Saba doesn’t have the typical Caribbean beaches; instead, several sandy coves shape its coastline. Their form changes with the prevailing swell. Saba National Marine Park is also part of the island’s maritime character: it was established in 1987 to protect and manage Saba’s marine resources.

Hiking trails for different levels

The Mount Scenery Trail is a challenging hike of about two and a half hours. The trailhead is in Windwardside, opposite the Trail Shop. The Flat Point Trail to the tide pools offers a different timeframe: this easy, 30-minute path leads from the road below the airport toward Cove Bay to a rocky ledge overlooking the pools.

The path to the rocky ledge is easy; descending to the pools, however, requires steep climbing over rocks. The two trails therefore differ not only in duration, but also in which section presents a particular challenge. Check the latest trail information before setting out, and also check sea conditions before taking the Flat Point Trail.

Coast, sea, and The Road

The sandy coves change shape with the prevailing swell. Visitors who associate Saba with a familiar image of Caribbean beaches will encounter a different kind of coastline here. The view of the sea also brings Saba National Marine Park and its purpose of protection and management into focus.

There is a specific rule for diving: shore diving is prohibited on Saba. Dives must be arranged through one of the island’s licensed dive centers. Before diving, check the latest local guidance. The Road can be explored by taxi and is considered a sight to see; it offers a different way to get to know Saba than walking a hiking trail.

Windwardside: museum and cultural heritage

The Harry L. Johnson Museum is housed in a 19th-century captain’s house at the end of Park Lane in Windwardside’s historic district. The museum is set in a landscaped park with a children’s play area and pavilion. The building, street, and park each offer different points of reference, while the house’s history cannot be reduced to its surroundings.

The Saba Heritage Center in Windwardside is dedicated to preserving and promoting Saba’s cultural heritage. Its weekly activities for young people include skeleton reconstruction, photography workshops, excavations, camping trips, and lessons on identifying trees. Workshops and an exhibit about the use of indigo are also part of the program. As program details may change, check in advance to find out which activities are currently taking place.

A taste from a day trip

A day-trip program on Saba includes a tasting of Saba Spice. The liqueur is made with rum, herbs, and spices. The tasting is part of the day trip described here and offers another way to experience local culture, alongside hiking trails, the coast, and the attractions in Windwardside.

For planning your trip, these different highlights are all options: a challenging hike of about two and a half hours, a shorter trail to the tide pools with a steep descent, the coast, and cultural sites in Windwardside. Which of these interests you most can help guide your choice of trip and suitable accommodation.

Discover more destinations: Windward Side, Sint Eustatius, Bonaire.

To the main travel overview: Netherlands Antilles.