Saba may not be the largest island in the Caribbean, but it is bursting with many amazing attractions. The island is home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora which adds to the scenic landmarks like Mount Scenery, the highest summit in the Lesser Antilles. Of course, there are also the underwater marvels of Saba that lure tourists from across the region. Saba National Marine Park is ‘swimming’ with a seemingly endless variety of tropical aquatic species.
Mount Scenery
Commonly regarded as the most important landmark on the island, Saba’s Mount Scenery is the 2,700-foot mountain located just outside Windwardside. The mountain is the tallest landmark in the former Netherlands Antilles and one of the most visited natural destinations in the Caribbean. Hiking up the mountain means tourists will have to climb the 1,000 steps that have been chiseled out of the cliff. No matter what time of the year, hikers summiting the mountain will need some cool-weather gear. The weather at the peak is foggier and chillier than at sea-level, but some magnificent wildlife awaits visitors. Address: Mount Scenery, Windwardside, Saba, Caribbean Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Well’s Beach
Saba does not contain beautiful sandy beaches as the island is surrounded by rocky outcrops and sheer cliff faces. However, there are plenty of swimming opportunities around the island. One of the best spots along the coastline is Well’s Beach. It is home to a small, black-sanded beach that provides an opportunity for sun-baking. However, swimming is the more popular past-time here for locals and tourists alike. Of course, snorkeling just off the beach area is a safe and intriguing activity for people visiting the area. Address: Well’s Bay, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Harry L. Johnson Memorial Museum
One of the more interesting, yet often overlooked, landmarks on the island is the Harry L. Johnson Memorial Museum, which is found in Windwarside. The museum is found inside one of the old colonial houses of Windwardside, which only adds to the majestic spectacle of the site. The house once belonged to a sea captain, but now contains a range of historical artifacts about Saba. These items include Native Indian relics, colonial records, and historical decor. The museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. but there is a two-hour lunch break at midday. Address: Windwardside, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Phone: n/a Website: http://www.sabatourism.com/museums.html
Saba Marine Park
Saba Marine Park encompasses the area of water around the island, where tourists can explore the many reefs and rocky outcrops by snorkeling, diving, or simply boating. Visitors are permitted to enter the marine park without charge, unlike other places around the world’s tropical region. The oceanic marine environment that surrounds Saba is outstanding. There is a huge range of sea creatures residing just off the coast of Saba, including tropical fish, crustaceans, and sharks. Address: Saba Marine Park, Saba Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Flat Point Tide Pools
The Tidal Pools at Flat Point is more than just an interesting spot at the end of a hiking trail. It consists of numerous rock pools of different sizes, wedged between the ocean and a cliff face. Tourists can spend hours exploring the different size tidal pools, which are all home to a wondrous array of sea creatures. It is recommended that visitors check with local guides before reaching the tidal pools as they are only seen at certain times of the day and at certain times of the year. Address: Flat Point, Saba Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Hilltop Spa Retreat
Many of Saba’s attractions require a lot of energy from tourists to enjoy. Therefore it is nice to find a place to relax and unwind. On Saba, the Hilltop Spa Retreat is one of the best features of the island. Offering beautiful views over the island, plus excellent spa services, this venue is where tourists can meditate, practice yoga, or relax with a massage. Prices are reasonable, but budget travelers may want to skip this landmark. Address: Hilltop Spa Retreat, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Tent Reef Wall
There are plenty of fascinating dive sites located around the island. However, one that commonly stands out among the others is Tent Reef Wall. What makes this site popular is its landscape, which was formed by a heavy lava flow down a sea ledge. At the wall, divers are able to come face to face with unique sea creatures, including sea turtles, urchins, and sponges. The best way to get here is by visiting one of the dive centers around the island and then traveling with a dive group. Address: Tent Reef Wall, Saba Phone: n/a Website: n/a
Saba Artisan Foundation
Found in the town of The Bottom, the Saba Artisan Foundation is where tourists can explore the beautiful artwork of the island. Lacework is one of the more popular displays inside this center. However, there is also a beautiful array of ceramics and paintings to be viewed or even purchased. The Artisan Foundation is open daily between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. although there is a two-hour lunch break starting at midday. Address: Saba Artisan Foundation, The Bottom, Saba, Caribbean Netherlands Phone: n/a Website: n/a