Which ABC Island is right for you?

The ABC Islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao – are located just off the northern coast of South America, forming a friendly trio that attracts sun-loving travelers from around the globe.

At first glance, they may appear to be the same destination presented in slightly different styles. While they share aspects of culture and geography, each island possesses its own unique character that distinguishes it as a travel spot.

Whether you’re seeking underwater adventures, relaxing on the beach, or immersing yourself in Caribbean culture, here’s our guide to selecting the perfect island for you.

Ideal for underwater exploration

Bonaire

Although Aruba and Curaçao both offer diving and snorkeling opportunities, the small island of Bonaire is renowned in the global diving community for its exceptional reef system, considered one of the healthiest in the Caribbean. This acclaim alone is a great reason to book a trip, but there’s more: the diving here is among the most accessible, with stunning sites just a few meters from shore.

Bonaire is surrounded by its National Marine Park, which spans 6,700 hectares of protected waters featuring 85 distinct dive sites, many of which can be accessed simply by walking into the water. These sites are indicated by yellow stones along the main roads encircling the island, and each offers a unique underwater adventure.

Top choice for beaches

Curaçao

All three islands are fantastic for sun-seekers wanting to soak up some Caribbean sunshine, but both Aruba and Bonaire have predominantly rocky coastlines. If you're after a variety of stunning sandy beaches, Curaçao is your go-to destination – the island boasts a collection of pristine beaches framed by striking limestone and coral cliffs, with each offering activities for every type of traveler.

Families will adore the beautiful crescent known as Grote Knip, complete with ample amenities, while those seeking tranquility will appreciate Klein Knip and Playa Lagun. Thrill-seekers can enjoy cliff jumping at Playa Forti, while those in search of luxury will feel right at home at the beach clubs of Jan Thiel and Papagayo.

Best for nightlife

Aruba

Want to unwind in true island fashion? Aruba’s vibrant resort area provides a plethora of options for beachside fun – from chic lounges and lively clubs to piano bars and casinos, there's something for everyone. Most venues are located along the coast in Oranjestad or a bit further north in Palm Beach. This entire region is lively during the day, but when night falls, it transforms into a festive and welcoming atmosphere.

A notable contender in this category? Curaçao. While the nightlife in Willemstad may not rival that of Aruba in quantity, it boasts a local charm and remains a blast to explore.

Top choice for culture

Curaçao

As the largest of the three islands and the only one with a significant economy beyond tourism, Curaçao serves as the unofficial art and cultural hub of the ABC Islands. Here, you’ll discover a variety of art and history museums, galleries, music venues, and a lively capital city that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For history enthusiasts, the Kura Hulanda Museum offers a poignant account of the experiences of enslaved individuals in Curaçao and the Caribbean – a vital stop for understanding the island’s heritage and current identity.

Art aficionados can easily spend an entire afternoon at Landhuis Bloemhof, a modern art museum showcasing sculptures, installations, and even a gallery crafted from thorns. Those seeking cultural experiences beyond museums should explore the restaurants and bars of Pietermaai or the vibrant street art in Otrobanda.

Best for pleasant weather

Aruba

Although all three islands bask in sunshine and largely avoid Caribbean hurricanes, Aruba takes the crown for the best weather, thanks to the gentle trade winds that consistently flow over it. These winds have not only influenced the island's landscape but also its vegetation – evident in the distinctive bent fofoti trees – and provide a delightful cooling effect from the scorching sun that shines for most of the year.

That said, the sun can be quite fierce even with the refreshing breeze, so it's essential to apply plenty of sunscreen. However, as the sun begins to set and the cool breeze wafts across the island, you’ll truly understand why it’s often referred to as paradise.

Best for water activities

Aruba/Bonaire

Choosing a favorite is challenging, so we're calling it a draw – both Aruba and Bonaire are renowned for their kitesurfing, windsurfing, and diving opportunities, making them ideal spots for thrill-seekers looking for an unforgettable experience on either island.

Aruba hosts the annual Hi-Winds Caribbean Championship, showcasing kitesurfing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, kitefoiling, and mountain biking, attracting spectators from all corners of the globe. Meanwhile, Bonaire boasts a vibrant windsurfing scene at Sorobon on Lac Bay, excellent kitesurfing along its southwestern coast, and an international sailing regatta each year.

Best for unique travel experiences

Bonaire

Often seen as the underdog among the trio, the unassuming island of Bonaire is sure to enchant those who venture to its rugged shores. While it's well-known in the diving and snorkeling communities, it retains a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere, as large resorts and mass tourism have yet to infiltrate its charm.

Kralendijk and Rincón exude a quaint, small-town ambiance, and you might find yourself spontaneously invited on a local tour – the people of Bonaire take great pride in their natural beauty and cultural heritage, evident in their warm hospitality and commitment to preserving their land.