Things To Do
in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba (the BES islands) form a small Caribbean Netherlands archipelago known for pristine reefs, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and a tranquil pace of life. Bonaire is famed for crystal-clear waters, world-class diving, and an arid, cactus-studded interior. Sint Eustatius offers a quiet mix of volcanic craters, colonial history, and lush nature trails.
Saba, the Unspoiled Queen, rewards hikers with steep ridges, misty peaks, and commanding sea views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Flamingo Airport and collect your rental car before heading straight to the azure waters of Te Amo Beach. Feel the warm sun on your skin as you stroll along the white sand and watch local fishermen unload their catch. Let the serene atmosphere set the tone for your island adventure.
Set out for a gentle snorkeling session off the shore, spotting colorful parrotfish and playful sea turtles gliding through coral gardens. Pause for a beachfront lunch of freshly caught ceviche and cold beverages under a palm-thatched palapa. Wander along the Sunset Beach Boardwalk and dip your toes in the calm lagoon waters.
Head back to Kralendijk’s waterfront for a cocktail at a seaside bar while the sky ignites in shades of pink and orange. Dine at a local restaurant featuring Caribbean seafood specialties and farm-fresh produce. Cap the night with live music at a nearby lounge and let the gentle Caribbean breeze lull you into vacation mode.
Meet your guide at dawn for a kayaking tour through the winding mangrove channels of Lac Bay. Glide silently among towering roots as you watch flamingos preen and herons take flight. Learn about the delicate ecosystem that shelters juvenile fish and crustaceans.
Arrive at a windsurfing school on the bay and take an introductory lesson, feeling the thrill as you harness the trade winds for the first time. Enjoy a picnic lunch of local goat cheese wraps and tropical fruit on a secluded beach. Relax under a canopy of palms and take in panoramic views of the bay’s turquoise waters.
Return to Kralendijk and explore its charming downtown streets, lined with pastel Dutch colonial buildings. Enjoy an alfresco dinner at a courtyard café, sampling island stews and locally brewed beer. Finish the day with a leisurely stroll along the lit harbor, listening to the gentle lap of waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚗Rental car per day | $40-90 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $100-180 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Crystal-clear waters and superb diving in Bonaire
- Compact, easy island hopping between three intimately scaled islands
- Safe and welcoming environment with Dutch-influenced infrastructure
- Limited nightlife and public transportation; better with a car
- Some areas can be hot and dry; humidity rises in the wet season
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Visit one of these nice places.
Pastel facades along the harbor provide vibrant sunrise or golden-hour backdrops.
Dramatic cliffs, salt flats, and offshore views set against clear Caribbean skies.
Volcanic crater with panoramic island-wide viewpoints and a sense of untouched nature.
Mist-shrouded highland panorama over the sea and neighboring islands.
Iconic small island off Bonaire’s coast framed by golden skies.
Food in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful goat meat stew with peppers, onions, and coconut milk, typically served with rice or fried plantains.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish simply prepared to highlight the catch of the day, brightened with citrus and herbs.
A staple on the islands, often enjoyed as a light meal or snack with local toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional morning markets near the harbor offering fresh fruit, spices, and local crafts.
Small stalls with local produce, breads, and snacks in a relaxed town setting.
Casual spots serving fried fish, conch fritters, and lime-based sauces with beachside ambiance.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello or good morning is appreciated; in casual settings, a friendly nod or handshake is common.
Tipping for good service is customary but not mandatory; service charges may be included in some restaurants.
Protect coral reefs and wildlife; keep beaches clean and dispose of trash responsibly.
Safety
Tipping in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 10-15% tip is common if service is not included; round up for small sums, and cash tips are appreciated for island staff.
US dollars are the standard currency; most places accept major credit cards and debit; ATMs are widely available on Bonaire, Statia, and Saba.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and sunny days with light trade winds; ideal for outdoor activities, diving visibility is often excellent, and humidity is comfortable.
Afternoon showers and brief tropical downpours are common; seas remain generally calm and wildlife activity increases in coastal areas.
Increased risk of tropical storms; monitor forecasts, plan flexible itineraries, and have contingency options for inter-island travel.
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba at Night
Hiking in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep, lush ascent to the peak with panoramic sea views and cloud cover at higher elevations.
Crater rim walk offering volcanic scenery and expansive perspectives across the island.
Network of coastal and upland trails through protected landscapes with wildlife and scenic vistas.
Airports
How to reach Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba by plane.
Main gateway to Bonaire with inter-island and international connections; small-town airport experience.
Relatively small airport serving inter-island flights; convenient access to Statia’s attractions.
Extremely short runway and dramatic approaches; flights typically originate from St. Maarten.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix of Afro-Caribbean, Dutch, and Latin American heritage; strong sense of community and local culture.
A steady presence of divers, sailors, and retirees attracted to the islands’ laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class reefs and biodiversity, especially around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire.
Ridge and crater hikes on Saba and Statia; extensive park trails in Bonaire.
Coastal winds and calm lagoons provide favorable conditions in season.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose plant-based curries, grilled vegetables, cassava bread, rice and beans, and vegetable sides; ask for no meat stock and confirm sauces are vegetarian.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.