. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for ZSA Airport Snack Counter or ZSA Coffee & Refreshments Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ZSA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cockburn 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ZSA, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Cockburn Town exploring the streets or relaxing at ZSA, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.