Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in St. Anthony gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from YAY to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi / Pre-arranged Shuttle, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at YAY:
First, verify that you can enter Canada — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Pre-arranged Shuttle takes about 60 minutes into St. Anthony, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CAD is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from YAY to St. Anthony
You have two main options for getting from St. Anthony Airport into town:
- Taxi / Pre-arranged 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into St. Anthony might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring St. Anthony on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in St. Anthony:
Start with Grenfell Interpretation Centre & Museum. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Fishing Point Park & St. Anthony Lighthouse. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YAY, you can spend time at St. Anthony Airport Terminal Relaxation or try Regional Aircraft Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into St. Anthony: Lightkeepers Seafood Restaurant and The Daily Catch. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for YAY Terminal Snack Bar or Automated Refreshments (Vending Machines). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at YAY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in St. Anthony’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YAY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into St. Anthony 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 YAY
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 YAY.
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 St. Anthony doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from YAY, 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.