Do I need a visa to visit?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check with the Dutch consulate as the islands are part of the Netherlands.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is widely spoken alongside Dutch and Papiamento.

What's the local currency?

The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency.

Are credit cards accepted?

Yes, but carry cash for smaller establishments and remote areas.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Yes, tap water is safe on all three islands.

What's the best way to explore the islands?

Rent a car or scooter on Bonaire; hike or use taxis on Statia and Saba.

Are there any cultural etiquette tips?

Greet people politely; ask before taking photos of locals.

What's a must-try local dish?

Try 'stoba' (stew) or 'funchi' (cornmeal porridge) for a taste of Caribbean Dutch cuisine.

Citizens of EU, US, Canada, and many others do not need a visa for up to 90 days.

What currency is used?

US Dollar (USD) is the official currency.

What language is spoken?

Dutch is official, but English and Papiamentu are widely spoken.

Do I need a rental car?

Recommended for Bonaire; on Saba and Statia, taxis and walking suffice.

What is the best time for diving?

Year-round, but December to April offers calmest seas and best visibility.

Yes, on all islands, but carry cash for smaller establishments.

Is the Caribbean Netherlands safe?

Yes, very safe with low crime, but practice usual precautions.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, roaming works; local SIMs are available.

What is the weather like?

Tropical, 27-32°C year-round with a rainy season from May to November.

Do I need travel insurance?

Highly recommended, including medical evacuation coverage.

Are there direct flights from Europe?

No direct flights; connect via Amsterdam to Bonaire, or via other Caribbean hubs.

Caribbean Netherlands

countryNorth America

Caribbean Netherlands is a COUNTRY in North America.

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba—collectively known as the Caribbean Netherlands—are three stunning islands brimming with natural beauty and vibrant culture. Bonaire is a diver's paradise, with its pristine coral reefs and marine parks. Sint Eustatius, or 'Statia,' offers lush hiking trails and a rich colonial history. Saba, the 'Unspoiled Queen,' boasts dramatic volcanic landscapes and charming villages. Each island has its own unique charm, from Bonaire's flamingo-filled salt pans to Saba's cloud-forest hikes. The warm, welcoming locals and laid-back Caribbean vibe make these islands perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation lovers alike.

Best time to visit Caribbean Netherlands

April to October for diving and outdoor activities; December to April for pleasant weather and festivals.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 27-33°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Rainy season continues

Know before you go

Getting there

BON

Flamingo International Airport

International

5 km away

SAB

Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport

Domestic

1 km away

EUX

F.D. Roosevelt Airport

Domestic

2 km away

CUR

Curaçao International Airport

International

80 km away

AUA

Queen Beatrix International Airport

International

120 km away

Getting around

"Rental cars, scooters, and bicycles are popular on Bonaire. Sint Eustatius and Saba have limited public transport; taxis and hiking are common."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes on main islands

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $10

Calling code

+599

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty theft possible; avoid isolated areas at night.

Night safety

7/10

Petty theft possible; avoid isolated areas at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Very safe, but standard precautions apply. Secure valuables and avoid isolated areas at night."

Police

911

Ambulance

912

Fire Department

913

Fire

911

Entry and health

Visa requirements

"Part of the Netherlands; Schengen visa rules may apply depending on nationality."

Health information

"No major health risks. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Mosquito repellent is advised."

Culture

Local customs

"Islanders are friendly and value politeness. Dress modestly in towns; beachwear is for the beach only. Tipping (10-15%) is appreciated in restaurants."

DutchEnglishPapiamentoPapiamentu

Costs and practicals

Currency

US Dollar (USD) · $

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | a mid-range meal costs around $15-25

Hotels

$80-150 | budget hotels range $80-150/night

Local transport

$2-5 | local bus ride ~$2-5

Cost notes

Prices are higher than mainland Caribbean due to imports; all-inclusive resorts are limited.

Timezone

America/Kralendijk -04:00 (GMT-4)

More facts

Population

18,012

Area

328 km²

Government

Special municipalities of the Netherlands with local island councils.

ISO code

BQ, BES

Type

country

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: 荷兰加勒比区 / 荷蘭加勒比區, Бонэйр, Синт-Эстатиус и Саба, Karibische Niederlande, Карипска Холандија, Países Baixos Caribenhos, 荷兰加勒比区, Bonaire, Saint-Eustache et Saba, 카리브 네덜란드, Caribbean part of the Netherlands, Partie caraïbe des Pays-Bas, Hulanda Karibense, Bonaire, San Eustaquio y Saba, Carib neerlandès, BES, Parte caribeña de los Países Bajos, 荷蘭加勒比區, Karibia Nederlando, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius und Saba, Karibų Nyderlandai, Caribbean Netherlands, Pays-Bas carribéens, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba, Карибские Нидерланды, Нідерландські Карибські острови, Karipska Nizozemska, Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Boneiru, Sint Eustatius i Saba, Caribische deel van Nederland, Karibische Teil der Niederlande, Karibské Nizozemsko, Caribisch Nederland

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