BES Islands Holidays |

Discover the BES Islands

A multi-country holiday to Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba offers a refreshing way to experience the Caribbean. These three Dutch Caribbean islands are close in name but wonderfully different in character, making them ideal for travellers who want more than a single beach resort.

Known collectively as the BES islands, they combine calm seas, lively underwater habitats, volcanic landscapes and a rich sense of history. Travel between them and you can move from Bonaire’s easy-going coastline to Sint Eustatius’s historic streets and Saba’s dramatic mountain scenery.

Caribbean Holidays, BES Islands Holidays, Colourful waterfront and calm turquoise sea on Bonaire, with divers, wooden boats and coral reef scenery

Bonaire’s Natural Beauty

Bonaire is a superb starting point for a Caribbean multi-island trip. Its clear, warm water and protected marine environment make it one of the region’s best destinations for snorkelling and diving. From the shore, you may spot bright reef fish, sea turtles and graceful rays in remarkably shallow water.

Above the waves, the island has a relaxed pace and striking scenery. Explore the salt pans and pink-hued lagoons around the southern coast, visit the historic centre of Kralendijk, or hire a car and discover quiet beaches where the only company may be a few flamingos. Windsurfing and kayaking are also popular choices for active visitors.

Caribbean Holidays, BES Islands Holidays, Historic streets and Fort Oranje on Sint Eustatius overlooking the Caribbean Sea, with green hills and tropical vegetation

History on Sint Eustatius

Sint Eustatius, often called Statia, has a fascinating story to tell. Once a busy trading centre, the island is dotted with historic remains, including Fort Oranje and old warehouses near Oranjestad. Walking through the quiet streets, you can easily imagine the ships that once arrived here from across the Atlantic.

The island also rewards visitors with uncrowded natural attractions. Hike towards the slopes of The Quill, a dormant volcano covered in lush vegetation, or join a guided dive to explore reefs and underwater archaeology. Statia is a good choice for travellers who enjoy combining culture, nature and a slower Caribbean rhythm.

Caribbean Holidays, BES Islands Holidays, Saba’s steep green volcanic mountain rising from the Caribbean, with a winding trail, stone cottages and cloud forest

Adventure on Saba

Saba is small, peaceful and wonderfully distinctive. The island rises steeply from the sea, with cloud forest covering the upper slopes of Mount Scenery. Hiking here is a highlight, particularly the well-known Mount Scenery Trail, where changing views and tropical plants make the climb feel like a genuine adventure.

Below the surface, Saba Marine Park offers excellent diving around dramatic pinnacles and clear reef walls. The island’s villages, with their neat white cottages and red roofs, add to its charm, while local restaurants provide a friendly welcome after a day outdoors.

Caribbean Holidays, BES Islands Holidays, Relaxed Caribbean island-hopping scene with a small inter-island boat, tropical coastline and travellers enjoying a peaceful holiday

Planning Your Island Hop

A BES islands holiday works best when you allow time to enjoy each island rather than rushing between them. Travel arrangements can vary by season and weather, so it is sensible to plan connections carefully and leave some flexibility in your itinerary. A knowledgeable travel specialist can help coordinate flights, boats, accommodation and excursions.

Choose Bonaire for underwater exploration, Sint Eustatius for history and nature, and Saba for walking and adventure. Together, they create a memorable Caribbean multi-country trip that feels personal, uncrowded and full of variety.