The Gas Station on Faeschweg
Statia's roadside refuel where every island errand starts
Why Go
On an island barely 21 square kilometers, one honest tank of fuel is basically an unlimited pass. This unassuming pump stop on Faeschweg, just outside Oranjestad's colorful colonial core, is where every rental Jeep, quarry truck, and dive-shop van eventually pulls in.
The Experience
There's no manicured forecourt or convenience-store theatrics here — just a small Caribbean fuel station doing its job under the trade winds, with a view of the ridge climbing toward The Quill. Expect a short, friendly queue in the morning as locals top up before the school run and again in the late afternoon when day-trippers return from Zeelandia or the dive sites. Payment is straightforward but old-school: cash in USD is always welcome, cards can be hit-or-miss depending on the connection, so it pays to have a backup. Attendants know everyone by name, and if you're clearly a visitor they'll usually double-check that you know which grade your rental car takes.
What to Try
Fill the tank completely rather than doing partial top-ups — the next station is a short drive but hours can be limited, and running low on a Sunday or public holiday is a genuine hassle. If you're driving a rental, ask the attendant which pump handles unleaded versus diesel; the labeling is functional rather than flashy. Grab any bottled water or small snacks they stock while you're there; it's a convenient pit stop between the airport, Lower Town, and the trailheads.
Insider Tip
Hours shrink dramatically on Sundays and around public holidays, and the whole island can effectively 'close' for fuel by early evening. Locals top up on Saturday morning as a rule — copy them. Also carry small-denomination US dollars: if the card terminal is offline (it happens when the internet dips), you'll still be able to pay and drive off without drama.
The Practical Stuff
Location: Faeschweg, on the edge of Oranjestad, a two-minute drive from the historic Fort Oranjestad and roughly five minutes from F.D. Roosevelt Airport (EUX). Easy to reach on the island's main road loop. Parking is roll-up-and-pump; there's no dedicated lot. Payment: USD cash is universally accepted; credit/debit cards usually work but connectivity can be temperamental. Accessibility: flat, ground-level forecourt with attendant service available if needed. Best visited during daylight hours on weekdays; assume reduced or no service on Sundays and public holidays.
Pair It With
- Baby Beach Guide — Top up the tank before heading out to Statia's quieter swimming coves — there's no fuel once you're out on the coast road.
- Aquarium - Dive Site Guide — Divers heading to shore-entry sites like Aquarium rely on this station for the drive down to Lower Town and back up the hill afterward.
- Antillean Horde Car Rental Guide — If you're picking up a rental nearby, this is the natural first stop to start your day with a full tank and clear directions from the attendants.
- Alvin V Courtar Park Guide — A short drive from the station, this local green space is an easy stretch-your-legs stop while you plan the rest of your island loop.
