Cheap May Holidays |

Why Visit in May

Planning cheap holidays to Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba in May is a great way to discover the Caribbean at a more relaxed pace. These three Dutch Caribbean islands, often called the BES islands, each have a distinct character, from Bonaire’s famous reefs to Saba’s dramatic volcanic slopes.

May sits just outside the busiest winter travel period, so you may find better-value accommodation and more choice when comparing flights and packages. The weather is generally warm, with plenty of sunshine and refreshing sea breezes. Short showers can occur, but they rarely stop a day of exploring.

Caribbean Holidays, Cheap May Holidays, Snorkeller viewing colourful coral and tropical fish in clear shallow water near Bonaire

Bonaire’s Underwater World

Bonaire is the easiest island for a holiday built around the sea. Its protected marine park is known for clear water, healthy coral and excellent shore diving, meaning you can often step from the beach straight into a remarkable underwater landscape.

Snorkelling is rewarding in May, when calm conditions can make it easy to spot parrotfish, angelfish and turtles. Away from the coast, hire a car or scooter to visit salt pans, flamingo habitats and quiet viewpoints. Kralendijk adds a sociable base, with waterfront cafés, local restaurants and colourful streets to explore after sunset.

Caribbean Holidays, Cheap May Holidays, Green volcanic mountain landscape on Saba with a small Caribbean village and ocean views

Explore Sint Eustatius and Saba

Sint Eustatius, known locally as Statia, is ideal for travellers who enjoy history and uncrowded scenery. Walk through Oranjestad to see old fortifications and atmospheric ruins, then head into the hills for views across the Caribbean. The island’s black-sand beaches and underwater sites offer a different experience from Bonaire.

Saba is smaller and more rugged, with Mount Scenery rising above the island. A guided walk or carefully planned hike reveals lush forest, steep paths and far-reaching sea views. The villages of Windwardside and The Bottom are peaceful places to enjoy local food and meet residents who are proud of their island’s character.

Caribbean Holidays, Cheap May Holidays, Friendly Caribbean restaurant terrace with fresh seafood, local dishes and sunset light on a BES island

Make Your Budget Go Further

To keep your May holiday affordable, compare travel dates across the month and look at simple guesthouses or self-catering apartments as well as hotels. Booking early can help with limited island accommodation, while travelling light may reduce air or ferry costs between destinations.

Plan a mixture of free and paid experiences. Swimming, walking, historic sightseeing and beach time cost little, leaving room in your budget for a dive, boat trip or memorable local meal. With warm weather, welcoming communities and three very different islands to discover, a cheap BES islands holiday in May can feel genuinely special without being extravagant.