Bonaire
Welcome to your underwater paradise. With abundant marine life, over 80 official dive sites, and breathtaking views, you’ll never want to leave. Bonaire is often referred to as the shore diving capital of the world. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for any diver at any level.
Bonaire is an island municipality of the Netherlands and lies off the coast of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. It is a part of the ABC Islands, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao, and one of the three westernmost islands of the Leeward Antilles.
The southern part of the island is mostly flat while the northern side is hilly with it’s peak reaching 787 feet high. Around 70% of the island’s surface is coral limestone. The capital, Kralendijk, which translates to “coral reef” is a small town that boasts well-preserved Caribbean architecture.
Upcoming Trips
March 25-April 1, 2023
July 1-8, 2023
What To Expect
Scuba Diving
The calm waters allow novice divers to swim parallel to the shore with minimal currents. Advanced divers will enjoy unlimited shore dives and freedom to explore the ocean floor.
Keep your eyes out for:
- Parrotfish
- Angelfish
- Moray eels
- Barracudas
- Turtles
- Nurse sharks
Each dive site in Bonaire is marked with a large yellow rock with the site name painted on it. This makes it easy for you to hop in the car and drive to your next site easily. You’re on island time now and the sea is yours.
Bonaire is also known around the world for its conservation efforts. In 2012, the Bonaire Island Council permitted the Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire to start developing coral nurseries and restoration projects on the island. There are multiple programs on the island where divers can learn first-hand what it takes to care for these nurseries.
Culture
Bonairean culture is based on strong family ties and respect for nature. Their population is a mixture of African, Caribbean and Dutch influences. Dutch is the official language of Bonaire and Papiamento, a mixture of Portuguese, African, Spanish, Dutch and English is also commonly used.
Bonaire National Marine Park
The Bonaire National Marine Park encompasses all the waters surrounding the island and the uninhabited islet Klein Bonaire. The 6,700-acre preservation area is teeming with untouched coral and mangrove forests.
Shore Diving
It’s a no-brainer to take advantage of the shore diving Bonaire has to offer. As the “Shore Diving Capital of the World”, divers can hop in their rented vehicle and explore the island looking for the best dive spots. Each site is marked with a big yellow rock and there are over 80 sites to choose from.
Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire
It’s not every day you get to visit a donkey sanctuary! This sanctuary is committed to providing a protected life for all donkeys in Bonaire, and they currently house over 700 donkeys. You can visit by car or walk on foot to pet and feed the donkeys.
What prior travelers say
-Matt C.
Traveler Photos
Know Before You Go
Currency – The official currency of Bonaire is the U.S Dollar. ATMs are spread throughout the island and major credit cards are accepted at most major tourist establishments.
Language – Dutch is the official language of Bonaire. Papiamento, a mixture of Portuguese, African, Spanish, Dutch and English is also commonly used.
Electricity – Bonaire operates at 127 Volts AC at 50 Cycles (or Hertz or Hz). We advise bringing a transformer with you.
Water – It is perfectly safe to drink the tap water in Bonaire, which is distilled from sea water.
Passport – Passport must be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your trip.
Need help packing?
We can’t pack for you, but we can share our packing list and travel tips.