Things To Do
in The Bottom
The Bottom is the capital of the island Saba, located in the Caribbean Netherlands. It is a small and picturesque town known for its charming cottages and lush surroundings. The town is set against the backdrop of the island's volcanic peak, Mount Scenery, offering breathtaking views.
The Bottom is also a popular destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts due to its vibrant underwater marine life.
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Bon tardi" - Good afternoon
- "Bon nochi" - Good evening
- "Danki" - Thank you
- "Ayo" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $90
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day exploring local trails, surrounded by breathtaking views. Enjoy the crisp air and tropical flora that call The Bottom home.
Visit the local markets to taste traditional Caribbean dishes and pick up unique souvenirs. Don't miss the chance to meet friendly locals who share their stories.
Wind down with a sunset view over the hills, capturing the picturesque scenery. Dine at a cozy restaurant that offers fresh catches from the sea.
Snorkel or dive at the famous Klein Bonaire, where vibrant coral reefs and marine life await. It’s an underwater paradise perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers.
Relax on the beautiful beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying delicious beachside snacks. Take a stroll along the scenic coastline for stunning views.
Experience Bonaire's nightlife at local bars featuring live music. Savor cocktails made with local rums while soaking in the island vibes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with diverse ecosystems.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Opportunity for outdoor activities such as diving, hiking, and snorkeling.
- Less crowded compared to other Caribbean destinations, offering a peaceful escape.
- Friendly local communities and welcoming atmosphere.
- Limited accessibility and transportation options, especially for tourists.
- Fewer amenities and services compared to larger Caribbean islands.
- Potential for higher prices on goods due to importation.
- Vulnerability to hurricanes and other natural disasters.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
Best Activities in The Bottom
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush rainforest and stunning views along various hiking trails, including the famous Mount Scenery trail, which leads to the highest point in the Dutch Caribbean.
Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life in the crystal-clear waters of Bonaire, known for its excellent diving and snorkeling spots like the Marine Park and Klein Bonaire.
Paddle through the serene waters around Sint Eustatius, enjoying the natural beauty, wildlife, and historical sites such as Fort Oranje.
Relax at various secluded beaches and enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or picnicking while taking in the breathtaking Caribbean views.
Venture into the unique ecosystems of Saba to observe various bird species, including the endemic Saba Parrot, and enjoy the island's natural beauty.
Tours
Uncover the best of The Bottom with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in The Bottom
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the island of Saba and the surrounding Caribbean Sea, perfect for capturing stunning landscape photographs.
Located near The Bottom, this hill provides incredible vistas of the coastline and is a prime spot for wildlife photography, especially the red-footed booby birds.
An underwater paradise that also offers high vantage points on land. Photographers can capture both the lush lands above and the vibrant marine life below.
As the highest point in Saba, hiking to the summit rewards photographers with breathtaking views of the island and neighboring landmasses.
A charming harbor setting, ideal for capturing colorful boats and sunsets reflecting off the water.
A unique hiking experience that takes you through the lush rainforest with varying viewpoints, ideal for nature and wildlife photography.
Food in The Bottom
The Bottom Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular appetizer made with conch meat, seasoned with herbs and spices, and deep-fried to crispy perfection. You can find excellent conch fritters at seafood restaurants along the coast, such as Seaside Nature Park in Saba.
Must-Try!
A hearty and savory dish made with tender goat meat, simmered in a rich and aromatic sauce. For a taste of authentic goat stew, head to local eateries like The Sunny Side in Sint Eustatius.
This classic dish features fresh catch of the day, grilled or fried, served with funchi, a delicious cornmeal-based side. For a delightful serving of fish and funchi, visit local beachside spots like Hang Out Bar in Bonaire.
Unique Experiences
Get to know The Bottom better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Kralendijk, Bonaire, this vibrant market offers a wide variety of local street food, including empanadas, pika di papaya (spicy papaya salsa), and freshly squeezed fruit juices. It's an ideal place to sample authentic island flavors and interact with local vendors.
This bustling market, situated in Windwardside, Saba, is renowned for its array of street food delights, such as johnnycakes, souse (pickled meat dish), and coconut tart. It's a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Saba's street culinary scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Familiarize yourself with the unique traditions and customs of The Bottom, including local greetings and social etiquette. It is important to greet locals politely and show appreciation for their customs.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and public areas. While the climate is warm, locals appreciate when visitors show respect through appropriate attire.
Engage with and support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts and art. This not only helps the local economy but also shows respect for their culture and heritage.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of The Bottom with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in The Bottom
Ensure a smooth experience
In The Bottom, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants, especially if the service was good. However, many establishments may include a service charge in the bill, so it is advisable for patrons to check before adding a tip. In casual settings, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is also acceptable.
Payment practices in these islands typically involve both cash and card transactions. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, but cash is still widely used, particularly in smaller shops and markets. The local currency in Bonaire is the US dollar, while Sint Eustatius and Saba use the Netherlands Antillean guilder (but also accept US dollars). Travelers should be prepared for varying payment methods and ensure they have local currency when necessary.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into The Bottom.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit The Bottom, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba due to pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Visitors can expect clear skies, abundant sunshine, and minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, diving, and enjoying the beaches.
This period sees a slight increase in humidity and occasional rains, but it can still be a great time to visit. Expect fewer tourists and lower prices on accommodations and activities. Wildlife is particularly active, with opportunities for bird watching and marine life sightings.
This season experiences the highest rainfall and humidity levels. While this may deter some visitors, those who choose to visit can take advantage of lower rates and fewer crowds. Be prepared for occasional storms, but also enjoy the lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes.
The Bottom at Night
Hiking in The Bottom
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest point in the Dutch Caribbean, Mt. Scenery offers a challenging hike through lush rainforest, leading to stunning panoramic views of Saba and beyond.
An active volcano on Sint Eustatius, The Quill features a trail that leads through a beautiful nature reserve, culminating in a view of the volcanic crater.
This network of trails on Saba connects various points of interest and showcases the island's unique flora and fauna, suited for hikers of all levels.
Located in Sint Eustatius, this easy-to-moderate hike winds through beautiful landscapes and historical sites, perfect for a leisurely day outdoors.
While primarily known for diving and snorkeling, there are several trails in and around the park that offer scenic walks showcasing Bonaire's natural beauty.
A scenic trail on Saba that provides access to both lush greenery and coastal views, great for those looking to experience the island's diverse ecosystems.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into The Bottom through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach The Bottom by plane.
Located in Sint Maarten, approximately 72 miles from The Bottom, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights in the Caribbean.
Situated in Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago, about 90 miles from The Bottom, it offers flights to and from many international destinations.
Located on Curaçao, around 100 miles from The Bottom, this airport is the largest in Curaçao and serves numerous international flights.
In Bridgetown, Barbados, approximately 175 miles from The Bottom, it provides services for international travelers from various regions.
Located in San Juan, Puerto Rico, about 250 miles from The Bottom, this airport is one of the busiest in the Caribbean, offering extensive international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Saba has a small population, primarily consisting of descendants of Dutch settlers, with a mix of other Caribbean and international residents.
Sint Eustatius has a diverse demographic profile, including descendants of enslaved Africans, Dutch individuals, and other Caribbean migrants.
Bonaire has a multicultural population made up of Indigenous people, Afro-Caribbean descendants, Dutch nationals, and various expatriates.
The Bottom is a small village in Saba characterized by a close-knit community predominantly of Dutch Caribbean descent.
The Soul of The Bottom
Discover the essence of The Bottom through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in the Caribbean, football is played by both men and women on the islands, with local leagues and community participation.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in the communities of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba, with local tournaments and youth programs fostering talent.
Due to the rich marine biodiversity around the islands, scuba diving is a favored sport, attracting both locals and tourists for recreational activities.
Beach volleyball is commonly played on the sandy shores of the islands, often as a recreational sport among locals.
Sailing is popular in open waters around the islands, with opportunities for competitive racing and leisure sailing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Bottom.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries across The Bottom, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba provide diverse vegetarian and vegan menu items, ranging from hearty vegetable stews to inventive plant-based burgers. Visitors can savor these options at restaurants like Queen's Gardens Restaurant and Scout's Place Restaurant in Saba.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can indulge in a range of gluten-free dining choices, including fresh seafood ceviche, tropical fruit salads, and gluten-free pasta dishes. Notable establishments offering gluten-free fare include At Sea Restaurant in Bonaire and The Old Gin House in Sint Eustatius.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of The Bottom with these cultural adventures.
