Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Onslow gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from ONS to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi / Shuttle, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Onslow, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Australia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Onslow is roughly 60 minutes from ONS via Taxi / Shuttle. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What’s Worth Seeing in Onslow
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Onslow, two standouts are:
- Onslow Beach (Beadon Bay) — Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
- Old Onslow Town Site Ruins — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ONS, you can spend time at Onslow Airport Waiting Area or try Free Airport Wi-Fi Access. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
- In the city: Onslow Beach Resort Restaurant and Onslow Sports Club Bistro are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Onslow.
- At the airport: Onslow Airport Kiosk and Vending Machine Corner will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How to Get Into Onslow
You have two main options for getting from Onslow Airport into town:
- Taxi / Shuttle: 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.
What to Budget for Your Onslow Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Onslow 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 Onslow, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Storing Your Luggage at Onslow Airport
Specific locker facilities at ONS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Onslow itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ONS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Onslow 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
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ONS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Onslow count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ONS. 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.