Saba

Visiting Nature’s Paradise?

At a blossoming peak of 877 m, this unspoiled volcanic island reaches the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is surrounded by charm, thriving rain forest, and incredible offshore diving; making this tiny 5sq mile Caribbean island a major destination for the true eco-tourism traveler!

Commonly known as “The Unspoiled Queen” Saba has four small villages with a mere population of approximately 1500 people. Although Dutch by nature, English has grown to be the main language spoken by the friendly people.

Saba is a monument to nature’s best above and below the ocean’s surface. . .

Mount Scenery, the highest peak in the Kingdom of the Netherlands can be hiked by climbing 1064 steps! The trail starts in the heart of the village of Windwardside. Be sure to pack a light meal and sufficient liquids as there are no kiosks available throughout the hike. Visit the Saba Trail Shop after you completed the hike for that hearty earned certificate stating that you did hike to the highest peak of the Kingdom of the Netherlands!

A number of other breathtaking trails are available for the adventurous traveler and while some trails require a guide everyone can easily hike over and into Saba’s rain forest, tidepools, historic ruins, and rich nature wonderland. Even a walk along Saba’s winding road will lead you to a magical view, and a memorable vacation.

Unlike most other Caribbean islands, you won’t find the typical coral sandy beaches here. Instead, the island’s only beach, a shore of black sand is found at Well’s Bay. This beach disappears and reappears according to tidal flows.

The offshore marine environment is significantly fascinating! With a seabed and mounts of healthy reefs and marine life, extraordinary formations with a depth of 200 feet, you’ll quickly see why the island is highly praised for its over 25 dive sites! See our listings of Caribbean Dive Shops.

The origin name “Saba” is said to have derived from the Arawak Indian word for “rock”, which was “siba”. It is believed that Christopher Columbus sighted Saba on November 13, 1493 but did not come to its rocky shores. The remains of the 1640 settlements can be found on the west side at Tent Bay. The Harry L. Johnson Museum, located in Windwardside is a must visit for the history lovers!

Visitors can watch the local women with their needlework as they piece together Saba Lace. Blouses, dresses, tablecloths and napkins are only a few of the pieces that the Saban women create in a variety of colors. Be sure you own a piece of this special needlework before leaving the island; it makes for a great memoir or gift!

Local restaurants serve a number of Caribbean, American & European dishes, while locally inspired cuisine can be found at the local food shacks. The island’s carnival, usually the last week of July, features calypso competitions, steel pan, music festivals, jump-ups and a costume parade.

Caribbean Travel & Leisure invites you to read and or submit a review of Saba its trails, dive sites, charming restaurants and hotels.

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Lounge: …

Dine: Sit back in an 1800′s Saban cottage and enjoy Continental and American cuisine as well as Caribbean and Creole specialties. Enjoy a live lobster tank, fresh seafood daily, mouth watering steaks, chicken, fresh vegetables and home made desserts at Brigadoon Restaurant, centrally located in the village of Windwardside.

Explore: Saba has some of the most breathtaking ecotourim features, from our trails and forest to our tide pools and underwater reefs. Upon your arrival have your hotel arrange a hike with the Trail Shop or a scuba diving trip with one of the local dive shops.

Website: www.sabatourism.com