If you’ve got a layover in Matthew Town, don’t let it go to waste sitting at IGA. The city, in Bahamas, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside IGA
Three things to verify before you walk out of IGA:
- Can you legally enter Bahamas? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Matthew Town
Two recommendations for your time in Matthew Town:
Start with Inagua National Park & Flamingo Sanctuary. Nice green space that’s easy to enjoy without a tight schedule. Then, if time allows, make your way to Matthew Town Exploration & Lighthouse. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Matthew Town.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IGA, you can spend time at IGA Waiting Area Relaxation or try Local Aviation Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Matthew Town
If you make it into town, Molly’s Restaurant & Bar is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Big O’s Take Away.
Inside IGA
If you’re staying in the terminal, IGA Snack & Beverage Counter is your main option. Local Delights Kiosk works too if you want something quick.
How to Get Into Matthew Town
| 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.
What to Budget for Your Matthew Town Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Matthew Town might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at IGA 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 Matthew Town for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and IGA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Matthew Town and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at IGA
Long overnight layover? Your options at IGA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Bahamas also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Matthew Town exploring the streets or relaxing at IGA, 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.