MileHacker Logo
Nearby Destinations

Saba: The Unspoiled Queen

Approximately a 20-30 minute flight via Winair from EUX. Saba is a volcanic island with dramatic, lush landscapes. It includes excellent hiking opportunities, like climbing Mt. Scenery, the highest point in the Dutch Caribbean. Saba also features world-class diving with unique pinnacles and wall dives.

Independent travel works for a day trip. Book flights ahead. Upon arrival in Saba, a taxi tour of the island or car rental is an option. Dive shops on Statia arrange dive day trips between islands for certified divers.

Highlights

  • Direct flights from EUX (Winair)
  • Top-tier hiking including Mt. Scenery
  • Globally recognized dive sites
  • One full day needed for experience

Regional Connections & Longer Stays

Explore nearby islands or extend your journey beyond Sint Eustatius for a broader Caribbean experience.

St. Maarten/St. Martin: Dual Island Charm

Approximately a 20-minute flight via Winair from EUX. This larger, busier island is known for its extensive shopping, diverse dining scene, numerous beaches, and lively nightlife.

Dutch Side Sint Maarten

  • beaches and casinos
  • Extensive duty-free shopping
  • Diverse international dining

St. Maarten/St. Martin: Cultural Blend

The island is divided into a Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and a French side (Saint Martin), each offering a distinct cultural flavor and atmosphere.

French Side Saint Martin

  • Gourmet dining and French flair
  • Secluded coves and natural beauty
  • Exploration by rental car recommended

Multi-Island Itineraries

Logical Next Destinations

  • Combine with Saba for hiking
  • St. Maarten for shopping/beaches
  • Other islands require further connections
  • Direct long-haul routes not available

Transportation Connections

  • Winair flights connect EUX, SAB, SXM
  • Short flight durations (20-30 min)
  • Regular daily services
  • Book flights in advance

Suggested Regional Routes

  • Fly into St. Maarten (SXM)Gateway Airport
  • Short flight to Sint Eustatius (EUX)3-5 Days Statia
  • Another short flight to Saba (SAB)2-3 Days Saba
  • Return to St. Maarten (SXM)Departure Point
  • Blends tranquility with activityVaried Experience
  • Ease of inter-island travelFlight Efficiency
  • Experience different culturesDutch & French
  • Ideal for multi-island hopsRegional Journey

Day Trip Planning

To make the most of day trips, consider booking your inter-island flights or ferry in advance. This approach secures your spot and helps with smooth transitions. Explore Day Trip Options on GetYourGuide

Natural Escapes

Sint Eustatius itself is a natural retreat, with all its natural beauty close at hand. You do not need to travel far for a natural excursion.

Parks & Reserves

The Quill/Boven National Park and the Sint Eustatius National Marine Park are easily accessible. They comprise the island's main natural reserves.

Scenic Landscapes

The "Around the Mountain" trail and coastal paths offer diverse views, from dry forests to dramatic sea vistas. Ideal for walks and photography.

Beaches & Rural Areas

Oranje Bay Beach for calm swims. Zeelandia Beach for wilder waves and turtle nesting. Drive through Concordia for rural insights.

The Quill Volcano Exploration

Exploring The Quill presents an immersive experience within its lush crater rainforest or along its scenic outer trails.

Activities

  • Hiking to the crater rim
  • Discovering rainforest flora
  • Bird watching opportunities

Sint Eustatius National Marine Park

The Marine Park delivers excellent opportunities for underwater exploration and interaction with marine life.

Marine Activities

  • World-class diving among shipwrecks
  • Snorkeling coral reefs
  • Exploring historical anchorages

Seasonal Natural Phenomena

Whale Watching SeasonFebruary to May
Humpback whale migrationVisible from coast/boats
Sea Turtle Nesting SeasonMay to November
Hawksbill and Green turtlesZeelandia Beach
Observe with STENAPA guidanceRespectful Distance
No disturbance of turtlesConservation Priority

Nature Immersion

  • These natural areas integrate into the island itself.
  • Nature forms a constant part of your Statia experience.
  • Always stay on marked trails for your safety.
  • Do not touch or disturb any wildlife.
  • Help preserve the beauty for future visits.

Cultural Excursions

Sint Eustatius's modest size means many cultural explorations happen within Oranjestad. Yet, venturing slightly beyond the main town reveals additional insights into the island's past and rural life.

Fort Ruins Exploration

Beyond Fort Oranje, explore scattered fort ruins. These mini-excursions blend historical context with scenic views.

Famous Fortifications

  • Fort de Windt (southern tip, views of St. Kitts)
  • Fort Royal and Fort Amsterdam (smaller sites)
  • Historical exploration and photography

Island Military History

These sites underscore the island's extensive military past as a heavily protected trading hub during the colonial era.

Strategic Importance

  • Role as a protected trading post
  • Commanding views for defense
  • Echoes of the "Golden Rock" era

Rural Life & Agriculture

Sint Eustatius lacks distinct "villages" separate from Oranjestad.

Insights into Local Living

  • Observe agricultural plots
  • View traditional homes
  • Experience a slower daily rhythm

Contemporary Island Character

These drives present an opportunity to see more of the island's residential and working landscapes, contributing to a fuller view of Statia.

Local Exploration

  • Discover less-traveled paths
  • Learn about local farming
  • Appreciate local community spirit

Distinct Cultural Insights

Sint Eustatius does not have significant pilgrimage sites for visitors. Its historical and cultural sites focus on colonial trade and military heritage.

Beyond Pilgrimage

The island's heritage stems from its past as a trading hub.

"Golden Rock" Era

Discover the wealth and strategic importance of Statia's mercantile history.

Local Narratives

Engage with islanders for personal stories of Statia's unique history.

Enriching Your Visit

These cultural explorations complement your view of Statia's unique history and daily life. Opportunities exist to see beyond main tourist paths.