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St. Eustatius


St. Eustatius (also known as Statia) has neither posh resorts nor flashy nightlife, but divers will find one of the last "undiscovered" dive sites in the Caribbean.


Activities


Diving
Divers can expect deep volcanic canyons, pristine shallow reefs, plunging walls, and disintegrating 17th- and 18th-century trading ships. Outfitter: Dive Statia offers one-tank dives from $35 per person, including gear; +599 318 2435.


Hiking
The one-hour trip up a 2,000-foot-high volcano in Quill National Park features a rain forest and views of St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Maarten, St. Barthelemy, and Saba. Once at the top, hikers can spend a second hour exploring inside the crater. Outfitter: Quill National Park can arrange guided hikes. Details: $5 per person, plus a $3 park entrance fee; +599 318 2884.


Hotels


Old Gin House
Opened in 1999 as an inn, Old Gin House has retained touches from its days as an 18th-century cotton refinery, including a pub with the original brick walls. Details: from $135 to $275, including continental breakfast; +599 318 2319.

King's Well
Situated on a cliff above Oranje Bay, the hotel offers a catamaran for snorkeling trips. Details: from $75 to $125, including full breakfast, service, and taxes; +599 318 2538.


Restaurants


King's Well
Try German owner Win Piechutzki's wiener schnitzel. Details: reservations required for non-guests; $40 ; +599 318 2538.

Smoke Alley
Try the grilled rib eye or T-bone steak. Details: closed Sunday; $22; +599 318 2002.


Editor's note: Hotel rates are European Plan (EP), no meals, unless otherwise indicated. Tax and service charges are not included. Rates are subject to change during promotions and peak seasons. Restaurant prices are for an average three-course dinner, nonalcoholic drink, tax, and tip.


For more information, visit the St. Eustatius Tourist Office online.


*Additional reporting by Julie Dugdale.