A long layover in Scarborough is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Tobago-Crown Point Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TAB:
First, verify that you can enter Trinidad and Tobago — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 40 minutes into Scarborough, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — TTD is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Scarborough
Two recommendations for your time in Scarborough:
Start with Store Bay Beach. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight. Then, if time allows, make your way to Pigeon Point Heritage Park. A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
If you’d rather stay inside TAB — 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:
- TAB Duty-Free Shop
- Crown Point Airport Relaxation Area
Best Bites Near TAB
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Scarborough: Miss Jean’s (Store Bay Food) and The Fish Pot. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for The Runway Bar or Crown Point Airport Cafe. 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 Scarborough:
Transport to the city and back runs about $8 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $15 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $33 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Scarborough, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near TAB
Specific locker facilities at TAB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Scarborough itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TAB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Scarborough and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at TAB
Long overnight layover? Your options at TAB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Trinidad and Tobago also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Scarborough exploring the streets or relaxing at TAB, 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.