Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Colonel Hill gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from CRI to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave CRI:
- 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 Colonel Hill takes about 30 minutes by local transport. 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Colonel Hill
If you head into Colonel Hill, here are two things worth checking out:
Frenchman’s Wells is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Windward Point Lighthouse is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside CRI — 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:
- Enjoy the Serene Island Ambiance
- Observe Local Aviation
Transport from Colonel Hill Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Eating Well on a Colonel Hill Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Colonel Hill: Deancy’s Restaurant & Bar and Two Angels Restaurant & Bar. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CRI Terminal Snack & Drink Counter or Vending Machine Refreshments (CRI). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Colonel Hill layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Colonel Hill, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CRI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Colonel Hill 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at CRI aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Colonel Hill itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Taking a Break at CRI
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CRI, 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Colonel Hill count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CRI. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.