Bonaire is truly a special corner of the southern Caribbean, a place many might not think of until they’re looking for something truly unique. It feels like a well-kept secret, even though it’s known for cruises. This island might be small, but it packs a punch with outdoor fun and opportunities for everyone, whether you’re an experienced diver or just want to relax. I’m excited to share what makes Bonaire such a fantastic destination for a memorable tropical holiday.
History and Facts About Bonaire
Bonaire is part of the ABC islands in the Caribbean Sea, along with Aruba and Curacao. These islands are located off the coast of Venezuela and, thankfully, are outside the usual hurricane zone. This means you can plan a visit during the hurricane season, from May to November, with less worry about storms.
For a long time, Bonaire was part of the Netherlands Antilles. When that dissolved in 2010, Bonaire became a special municipality of the Netherlands, along with Sint Eustatius and Saba. The island’s population is about 18,000 people.
You’ll hear Papiamentu spoken here, which means “welcome” when you say “Bon Bini!” It’s a Creole language with roots in West Africa and Portuguese, spoken across Bonaire, Aruba, and Curacao. While Dutch is the official language for government, Papiamentu is widely used by locals, and English and Spanish are also commonly understood. I found it helpful to learn a few Papiamentu phrases!
The currency in Bonaire is the US dollar. This makes things very straightforward for travelers from the United States and is convenient for Canadians as well.
Getting Around Bonaire
Renting a car is definitely the way to go if you want to explore Bonaire at your own pace. You can pick one up at the Bonaire International Airport or in Kralendijk, the capital. I recommend comparing prices with companies like Discover Cars to find the best deals.
If you plan on driving into Washington Slagbaai National Park, it’s a good idea to rent a 4×4. The dirt roads inside the park can be quite rough and uneven.
Amazing Bonaire Attractions
Explore the Underwater World
For many, Bonaire is a dream destination for snorkeling and diving. It’s absolutely one of the best spots in the Caribbean, and even worldwide, for these activities. The commitment to nature conservation here is incredible; 100% of the waters around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire are protected, along with 20% of the land. It’s so important to use reef-safe sunscreen when you enter the water.
Bonaire National Marine Park
Established in 1979, the Bonaire National Marine Park is the oldest marine reserve anywhere. Its journey to protect marine life began by protecting turtles in 1961. Spear fishing was banned in 1971, and all coral received protection in 1975. The park covers the waters around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire, a vast area with 86 public dive sites. A strict no-anchoring policy is in place to safeguard the coral reefs, and many sites are accessible right from the shore.
Snorkeling at Klein Bonaire
A trip to Klein Bonaire is a must for snorkeling. This small island, just 800 meters off Bonaire’s coast, is a haven for divers and snorkelers. It’s surrounded by stunning coral reefs teeming with fish and sea creatures. Since 1999, it’s been managed by the Bonaire National Marine Park and serves as an important turtle nesting site. You have a really high chance of spotting sea turtles here, which was one of my most magical experiences. You can join a snorkeling tour that takes you to different spots around Klein Bonaire, often timed for a beautiful sunset. For a more private experience, you can charter a boat to sail and snorkel at your own pace.
Washington Slagbaai National Park
You could easily spend a full day exploring Washington Slagbaai National Park. This ecological reserve, Bonaire’s first nature sanctuary established in 1969, is located in the northern part of the island. It’s a natural habitat for many plants and animals, including birds, reptiles like iguanas and parrots, and flamingos. The beaches here are also important nesting grounds for turtles.
Hiking Trails at Washington Slagbaai
There are three hiking trails to choose from within the park. The Lagadishi Walking Trail is an easier two-hour walk offering views of salt flats, dunes, mangroves, and the beach. The Subi Brandaris Trail is a moderately challenging 45-minute hike to the highest peak on Bonaire, Brandaris. For a more strenuous trek, the Kasikunda Climbing Trail leads to a volcanic peak with uneven terrain. Remember to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water since it gets hot.
Points of Interest within the Park
Two driving routes guide you through the park’s points of interest. The shorter route is good if you want to climb Brandaris or reach the island’s northernmost point. The longer route takes you to various natural attractions, including beaches like Playa Chikitu, Playa Funchi (great for snorkeling), and Boka Kokolishi (a black sand beach). Boka Bartol and Wayaka are excellent dive sites, and you can also visit the Seru Bentana lighthouse.
Discover Kralendijk and Its Surroundings
Kralendijk Capital City
Kralendijk is Bonaire’s charming capital and main port. It’s the hub for shopping, dining, and cafes. If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’ll find it conveniently located right next to the port. For local flavors, you can try restaurants like GoGreen for vegetarian and vegan options or Peanuts Bonaire for fresh market fare with vegan and gluten-free choices.
Kaya Grandi Shopping Street
Kaya Grandi is Kralendijk’s main shopping street. The buildings are painted in bright colors, showcasing architectural styles from the early 1900s. It’s a refreshing change from typical tourist areas, as most shops are independently owned, offering a chance to find unique items rather than big brand names.
Bonaire Art and Craft Market
For more unique finds, the Bonaire Art and Craft Market is a great stop. It’s often open when cruise ships are in port, especially during winter. Here, you can find handmade items from local artisans, such as glass jewelry. I especially loved admiring the pieces made from Dichroic Glass, which sparkle beautifully in the sun. You can also purchase locally harvested sea salt and bath salts, which I found to be a wonderful souvenir for a relaxing aromatherapy experience at home.
Plasa Machi Mimi Market
The distinctive yellow building of Plasa Machi Mimi is right by the waterfront at the cruise port. On Fridays, a vegetable market takes place here, with traders coming from Venezuela to sell fresh produce. It’s an interesting place to visit if you’re curious about local markets and old buildings.
Beautiful Beaches to Visit
With over 22 beaches, you can easily explore a new one each day. Bonaire’s beaches range from soft white sand to darker shades created from crushed coral and shells.
Lac Bay
Lac Bay is a large area with beautiful white sand beaches, perfect for relaxing. Sorobon Beach within Lac Bay is known for its soft sand and clear turquoise waters. Beyond its beauty, Lac Bay is a world-renowned spot for windsurfing. You can rent equipment and take lessons here, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. You can also enjoy kayaking through the mangroves, offering a peaceful way to see the unique ecosystem and spot different mangrove species. Some kayak tours even include snorkeling opportunities, allowing you to see the clear waters beneath your glass-bottom kayak. Lac Bay is part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, and all guides are certified to ensure the landscape remains protected.
Eden Beach
Eden Beach, located at the , is a popular white sand beach near Kralendijk. It’s a convenient option for cruise ship visitors due to its proximity to the port and the water taxi to Klein Bonaire. The Spice Beach Club offers a lively atmosphere with food and drink, and you can also rent water sports and snorkeling gear. It’s a great spot for a fun afternoon with plenty of loungers and palm trees.
Atlantis Beach
On the southwestern coast, near the salt flats, Atlantis Beach is the go-to spot for kitesurfing. It’s known for being a bit more beginner-friendly than windsurfing, as you’re attached to the board and sail. You can book private lessons here, which include all the necessary equipment and one-on-one instruction.
Pink Beach
Bonaire has its own pink sand beach, much like Bermuda. The pink hue comes from crushed shells of microscopic sea creatures. While not the softest for lounging, Pink Beach is an excellent spot for snorkeling directly from the shore and is also a lovely place for a picnic.
Must-See Bonaire Landmarks
Salt Flats and Flamingo Sanctuaries
Salt Flats of Pekelmeer
The Salt Flats of Pekelmeer, located on the low-lying southern end of the island, are a fascinating sight. The shallow lagoons have been cultivated for salt production for centuries. You’ll see impressive mounds of white salt contrasting with the pink salt pans. This area is also an Important Bird Area, with a large region designated as a Flamingo Breeding Reserve, crucial for their survival. Bringing binoculars is recommended for spotting flamingos, as they can be quite elusive here.
Goto Lake for Flamingos
Goto Lake, or Gotomeer, is another prime location for spotting flamingos, often with a better chance than at the salt pans. This shallow, saline lagoon is just south of Washington Slagbaai National Park. It’s a wetland of international importance and a breeding site for flamingos, as well as home to many other breeding and migratory shorebirds. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching, and you’re likely to see at least a few flamingos.
Historic and Cultural Stops
Willemstoren Lighthouse
The Willemstoren Lighthouse, built in 1837, stands at the southern tip of the island. It’s a famous landmark, perfect for taking photos, though it’s not open to the public. It’s worth a visit if you’re exploring the southern part of Bonaire.
Rincon Oldest Village
For a deep dive into Bonaire’s history, visit Rincon, its oldest settlement. You can pick up a self-guided walking tour brochure from the Bonaire Heritage Foundation or arrange a guided tour. While in Rincon, stop by the Cadushy Distillery to sample their unique Cactus Liqueur, Cadushy of Bonaire. They also offer other liqueurs named after the Dutch Caribbean islands, and it’s a pleasant place to relax with a cocktail.
Bonaire Botanical Garden
Near Rincon, the Bonaire Botanical Garden specializes in native desert plants. You’ll find a variety of cacti, medicinal plants, and organic herb gardens. A tour here lasts about an hour and a half and includes a refreshing cup of herbal tea made from ingredients grown in the garden.
Unique Bonaire Experiences
Explore Bonaire’s Caves
Bonaire’s rocky, volcanic landscape hides various caves. Exploring them with a local guide is highly recommended for safety and to discover the best spots. A guided cave tour can take you to three different caves, offering a unique perspective on the island’s geology.
Landsailing Adventures
An unusual and fun activity is landsailing, or sailing on sand. After a short lesson, you can race around a designated track using a blokart. This activity is great for all ages, with options for smaller children to ride along in a “side car.” You have full control over the speed, making it an exhilarating experience.
There are so many wonderful ways to experience Bonaire that it’s hard to choose! I’m already looking forward to my next visit to explore more of its natural beauty and unique culture.