Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Gove gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from GOV to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave GOV:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Australia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Gove 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 local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Gove Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Luggage Storage at GOV
Luggage storage options at GOV 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 Gove for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Gove might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Gove, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
How to Spend Your Time in Gove
Two recommendations for your time in Gove:
Start with East Woody Island Lookout (Birritjimi). On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour. Then, if time allows, make your way to Macassan Beach. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside GOV, you can spend time at Gove Airport Terminal Waiting Area or try Gove Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
For food in Gove, local travelers recommend Walkabout Hotel Nhulunbuy Bistro. If you have time for a second stop, Gove Country Golf Club Bistro is another popular pick.
Back at GOV, Gove Airport Cafe is the go-to. Grab-and-Go Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GOV, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Gove itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Australia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at GOV.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Gove exploring the streets or relaxing at GOV, 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.