Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba travel guide

Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba travel guide

National Airports

Bonaire, Saint Eustatius, and Saba each have their own national airports, facilitating travel to and from the islands:

Bonaire: Flamingo International Airport (BON) – Flamingo International Airport is the main airport on the island of Bonaire. It serves as the primary gateway for travelers visiting Bonaire and is located near the capital, Kralendijk. The airport offers both domestic and international flights.

Saint Eustatius (Statia): F.D. Roosevelt Airport (EUX) – F.D. Roosevelt Airport is the only airport on the island of Saint Eustatius. It is a small airport that accommodates regional flights within the Caribbean.

Saba: Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport (SAB) – Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport is the sole airport on the island of Saba. It is famous for having one of the shortest commercial runways in the world and offers flights primarily from neighboring islands.

These airports are crucial for the transportation of visitors and goods to and from these Dutch Caribbean islands, and they play a vital role in connecting them to the wider Caribbean region and beyond.

Trains in Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

There are no passenger train services on the islands of Bonaire, Saint Eustatius (Statia), or Saba. These islands are relatively small and do not have a railway infrastructure for public transportation.

Travel between destinations on these islands is typically done by road, as they have well-developed road networks. Cars, scooters, and bicycles are common modes of transportation for both residents and visitors. On Saba, which is known for its steep and challenging terrain, roads are the primary means of transportation.

Buses in Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

Public bus services on the islands of Bonaire, Saint Eustatius (Statia), and Saba are not as common as they are in larger and more densely populated places. Here is a brief overview of the situation on each island:

Bonaire: Bonaire has a limited public bus service that mainly serves the island’s capital, Kralendijk. These buses are relatively infrequent and not as widely used as private cars and scooters. Taxis and rental cars are more popular choices for getting around Bonaire.

Saint Eustatius (Statia): Saint Eustatius has a small public transportation system with buses that primarily serve the local population. However, this service is not extensive, and most visitors to the island rely on rental cars or taxis for transportation.

Saba: Saba does not have a traditional public bus system. Transportation on Saba is typically done by taxi, and there are licensed taxi operators who provide services to both residents and tourists. The island is known for its steep and winding roads, making taxi services a convenient way to get around.

Since the situation may change over time, it’s a good idea to check with local authorities or tourism agencies for the latest information on public transportation options if you plan to visit these islands. Keep in mind that due to the relatively small size and limited population of these islands, public transportation infrastructure may not be as developed as in larger urban areas. Visitors often find it convenient to rent a car, use taxis, or explore on foot or by bicycle.

How to get to Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

To get to Bonaire, Saint Eustatius, and Saba, you’ll typically need to take a combination of flights, as these islands are located in the Caribbean and do not have direct international flights from most countries. Here’s how you can reach each of these islands:

To Bonaire (Flamingo International Airport – BON):

• Most travelers access Bonaire through Flamingo International Airport (BON).
• You can book a flight to Bonaire from various international airports, including those in the United States, Europe, and other Caribbean islands.
• Some common connecting airports include Aruba, Curaçao, Miami (USA), and Amsterdam (Netherlands).

To Saint Eustatius (F.D. Roosevelt Airport – EUX):

• F.D. Roosevelt Airport is the only airport on Saint Eustatius, and it primarily serves regional flights within the Caribbean.
• You can reach Saint Eustatius by taking a flight from nearby international airports in places like Sint Maarten or St. Kitts.
• Connections to Saint Eustatius are often available through these regional hubs.

To Saba (Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport – SAB):

• Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport on Saba is the only airport on the island.
• Travelers can reach Saba by taking a flight from Sint Maarten (Princess Juliana International Airport – SXM) or from other neighboring Caribbean islands.
• Flights to Saba are operated by small regional carriers, and the airport has one of the shortest commercial runways in the world, so it’s advisable to check the schedules and availability in advance.

It’s important to note that the flight schedules to these islands can be limited and may vary depending on the time of year. Additionally, the availability of flights may change, so it’s a good idea to check with airlines and local carriers for the most up-to-date information and to book your flights well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons.

What is the best time to travel to Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

The best time to travel to Bonaire, Saint Eustatius (Statia), and Saba typically depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a general overview of the climate and seasons for these Caribbean islands:

Bonaire:

• Dry Season (January to August): Bonaire’s dry season is the most popular time to visit. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and hiking. The peak tourist season is from December to April, so be prepared for higher prices and more tourists during this period.
• Rainy Season (September to December): While Bonaire doesn’t experience heavy rainfall, the occasional short showers may occur during the rainy season. This is a quieter time to visit, and accommodations may be more affordable.

Saint Eustatius (Statia):

• Dry Season (December to April): The dry season is the best time to visit Statia. The weather is pleasant, and the sea is calm, making it ideal for diving, hiking, and enjoying outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, so accommodations may be in higher demand.
• Rainy Season (May to November): The rainy season sees more precipitation, but it’s still possible to visit during this time. However, be prepared for occasional showers, and keep an eye on hurricane forecasts, as the region can be affected by hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November).

Saba:

• Dry Season (December to April): The dry season is the best time to visit Saba. The weather is pleasant, and the sea conditions are typically calm, making it perfect for diving, hiking, and other outdoor activities. This is the peak tourist season, so plan and book accommodations well in advance.
• Rainy Season (May to November): While Saba experiences more rainfall during the rainy season, it’s still possible to visit. Be prepared for occasional showers, but you’ll find fewer tourists, and accommodations may be more affordable.

It’s essential to consider your interests and preferences when planning your trip to these islands. If you prefer the most pleasant weather and don’t mind larger crowds, the dry season is your best bet. If you want a quieter experience and are more flexible with weather conditions, the rainy season may offer better deals and fewer tourists. However, keep in mind the possibility of hurricanes during the hurricane season in the Caribbean.

How to get around Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

Getting around Bonaire, Saint Eustatius (Statia), and Saba involves various transportation options, depending on the size and infrastructure of each island. Here’s how you can get around on each of these Caribbean islands:

Bonaire:

Rental Cars: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around Bonaire. There are several car rental agencies on the island, and the road network is well-developed and easy to navigate.

Scooters and Bicycles: Scooters and bicycles are also available for rent, providing a more eco-friendly way to explore the island. Bonaire’s flat terrain makes it suitable for cycling.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport and in major towns like Kralendijk. Taxis can be used for short trips or island tours. However, they can be relatively expensive compared to renting a car.

Public Buses: Bonaire has a limited public bus system that primarily serves the capital, Kralendijk. The service is not as extensive as in larger cities, and schedules may be infrequent.

Saint Eustatius (Statia):

Rental Cars: While Statia has a limited road network, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around the island, especially if you want to explore different parts of the island.

Taxis: Taxis are available for hire on the island. Since there are relatively few vehicles on Statia, taxis can be a convenient way to get around.

Walking: If you’re in the main town of Oranjestad, many places of interest are within walking distance, and you can explore on foot.

Saba:

Taxis: Taxis are the primary mode of transportation on Saba. Due to the island’s challenging topography and winding roads, taxis are a convenient and safe way to get around. There are licensed taxi operators on the island.

Walking: Saba offers some beautiful hiking trails, and you can explore parts of the island on foot. However, the steep terrain and elevation changes may make hiking challenging.

Mules and Donkeys: Historically, mules and donkeys were used to transport goods on Saba, and you might still see them used for certain tasks. While you may not ride them, they are a part of the island’s heritage.

Each island has its own unique transportation options based on its size, terrain, and infrastructure. Renting a car or using taxis is typically the most practical way to explore these islands, but walking, hiking, and using scooters or bicycles can also be enjoyable, depending on your preferences and the specific island’s conditions.

Accommodations in Bonair, Saint Eustachius and Saba

Bonaire, Saint Eustatius (Statia), and Saba offer a range of accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. These options typically include hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. Here’s a general overview of accommodations on each island:

Bonaire:

Hotels and Resorts: Bonaire has a selection of hotels and resorts, often located along the coast. These can range from budget-friendly options to more upscale, all-inclusive resorts. Some well-known hotel areas are around Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, and the Sorobon Beach area.

Vacation Rentals: Many visitors to Bonaire choose to rent vacation homes, apartments, or condos. These can be found through online booking platforms and offer a variety of amenities and price ranges. Vacation rentals can be a great choice for families or longer stays.

Boutique Hotels and Dive Resorts: Bonaire is known for its diving, and there are boutique hotels and dive resorts catering to divers, often with dive shops on-site or nearby. Some of these offer all-inclusive dive packages.

Saint Eustatius (Statia):

Hotels and Guesthouses: Statia has a smaller selection of accommodations compared to Bonaire. You can find hotels and guesthouses in the main town of Oranjestad. These range from basic and budget-friendly to mid-range options.

Historical Accommodations: Some accommodations in Statia are located in historic buildings, such as former plantations or colonial-era structures. These offer a unique and charming experience.

Saba:

Boutique Inns and Guesthouses: Saba is known for its boutique inns and guesthouses, often perched on the island’s hillsides with stunning views. These accommodations tend to be cozy and intimate, making them perfect for a tranquil getaway.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals, such as cottages and apartments, are also available on Saba. They provide the opportunity for a more independent and self-catering experience.

Keep in mind that the availability and types of accommodations on these islands may vary, and it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during the peak tourist seasons. Additionally, some accommodations may offer dive packages, as diving is a popular activity in this region. It’s a good idea to check reviews and contact accommodations directly for specific details and availability based on your travel dates and preferences.