Tourism in Caribbean Netherlands / BES Islands

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Americas / Caribbean

Tourist attractions

Bonaire National Marine Park

Region: Around Bonaire island

nature

World-class coral reef sanctuary with 86 official dive sites.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

Region: Northwest Bonaire

nature

Largest terrestrial park on the island with scrubland, salt lakes, and wild donkeys.

Klein Bonaire

Region: Off Bonaire

nature

Uninhabited island beach popular for snorkeling and turtle watching.

Salt Pyramids

Region: Southern Bonaire

industrial landscape

Stunning scenery created by pink salt ponds and white salt mountains.

Rincon Village

Region: Inland Bonaire

culture

Oldest village founded in the 17th century, host of Dia di Rincon.

The Quill/Boven National Park

Region: Sint Eustatius

nature

Rainforest trail around the dormant Quill volcano's caldera.

Fort Oranje (Statia)

Region: Oranjestad

historic site

17th-century fort closely linked to the American War of Independence.

Mount Scenery National Park

Region: Saba

nature

Cloud forest climb to the highest point of the Netherlands.

Saba Marine Park

Region: Around Saba

nature

Wall diving sanctuary with dramatic drop-offs.

St. Kitts & Nevis Viewpoint

Region: Saba 'Windwardside'

scenic view

Panoramic view of neighboring islands on clear days.

Turtle Conservation Center (STCB)

Region: Bonaire

environmental education

Facility to learn about sea turtle conservation with donation options.

Colonial Warehouses (Lower Town)

Region: Sint Eustatius

historic site

Stone warehouses along the shoreline with diveable wrecks.

Suggested itineraries

3-Day Bonaire Diving Immersion

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Bonaire National Marine Park, Klein Bonaire, Salt Lake Sunset

Intensive short trip with two-tank morning dives, afternoon snorkeling, and sunset photography.

5-Day Three-Island Adventure

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Washington Slagbaai NP, Quill Volcano Hike, Mount Scenery Summit

Slow-travel plan conquering nature reserves while savoring local cuisines.

7-Day Eco & Culture Exploration

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Rincon cultural experience, Saba Marine Park snorkeling, Statia historical walk

Sustainable itinerary incorporating conservation site visits and local music workshops.

Travel tips

  • The rainy season is September–November, but rainfall is low and diving is year-round.
  • U.S. dollar cash is convenient; ATMs are limited, so prepare in advance.
  • Tap water is desalinated and safe to drink.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral.
  • Rental cars do not require 4WD, but drive slowly on unpaved roads.
  • Do not export mangoes, cacti, or other plants due to quarantine restrictions.
  • Tipping is more modest than U.S. standards (5–10% at restaurants).
  • Check NOAA for latest hurricane information.
  • Strictly observe the rule to avoid high-altitude flights 18 hours before diving.
  • No local SIM; international roaming or eSIM recommended.
  • Weekend inter-island ferries have limited seating; book early.
  • Carry a flashlight at night as lighting is scarce.

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