Things To Do
in The Bottom
The Bottom is the capital of Saba, a small Dutch Caribbean island known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The town sits along the island’s rugged hills and harbor, exuding a warm, intimate Caribbean-Dutch charm. It serves as the island’s logistical hub, gateway to hiking, diving, and pristine coastal scenery.
Visitors are drawn by the laid-back pace, friendly locals, and access to some of the Caribbean's most striking natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Flamingo International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Kralendijk. Unpack and relax with a fresh coconut juice by the waterfront. Chat with locals to gather insider tips and grab a traditional lunch in a colorful café.
Join a guided walking tour through Kralendijk’s pastel streets and learn about Bonaire’s Dutch and Caribbean heritage. Visit the local art galleries and boutiques showcasing handcrafted jewelry and island-themed art. Cool off with an afternoon swim at the town pier before sunset.
Dine at a seaside restaurant serving fresh seafood ceviche and salted cod dishes. Enjoy live music featuring local steel drums and guitar rhythms. Take a moonlit stroll along the water’s edge to cap off your first night.
Head out with a certified dive operator to the Bonaire Marine Park for your first scuba diving session. Descend into crystal-clear waters and encounter vibrant coral reefs teeming with parrotfish, angelfish, and turtles. Resurface to sip tropical fruit smoothies on the dive boat and share stories with fellow divers.
Snorkel off Klein Bonaire, a protected islet known for its shallow reefs and abundant marine life. Relax on pristine white-sand beaches and spot rays gliding gracefully in the shallows. Enjoy a beach picnic of local specialties like spicy chicken and yucca fries.
Return to Kralendijk for a sunset cocktail cruise along the coast. Watch as the sky bursts into shades of pink and orange over the Caribbean Sea. Back on land, sample island-inspired tapas at a laid-back bistro with open-air seating.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $60-90 |
| 🛏️One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛍️Local crafts souvenir | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning nature and hiking with dramatic crater landscapes
- Calm, safe, and small-town vibe that makes it easy to relax
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Remote location can mean higher prices and longer travel times
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is de veerboot?" - Where is the ferry?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in The Bottom
Visit one of these nice places.
The island’s highest point offering lush forest, rare flora, and sweeping 360-degree views of sea and volcano.
Colorful boats and tranquil water reflections enriched by golden hour light.
Crater rim viewpoints with dramatic sea cliffs and panoramas of the island’s interior.
Path along the edge of the volcanic crater for misty mornings and verdant slopes.
Food in The Bottom
The Bottom Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty slow-cooked goat stew flavored with herbs and root vegetables, a beloved island comfort dish.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish simmered in a tomato-based broth with local spices and lime.
Starchy sides such as cassava or fried plantains that accompany stews and seafood.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market offering fresh produce, seafood, and occasional prepared street fare on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people warmly with a friendly hello; polite small talk is appreciated. Be patient in slower-paced settings.
Dress modestly when visiting religious or ceremonial sites; ask before taking photos of people; do not interrupt locals at work.
Safety
Tipping in The Bottom
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated when service is not included; 10-15% is common in casual spots, 15-20% in nicer venues.
US dollars is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common but carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with plenty of sun and calm seas; ideal for hiking and daytime snorkeling; evenings are cooler at higher elevations.
Wet season brings brief showers and higher humidity; landscapes are lush, and seas can be choppier—great for dramatic coastal photography and bar/indoor activities when rain arrives.
The Bottom at Night
Hiking in The Bottom
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep ascent through lush habitats to the island’s highest point with panoramic views.
Rim-edge trails offering dramatic sea views and volcanic scenery.
Airports
How to reach The Bottom by plane.
Small island airport near The Bottom with a very short runway; flights from St. Maarten mainly on short twin-engine aircraft.
Major international gateway on St. Maarten; from here you can connect to Saba by inter-island flight or boat.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A small, close-knit community with Afro-Caribbean and Dutch influences; a mix of locals and expatriates.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class dive sites around Saba, featuring walls, reefs, and occasional wrecks.
Crater rim and forest trails, with Mt. Scenery as a premier ascent.
Calm coastal waters ideal for snorkeling trips and short sails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Bottom.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many spots; look for bean stews, grilled vegetables, salads, and locally grown produce. When in doubt, ask to omit meat and request plant-based sides.