Freeport Grand Bahama Layover Guide (FPO)

What are you looking for in FPO?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Freeport Bahamas Airport (FPO) is an international airport located in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. It’s situated about 6 km (3.7 miles) from downtown Freeport. The airport officially opened in the 1960s. Freeport is the second-largest city in the Bahamas and is known for its relaxed lifestyle and tax-free shopping. It also offers beautiful beaches, world-class diving spots, and various outdoor adventures for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.

Can you leave Freeport Bahama Airport (FPO) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Yes. To exit Freeport (FPO) during a layover, you must clear immigration and meet entry requirements. Most nationalities receive visa-free stays (up to 3 months); travellers needing visas must obtain a visitor or transit visa in advance. Passengers must carry return/onward tickets and proof of funds. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Port Lucaya Marketplace Vibrant waterfront bazaar featuring shops, local crafts, duty-free boutiques, restaurants, bars and live entertainment. Perfect for quick, souvenir hunting, people-watching and relaxing dining with scenic marina views during brief layovers. (Time required: 1–2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~15 min) or jitney bus (~25 min))
• Lucayan National Park Explore ancient limestone caves adorned with stalactites, stalagmites and underground rivers. Wander shaded trails past mangroves and tidal pools before emerging on pristine Gold Rock Beach fringed by turquoise waters. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or shuttle (~30 min))
• Taino Beach & Peterson Cay Sunbathe on soft sands at Taino Beach, then short kayak to Peterson Cay Marine Park for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and rays in crystal-clear shallows. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~15 min) or water taxi (~20 min))
• Rand Nature Center Stroll winding boardwalks through pine forests and wetlands at Rand Nature Center, where iguanas, migratory birds and native flora abound. Enjoy serene observation platforms overlooking peaceful ponds and shaded trails. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or jitney (~30 min))
• Garden of the Groves Discover lush tropical gardens at Garden of the Groves, featuring cascading waterfalls, koi ponds, butterfly exhibits and shaded walking paths. Relax in gazebo seating while immersing in tranquil island scenery. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~25 min) or shuttle (~35 min))
• UNEXSO Dolphin Encounter Swim with friendly Atlantic bottlenose dolphins at UNEXSO, learning about their behavior and conservation. Enjoy unique guided interactions, photo opportunities and shallow-water swims suitable for all ages and skill levels. (Time required: 2–3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~15 min) or shuttle (~25 min))
• Kayak the Lucayan Waterways Paddle winding mangrove creeks and hidden serene lagoons on an informative guided kayak tour through Lucayan Waterways, spotting native wildlife and learning about local ecosystems from experienced expert naturalist guides. (Time required: 3 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min))
• Lucayan Golf Course Tee off at the 18-hole Lucayan Golf Course, enjoying lush fairways, challenging bunkers and scenic ocean vistas. Ideal for golf enthusiasts seeking a quick round amidst tropical island gentle breezes. (Time required: 2–4 hours. / Airport to here: Taxi (~20 min) or shuttle (~30 min))

Things to Do in Freeport Bahama Airport (FPO)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
A small public lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments and snacks, power outlets, air-conditioned space and free Wi-Fi. For a more exclusive experience, private VIP terminal services can be booked in advance, providing a dedicated suite with personalized assistance, premium snacks and rapid security clearance. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There is no on-site hotel at FPO. The nearest accommodations are 5–7 km away in Freeport, including mid-range chain properties and boutique resorts. Most offer airport shuttles, 24-hour check-in and varying rates. For early departures, book a room the night before and confirm shuttle availability. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
FPO lacks designated rest zones or sleeping pods. Travelers can find scattered bench seating and window ledges in both terminals. Overnight stays are tolerated in well-lit areas near gates, but noise and cleaning schedules may interrupt sleep. Bringing a travel pillow and eye mask is recommended.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals. Simply connect to the “FPO_Free_WiFi” network, accept terms, and stay online. Speeds are sufficient for messaging, email and light browsing, though streaming may be slower. No password or voucher is needed to connect.

SIM/eSIM Card: No dedicated mobile kiosk operates inside the terminal. Travelers should purchase local prepaid SIM cards in Freeport city center or at Port Lucaya Marketplace. eSIM profiles for Bahamian carriers can be arranged online before arrival. Ensure your device is unlocked for easy activation. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Freeport Bahama Airport (FPO) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: A regulated taxi rank is located just outside baggage claim. Fares to central Freeport or Port Lucaya are flat-rate (around USD 15–20), payable in cash. Taxis run 24 hours but are scarce overnight—book ahead via your hotel if arriving late. No ride-sharing services operate here.

Train: There is no rail or train connection to or from Grand Bahama International Airport. Ground transfers are limited to road transport (taxis, buses, shuttles and car rentals). more info

Bus: No formal intercity bus service serves FPO directly. Local jitney minibuses operate within Freeport and Port Lucaya but require a short walk or taxi from the terminal. Jitneys run on fixed routes, charging a few dollars per trip; schedules are informal. more info

Shuttle: Many nearby resorts and hotels provide complimentary airport shuttles for registered guests. Shuttles must be arranged at the time of booking, with pick-up details supplied by the hotel. Shared-ride and private van services can also be pre-booked through third-party operators.

Car rentals: Major car-rental agencies (Avis, Budget, Hertz) maintain desks in the arrivals hall. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season. Standard requirements include a valid driver’s license, credit card and insurance. Rental cars can be driven throughout the Bahamas, subject to island-wide regulations. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Short-term and long-term parking lots are adjacent to both terminals. Rates start at USD 2 per hour, with daily maximums around USD 20. Payment machines accept cash and credit cards. Accessible parking spaces are available close to terminal entrances.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

The airport does not offer luggage storage or locker facilities. Travelers needing secure storage must use services in central Freeport or at select hotels. Alternatively, luggage can be stowed at nearby tour operators or transportation hubs for a fee. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Freeport Bahama Airport (FPO) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks