A long layover in Majuro is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Marshall Islands 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of MAJ:
- Can you legally enter Marshall Islands? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Exploring Majuro on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Majuro, two standouts are:
- Alele Museum & Public Library — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Majuro Atoll Scenic Drive — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside MAJ, you can spend time at Relaxing in the MAJ Terminal or try Marshallese Handicraft Stand. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
How to Get Into Majuro
You have two main options for getting from Marshall Islands International Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
Eating Well on a Majuro Layover
For food in Majuro, local travelers recommend Tide Table Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Majuro Sushi Bar is another popular pick.
Back at MAJ, MAJ Terminal Snack Counter is the go-to. Airport Vending & Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Majuro, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Majuro, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MAJ for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Majuro or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at MAJ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Majuro itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MAJ, 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 Majuro count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave MAJ. 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.