The Segmental Info System

Welcome to Saba

The Saba Guide is your comprehensive guide to one of the Caribbean's smallest islands. Don't let its size fool you - this pristine vacation spot packs in plenty of breathtaking scenery.

 

A wonderful way to learn about the cultural history of Saba is by checking out the Harry L. Johnson Memorial Museum. For just $2 (USD) visitors can enter the 19th-century home that is still furnished in it's original style and full of historic relics and family keepsakes. While on the island, spend a day at one of Saba's two rocky beaches - Wells Bay and Cove Bay - or see Saba from an elevation of 2,700 feet after hiking to the top of Saba's greatest attraction, Mount Scenery...

Beaches

If beaches are what you are after on your Caribbean vacation, Saba may not be the right choice for you.  In fact, there are only two spots on the island that can rightly be called a beach...

 

Due to Saba's relatively small population, visitors will find an island virtually untouched by human hands. This makes for a great opportunity to experience nature in a manner that most visitors have only dreamed of. Hiking provides vacationers with the opportunity to view the island's beautiful scenery, and scuba diving provides an exciting view of the spectacular underwater habitat that exists offshore...

Diving and Snorkeling

The people of Saba have been working hard for many years to preserve marine life off the island's coast.  Because of this, divers and snorkelers can explore ocean life that is virtually undamaged by human hands...

Nightlife

If low-key and relaxed evenings sound appealing to you, then you will find joy in Saba's nightlife.  The bar and club scene in Saba is no where near as wild as some of the other Caribbean islands...

 

Available accommodations on the island reflect the peaceful, secluded character of Saba. A few small hotels and guest houses, well kept rental properties, and cottages provide a welcome alternative to the bustling hotels and All-inclusive resorts found at other destinations in the region...

 

Clear skies and warm temperatures are what vacationers imagine they will experience during their dream Caribbean vacation. When traveling to Saba, they won't be disappointed. Winter afternoon low temperatures rarely reach below 70 degrees Fahrenheit and temperatures  in the summer average just 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer days are often cooled by brief afternoon showers, and the lack of humidity in the winter makes even the hottest days bearable. Read more in our detailed, month-by-month weather guide...

January May   September
February     June October
March July November
April August    
December

 

Saba's rocky coastline prevented explorers from colonizing Saba early on, but eventually Europe made it's presence known.  Despite the ownership of the island changing hands several times, Saba has maintained a peaceful history and a small population.  Visitors will be impressed by the prevalence of undisturbed ecological sanctuaries and diverse culture...

History

Though there is some indication that the Arawak and Carib Indian tribes once inhabited Saba, when the first group of Europeans explored the island, they found it to be completely barren of human life...

Economy

Saban women have carried on the tradition of supporting their families by creating and selling beautiful lace work since the 1870s.  Today, they use this skill as a thriving mail order business...

Culture

Very few residents of Saba can actually trace their roots back to the Netherlands. Instead, many of the islanders are decedents of African slaves and the Scottish, Irish, and Scandinavian people who colonized Saba...

 

Whether you are interested in the speed and convenience air travel provides, the excitement of chartering a yacht, or the luxuries of a Caribbean cruise, getting to Saba is half the fun...

 

 

Before you can start your vacation planning, you'll need to find out as much as you can about your destination. There are a number of ways to book your trip to Saba, including Internet vendors and travel agents. To decide which route is best for your vacation, take a moment to review the advantages of each option...

When to Go

Deciding when to go to Saba depends on a number of factors: when you have the time to go, weather, what activities you want to participate in, what events you want to visit, and more...

Clothing and Attire

Our guide to Clothing and Attire in Saba will walk you through what is appropriate to wear in different settings on the island, as well as help you keep your suitcase light...

 

Find the perfect hotel using our powerful advanced search tool.


 

Culinary Styles

West Indian Creole style cuisine dominates Saba's culinary scene. Foods like rotis, calalloo soup, rijstaffel, and curried meats are examples of the spicy dishes locals are happy to share with travelers. Locally caught seafood is typically seasoned with Creole spices and sauces and served fresh daily. Try washing your meal down with Saba Spice, the island's most famous beverage. If local spices prove to be a bit too adventurous for your taste, sink your teeth into something more mild food like the exotic mangoes, figs, or soursops that are unique to the region...

Restaurants

The greater portion of available restaurants on Saba consist of small, locally owned establishments that serve a variety of different fare. Although these restaurants welcome tourists, visitors should be aware that beachwear and other revealing articles of clothing are not considered acceptable dining attire. For more about dining on Saba, check out our comprehensive guide to local restaurants, organized by name and cuisine...

 

This island may be tiny, but there are plenty of ways for visitors to see all that beautiful Saba has to offer. From the convenience of local taxis to the independence afforded by rental cars, travelers should have no problem getting around. If you prefer to get from place to place in a more leisurely manner, however, you'll be glad to find that bikes and mopeds and ferries and boats can be found on the island...

Taxis

Taxis are the most popular method of transportation for Saba's vacationers.  Taxis here are not metered, but are based on prices set by location.  Keep in mind that there is an up-charge when traveling with more than four passengers... 

Rental Cars

There are no international car rental agencies present in Saba, though travelers who really desire having a car of their own can seek out one of the small, locally owned rental shops... 

Ferries and Boats

If you are interested in taking a day trip from Saba to St. Martin, consider hopping aboard a ferry...

 

Before heading to Saba, it is important to note that the every day life on the island may be different than your typical experiences back home.  Take a moment to learn about driving, tipping etiquette, and more with our guide to Travel Basics...

Currency and Credit Cards

The official form of currency in Saba is the Netherland Antilles Guilder, but the United States Dollar is widely accepted.  Visitors may also find many opportunities to use credit cards and travelers cheques on the island...

Customs

Because Saba is a free port, vacationers do not have to travel through customs in order to enter the country...

Driving Passports
Electricity Postal Services
Embassies Telephones
Health and Medical Time Zones
Hours of Operation Tipping
Languages Tourist Offices