Saba

Flying in and out of tiny, volcanic Saba (pronounced "say-ba") might be one of the most adventurous things you ever do. The world's smallest airport runway is perched at the edge of a cliff — landing and take-off seem impossible. That's just where the adventure begins. At just five square miles, and with just 1,600 residents, Saba is small but packs a big punch. This environmentally friendly outback hanging on the cliffs of a volcano, has amazing plant and animal life, both above and below the sea. The diving here is spectacular, with offshore pinnacles and wreck dives kept pristine and protected by the Saba Marine Park. The hiking is ...

Flying in and out of tiny, volcanic Saba (pronounced "say-ba") might be one of the most adventurous things you ever do. The world's smallest airport runway is perched at the edge of a cliff — landing and take-off seem impossible. That's just where the adventure begins. At just five square miles, and with just 1,600 residents, Saba is small but packs a big punch. This environmentally friendly outback hanging on the cliffs of a volcano, has amazing plant and animal life, both above and below the sea. The diving here is spectacular, with offshore pinnacles and wreck dives kept pristine and protected by the Saba Marine Park. The hiking is equally glorious, with 12 marked trails winding through verdant meadows, through rainforest and cloud forests of Mt. Scenery. Because the island was formerly part of the Netherlands Antilles, Dutch is the primary language but most people speak English and will welcome you into their tight-knit community with open arms. There is only one beach on the island (and in wintertime it virtually disappears), but the ocean is ultra accessible with dive operators offering trips year round.

About the Expert

Debra Landau has written eight Lonely Planet guidebooks, including books on the USA, Caribbean, and the South.