Saba rose from the sea in an explosion of lava, then settled quietly down to become the sedate and secluded rainforest haven it is today. Perhaps its dearth of beaches has prevented Saba from becoming a major tourist destination, but the traveler who shuns the beaten path will be attracted by Saba’s utter lack of tacky tourist traps.
The people of Saba are a close-knit community, many of whom trace their ancestry back to the Dutch settlers who arrived here in 1640. Sabans gladly welcome visitors to the island they call “the Unspoiled Queen”. There is only one beach, tiny Well’s Bay Beach, and it disappears underwater half the year, so sunbathers can pretty much cross Saba off their list. Divers, however, are another story. The steep cliffs of Saba descend into the Caribbean, sculpting mountainous underwater sea-scapes, perfect for exploring, and the protected Saba Marine Park rings the island. Hikers will find plenty to do in Saba. The island is webbed with trails that lead through rainforests and ruins. Mt. Scenery, the island’s volcano, provides a 3-hour trek up 1064 steps to the summit. Curious eco-tourists can find guides to educate them on local flora and fauna. Some of the hotels even provide an in-house naturalist.
