Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Nassau. Nassau Paradise Island Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Nassau, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Bahamas vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Nassau is roughly 60 minutes from PID via Jitney (Public Bus). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Nassau Paradise Island Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Nassau Paradise Island Airport into town:
- Jitney (Public Bus): About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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 PID
Specific locker facilities at PID aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Nassau itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Nassau, budget roughly $48 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $25 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Nassau, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Nassau:
Start with Cable Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
If you’d rather stay inside PID — 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:
- Lignum Club Lounge
- Duty-Free & Retail Shopping
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Nassau: Oh Andros Fish Fry and Social House Sushi & Grill. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Graycliff Lounge & Restaurant or Rhythm Cafe. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PID for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Nassau 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at PID 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nassau count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave PID. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.