Saba

Saba is the Caribbean’s unspoiled volcano island with epic hikes, world-class diving and zero beaches. Windwardside, The Bottom and Mount Scenery top every trip. This 2026 guide has it all.

Population2,158
LanguagesDutch, English
Local time9:13 AM
Flagbq flag
CurrenciesUSD
Area13 km²
Saba
27°C
clear sky
Feels like: 28°C

Best time to travel

Saba is warm all year round. December to April is the best time to visit: it's sunny, 25 to 29 °C and perfect for hiking Mount Scenery or diving without rain. May to November is the rainy season with afternoon showers, lower prices, fewer crowds and green trails, though mornings stay clear.

December to April is the driest time with 25 to 29 °C and ideal for Saba diving and hikes.

Where to stay

Saba offers cozy guesthouses, hillside cottages and eco-lodges. These are the three most popular Saba accommodations for travelers.

Windwardside

Windwardside is the top village for stays with boutique hotels, ocean-view rooms and charming Saban cottages amid tropical gardens.

Best for: hikers, couples and nature lovers
Why stay here: steps from Mount Scenery trails, panoramic views and quiet evenings

Windwardside, Saba

Windwardside, Saba. Photo: MagicOlf. CC.

The Bottom

The Bottom is the island's main town with mid-range hotels, apartments and family-run guesthouses near the harbor.

Best for: divers, families and explorers
Why stay here: easy access to dive sites, local markets and short drives everywhere

The Bottom is Saba’s capital with red-roof cottages and harbor views.

Hell's Gate

Hell's Gate is a quiet coastal spot with eco-lodges, beachfront cabins and simple inns overlooking the sea.

Best for: relaxation seekers, snorkelers and budget travelers
Why stay here: secluded beaches, snorkeling from shore and authentic island calm

Hell's Gate, Saba

Hell's Gate, Saba

Is Saba safe?

Saba is one of the safest Caribbean islands in 2026 with no violent crime and rare petty theft. Locals are friendly and the island feels peaceful.

Top things to do in Saba

Saba’s must-dos focus on hiking, diving and island charm. These are the three experiences almost every visitor loves most.

Hike Mount Scenery

Mount Scenery is the Caribbean’s highest point at 887 meters and the top Saba adventure. Climb 1,064 concrete steps through cloud forest to the summit for 360-degree views over the sea and neighboring islands. The trail takes 2 to 3 hours round trip and passes elfin forest, giant ferns and bird calls.

Mount Scenery is the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands at 887m.

Dive Saba’s marine park

Saba National Marine Park surrounds the island with 30 world-class dive sites and pinnacles rising from the deep. Spot sharks, turtles and colorful reefs in crystal water just minutes from shore. Dive schools in The Bottom offer boat trips and PADI courses for all levels.

Saba's Marine Park has 30+ dive sites with sharks and turtles just off shore.

Explore The Bottom

The Bottom is Saba’s charming capital with white cottages, red roofs and ocean views from every corner. Walk the cobblestone streets to the museum, local bakery and harbor for fresh fish. Sunset drinks at a hillside bar complete the laidback island vibe.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Saba is laid-back and local, with cozy bars serving rum punches and occasional live music or karaoke. Parties stay small and social, often wrapping up early with stargazing or chats on porches. These three spots keep the island vibe going longest.

  • Scout's Place, The Bottom - Saba's main bar with happy hours, live entertainment and Friday "Sabaoke" karaoke that draws locals and visitors.
  • Tropics Cafe, Windwardside - Friendly spot for drinks, weekly music nights and free Friday movie screenings under the stars.
  • The Swinging Doors, Windwardside - Casual pub with barbecue, craft beers and occasional DJ sets in a relaxed hillside setting.

Where is Saba?

Saba is a tiny volcanic island in the northeastern Caribbean and part of the Dutch Caribbean. It lies 28 km southwest of St. Maarten and 45 km north of St. Kitts. The island covers just 13 km² with steep cliffs, dense rainforest and the capital The Bottom nestled in a valley. Flights land at Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport, the world’s shortest commercial runway.

Fun facts

  • The island was used as Skull Island in the 1976 King Kong movie.

  • Has the shortest commercial runway in the world at just 400 meters.

  • The island produces its own Saba Spice rum with 50 secret ingredients.

FAQ Saba

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