ABC islands

The ABC Islands, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, sit just off the northern coast of Venezuela, forming the western edge of the Leeward Antilles. Though close in geography, these Dutch Caribbean islands each have their own distinct identity, culture, and terrain. Their shared history under the Kingdom of the Netherlands weaves them together, but their differences make each island worth exploring on its own.

Map of the ABC islands

Shared History and Governance

Though all part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, their political status differs:

• Aruba and Curaçao are autonomous countries within the kingdom.
• Bonaire is a special municipality of the Netherlands.
• Dutch and Papiamentu are official languages, but English and Spanish are widely spoken.

Their cultural diversity and multilingualism reflect centuries of migration, trade, and colonial rule.

Aruba

The most developed and tourist-friendly of the three.

• Located farthest west, just 25 km off Venezuela’s coast.
• Known for flat, desert-like terrain with white-sand beaches.
• Resorts, casinos, and American chains are common.
• Easy to get around, with modern infrastructure and direct flights from many countries.
• Ideal for visitors seeking comfort, sunshine, and convenience.

Bonaire

A haven for divers and eco-conscious travelers.

• Farthest east and part of the BES islands along with Saba and Sint Eustatius.
• Surrounded by protected marine reserves and coral reefs.
• One of the world’s top shore-diving destinations.
• Quiet and underdeveloped, with a rugged natural interior.
• Strong focus on sustainability, windsurfing, and marine conservation.

Curaçao

The cultural and artistic heart of the ABC trio.

• Centrally located and the largest of the three.
• Home to Willemstad, a UNESCO-listed capital with pastel buildings and street art.
• Blends Caribbean beaches with city energy, music, and nightlife.
• Great for travelers seeking a mix of culture, food, and exploration.
• Dozens of small coves and beaches tucked along its rocky coastline.

Geography and Distances

Though part of the same chain, the ABC Islands lie 80 to 190 kilometers apart:

• Aruba is the westernmost, closest to the mainland.
• Curaçao sits in the middle and acts as a regional hub.
• Bonaire lies farthest east, known for its quiet remoteness.

Each island has its own look—flat and dry in Aruba, rocky and green in Curaçao, wind-swept and wild in Bonaire—offering surprising contrast across short distances.