Things To Do
in The Bottom
The Bottom is the capital of Saba, perched on a steep hillside with winding streets and a harbor that meets a dramatic Atlantic coastline. Bonaire is a sun-soaked island renowned for world-class scuba diving, salt pans, and easy-going Caribbean charm. Sint Eustatius, nicknamed Statia, is a tiny volcanic island rich in history, lush highlands, and well-preserved Dutch colonial heritage.
Together the BES Islands—The Bottom (Saba), Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba—offer diverse landscapes, marine wonders, and a welcoming, laid-back Caribbean experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at The Bottom on Saba, where you will be greeted by the lush green hills and fresh air. After settling in, enjoy some traditional Dutch breakfast pastries at a local café. Spend the morning exploring the charming streets and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Head out for an afternoon hike on the Mount Scenery trail, the highest point in the Netherlands. The trail features rich vegetation and exotic wildlife, making it a prime spot for nature lovers. After your hike, relax at a local restaurant and indulge in some fresh seafood.
End your day with a sunset at the Windward Side, where you can catch the orange hues sprawling across the horizon. Enjoy dinner at a cozy spot with a view of the Caribbean Sea. Spend the night immersed in the tranquil ambiance of the island.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a dive trip to the breathtaking underwater world of Saba. The clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it an ideal spot for divers of all levels. Spend your morning discovering vibrant coral reefs and diverse fish species.
After your diving adventure, visit the Saba Marine Park to learn about the conservation efforts in the area. Engage with local guides who will share insights into the importance of preserving this unique ecosystem. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachfront café with fresh, local fare.
Savor a peaceful evening by heading to The Bottom's local market, where you can find handcrafted items and delicious local snacks. As night falls, enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional Saban music and dance. Wind down your day with a nightcap at a local bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚗Local taxi ride (short trip) | $6-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $110-180 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-6 |
| 🎟️Three-course dinner for two (mid-range) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning underwater ecosystems and clear water for divers
- Varied landscapes across four islands with rich history
- English is widely spoken; locals are friendly and welcoming
- Limited public transport; reliance on car rentals or taxis
- Prices can be higher than some neighboring destinations
- Nightlife is generally low-key on quieter islands
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Por fabor" - Please
- "Danki" - Thank you
- "Unda ta?" - Where is...?
- "Mi por paga cu tarjeta?" - Can I pay with a card?
Places to Visit in The Bottom
Visit one of these nice places.
A hike to the crater rim yields sweeping sea and island views, with cloud drapes and dramatic greenery—best at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful hillside houses, working harbor scenes, and charming quay perspectives—great for dawn light and street photography.
Vibrant sunsets over the Caribbean Sea with boats, pelicans, and waterfront silhouettes; a classic Bonaire photo spot.
Lush highland forest and volcanic landscapes with panoramic ocean views; dramatic cloud inversions and dramatic lighting.
Raw coastal cliffs, desert-like trails, and wide horizons—excellent for wide-angle ocean imagery.
Reflective waters and flamingos in the shallow zoutpannen create striking wildlife and landscape photography opportunities.
Food in The Bottom
The Bottom Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stuffed cheese dish with spiced meat (often goat or chicken), peppers, olives, and herbs; a beloved Curaçao/Bonaire Caribbean staple widely found on Bonaire and neighboring islands.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked goat simmered with Caribbean spices, onions, garlic, and peppers; a hearty staple in island homes and casual eateries.
Fresh local fish grilled and finished with citrus, herbs, and olive oil, commonly served with rice, plantains, or vegetables.
Fried pastries filled with meat or cheese; popular street-food snack found at markets and casual eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh seafood, produce, spices, and prepared snacks near Bonaire’s waterfront—great for tasting street-style bites and buying souvenirs.
Small, community-focused market in Saba’s main town area offering fresh produce and locally produced goods.
Colonial-era market spaces with vendors selling fruit, vegetables, and small prepared foods; a good place to meet locals and sample snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hello' or local phrase (Papiamento in Bonaire where used). Dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites, and show respect for local customs and property.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; be mindful in residential areas and cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in The Bottom
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always added automatically. In restaurants, 10-15% is common if service isn’t included; taxis and tour guides often receive a small tip based on service quality.
Major credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas; cash is useful in smaller venues. The BES Islands commonly use US dollars (USD) as the currency for most purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August brings hot temperatures and steady trade winds; ideal for outdoor activities, diving visibility often at its best, and clear evenings for stargazing. Expect brief, refreshing showers and high humidity in some areas.
December to February offers pleasant daytime warmth with cooler evenings; peak tourist season can mean more crowds but excellent diving and snorkeling conditions persist.
August to October brings heavier showers and higher humidity; lush landscapes and vibrant vegetation, with occasional storm systems; plan for flexible activities.
June to November carries tropical storm risk; monitor forecasts, have flexible itineraries, and follow local guidance during adverse weather.
The Bottom at Night
Hiking in The Bottom
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Crater-edge hike on Saba offering panoramic sea views and lush surroundings.
Volcanic crater hike with forested slopes and rewarding views.
Coastal and inland trails through diverse landscapes and wildlife habitats.
Airports
How to reach The Bottom by plane.
Main airport serving Bonaire; international connections and domestic BES flights, with easy access to Kralendijk.
Famous short runway on Saba; limited commercial flights, transfers typically via regional carriers.
Sint Eustatius’ airport handling regional flights; connects BES islands with the wider region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically diverse, with strong ties to Dutch governance and colonial history.
Significant presence in tourism and service sectors.
Bring international visitors during peak season; support local tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class reefs and wrecks around Bonaire; a top activity across the BES Islands.
Easy access from beaches and piers; vibrant tropical life near reefs.
Volcanic craters, highland trails, and nature reserves with panoramic views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Bottom.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruit, vegetables, grains, and dairy-based dishes; look for veggie versions of Keshi Yena or grilled vegetables with plantains and rice, and ask for sauces made without meat stock.