St. Eustatius

The Golden Rock

Links: Film | Official Site

St. Eustatius, commonly referred to as Statia isn’t known as the “The Golden Rock” for nothing! It was a key trading center during the 17^th and 18^th century. It’s one of the few islands left in the region that you’re able to see a vast array of the old Caribbean.

Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493, the Golden Rock was one of the busiest and most fought over islands in the Caribbean. Since Columbus’ discovery it was claimed by an astonishing welter of nations over the next 150 years. While at its peak, St. Eustatius may have had a population of about 10,000 people.

After more than 150 years of declining fortunes, Statia began developing its tourism infrastructure in the 1960s and 1970s. With a land area of 8.1 sq. miles, approximately 2500 inhabitants, St. Eustatius is not overly developed. Laid back with great diving and well preserved natural habitats make this a great vacation for the adventurous tourists.

St. Eustatius is a dormant volcanic island reaching a height of 2000 feet/ 600 meters. The volcano; The Quill, makes for a perfect and exciting tropical rainforest and a must when visiting the island. You’ll also find the Miriam C. Smith Botanical Gardens on the boundary of the Quill, providing the island with its natural flora and fauna.

Another popular attraction in Statia is the incredible snorkeling and diving. Healthy reefs, a bank of shipwrecks, 17^th and 18^th century city ruins and beautiful underwater flora and fauna creates a diverse ecotourism offering.

Other historical attractions include, Fort de Windt,  The Government’s Guesthouse, the Lynch Plantation Museum, the Statia Historical Foundation Museum,  17th Century Fort Oranje,  Site of the 1st salute to the US Flag,  Ruins of the Old Dutch Reform Church,  Ruins of the Honen Dalim (2nd oldest in the Western Hemisphere),  Remains of warehouses once stored with arms for American colonists during their War of Independence, Beaches – Oranje Beach,  Zeelandia Beach and  Lynch Beach.

Statia has a small number of quaint Guest Houses & Hotels. Casual dining can be found at most restaurants and choices include Burgers, Pizza, Chinese and Local Cuisine. Fine dining is limited but can be found at hotels like the Kings Well Resort and the Old Gin House. Don’t miss the Ocean View Terrace, located in the courtyard of the Government Guest House overlooking Fort Oranje with seafood, Creole and Dutch dishes on the menu!

The island is safe and sound. While strolling through the capital, Oranjestad, you’ll immediately feel the warmth and friendliness of its people.

St. Eustatius is for the vacationer who doesn’t want to take the traditional tourist route. With most of its attractions  either natural or of historic value, make Statia a perfect adventurous weekend getaway, it is an excellent value!

Caribbean Travel & Leisure invites you to read and or submit a review of St. Eustatius, its many historical sites, charming Guest Houses and local dining hot spots .

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Images are the property of: Credit Brenda S, R Duncan Kirby and Cees Timmers ( photographers).