Things To Do
in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, collectively known as the Caribbean Netherlands, are special municipalities of the Netherlands located in the Caribbean Sea. Bonaire is known for its pioneering role in the preservation of nature, particularly its surrounding marine park, which is a world-renowned diving destination.
Sint Eustatius, often referred to as Statia, boasts rich historical artifacts and remnants of colonial fortifications, whereas Saba, the smallest of the three, is famed for its scenic beauty, exemplified by Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands, and its lush, diverse ecosystem.
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Kon ta bai?" - How are you?
- "Danki" - Thank you
- "Mi ta bon" - I am fine
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing dive at the famous Buoy 100, known for its vibrant marine life. Grab breakfast at one of the beachside cafes afterward.
Visit the Washington Slagbaai National Park for hiking and bird watching. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Have dinner at a local seafood restaurant and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. End the night with a stroll along the waterfront.
Set out early to hike the Quill, an inactive volcano offering breathtaking views. Post-hike, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café.
Explore the historic ruins in Oranjestad and learn about the island's rich history. Stop for lunch at a quaint restaurant in town.
Dine at a local eatery featuring Caribbean cuisine. End your day with stargazing on the beach.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with diverse ecosystems and pristine beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and history, especially in local traditions and festivals.
- Less crowded compared to many other Caribbean destinations, offering a more tranquil experience.
- Excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling due to clear waters and abundant marine life.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Limited accessibility and fewer direct flights, making it harder to reach.
- Higher cost of living and travel compared to other Caribbean islands.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options, which may not suit travelers looking for a bustling nightlife.
- Limited healthcare facilities, which may concern some travelers.
- Vulnerability to weather-related events, such as hurricanes.
Best Activities in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life around Bonaire, known as one of the best snorkeling destinations in the Caribbean.
Trek through the lush landscapes of Saba, where trails lead you to stunning views, unique flora, and the iconic Mount Scenery.
Discover world-class diving sites in Bonaire, featuring underwater parks and an abundance of marine species.
Paddle through the mangroves and along the coast of Sint Eustatius, enjoying a peaceful connection with nature.
Observe the diverse bird species that inhabit the islands, particularly in the national parks of Sint Eustatius.
Engage in guided tours that explore the history and culture of Saba and Sint Eustatius, including their colonial past and local traditions.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Bonaire, enjoying sunbathing, swimming, and the serene surroundings.
Challenge yourself with rock climbing opportunities in Saba, offering breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Visit one of these nice places.
This national park offers stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and scenic views of the Caribbean Sea, perfect for photography.
Famous for its vibrant pink salt ponds and the striking contrast against the blue ocean, ideal for capturing colorful photographs.
A picturesque beach known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets, offering excellent opportunities for beach photography.
Hiking to the summit provides panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean, making it a perfect spot for nature photography.
This historical site not only offers insights into the island's past but also stunning views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes.
The charming capital with its colorful buildings and waterfront views is great for capturing the essence of island life.
The highest point in the Netherlands offers breathtaking views of Saba and surrounding islands, ideal for both landscape and aerial photography.
A scenic hike that takes you through lush rainforests and offers amazing coastal views, perfect for capturing the island's natural beauty.
Known for its steep cliffs and stunning ocean views, this area provides dramatic backdrops for photography.
This serene area showcases the island's tranquility and scenic vistas, ideal for capturing peaceful landscapes.
Food in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish made of Gouda cheese stuffed with spiced meat, raisins, and olives, then baked to perfection. Can be found in local restaurants such as Rose Inn on Saba.
Must-Try!
Tender goat meat stewed with local herbs and spices, creating a rich and savory dish. Recommended at various eateries across the islands.
Fresh conch meat seasoned with herbs and fried to a crispy golden brown, often served with a zesty dipping sauce. A popular snack available at street food stalls.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a cornucopia of local fruits, vegetables, and freshly caught seafood. Visitors can also sample authentic Caribbean street food such as grilled fish and fried plantains.
An excellent spot to savor freshly prepared seafood from local vendors, including grilled lobster and conch ceviche.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, a friendly greeting is important. A simple greeting like 'Bon dia' (Good morning) or 'Halo' is appreciated. Use a firm handshake and maintain eye contact to show respect.
Although the islands have a laid-back atmosphere, it’s advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting local churches or government buildings. Swimwear should be reserved for the beach or pool areas.
Take the time to understand and respect local customs and traditions. Participating in local festivals, understanding their significance, and being mindful of community practices fosters goodwill and appreciation among the residents.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is common if service is not included in the bill. For other services such as taxis, it is customary to round up to the nearest whole number or add a small amount as a gesture of appreciation. Local customs may vary, so it's good to be observant and follow the lead of locals.
In these Caribbean islands, the US dollar is widely accepted as the main currency. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, especially in tourist areas. However, it's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets. Payment methods may vary, but most places will accept major credit cards. In remote areas, cash might still be preferred, so it's prudent to be prepared.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba. Visitors can expect pleasant weather, low humidity, ample sunshine, and minimal rainfall. This season is ideal for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and hiking.
This season sees slightly warmer temperatures and a gradual increase in humidity. Rainfall starts to become more frequent, but it's not overwhelming. This is a good time for tourists who prefer fewer crowds and still decent weather.
During this time, visitors can expect more rainfall and higher humidity. While temperatures remain warm, occasional storms may occur. It’s not the most popular time to visit due to the weather, but it can be a good opportunity to experience the islands at a lower cost and with fewer tourists.
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba at Night
Hiking in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest point in the Netherlands, located on Saba, Mount Scenery offers a challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding sea and island. The trail leads through lush rainforest and takes about 1-2 hours to reach the summit.
This network of trails on Saba encompasses various routes that lead hikers through endemic flora, rocky terrains, and breathtaking vistas. Popular trails include the Cradle, Fort Bay, and the Ladder Trail.
Located on Sint Eustatius, The Quill is a dormant volcano offering a loop trail that takes hikers through lush rainforest and provides panoramic views from the top. The hike is moderate and typically takes about 2-3 hours.
This trail on Sint Eustatius leads from Oranjestad to the iconic White Wall, featuring beautiful coastal views and an opportunity to explore the island's history and natural beauty.
Bonaire’s national park offers several trails that vary in difficulty, taking hikers through diverse ecosystems including coastal areas, cactus forests, and salt flats. Trails like the Sendero Kralendijk and Salina's are popular choices.
This easy trail allows hikers to explore the pristine environment of Klein Bonaire, a small islet off the coast of Bonaire known for its picturesque beaches and snorkeling spots.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba by plane.
Located in Oranjestad, Aruba, it is one of the largest international airports serving the Caribbean region.
Situated in Sint Maarten, it is a major airport for flights to and from the Caribbean and North America.
Located in Curaçao, it serves as a key international gateway for travelers in the southern Caribbean.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, it is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean and offers extensive international flights.
Located in Tobago, this airport serves as a regional hub for travelers coming to and from the Caribbean.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The demographic groups in these islands primarily consist of Dutch nationals, local inhabitants with Afro-Caribbean roots, and a mix of expatriates from various countries.
People of African descent who have historical roots in the islands; they make up a significant portion of the population.
Citizens from the Netherlands who have settled in the islands, often involved in governmental, educational, and economic sectors.
A growing demographic group consisting of immigrants from neighboring Latin American countries and the Caribbean, contributing to the workforce.
Small communities of expatriates from various countries, including the United States, Canada, and European nations, often engaged in tourism and business.
The Soul of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Discover the essence of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Bonaire is renowned for its incredible diving spots, with abundant marine life and coral reefs, making it a top destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
The crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater ecosystems around the islands offer excellent snorkeling opportunities for visitors and locals alike.
Bonaire's steady trade winds and warm waters create ideal conditions for windsurfing, attracting both amateurs and professionals to the sport.
Similar to windsurfing, kiteboarding is a popular sport in Bonaire, with numerous spots catering to kite surfers of all skill levels.
Many beaches across the islands have facilities for beach volleyball, promoting both casual play and organized tournaments.
The surrounding waters offer great conditions for sailing, making it a popular recreational activity as well as a competitive sport.
Both recreational and deep-sea fishing are popular among locals and tourists, with numerous species available in the rich waters.
In Sint Eustatius and Saba, track and field events are organized, with schools and local clubs encouraging youth participation.
Soccer is a common sport among the youth, with local leagues and teams representing the islands during competitions.
Saba offers rugged terrain and scenic trails, making mountain biking a popular activity for adventure seekers.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often highlighting fresh produce and plant-based ingredients. Look for establishments like Boudoir Bonaire, which specializes in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable dining options at various eateries, with many offering gluten-free menus or accommodating special dietary requests. Restaurants such as Saba Snack on Saba provide gluten-free choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.