Explore Bonaire’s Wild Side
Bonaire is famous for exceptional diving, but there is far more to this relaxed Caribbean island than what lies beneath the water. Its dry, open landscapes are ideal for active travellers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, with flamingos, cacti and bright blue sea appearing around almost every corner.
Hire a car or join a guided tour through Washington Slagbaai National Park, where rough tracks lead to quiet beaches, salt pans and viewpoints across the coast. You can snorkel from the shore, look for wildlife and stop whenever the scenery catches your eye. The island’s easy-going atmosphere makes adventure feel wonderfully uncomplicated.
Dive and Snorkel Bonaire
Bonaire is one of the Caribbean’s best destinations for diving holidays, thanks to clear water, healthy coral reefs and numerous accessible shore dive sites. Experienced divers can explore walls, wrecks and dramatic drop-offs, while beginners can learn in calm, warm water with an expert instructor.
Snorkelling is equally rewarding and needs very little planning. Slip into the sea from a marked beach and you may see parrotfish, angelfish, turtles and clouds of tropical fish moving over the reef. Windsurfing and kayaking are also popular, particularly around Lac Bay, where shallow turquoise water creates excellent conditions for trying something new.
Hike Sint Eustatius
Sint Eustatius, often called Statia, offers a quieter and more rugged kind of Caribbean adventure. The island’s volcanic landscape is crossed by trails, from gentle coastal walks to steeper routes through the slopes of The Quill, a dormant volcano covered in lush vegetation.
A guided hike can reveal hidden viewpoints, historic ruins and plants that are easy to miss when travelling alone. Keep an eye out for colourful birds and green monkeys, and allow time to enjoy the peaceful views over the Caribbean. Statia is especially appealing if you like natural scenery without crowds or busy resort areas.
Discover Saba’s Mountain Trails
Saba is small, spectacular and made for walking. Known as the Unspoilt Queen of the Caribbean, it rises sharply from the sea, with stone paths and forest trails connecting its villages and leading towards Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The climb can be challenging, but the changing scenery makes every step worthwhile. Fern-filled woodland, volcanic rocks and far-reaching sea views create a real sense of discovery. Saba is also a superb diving destination, with pinnacles, walls and clear water offering an unforgettable experience below the surface.
Plan Your Island Adventure
The BES islands suit travellers who want more than a traditional beach break. You can combine diving on Bonaire, volcanic hiking on Sint Eustatius and mountain walks on Saba, creating a varied holiday across three distinctive Dutch Caribbean destinations.
Travel with sturdy footwear, sun protection and plenty of water, and use local guides for more demanding routes or unfamiliar dive sites. Whether you are an experienced adventurer or simply keen to spend more time outdoors, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba offer a memorable Caribbean holiday with plenty of space to explore.