Bonaire is a real find, especially if you love the water and want to avoid the usual crowds. It’s a Dutch-ruled island that feels a bit different from its Caribbean neighbors, mostly known among serious divers for its incredible underwater world. But there’s so much more here than just what’s beneath the surface.
Explore the Underwater Wonders
Diving here is practically an art form. Hotels like Harbour Village even offer a “Dive Concierge” service. This means all the hassle of setting up gear, getting to the boat, and even having a dive buddy is taken care of for you. It’s a smart way to maximize your time exploring Bonaire’s 86 dive sites. I highly recommend checking out Salt Pier and Klein Bonaire for some truly memorable dives.
Getting Your Dive Certification
If you’ve always wanted to get certified, this is the place to do it. You can even work on your Advanced Open Water Certification here. Imagine ticking that off your list with such stunning surroundings.
Night Diving Experiences
Don’t miss the chance for a night dive. It’s especially magical after a full moon. Tiny ostracods, these little crustaceans, come out to mate and create a bioluminescent glow in the water. It feels otherworldly, like you’ve stepped into a fantasy film.
Marine Park Protection
Bonaire is a National Marine Park, and you can feel how well protected the waters are. This means abundant coral and marine life. Before you dive or snorkel, you’ll need to pay a Nature Fee and wear a Nature Tag, which helps fund conservation efforts. It’s a small price for such a well-preserved environment.
Adventures on the Water
Beyond diving, Bonaire offers unique ways to experience its waters. Clear-bottom kayaks let you see the marine life below without even getting wet. Taking a kayak trip through the Lac Cai Mangroves on the southeastern tip is a must-do. The ecosystem there is fascinating.
Windsurfing and Paddleboarding
Lac Bay, specifically Sorobon Beach, is a fantastic spot for windsurfing and standup paddleboarding. The bay is incredibly shallow, allowing you to walk far out into the water – it almost feels like you’re walking on water. It’s a unique sensation that makes this beach quite special.
Relaxing at Sorobon Beach
After a session on the water, you can walk straight from the beach to the bar at Sorobon Beach Resort. It’s the kind of place where having a drink happens naturally after enjoying the bay.
Discovering Unspoiled Islands
Bonaire’s relaxed atmosphere means fewer crowds and more interaction with locals. This is part of its charm, offering a more authentic travel experience.
Klein Bonaire Excursion
A short, inexpensive water taxi ride takes you to Klein Bonaire. This tiny, uninhabited island is Dutch for “Little Bonaire.” It sits off the west coast and plays a vital role in protecting the marine environment between the two islands, allowing sea life to flourish. The snorkeling and diving here are exceptional, with healthy coral, numerous fish, and sea turtles.
What should I pack for Klein Bonaire?
Since the island is uninhabited, it’s crucial to pack everything you’ll need, especially drinking water. There are no facilities.
You’ll likely have the entire island to yourself, which is a truly rare travel experience these days.
Washington Slagbaai National Park
On the northern end of the island, Washington Slagbaai National Park offers a different kind of adventure. The park has unpaved roads, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended. The rugged terrain leads to Boca Slagbaai Beach, an incredible spot for cliff jumping.
Is cliff jumping safe at Boca Slagbaai Beach?
The cliffs are about 25 feet high, and the water is crystal clear. It’s wise to watch the locals first to understand the best way to jump and ensure safety.
This park is a great place to explore the island’s rugged natural beauty, far from the more developed coastal areas.
Exploring Bonaire’s Culinary Scene
Even on land, Bonaire offers unique culinary experiences. You can find everything from craft breweries to cactus vodka distilleries.
La Cantina Cerveceria
For a personalized drink experience, La Cantina Cerveceria is the place. You describe what you like, and they craft a cocktail just for you. They also have excellent fish, sourced directly from their own fish market. Their garden patio is a perfect evening spot. Don’t miss trying the Bonaire Blond beer, brewed on-site.
La Terrazza’s Unique Dining
La Terrazza offers a different kind of outdoor dining. There’s no set menu; you inform them of your dislikes and dietary restrictions, and they serve you until you’re satisfied. Each plate is affordably priced, with an option for a wine pairing.
Italy in the World
This local favorite is a small wine shop that transforms into a charming restaurant by night. It’s famous for its handmade pasta and impressive wine selection, living up to its name with a focus on Italian flavors.
Cactus Blue Bonaire Food Truck
For a quick, casual bite, especially after a dive, the burgers at Cactus Blue Bonaire are highly recommended. The Lionfish Burger is a standout. You can often find this food truck near Donkey Beach, which is a convenient stop after a dive at Salt Pier. Trying lionfish is a true culinary adventure.
Cadushy Distillery
A visit to Cadushy Distillery is a unique stop. They produce Cadushy Vodka, made from local cactus. The family-owned business is happy to share details about their distillation process. The cactus vodka is surprisingly smooth and a reflection of the island’s resourcefulness. It’s a place where you can learn about a unique local spirit.
Family Outing to Klein Bonaire
Taking Michael and the kids over to Klein Bonaire was a highlight. Lily, at seven, was fascinated by the clear water and spotting fish from the boat. Ethan, just four, loved running around on the nearly deserted beach, his laughter echoing. We packed a picnic and spent a peaceful afternoon exploring the shoreline. It felt like we’d found our own private island for a few hours, making it a perfect day trip for the family.