Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in San Andros. San Andros Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 45 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave SAQ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Bahamas. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to San Andros takes about 45 minutes by Taxi / Pre-arranged Shuttle. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in San Andros:
Start with Morgan’s Bluff Beach. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Captain Morgan’s Blue Hole. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside SAQ — 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:
- San Andros Airport Terminal Observation
- Local Crafts & Souvenir Spot
Best Bites Near SAQ
For food in San Andros, local travelers recommend Pickard’s Restaurant & Bar. If you have time for a second stop, Sammy’s Take Away is another popular pick.
Back at SAQ, Airport Snack & Drink Kiosk is the go-to. Fresh Juice & Smoothie Bar (Conceptual) rounds out your in-terminal options.
How to Get Into San Andros
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Pre-arranged Shuttle | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Pre-arranged Shuttle 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your San Andros layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$13 |
| Meal | ~$25 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$48 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in San Andros, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near SAQ
Specific locker facilities at SAQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in San Andros itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SAQ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Bahamas and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at SAQ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in San Andros doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from SAQ, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.