Bonaire is a place that truly surprises you. Forget everything you might imagine about a typical Caribbean island. This is a desert, plain and simple, and it’s best explored with that in mind. Forget sticking to the water; the real magic happens when you look inland.
A Toast to Bonaire’s Spirits
The Cadushy Distillery
Let’s start with something truly unique to Bonaire: its spirits. This island is the only one in the ABC chain that produces whiskey, and it’s also home to award-winning rum. The real star here is the vodka made from cacti, a world-first. It’s all thanks to the Cadushy Distillery, a delightful spot in the heart of Rincon, one of Bonaire’s main towns. They’ve been crafting spirits since 2009, using the local cadushy cactus as their base for a range of liquors. Imagine trying rums, whiskeys, gins, and flavored liqueurs that capture the essence of the Dutch Caribbean. Their outdoor bar is open during the day, making it a perfect stop for a tasting.
Tiki & Co. Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Kralendijk, the capital city, offers Tiki & Co. This Polynesian-themed bar is fascinating, filled with skull motifs and god statues reminiscent of classic tiki lounges. It’s a fun place to experience some creative cocktails and they even host competitions where winners can snag trips to the Netherlands. It’s a great contrast to the daytime brewery atmosphere.
Exploring Bonaire’s Unique Terrain
Piedra So Golf Club
If you’ve got a love for golf, Bonaire offers a different kind of challenge at Piedra So golf club. Instead of manicured greens, you’ll find “browns” made of natural soil. It’s a quirky experience, and while you might hit more shots into the sand than you’re used to, the natural surroundings, dotted with cacti and other spiky plants, make it memorable. Just be aware of the natural hazards and perhaps embrace the occasional mulligan.
Eco-Conscious Adventures
Bonaire takes its environment seriously, especially its marine life. You’ll see signs everywhere prohibiting drones, as they can be a hazard to protected coral reefs if they end up in the water. It’s a good reminder to keep your cameras grounded and respectful. Beyond respecting the rules, there are many ways you can actively contribute to conservation efforts. Volunteering opportunities are abundant, from Coral Reef Restoration projects to Echo, which focuses on parrots, and Sea Turtle Conservation. You can also get involved with Wild Bird Rehab or Debris Free Bonaire. It’s a chance to give back while still enjoying the island’s beauty.
What other unique birds can I see?
While flamingos are iconic, Bonaire boasts over 200 species of birds. Keep an eye out for the Caribbean parakeet and the unique yellow-shouldered parrot, found only on this island. Organizations like Bonaire Bird Photography Tours can guide you through different parts of the island, focusing on shorebirds, passerines, and other sought-after feathered friends.
Bonaire Landsailing Adventures
The wind is another crucial element on Bonaire, and you can harness it at Bonaire Landsailing Adventures. Here, you’ll get to pilot “blokarts,” which are single-rider, sail-equipped carts. They can pick up serious speed on windy days, reaching up to 40 mph during storms, and can even get a little airborne. While there is a waiver to sign, it’s described as being about as thrilling as a game of Mario Kart, and safe enough for families, including children. It’s a truly exhilarating way to experience the island’s breezy landscape.
Art and Peaks on Bonaire
Kralendijk’s Street Art Scene
Kralendijk offers a surprising amount of urban flair with its food trucks and vibrant graffiti. After grabbing a bite from a local food truck, like Kite City or Cactus Blue, you can embark on a scavenger hunt for the island’s colorful murals. Street Colors Bonaire is an initiative that brings together Dutch and local artists with young islanders to create stunning street art. You can find these masterpieces adorning places like the Crossfit Flamingo Gym and the skatepark at Jong Bonaire.
Hiking Brandaris Peak
While Bonaire is known for its flat landscape, there’s a rewarding climb to be made. Brandaris, at 784 feet, is Bonaire’s highest point and offers fantastic panoramic views. The relatively mild, 45-minute trail is a great way to experience the island from a different perspective, a welcome contrast to its famous underwater offerings. From the top, you can take in the island’s unique scenery, a mix of arid land, windmills, and salt pyramids.
Where can I stay in Bonaire?
For a relaxed stay, Harbour Village Beach Club offers lovely rooms and villas right on the beach, complete with kitchenettes and an open-air restaurant. If you’re looking for a bit more action, the provides a lively atmosphere and includes a casino. It’s also situated on a historic site that was once a POW camp from World War II.
Where should I eat?
While local cuisine often features fish or mayonnaise-based dishes, you can find other options. For a delicious alternative, try the crisp, salami-topped pizzetta at Ingridiënts, located at the . It’s a satisfying departure that perfectly complements the island vibe.
Bonaire truly offers a unique Caribbean experience, one that you might not expect. It’s a place that rewards curiosity and encourages you to look beyond the obvious. I’m already planning my next visit!