The ABC Islands Of The Caribbean Guide For Your Dream Holiday

Looking for a comprehensive ABC Islands Of The Caribbean Guide?

Here it is, with helpful information and game-changing tips on how to turn these tropical paradises into the most wondrous holiday of your life. Or, as some would call it, ‘know your ABCs’!

With beautiful mountains overlooking the coastline of pristine beaches with soft sand and warm sunshine, it’s no wonder Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao are the top choices for any international travel checklist.

What Countries Are The ABC Islands?

The ABC Islands consist of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. Photo by Chirapriya on Adobe Stock.

The countries of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao are the ABC Islands of the Caribean. They are the three westernmost islands in the South Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela.

The ABC Islands are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. They are considered parts of the Netherlands and are collectively referred to as the Caribbean Netherlands. While Aruba and Curacao are autonomous and have their own governing system, Bonaire and its sister islands, Saba and St. Eustatius, are special municipalities of the Dutch country.

The official language of the ABC Islands is Dutch, but the locals often speak their native tongue, the Papiemento. It is a Creole derived from Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and African languages.

Since tourism is one of the most thriving sectors of the ABC Islands, you will have no trouble navigating your way through these tropic paradises as many locals can speak English.

Fun fact: English is to become the third official language of the region!

ABC Islands Guide - Quick Recap

Here’s a quick recap to help you plan your ABC Islands more quickly.

A simple breakdown of each ABC Island’s best charms, what to do and where to stay.

The Shared Charms Of The ABC Islands

ABC Islands share some beautiful similarities. Photo by Nataraj - stock.adobe.com

The ABC Islands of the Caribbean share some amazing similarities that make them the best islands for either island-hopping or a single-destination holiday. 

The Weather? You’ve Just Got To Love The Sun Here

Bright and warm sunshine can be your travel companion for the majority of the months in Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. The only months where you can expect a bit of a dark sky, moody clouds and rainfall are October, November and December.

The average temperatures of the ABC Islands typically range from 24 to 31 degrees Celcius, and they stay consistent throughout the year. This ideal weather makes these three countries a perfect spot for tourists who love exciting summer-esque fun under the sun holidays.

CabinZero tip: Sunscreen is allowed on these islands. However, make sure the ones you use are reef-safe. Plus, apply sunscreen on your body 10-10 minutes before entering the water.

The Hurricane Season? Not A Trouble In ABC Paradises

The chances of encountering a hurricane in Aruba, Bonaire or Curacao are very low. These islands are often known as a getaway places for travellers during the hurricane season.

Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao lie just at the southern edge of the tropical hurricane belt. They aren’t exactly outside of it, like the Bocas Del Toro island of Panama is, as many believe. This means that even though ABC Islands are not directly in the path of hurricanes, they can still witness some tropical storms.

As long as you do a storm check before going, the hurricanes are not going to spoil your fun holiday during the season.

You Can’t Spell Amazing Beaches Without ABC

There’s no beach that’s quite like the tropic. The water is calm and clear. The further you’re from it, the bluer it gets. The waves hug the shore tenderly but can rise up in the most energetic manner when they need to, making them a gift of nature to surfers. The sand, oh the sand, is velvety soft and warmly kissed by sunlight. 

Surely, the ABC Islands of the Caribbean are not an exception to these amazing beaches. In fact, Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao are home to some of the world’s most gorgeous beaches.

Everything about the ABC Caribbean Islands is just out of this world. Photo by Solarisys - stock.adobe.com

Beneath the surface hides a world of breathtakingly beautiful and diverse marine life. The ABC Islands have some of the best-preserved coral reefs that are perfect for a diving and snorkelling adventure.

The Journey To The ABC Islands? Easier Than You Think

With booming tourism, the ABC Islands are nowadays accessible by both air and sea routes. Many major US cities have direct flights to and from Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. For instance, JetBlue offers 4-hour direct flights from Newark, NJ (EWR) to Aruba for about $300.

In the UK, TUI Airways operates the only direct route to Aruba from Manchester, so booking a seat is like a game of whack-a-mole. Don’t fret. Flights from the UK to ABC Islands are plenty, just with a bit of layover time. 

If you are a fan of thrilling sea holidays, the islands are also known to welcome cruise ships year-round. The best part is that Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao are close to one another. Can’t clear your head on which ABC Islands is your true calling? Just start your journey in Venezuela and island-hop from there!

Aruba is the closest to the coast of Venezuela, at around 15 miles north of the mainland. Bonaire is about 50 miles east of Aruba, and Curacao is around 35 miles from Bonaire to the east. 

The Aesthetic Aruba Of ABC Islands

Sunsoaked and clean beaches of Aruba. Photo by Fokke Baarssen on Adobe Stock. 

Although the ABC Islands are no stranger to holidaymakers and wanderlusts around the world, Aruba is not exactly flocked with tourists like other Caribbean countries, which is a bit disheartening considering how extremely beautiful it is. 

When you first step on Aruban soil, you will be taken aback by just how colourful the island is. Under the influence of Dutch culture, the houses and streets of Aruba are modelled after the Dutch colonial revival style, which might not be something groundbreaking to those from Europe. However, when combined with the iconic colourful touch of Latin American culture, we promise there’s never a dull corner in Aruba.

Amongst the sea of cyan and green, you can always catch sight of bright pink, orange and white. It’s a feast for the eyes of lovers of colours. 

This beautiful combination is even better accentuated in Orenjasted, the capital of Aruba. Here, Dutch and native cultures are both celebrated. 

Aruba Has The Best Beaches In The ABC Islands

Nearly all tropical beaches deserve the title, but Aruba’s pristine white sand and sapphire-like water are definitely hard to beat. Not only that, Aruban beaches are known to be some of the cleanest in the Caribbean region.

Here, you can lie soaking up the sun without a worry in the world with a cocktail in your hand. Or take a romantic walk along the shore, feeling the wind caressing your hair. Because of their aesthetic beaches, Aruba is often on the list of destinations perfect for a honeymoon holiday.

Nicknamed “One Happy Island”, Aruban locals value hospitality. This means that on any beach or attraction you step foot on, the locals will make sure you feel welcome. When you leave, you leave happy. 

Paradise is real, and it’s here in Aruba. Photo by Nataraj - stock.adobe.com

Some of the most loved beaches of Aruba are:

Eagle Beach: Located right in Oranjestad, it is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches; Eagle Beach is the textbook definition of an alluring seaside holiday. From powdery sand to sun-warmed water, this beach has it all.

Baby Beach: Found on the Southern tip of Aruba, Baby Beach, with its calm and shallow water, is perfect for families with young children. There is an abundance of tropical fish and coral reefs to see, which makes it a fantastic snorkelling spot.

What To Do In Aruba

With their stunning beaches, you can plan your entire trip hopping from beach to beach across Aruba. There are also many fun activities to do in Aruba. 

Aruba’s semi-arid desert-like climate is perfect for a UTV (side-by-side) or ATV (single-rider) ride. Haul a ride or ride one yourself to explore the many attractions of Aruba.

Conchi/Natural pool: One of the most unique features of Aruba. This natural pool is located in Arikok National Park. You can swim and snorkel in the warm water with the volcanic rocks of the national park as a backdrop.

Wildlife spotting: hike the trails of Arikok National Park to catch sight of the native Aruban Whiptail Lizard and Burrowing Owl. 

Butterfly Farm: this attraction is just a short distance away from Palm Beach. You can photograph or just simply enjoy the beauty of these creatures.

Where To Stay In Aruba

The best place to stay is the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. This resort comes with its own private beach called Flamingo Beach. You can enjoy your stay in truly tropical fashion with pink flamingoes as your companions.

For couples who want a more intimate and private atmosphere, check out the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel. It has private lounges and houses with a plunge pool that are perfect for honeymoons.

The Beauteous Bonaire of ABC Islands

Bonaire’s laid-back but also vibrant nature attracts adventure travellers. Photo by dbvirago on Adobe Stock.

Though vibrant in appearance, just like its other Caribbean neighbours, Bonaire is often described as tranquil. The way of life is slower and laid back. This is also the reason why many choose Bonaire as a place for solo travelling.

This unique gem of an island also stands out from the crowd because of its “not a beach destination” reputation. It sounds a bit silly at a glance, but in fact, beaches in Bonaire lean more towards rocky rather than sandy.

You will find that most of the charms of Bonaire’s natural beauty are either underwater or in the lush forest surrounding the area instead of on the sun-drenched shores like Aruba. This also makes the island a magnet for adventure travel lovers around the world. 

Bonaire Has The Best Wildlife In The ABC Islands

Despite its “no real beaches” reputation, Bonaire’s wildlife diversity can rival just about any other Caribbean island. From marine animals to forest-lurking creatures, you can see them all here in Bonaire.

Bonaire is synonymous with vibrant coral reefs. Its coral reefs are considered the healthiest in the entire region. Crystal-clear water allows travellers to observe these majestic sea creatures up close, which is why many adventurers regard Bonaire so highly as a diving and snorkelling spot.

Further out, the sea of Bonaire is also the home to dolphins, beautiful tropical fishes and sea turtles. 

Bonaire’s diversity in terrains also allows the island to thrive in the population of reptiles and bats. 200 different species of birds, including endangered ones like the Yellow-shouldered parrots, also soar the Bonairean forest every day. 

You don’t even have to venture too deep into the forest to see the animals. Donkeys and goats walk the streets freely. The South American bananaquits also fly around hotels and restaurants looking for sugar.

To see the wildlife of Bonaire, visit:

Washington Slagbaai National Park: Built in 1969, this is one of the oldest sanctuaries for parrots, parrakeets, flamingos and iguanas in Bonaire. There is also a beach inside the park where you can see the nesting grounds of sea turtles. 

Bonaire Caves & Karst Park: An important reservation place for bats and historic native arts. The park provides visitors with a safe and educational way to explore limestone caves, view speleothems, and learn about bats. 

What To Do In Bonaire

Bonaire is a paradise for outdoor adventure lovers. Photo by Russell - stock.adobe.com

Apart from wildlife spotting, Bonaire’s natural landscapes are also a paradise for outdoor adventures. 

Shipwreck diving: it’s a one-of-a-kind underwater adventure Bonaire offers. Some of the best wreck sites you can go diving are Hesper, Hilma Hooker, and Mairi Bahn.

Lighthouse exploration: lighthouses are often overlooked attractions because people deem them boring, but for a country with a colonial and native history like Bonaire, these lighthouses and their architecture are the best exhibits. For a more alluring experience, visit them in the evening when the lights are on. Some beautiful lighthouses to explore are Willemstoren, Spelonk and Seru Bentana.

Kralendijk and Rincon: one is the capital of the country, and one is the country’s oldest village. Both towns have incredible pastel-coloured buildings with impressive historical significance. Take a trip down these two towns have a drink with the locals in a bar, or go shopping. 

Where To Stay In Bonaire

For those who want the comfort and luxury of big-name hotel chains, the Courtyard by Marriot Dive Resort is a great choice. It’s spacious and is within walking distance of downtown Kralendijk.

Want a local touch in your accommodation? Try the Blachi Koko Apartments. Each apartment is built in the style of Dutch colonial architecture with an iconic bright tropical palette.

The Charismatic Curacao of ABC Islands

Curacao is a vibrant cultural hub. Photo by Gail Johnson - stock.adobe.com

With its captivating landscape and vibrant cultural heritage, Curacao is an irresistible seduction to enthusiastic travellers who love to douse themselves in nature and local delicacies. It’s truly a tropical paradise for extroverts as Curacao is the most populous country amongst the ABC islands.

Curacao is a melting pot of many cultures, but each is honoured and celebrated as beautifully as the next. It’s not difficult to arrive in Curacao and be greeted with a cultural festival or event. 

The beaches in Curacao are just as lovely as its neighbours, and the wildlife is rich and diverse thanks to the thriving rainforest. However, what attracts people flocking to Curacao every year is the amazing historical background and lively nightlife. 

Unlike Aruba, with its unbeatable waterfront charm and Bonaire, with its top-notch wildlife, Curacao leaves travellers in awe with its unforgettable cultural experience.

Curacao Has The Best Cultural Attractions In The ABC Islands

The rich culture of Curacao is reflected in its music. It’s a harmonious blend of African, European and Latin American influences. 

The traditional music style of Curacao is tambú and seú. Tambú, a drum-based genre, is often associated with social gatherings and comes with dancing. Seú, distinguished by the sound of brass instruments, is mainly performed in music festivals, carnivals and celebrations. 

You can enjoy this wonderful music and dance to the rhythm in one of Curacao’s many music festivals like: 

Curacao North Sea Jazz Festival: an annual music festival with a lineup of famous jazz, soul and RnB musicians and artists. 

Paralleling music, food is also a unique cultural charm of Curacao. Influences of diverse mix cultures can be seen in their flavoursome cuisine. One of the best places to enjoy local cuisine is in bustling marketplaces like: 

Marshe Bieu in Willemstad: meaning “the old market in Willemstad. This is where you can enjoy delicious local dishes.

With amazing music and food scene, it’s no wonder Curacao’s art scene is also mesmerising. Places, where you can find beautiful art in Curacao, are:

Galleria Alma Blou: this art gallery features renowned Curacao and Caribbean artists. 

Landhuis Bloemhof: this historic mansion doubles as an art gallery. You can immerse yourself in the arts and history of the lives of the Curacaoans.

What To Do In Curacao

Curacao is full of surprises. Photo by Fokke Baarssen - stock.adobe.com

Besides visiting cultural attractions, there are many things you can do in Curacao that let you feel an authentic Caribbean experience just as wonderful as Aruba and Bonaire. 

Of course, that’s not excluding some fun beachside and nature-dwelling activities. 

Sightseeing on Queen Emma Bridge: This floating bridge is an iconic landmark of Curacao, connecting the Punda and Otrobanda neighbourhoods of Willemstad. It swings open to accommodate boats, and you can take a walk on the bridge and see pastel houses lining the shore. 

The Floating Market: A colourful market on water just right next door to Queen Emma Bridge where you can shop and feast.

Enjoying the nightlife: Curacao has many buzzing bars and clubs that come to life after sunset, especially in Willemstad. Don’t forget to order the world-famous blue Curacao Liqueur to spice up your night.

Where To Stay In Curacao

ACOYA Curacao Resort Villas & Spa is a travellers’ favourite for its modernity and a short distance to numerous attractions. It’s good for those who are planning a long stay in Curacao.

If you want to downsize into something more budget-friendly but still stylistic, the t’ Klooster Boutique Hotel is another option.

ABC Islands Guide - Know Before You Go

No ABC Caribbean Islands guide is complete without a good ol’ reminder of tropic-friendly packing. Why, you ask?

It’s because even though ABC Islands are warm almost every day of the year, there can still be days when the sun burns a little bit more, and the humidity is more clingy than usual. 

Also, since ABC Islands are known for their beach holidays and adventures in nature, most of the time you’re going to spend outdoors doing outdoorsy stuff. 

Our best advice is to keep your packing light, hassle-free and adventure travel-appropriate. Our recommendation is the ADV Waterproof Backpack. Its water-resistant material and built-for-multipurpose packing design can make your ABC Islands holiday stress-free.

That concludes our ABC Islands of the Caribbean guide. 

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Nguyen Tran Gia Khanh