subject: Saba Things To Do [print this page] Saba is unique among the islands of the Caribbean in that its main attraction does not lie in its beaches. Instead it is the remnants of an extinct volcano and offers an exhilarating look at Mother Nature at her best. The terrain is lush and green and from the top of Mount Scenery, you can see for miles. The great granite cliffs under the water offer some of the most spectacular diving opportunities in this part of the Caribbean. Although the official language of the island is Dutch, the island is one where everyone speaks English. Saba weather offers comfortable temperatures all through the year, averaging about 70 degrees in winter and into the high 80s during the summer months.
History of Saba
Saba is an island that was not visited by Columbus on his explorations because of the treacherous coastline. The survivors of a shipwreck did land there in 1632 and found that it was an uninhabited island. However, archaeological evidence does support the claim that at one time in its history it was home to either Arawak or Carib natives.
Even though it was claimed as a French island in 1635, it was the Dutch who initiated the first settlement. After some disputes over ownership that saw settlers being evicted to St. Maarten, the island has been under the domain of the Netherlands since the early 1800s.
Throughout the centuries Saba became the haunt of pirates because of the inhospitable shoreline. As settlement grew, sailing, trade and the making of lace became important features of the island economy.
Fun activities on Saba
Diving and snorkeling are the main types of entertainment on Saba. There are four mountains under the water, which make for very exciting diving adventures. Saba Marine Park is a nature reserve for the underwater life and has zones for various recreational pursuits. The only beach on the island is located within this park at Wells Bay Beach, but it is only available during summer because the seas of the winter season cause it to disappear from sight.
Hiking on Saba is for everyone, from children to seniors. There are numerous trails all of which you can reach from The Road which is the main thoroughfare on the island. A hike of three hours will take you to the summit of Mount Scenery and along the way you pass through several different habitats. The view from the top is astounding providing a look at several other islands in the distance.
Saba is filled with storybook villages where white houses seem to perch on the sides of the mountain. Each dwelling has its own family cemetery, something that is quite unique. The Bottom is a bowl-shaped village located on a plateau that is about 787 above sea level. Taxis will take you to other mountain villages such as Windwardside and Hells Gate.
Saba is not an island where you can indulge in a lot of partying. There is very little nightlife here with the exception of that provided by the hotels.
Where to stay on Saba
The majority of visitors to Saba make the excursion a day trip from one of the neighboring islands most likely, St. Martin. If you do decide that you want to spend some time on this island to enjoy the scenery and the solitude, there are fantastic choices available in accommodation. The Cottage Club is located in Windwardside and is within walking distance of everything in the town. The accommodations are mainly apartments, each of which contains a kitchenette. Children under 12 stay free. There is no restaurant on the premises, but deliveries can be ordered from the supermarket that is nearby.
Located in Hells Gate, The Gate House is a small guesthome where you will be treated like family. You can stay in the hotel or rent a cottage. There is a restaurant at this location as well as two outdoor pools. Another guesthome in which families may be interested in is that of Julianas. At this location you can avail of babysitting services.
Since diving and hiking are the two main activities of Saba, there are not a lot of activities for children, but they can certainly enjoy playing in the fresh air.
Dining venues on Saba
The Brigadoon Pub and Eatery has been touted as the best restaurant on the island if you really want to enjoy traditional Caribbean food. It also offers an American menu and fresh local ingredients are always used when possible. Savor the taste of lobster when you dine at the Corazon where you will take in a breathtaking view of the coastline of the southern part of the island.
