On the Dutch Caribbean territory of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, you will find amazing islands where you can experience relaxing getaways and thrilling adventures. These beautiful islands are known for their laidback attitudes, natural beauty, and friendly inhabitants. Also, you can enjoy interesting experiences, such as shopping and gambling. However, for tourists who don’t want to spend their vacation in a crowded place, there are also other choices. Here, you can discover something about these beautiful Dutch Caribbean Islands.
Because the Dutch Caribbean (formerly the Netherlands Antilles) is split into two halves, it is better to plan excursions ahead or on an island-by-island basis. The island of Curacao offers the architecture of the Netherlands fused with the local language and culture. The Museum Kura Hulanda, Queen Emma Bridge, and the Maritime Museum are all located on Curacao island.
Bonaire
The island of Bonaire is renowned for diving and its many spots. Apart from scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and a host of other water activities, Bonaire also has several land activities such as mountain biking, kiteboarding, bird watching, and windsurfing. Saint Martin/Sint Maarten is divided into both a French and Dutch side. If exploring either side of the island, be sure to visit the Butterfly Farm on the French side and of course, the breathtaking beaches.
The accommodation of the Dutch Caribbean varies hugely from island to island. The hotels of Bonaire are quite small as buildings cannot reach more than three stories. Curacao is the largest island, and visitors can find almost every type of accommodation here. These range from large hotel chains to privately owned rentals that travelers usually rent on a weekly or daily basis.
Because air travel is limited on the islands of the Dutch Caribbean, the best way to access is through the harbors and ports. Kralendijk is the capital city of Bonaire and has a significant port. Philipsburg is the capital of Sint Maarten and is one of the busiest ports of the Antilles. There are regular flights from Amsterdam and other US destinations to Willemstad.
Curacao
Curacao is situated near Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. On this beautiful island, the main attraction is Willemstad, the capital city. Here, you will find lovely buildings painted in pastel shades. Curacao is divided into two main sections and in the middle of them is situated St. Anna Bay. As a tourist, you will enjoy restaurants, shops, and museums. As for activities, you can swim with the dolphins, dive or enjoy snorkeling.
Saba
The highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands is situated in the smallest special municipality. This smallest municipality is the island of Saba. This beautiful island is the home of Mount Scenery volcano. It doesn’t have sandy beaches, but tourists come here for its vibrant ecosystem and for its wonderful scenery. Saba can be accessed by sailboat or plane and it is located close to Sint Maarten. Saba is offering several places to relax, amazing rainforest trails and a world-renowned dive site.
Sint Eustatius
If you are opting for a relaxing vacation, far away from crowded places, Sint Eustatius is the right destination for you. This island is also known as Statius or Statia. Here, you will find only one town, named Oranjestad. In this town, you can eat, shop or relax after a day of traveling. On Sint Eustatius you can enjoy diving, exploring or hiking. In July, you can come for the Statia Carnival, which features dance, music and incredible local cuisine.
The Dutch Caribbean Islands are the right place for visitors to experience incredible adventures, enjoy the beautiful view and relax. What is your favorite island?