Made up of the three islands of Bonaire, Saba and Sint Eustatius, the Caribbean Netherlands promise beautiful beaches, friendly hospitality and an intimate, secluded feel. Discover traces of the English, French and Spanish, as well as the Dutch — whose influence can be felt everywhere on the islands — as you stroll through cobbled village streets, past rusted cannons and into shops filled with traditional lace. Much of the accommodation on the islands comes in the form of pretty, low-key guesthouses, but there is also a great selection of luxury hotels. Many of the best places to stay in the Caribbean Netherlands offer stunning sea views, and encourage visitors to explore the natural wonders of the land and sea.
Set close to lively Curaçao and the coast of Venezuela, laid-back Bonaire is known for its exceptional snorkelling and diving -- its wonders are such that the whole island is a national park. Home to a huge variety of marine life, the reefs are spectacular, and the white-sand beaches are the stuff of Caribbean postcards.
Saba and Sint Eustatius, on the other hand, are near to St Kitts and Nevis, in the Lesser Antilles. Lush and hilly, the islands offer picturesque hikes, as well as beautiful dives. Most visitors choose to base themselves in the boutique hotels or attractive white-painted cottages of Saba. Windwardside, the island’s most popular town, has gorgeous views down to the coast, as well as lovely cafes, shops and museums. Unravel Dutch colonial history at the Dutch Museum Saba, or step into the The Harry L. Johnson Museum for evidence of the island’s original Amerindian settlements, as well as 19th and 20th century collections, located in a quaint sea captain’s cottage. Mount Scenery, the highest point on Saba, is well worth the climb — the leafy cloud-forest is filled with fascinating flora and fauna, and the views are seriously impressive.
Sint Eustatius, known locally as Statia, is the most peaceful of the three islands, with a population of just 3,600 people. Marvel at historic landmarks in the capital of Oranjestad, climb The Quill, an extinct volcano with a rainforest in its crater, visit the Botanical Gardens and the Lynch Plantation Museum, or soak up the sunshine at the beach. Popular with day-trippers from nearby St Maarten, Sint Eustatius promises a real dose of tranquility for those who choose to stay longer.
Many of the best places to stay in the Caribbean Netherlands are small, cosy and family-run, promising an intimate, relaxed feel, with beautiful views and stacks of activities. All three islands have plenty to offer the Caribbean traveller looking to hide away in style.
Juliana's Hotel offers rooms, suites and self-catering cottages ideal for couples, families or groups of friends on Saba. Think wooden floorboards, whitewashed walls and panoramic views of the verdant gardens or the sea. Savour fresh seafood and cocktails on the terrace at Tropics Café, take a ramble through the forest, and get creative in the wonderfully-equipped artists' studio. The location is perfect for exploring the pretty town of Windwardside and rates are very reasonable.
The Cottage Club features ten traditional-style Saban cottages on the edge of Windwardside. Pick this place for laid-back charm, a sea-facing swimming pool, and plenty of space for the whole family. Explore Saba on snorkelling trips, hilly hikes and deep-sea fishing excursions. A great value choice!
Den Laman features a collection of one and two-bedroom apartments in a stylish modern building on Bonaire's waterfront. The accommodation is self-catering, but there is a lively restaurant on-site, as well as a shared swimming pool and dive centre -- Dive Friends Bonaire. One for divers or families in search of great prices and a top-notch location with impressive sea views.
Sonrisa is a charming small hotel offering a well-priced stay, just minutes from Bonaire International Airport. Choose this property for its cheerful vibe, with ten bright rooms set around a lovely swimming pool. The centre of Kralendijk is within easy walking distance, promising plenty of shops and restaurants to sample. Activities include diving, wind-surfing and kite-surfing. Ideal for those keen to be based in town.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Caribbean Netherlands (Caribbean Netherlands)
This laid-back resort on St. Eustatius offers a refreshing blend of luxury and adventure. The eco-friendly design is complemented by vibrant gardens and stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking the Quill Volcano to snorkelling. Perfect for relaxation and exploration.
