For travelers with a layover in Saba, the proximity of SAB to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via Taxis, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave SAB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Netherlands Antilles. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Saba takes about 30 minutes by Taxis. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from SAB to Saba
You have two main options for getting from Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport into town:
- Taxis: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Exploring Saba on a Layover
If you head into Saba, here are two things worth checking out:
Explore The Bottom Village is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Saba.
Windwardside Village Stroll is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SAB, check out Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport Runway View or Airport Terminal Exploration to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Saba: Tropics Cafe and Brigadoon Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Runway Cafe or Saba Airport Grab & Go. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Saba:
Transport to the city and back runs about $15 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $30 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $55 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at SAB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Saba itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SAB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Saba itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Netherlands Antilles that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SAB 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Saba genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.