A long layover in Great Exuma is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Exuma International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave GGT:
- 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 Great Exuma takes about 40 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Great Exuma
For a layover visit to Great Exuma, we’d suggest Hooper’s Bay Beach and Emerald Bay Beach. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. 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 GGT, check out GGT Airport Waiting Area or Exuma Souvenir & Duty-Free Shop to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Great Exuma
The most straightforward way into Great Exuma is the local transport, which takes about 40 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 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Food & Dining Options
In Great Exuma
If you make it into town, Shirley’s at The Fish Fry is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Catch A Fire Bar & Grill.
Inside GGT
If you’re staying in the terminal, GGT Airport Cafe & Bar is your main option. Exuma Souvenir Shop Snacks works too if you want something quick.
What to Budget for Your Great Exuma Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Great Exuma might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GGT, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Great Exuma 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.
Luggage Storage at GGT
Dedicated luggage storage at GGT may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Great Exuma’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at GGT, 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 Great Exuma doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from GGT, 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.