Where to stay on the island of Saba?
Last updated on 25 June 2026
Saba is one of the Caribbean’s most exclusive and low-key islands, known for its dramatic volcanic landscape, hillside villages, and unspoiled atmosphere. The island has no large beachfront resorts or tourist complexes, but rather a small selection of hotels, cottages, and intimate stays woven directly into nature. That is exactly what attracts travelers looking for peace and quiet, hiking, diving, and true immersion in an authentic setting. To place Saba among the region’s destinations, we invite you to read our guide to where to stay in the Caribbean islands.
Choosing where to stay in Saba mainly depends on the village and the type of experience you want, whether you prefer sea views in Windwardside, a secluded cottage surrounded by greenery, or a small guesthouse in the heart of the island. With its exclusive style of tourism, the key is to book accommodation that matches your pace and what you want to discover. This selection brings together the most relevant options to help you plan your stay without wasting time. Our goal is to highlight the best places to stay in Saba, based on their location and atmosphere.
Our favorite place to stay in Saba
Practical information for choosing where to stay in Saba
Understanding the layout of the villages and the island’s natural constraints will help you choose your accommodation more wisely and plan your stay in Saba. Here’s everything you need to know in a few key points:
Why is the accommodation offering limited in Saba?
Saba is a small, very steep volcanic island where space for building is rare and fragmented. The territory is covered with vegetation and abrupt reliefs that prevent excessive tourist urbanization. Unlike many Caribbean islands, hotel development here has intentionally remained very limited. This geographic constraint explains why there is only a small number of accommodations spread across just a few areas.
The island has chosen a discreet tourism model, focused on nature, hiking, and diving rather than beaches and mass tourism. In practice, you’ll mostly find small hotels, cottages, and guesthouses integrated into villages or set on the mountainside. That is precisely what reinforces the exclusive, unspoiled feel of the destination. It also means limited capacity and little availability in high season.
In fact, demand often exceeds supply, especially during hiking and diving periods. Since accommodations are few, it’s better to make reservations, often several months in advance. This is also why the atmosphere on the island feels so confidential and peaceful. It is an integral part of the experience sought by travelers who come here.
Windwardside or The Bottom?
Windwardside is Saba’s main tourist village, and this is where most of the accommodations, restaurants, and services are located. Set at altitude, with views of the sea, it’s the ideal base for hiking to Mount Scenery and enjoying the island’s activities. The atmosphere is both peaceful and lively, without being excessive. It’s the most practical area to stay in and organize your days.
The Bottom, the administrative capital located lower down, offers a more local and residential atmosphere. You’ll find fewer accommodations there, but a central location on the island, which is convenient for getting around. The village retains an authentic and less touristy character. It is better suited to travelers looking for immersion and tranquility.
The choice between the two villages mainly depends on the style of stay you want. If you prioritize restaurants, services, and hiking departure points, one of the two areas will be more practical day to day. If you’re looking more for a discreet setting and a local atmosphere, the other option will be a better fit. In any case, distances remain short and allow you to easily discover the whole island.
Our selection of the best places to stay in Saba
The best hotels and cottages in Saba
Without keeping you waiting any longer, discover a small selection of hotels and cottages perfectly integrated into Saba’s volcanic and unspoiled environment. You’ll see, these accommodations focus on privacy, views, and direct access to nature rather than large tourist facilities. As always, we’ve prepared a carefully curated selection bringing together the best addresses for a comfortable stay and for fully enjoying the island’s unique atmosphere.
Hotel
Lollipop-Saba
Restaurant This small inn has a restaurant, a bar, and a handful of rooms for travellers passing through. Private rooms sleep one or two guests and come with either twin beds or a king-size bed, depending on the layout. Bathrooms are shared. A balcony looks out over the Caribbean Sea with open, uninterrupted views. Wi‑Fi is free, and the overall feel is simple and relaxed. The address is just minutes from hiking trails, the medical school, and the main village.
A warm welcome is part of the stay. The owner is always happy to chat with visitors and share a few island stories. Settle into the restaurant’s laid-back atmosphere to sample local dishes. It suits travellers looking for an authentic base, with the convenience of eating on site and the chance to meet other visitors in a friendly, sociable setting.
Hotel
El Momo Cottages
Swimming pool Restaurant Perched on the hillside amid lush greenery, the property offers several cottages in a peaceful, elevated setting. Each one has a private bathroom with a shower and a patio with views of either the sea or the mountains. Some cottages also include a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator.
You can unwind by the outdoor pool, where the panoramic views make it especially inviting. A shared terrace lets you enjoy breakfast while taking in the scenery, and the on-site restaurant rounds out the experience. To reach the property, you’ll need to climb several steps—one of the reasons it stays so quiet, with wide-open views.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. The team greets guests with care and takes the time to chat. You’ll appreciate the tranquility, the nearby hiking trails, and the natural setting that truly feels like staying with friends—far from large tourist complexes.
Hotel
Saba Arawak Hotel
Swimming pool Restaurant
Air conditioning
Parking Set on higher ground, this small hotel is just a short walk from local shops and the start of hiking trails. It offers air-conditioned suites and studios with a private bathroom, TV, and balcony. Some rooms also include a kitchenette equipped with an oven and a refrigerator. After an active day, you can relax in the outdoor pool with sea views. An on-site restaurant serves breakfast and other meals. Free parking is available, and Wi-Fi works well throughout the property.
The atmosphere is simple and friendly. The staff welcome you with a smile and are quick to help with any requests. You’ll enjoy the nearby trails and the open views over the ocean. Overall, it suits couples as well as families looking for a quiet, practical stay.
Hotel
Juliana's Hotel
Swimming pool Restaurant Air conditioning Parking This charming hotel invites you to stay in rooms, suites and cottages set within a tropical garden. Rooms with sea or garden views are air-conditioned and decorated in an authentic style with wooden furniture. Several suites feature a separate bedroom and a covered terrace overlooking the sea. In addition, two independent cottages are well suited to families, one of which is tucked beside a small pond surrounded by lush vegetation. You’ll also have access to an outdoor pool, along with an on-site restaurant that’s well regarded for its meals served on the premises. Parking is available if you’re renting a car.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. The staff greet you warmly and are on hand without being intrusive. You’ll be charmed by the open sea views from the terraces and shared areas. The garden is an invitation to switch off, with time for a swim and a meal at the restaurant. All in all, it’s a wonderful base for exploring the island, with comfortable, well-maintained accommodation.
Hotel
The Cottage Club Hotel
Swimming pool Air conditioning Parking This property offers a small collection of independent cottages built in the local style, set in the heart of a tropical garden. Each accommodation includes a sitting area, a bedroom, a bathroom, and a well-equipped kitchen, as well as a TV and a sea-facing balcony. You can also enjoy an outdoor pool, free Wi‑Fi, and on-site parking, making your stay that much easier. What’s more, the village centre and a few local addresses are within walking distance.
It’s easy to feel away from the noise here while still being close to everything. You’ll appreciate the relaxed rhythm of the place—an end-of-afternoon swim, then a meal prepared just like at home. The staff are available and keep things simple, whether you’d like to request breakfast or find a starting point for a hike. Either way, it’s a good base for travelling light and enjoying the island without hassle.
To go further, you can use the table below, which summarizes Saba’s main accommodations so you can easily compare their location and level of comfort. It’s an extra helping hand to help you make your final choice.
| Name | Location | Features | Reviews | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lollipop-Saba | Saint John's | On-site restaurant, bar, sea view, free Wi‑Fi, friendly atmosphere, close to hiking trails, central location, warm welcome. | You’ll be delighted by the family feel, the sea view from the balcony, and the local meals served on site. | 70€ | Book |
| El Momo Cottages | Windwardside | Infinity pool with views, sea and mountain panorama, warm and friendly atmosphere, cottages surrounded by nature, shared terrace, close to the town center, attentive staff. | You’ll love the family-like atmosphere, the spectacular views from the pool, and the peace and quiet around the cottages. | 90€ | Book |
| Saba Arawak Hotel | Windwardside | Outdoor pool with sea views, on-site restaurant, rooms with kitchenettes, free parking, fast Wi-Fi, close to shops and hiking trails, and welcoming staff. | You’ll appreciate the ocean views, the pleasant pool after a day of hiking, and the staff’s warm welcome. | 135€ | Book |
| Juliana's Hotel | Windwardside | Outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, air-conditioned rooms, private cottages, sea views, tropical garden, terrace, and a friendly atmosphere. | You’ll love the sea views, the warm atmosphere, and the comfort of the rooms and cottages surrounded by greenery. | 150€ | Book |
| The Cottage Club Hotel | Windwardside | Pool, independent cottages, sea-view balcony, fully equipped kitchen, tropical garden, free parking, Wi‑Fi, and a quiet atmosphere. | You’ll appreciate the calm in the heart of the greenery, the pool, and the at-home feel of cottages with their own kitchens. | 180€ | Book |
Conclusion
Saba stands out quite a bit in the Caribbean thanks to its confidential atmosphere, volcanic landscape, and unspoiled tourism. The island offers a small but high-quality range of accommodations, centered on privacy, views, and integration with nature. It’s ideal for a trip filled with hiking, diving, and authentic experiences far from the large beach resort areas. As you’ve probably gathered, choosing where to stay in Saba is therefore mainly about prioritizing location and atmosphere over facilities.
Between hillside villages, secluded cottages in the greenery, and small panoramic hotels, each place to stay adds a unique character to the island. Since distances are short, you can choose a location that suits your travel pace and your discovery priorities. However, be sure to book well in advance so you won’t be disappointed. In any case, if you choose a well-located address, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the peaceful and authentic experience that Saba offers.
FAQ - Which accommodation should you choose for the island of Saba?
Where are the hotels located in Saba?
Most accommodations are mainly concentrated in the hilltop villages, where you’ll find services, restaurants, and trailheads. You’ll see them mostly around Windwardside and The Bottom, with a few more low-key places toward Hell’s Gate and St. John’s. The logic is simple: the terrain is steep, so hotels and cottages favor the inhabited areas up high, to enjoy open views and easier access to the roads.
What is the best village to stay in Saba?
For a well-balanced stay, Windwardside is generally the option we recommend. On the agenda: a village atmosphere, great views, quick access to hikes, and several good restaurants within a reasonable distance. You’re also well placed to reach the starting points for the summit, forest trails, and viewpoints. The Bottom is a more central alternative and often a bit more local—handy if you want to be close to administrative services and some shops, with easy trips to the airport. If you’re looking for more peace and quiet, hamlets like Hell’s Gate or St. John’s offer a more residential feel, sometimes with very intimate accommodations. Either way, choose a place with a terrace and a view, because the landscape is part of the experience.
How many nights should you stay there?
Ideally, we suggest spending 3 to 5 nights there so you can enjoy the island’s pace without rushing. With 2 nights, you’ll get a taste: one must-do hike and a scuba or snorkeling trip, but not much flexibility if the weather changes. With 3 nights, you can combine a full day of hiking (for example up to the summit), a half-day exploring the villages, and a water activity. From 4 or 5 nights, the experience becomes more immersive: several trails (forest, ridgelines, historic stairways), two dive outings, and time to simply enjoy the panoramas and sunsets. If you’re an experienced diver or hiker, you can stay 5 to 7 nights—you won’t get bored.
Are there any beachfront hotels on the island?
In reality, there are very few places “right on the water” because the coastline is very rocky and the terrain drops quickly into the sea. Most accommodations are therefore up high, with ocean views rather than direct beach access. You’ll find a few options near the port area of Fort Bay, convenient if you’re diving early or arriving by ferry, but the vibe there is more practical than a seaside resort. For a sea-focused experience, the best compromise for you is to choose a place with a panorama and reach swimming or snorkeling spots via designated access points, or on a boat excursion. If your absolute priority is a long beach in front of the hotel, this isn’t the most suitable destination; it’s better to head to a neighboring, sandier island.
Do you need to rent a car in Saba?
Renting a car isn’t essential, but it can be more comfortable depending on your plans. Distances are short, but the roads are very steep and winding, and some walks can quickly become tiring, especially in the heat or after a dive. Taxis work well for transfers (port, airport, villages) and for going out to dinner, which is enough for many travelers. A car becomes interesting if you want to be independent, check out several viewpoints, link up multiple trailheads in the same day, or if your accommodation is a bit isolated.
Written by the Les Deux Pieds Dehors team
The entire Les Deux Pieds Dehors team has scoured the web from top to bottom to find the best accommodations for your budget and travel style, and offer you this wonderful selection.