Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba, collectively known as the BES islands, are three unique Caribbean gems that boast a rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning natural landscapes. Bonaire was first settled by the Caquetio Indians around 1000 AD, and like many Caribbean islands, it later became a part of the Dutch Empire. St. Eustatius, often called Statia, was once one of the busiest trading hubs in the Caribbean during the 18th century, while Saba, known as the Unspoiled Queen, is famous for its rugged terrain and pristine environment. All three islands are part of the Caribbean Netherlands today.
Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, is a charming coastal town with colorful Dutch colonial architecture and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to explore local markets, boutiques, and waterfront cafes. On St. Eustatius, Oranjestad is the main town, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past with its historic forts and buildings. Saba’s capital, The Bottom, is a quaint town nestled in the mountains, offering stunning views and a serene ambiance.
The villages of Rincon in Bonaire and Windwardside in Saba are quaint and full of character. Rincon is one of the oldest towns in the Dutch Caribbean, where you can experience traditional culture and festivals. Windwardside, on Saba, is a charming mountain village surrounded by lush forests and vibrant flowers, perfect for hiking and nature lovers. On St. Eustatius, Lower Town is an unusual area to explore, with its historic ruins and beautiful coastline.
Bonaire is surrounded by some of the most popular islands for water activities. Klein Bonaire, a small uninhabited island off the coast, is perfect for snorkeling and diving, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Saba is a diver’s paradise, known for its marine life and underwater volcanic landscapes. St. Eustatius, though smaller and less visited, offers some excellent dive sites as well, particularly around its dormant volcano, The Quill.
There are plenty of fun things to do on all three islands. In Bonaire, diving and snorkeling are the main attractions, thanks to its protected coral reefs and abundant marine life. Lac Bay is perfect for windsurfing, while the Washington-Slagbaai National Park offers great hiking trails. On Saba, hiking is a must, particularly the trail to the top of Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands. St. Eustatius offers hiking on The Quill volcano, as well as historic walking tours around Oranjestad.
For dining in Bonaire, try Brass Boer, a fine-dining restaurant offering fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The seaside restaurant It Rains Fishes is another favorite for seafood lovers. In St. Eustatius, Blue Bead Restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced meals, while on Saba, the Queen's Gardens Restaurant offers a romantic dining experience with stunning mountain views and gourmet dishes.
Bonaire’s seaside village of Kralendijk offers a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere, with colorful buildings and easy access to the island’s best beaches and dive sites. In Saba, Windwardside is a favorite seaside village, though Saba's volcanic coast means fewer sandy beaches and more dramatic cliffs. St. Eustatius’ Lower Town, with its colonial ruins by the water, is another unique seaside spot worth visiting.
Accommodation options range from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. In Bonaire, Harbour Village Beach Club is a luxurious resort with a private beach and excellent amenities. Captain Don's Habitat is a well-known dive resort for those seeking an eco-friendly stay. On Saba, Queen’s Gardens Resort offers luxury in a peaceful setting, while the Saba Island Inn is a more affordable, charming guesthouse. St. Eustatius’ Golden Rock Dive and Nature Resort is a top pick for divers, while Statia Lodge offers eco-friendly accommodations with stunning views.
Famous hotels in Bonaire include Delfins Beach Resort, which offers modern luxury on the beach, and Buddy Dive Resort, a well-known spot for divers. In Saba, The Cottage Club Hotel is a charming boutique hotel with stunning views of the island, and on St. Eustatius, The Old Gin House is a historic hotel with modern comforts and a great location by the sea.
There are plenty of things to see on all three islands. Bonaire’s Washington-Slagbaai National Park is a must for nature lovers, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife. On Saba, the climb to Mount Scenery offers incredible panoramic views. St. Eustatius’ Fort Oranje is a key historic site, offering insight into the island’s colonial past and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Carnival and festivals are a big part of the local culture. Bonaire’s Carnival in February is a lively affair, filled with parades, music, and dancing. St. Eustatius celebrates its Statia Day on November 16th with local music and festivities, while Saba’s Carnival in July is a week-long event featuring parades, pageants, and traditional music.
Local food is a blend of Caribbean and Dutch influences, with dishes such as goat stew, fresh seafood, and pastechi (savory pastries) being popular across all three islands. Bonaire is known for its Bonairean dishes, including lionfish, which is served in an effort to control the invasive species. St. Eustatius and Saba offer similar Caribbean fare, with local specialties like conch and Johnny cakes.
Several famous people have called these islands home. Bonaire is known for diving pioneers like Captain Don Stewart, who established some of the island’s first dive resorts. Saba is home to acclaimed nature photographer Ellen Muller, whose work has brought attention to the island’s marine life. St. Eustatius has produced several notable figures, including historian and author Charles van den Berg.
The attractions on these islands are largely centered on nature and history. Bonaire is a world-class diving destination, with famous sites like the Hilma Hooker shipwreck and the Bari Reef. Saba is known for its ecotourism, with highlights including its cloud forests and marine parks. St. Eustatius offers historical landmarks, including the ruins of the once-thriving Lower Town and The Quill, a dormant volcano offering hiking opportunities.
Local music on these islands includes traditional Caribbean styles like calypso, reggae, and salsa. Steelpan music is popular on Bonaire, while Saba and St. Eustatius have their own musical traditions, influenced by African, European, and indigenous cultures. Carnival season brings out the best of the islands’ vibrant music scene.
Nature sites abound on all three islands. Bonaire’s mangroves, salt flats, and coral reefs offer a variety of ecosystems to explore. On Saba, the rainforests and Mount Scenery are perfect for hikers and nature enthusiasts, while St. Eustatius offers the lush greenery of The Quill and the island’s rugged coastline for outdoor adventures.
Important places to visit include Bonaire’s Salt Pans, where flamingos flock in large numbers, and Lac Bay, a popular spot for windsurfing. On Saba, don’t miss the Saba Marine Park, one of the world’s best-preserved underwater ecosystems. In St. Eustatius, Fort Oranje and the ruins of Lower Town are must-see historic sites.
Unusual things to see include the eerie lighthouse ruins on Saba, often shrouded in mist, and the isolated Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary, which rescues and cares for abandoned donkeys. On St. Eustatius, the dormant Quill volcano offers the unique opportunity to hike inside its crater, a rare and thrilling experience.
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