The tiny island of St. Eustatius, affectionately known as Statia, is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Travel writer Katherine Parker Magyar recently visited this Dutch Caribbean gem and shared her experiences on the Tripcast360 podcast, revealing why Statia should be on every traveler’s radar.
At just 8.1 square miles, Statia may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty, adventure, and history. Katherine was drawn to the island’s reputation for world-class scuba diving and the allure of the newly opened Golden Rock Resort. As a travel writer, she’s always eager to explore under-the-radar destinations, and Statia certainly fits the bill.
One of the island’s main attractions is the Quill, a dormant volcano that offers spectacular hiking opportunities. She describes her experience hiking to the crater: “It’s really cool once you get to the bottom of the quill because you’ve got these ancient growth forests and there’s trees with different mystical significance that you sort of sense or feel when you’re down there.” The hike can be challenging, but the views and unique ecosystem make it well worth the effort.
Statia’s underwater world is equally impressive. The island is part of a protected marine park, which has resulted in flourishing coral reefs and abundant marine life. Katherine raves about her diving experience: “It was spectacular. We went around. We saw a couple wrecks. What really stood out to me… is that the coral reef is flourishing. And sadly, when you scuba dive in a lot of places these days, you know, you’re used to seeing the coral reef being half dead.”
But Statia isn’t just about natural wonders. The island’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved capital, Oranjestad. She took a walking tour with local guide Misha Spanner, who brought the island’s past to life. “It’s amazing how many different historic monuments. I think they have the second oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere,” Katherine notes. The tour also touched on the island’s connection to the American Revolution and its once-thriving role as a major trading hub.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Statia’s history is the legend of the blue beads. These beads were once used as currency during slavery times, and when slavery was abolished, they were thrown into the sea. Legend has it that if you find a blue bead on the island, you’re destined to return. This story perfectly encapsulates the mystical allure of Statia and the deep connection many visitors feel to the island.
Katherine was particularly impressed by the warmth and pride of the local people. Despite its small size, Statia is home to a diverse population representing over 20 nationalities. Yet, there’s a strong sense of unity and island pride. As Johnson Johnrose, a former resident, explains, “There is this love for island that you can’t find anywhere else. They see the Statia flag anywhere and it brings this unmistakable joy in the people there.”
For travelers looking to experience Statia, Katherine highly recommends staying at the Golden Rock Resort. The property offers luxurious accommodations, including private cottages, and serves as an excellent base for exploring the island. The resort can also arrange various activities, from scuba diving to historical tours.
While Statia may not be as well-known as some of its Caribbean neighbors, it offers a unique and authentic island experience. As Katherine puts it, “It feels like once people do experience that, it’s almost… It reminds me a bit sort of similar to Saba, where when you learn about it, it becomes part of you and you always revisit it.”
Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to hike and dive, a history buff eager to explore colonial architecture and ancient artifacts, or simply someone in search of a peaceful Caribbean getaway, St. Eustatius has something to offer. As the island’s former tourism slogan aptly put it, Statia truly is a “Small Island, Big Thrills” destination.
So, the next time you’re planning a Caribbean vacation, consider venturing off the beaten path to St. Eustatius. You might just find yourself enchanted by this hidden gem, forever drawn back to its shores – blue bead or not.
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