The Dry season runs from February to April. During these months, you find lower humidity and less rainfall. Temperatures average around 26-28°C (79-82°F). This period typically offers the most sunshine, providing bright, clear days perfect for outdoor activities.
Many travelers prefer this time for its comfortable weather. You can expect pleasant conditions for hiking, beach relaxation, and exploring historical sites.
Book flights and accommodation well in advance for high season travel. Prices increase during these months due to demand.
Consider your main activities when choosing your travel dates. For diving and snorkeling, Sint Eustatius offers excellent conditions year-round. Water temperatures remain warm, between 26-29°C (79-84°F). Visibility is generally best during the dry season, from February to April. Hiking, specifically The Quill volcano, is also ideal in the dry season. The cooler temperatures and less slippery trails make for a more comfortable ascent. Historical exploration is possible anytime, but the dry season offers more pleasant walking conditions for extended tours.
Higher numbers of visitors.
Higher numbers of visitors.
Accommodation and flights at their highest.
A balance between weather and crowd levels.
Good weather, fewer crowds.
More competitive prices for travel and stay.
Lowest prices for flights and accommodation.
Best deals on flights and stays.
Highest risk of storms.
Sint Eustatius offers excellent conditions year-round. Water temperatures remain warm, between 26-29°C (79-84°F).
Visibility is generally best during the dry season, from February to April. Hiking, specifically The Quill volcano, is also ideal in the dry season. The cooler temperatures and less slippery trails make for a more comfortable ascent. Historical exploration is possible anytime, but the dry season offers more pleasant walking conditions for extended tours.
Hiking The Quill.
Dry season. Cooler temperatures, less slippery trails.
Historical exploration possible anytime.
Dry season good for extended tours.
Ultimately, your ideal timing aligns with your priorities. Statia welcomes visitors with its unique charm in any month.
Travelers planning a visit to Sint Eustatius must understand the specific visa and entry regulations. Sint Eustatius operates as a special municipality of the Netherlands. This means its entry requirements align with the Caribbean part of the Netherlands. You must confirm your specific nationality’s requirements before travel.
Many non-EU/EEA citizens may need a Schengen Visa (Caribbean part) for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is distinct from the Schengen area visa for Europe.
Citizens of several countries benefit from visa exemptions. This includes citizens of the United States, Canada, most European Union countries, and many Caribbean, Central, and South American countries.
The official currency of Sint Eustatius is the United States Dollar (USD). While the Antillean Guilder (ANG) is technically still legal tender, USD is universally accepted and preferred for all transactions. This simplifies currency matters for visitors from countries using USD. No currency exchange is necessary if you travel with US dollars. If you come from a non-USD country, plan to exchange your currency to USD before or upon arrival. ATMs on the island dispense USD.
These ranges offer a guide. Your actual spending may vary based on your preferences and choices.
| Category | Guideline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants | 10-15% tip for good service | Check if service charge included. |
| Taxis | Round up fare or add $1-$5 | For good service. |
| Hotel Staff | Housekeeping ($2-$5/day), Bellhops ($1-$2/bag) | A kind gesture. |
| Dive Guides/Boat Crew | $5-$10 per dive or $10-$20 per day | For excellent service. |
Prioritizing health and safety counts for any trip, including a visit to Sint Eustatius. This small island generally presents a safe and calm environment, but being informed counts for addressing any potential concerns.
No mandatory vaccinations generally for entry to Sint Eustatius. An exception applies if you arrive from a country with yellow fever transmission risk. In such cases, a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be needed.
Consult a travel health professional at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized vaccination advice.
Routine vaccinations (MMR, Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis, Varicella, Polio, annual flu shot) should be current. The CDC also recommends Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid for most travelers to the Caribbean.
Travelers should be aware of common health concerns and implement prevention strategies.
Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika are present. Use Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin, notably at dawn and dusk. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and pants. Choose accommodations with screens or mosquito nets.
Sunburn and Heatstroke: Island has a high UV index. Apply high-SPF Reef-safe sunscreen regularly. Wear a Wide-brimmed hat and Sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM). Stay well-hydrated.
Traveler's Diarrhea: Practice good food hygiene. Eat at reputable establishments. Ensure food cooked thoroughly. Drink only Bottled or purified water. Marine Life: Aware of jellyfish, fire coral, sea urchins. Do not touch marine life. Wear appropriate Water shoes for beach exploration.
Offers basic medical care, a polyclinic, and a limited number of beds. For serious emergencies or complex medical conditions, patients transfer to larger hospitals on St. Maarten or other regional islands.
A pharmacy is available in Oranjestad for prescription and over-the-counter medications.
For all emergencies (Police, Fire, Ambulance), dial 911. This is the standard emergency contact for the island.
Sint Eustatius has a very low crime rate. It ranks as one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Violent crime is rare. Petty crime, like opportunistic theft, can occur, as in any travel destination. Take general precautions: secure your valuables, avoid leaving items unattended on beaches, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Tap water in Oranjestad is generally safe to drink, as it comes from a desalination plant. However, if you have a sensitive stomach or prefer extra caution, Bottled water is widely available. Consider using a Water purification bottle with filter for added peace of mind, especially if you plan to hike extensively.
Tap water in Oranjestad is generally safe. Bottled water is widely available. A personal water filter gives extra precaution.
Food standards are generally good. Wash fresh produce thoroughly. Ensure meat is cooked completely.
Bring Bottled water or a Water purification bottle with filter for added peace of mind.
