Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Stella Maris. Stella Maris Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 20 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave SML:
- 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 Stella Maris takes about 20 minutes by Taxi/Hotel 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.
The Best Way Into Stella Maris from SML
The most straightforward way into Stella Maris is the Taxi/Hotel Shuttle, which takes about 20 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 40 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Hotel Shuttle is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Stella Maris Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Stella Maris:
Transport to the city and back runs about $13 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $25 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $48 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SML may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Stella Maris’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.
What to See and Do in Stella Maris
For a layover visit to Stella Maris, we’d suggest Stella Maris Resort Beach and Stella Maris Resort Poolside Experience. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SML, you can spend time at SML Main Waiting Area or try Tarmac Observation Point. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: The Moonlight Restaurant and Stella Maris Beach Bar & Grill are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Stella Maris.
- At the airport: SML Airport Snack Counter and SML Coffee & Refreshments will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
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 SML.
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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SML for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Stella Maris or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Stella Maris with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Stella Maris may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.