Things to see and do in Saba

Attractions in Saba

Admire The Bottom

We're talking about Saba's capital, The Bottom, of course, which is surely one of the world's best-named cities. It's more of a town, actually – and it's a pretty one at that. Nestling in a verdant valley beneath lofty mountains, The Bottom is the entry point for most visitors to the island. There's not an awful lot to do in this town of 500 people, aside from admire the Dutch architecture and peruse the sleepy stores, though it does come alive for Carnival, which takes place over summer.

Delve into an underwater world

Experience the stunning marine life along Saba's craggy coastline. Although Saba has no beaches, the waters around the island have been declared a protected marine park in recognition of the unique opportunities for wall diving. Giant sea turtles and humpback whales are seasonal visitors.

Enjoy a climber's paradise

Climb up one of the island's many outcrops as recommended by the Saba Conservation Foundation. With its volcanic terrain and unique geology, Saba is something of a climber's paradise, with a wealth of dramatic drop-offs and boulders to keep even the most hardened adrenaline junky amused.

Go and explore Fort Bay

Visit the rocky beach at Fort Bay, where a dramatic steep climb has been carved out of the rock. En route to the summit walkers will pass the island's four villages, which are mere clusters of ornate timber cottages perching on the flanks of the mountain.

Go green on Saba

Saba has a burgeoning reputation for having impeccable green credentials and none more so than with its commitment to eco-tourism and exceptional scuba diving, climbing and hiking. Sabans are rightly proud of their history of environmental conservation and endearingly refer to their nation as the "The Unspoiled Queen".

Party at the carnival

In common with most other Caribbean islands, Sabans do like a party and naturally tend to throw an annual carnival. Saba's Carnival shimmies and shakes into life in the last week of July and boasts a dazzling parade, competitions, steel bands and mouth-watering food.

Take a hike on the trails

Get active and head up one of the many marked hiking trails that lead up to Mount Scenery, from where you can take in the stunning views. Although some of the more difficult trails require a guide, many of the easier routes will take you through Saba's lush rainforests, tide pools and historic ruins.

Take it easy at the Hilltop spa retreat

Relax at the island's hilltop spa retreat, where you can indulge in a treatment or meditate with a spot of yoga. Saba's undulating typography can be exhausting for hikers, so the spa can be a welcome sight.

Visit the Harry L Johnson Memorial Museum

Take in the Harry L Johnson Memorial Museum in Windwardside, the restored home of a Dutch sea captain. Windwardside also contains the tourist office, the island's two largest guesthouses and most of its shops.

Tourist offices

Saba Tourist Bureau