A long layover in Codrington is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Codrington Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside BBQ
Before heading into Codrington, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Antigua and Barbuda vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Codrington is roughly 30 minutes from BBQ via Taxi. 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 Codrington from BBQ
From BBQ, the Taxi gets you to Codrington in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 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 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Codrington:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $19 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $39 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Codrington, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Codrington
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Codrington, two standouts are:
- 17-Mile Beach Visit — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
- Explore Codrington Village — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Codrington.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside BBQ — 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:
- Relax in the Departure Lounge
- Observe Small Aircraft Operations
Food & Dining Options
In Codrington
If you make it into town, Shirl’s Cuisine is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Wa’Omoni Beach Bar & Restaurant.
Inside BBQ
If you’re staying in the terminal, Codrington Airport Snack Counter is your main option. Airport Vending Machine Area works too if you want something quick.
Bag Storage Near BBQ
Specific locker facilities at BBQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Codrington itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at BBQ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Codrington itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Antigua and Barbuda that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at BBQ
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BBQ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Codrington with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Codrington may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.