Top 15 Stunning Places to Visit in Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius
Bonaire, Saba, and St. Eustatius—known collectively as the BES islands, Caribbean Netherlands, or Dutch Caribbean—boast serene beaches and scenic landscapes. Yet their greatest treasures lie beneath the waves: vibrant coral reefs and protected marine parks ideal for snorkeling and diving, many accessible right from the shore. Explore these 15 top destinations across the islands.
Lac Bay, Bonaire – A Premier Windsurfing Paradise
Adventure seekers flock to Lac Bay in Bonaire for its world-class windsurfing. The beach features pristine turquoise waters and soft white sands, but steady trade winds set it apart—powering offshore turbines without endangering visitors. Try windsurfing yourself, watch pros at the annual Forsa Bonaire PWA World Cup, or simply unwind on the shore.
Klein Bonaire – Uninhabited Islet Teeming with Marine Life
Just 0.5 miles off Bonaire's coast, Klein Bonaire is an uninhabited gem hosting thriving sea turtle colonies. Reach it by water taxi, boat tour, or kayak. Snorkel or dive pristine reefs, observe turtles and birds in their natural habitat—a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.
Sorobon Beach, Bonaire – Family-Friendly Windsurfing Haven
Near Lac Bay, Sorobon Beach offers calm, shallow waters shielded by an offshore reef, ideal for families. Enjoy fine sands, shaded lanais, and gentle conditions perfect for swimming or beginner windsurfing. Stay at the adjacent Sorobon Beach Resort for wellness and relaxation.
Playa Chikitu, Bonaire – Wild Dunes and Turtle Nesting Grounds
In Washington Slagbaai National Park's windward north, Playa Chikitu showcases Bonaire's only true sand dunes, sculpted by trade winds. Swimming is prohibited due to strong rip currents, but visit for dramatic natural beauty, potential sea turtle sightings, fossil hunting, and scenic walks between rocky plateaus.
Washington Slagbaai National Park, Bonaire – Biodiversity Hotspot
Protecting Bonaire's northwestern tip since 1969, this reserve shelters parrots, flamingos, iguanas, and four sea turtle species. Explore historic plantation sites at the museum and hike diverse trails revealing the island's rich ecology.
Jibe City, Bonaire – Windsurfing Hub and Social Spot
At Lac Bay, Jibe City is Bonaire's premier windsurfing center, offering rentals, lessons, and a vibrant community. Beyond watersports, enjoy yoga classes and the HangOut Beach Bar with Thursday BBQs and nightly events—a true social haven.
Bari Reef, Bonaire – Caribbean's Fish Diversity Champion
Near Kralendijk, Bari Reef boasts over 300 fish species. Snorkelers thrive in shallow dock areas; divers explore deeper reefs, tropical fish, and afternoon sharks—a top Bonaire dive site.
Mount Scenery, Saba – Saba's Towering Volcanic Summit
Saba's potentially active volcano offers safe, rewarding hikes for experienced trekkers through tropical forests to panoramic summit views—check for clear skies.
Tide Pools at Flat Point, Saba – Volcanic Natural Pools
Hike lava fields to Flat Point's tide pools, where waves create miniature ecosystems. Wear water shoes; time visits with a local guide for optimal viewing.
Wells Bay, Saba – Seasonal Snorkeling Sanctuary
This rare sandy strip appears with northerly swells, offering protected snorkeling amid cliffs and reefs rich in unspoiled marine life.
Windwardside, Saba – Charming Hillside Village
Saba's second-largest village features steep, photogenic streets lined with colorful homes. Base for Mount Scenery hikes, visit the Saba Dutch Museum, and stay in cozy villas.
Saba National Marine Park – Pristine Diving Wonderland
Encircling Saba since 1987, this park ($3/dive) protects reefs, volcanic pinnacles, and sites like Ladder Bay's labyrinth. Dive with required guides.
Boven National Park, St. Eustatius – Birdwatcher's Paradise
Northwestern St. Eustatius hosts rare birds like red-billed tropicbirds and green-throated caribs amid volcanic terrain.
Zeelandia Beach, St. Eustatius – Dramatic Coastal Spectacle
Near Boven, watch powerful waves crash on cliffs and sands. No swimming due to currents, but ideal for turtle spotting and ocean views.
Oranje Bay (Oranjestad Beach), St. Eustatius – Top Swimming Spot
Near Lower Town, enjoy clear waters for swimming, beachcombing for blue beads, and exploring historic ruins.
