Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Santa Ana. Santa Ana Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside NNB
Before heading into Santa Ana, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Solomon Islands vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Santa Ana is roughly 30 minutes from NNB via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SBD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Exploring Santa Ana on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Santa Ana, two standouts are:
- Pai Beach Relaxation — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
- Santa Ana Cultural Village Visit — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at NNB, check out Santa Ana Terminal Lounge Area or Local Craft Display & Sale to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Santa Ana, local travelers recommend Santa Ana Guesthouse Kitchen. If you have time for a second stop, Island Kai Kai Hut is another popular pick.
Back at NNB, NNB Snack Kiosk is the go-to. Terminal Refreshment Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from NNB to Santa Ana
The most straightforward way into Santa Ana is the local transport, which takes about 30 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Santa Ana:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at NNB 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 Santa Ana for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at NNB 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 Solomon Islands and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at NNB, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Santa Ana exploring the streets or relaxing at NNB, 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.