About Bonaire
Bonaire is a diver's paradise and nature lover's dream in the southern Caribbean. This special municipality of the Netherlands is world-renowned for its pristine marine environment, with the entire coastline protected as the Bonaire National Marine Park since 1979. The island's crystal-clear turquoise waters offer some of the planet's most accessible shore diving, with over 80 marked dive sites featuring vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks. Above water, Washington Slagbaai National Park covers nearly 20% of the island with hiking trails, flamingo-filled salt pans, and dramatic desert landscapes. The colorful capital of Kralendijk features Dutch colonial architecture, waterfront dining, and the charming Wilhelmina Park. Bonaire's unique blend of Dutch efficiency and Caribbean warmth creates a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can explore pink sand beaches at Lac Bay, watch salt harvesting operations, or visit the historic slave huts at the island's southern tip. The island's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection makes it an eco-conscious traveler's ideal destination.
Things to do in Bonaire
100% Private Charter Snorkel, Sail, Relax (Cruisers Friendly)
From $455
5.0 (137)
Bonaire Cave Tour: Walk, Climb & Swim
From $75
5.0 (114)
E-Snorkeling tour in Bonaire with easy Sea Scooters
From $125
5.0 (95)
6 days Air/Nitrox package
From $205
5.0 (87)
Aquaspace Sunset Sail and Snorkel Tour on Bonaire with Diner
Private Bonaire North & South Tour
From $195
5.0 (54)
Private 1/2 Day Yacht Charter in Bonaire - Customizable!
Private Bonaire South & Snorkeling Experience
From $245
5.0 (31)
Big Game Fishing charter and Snorkeling trips Bonaire
Discover Scuba Diving in Diver's Paradise!
From $299
5.0 (26)
Private Bonaire South Tour
From $145
5.0 (23)
Private Sunset Dinner Cruise in Bonaire w/ Sailing & Snorkeling
1 Hour Mangrove Kayak Tour
From $40
5.0 (18)
Private Bonaire North Tour
From $165
5.0 (17)
Bonaire Fishing Charters
From $775
5.0 (16)Places to visit in Bonaire
Red Hill
Red Hill, Bonaire, Netherlands
Villa Cassiopeia
Villa Cassiopeia, Kaya International 90, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Bruce Bowker's Carib Inn
Bruce Bowker's Carib Inn, Julio A Abraham Boulevard, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Villa Alcyone Bonaire
Villa Alcyone Bonaire, Sabal Palm 29, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Kas Des
Kas Des, Kaya Sirena, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Coral Paradise Resort
Coral Paradise Resort, Kaya Gob. N. Debrot 107, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Mati Mati
Mati Mati, Kaminda Onima, Rincon, Netherlands
One Ocean
One Ocean, Kaya Gob. N. Debrot 159-161, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Cave
Cave, Kaminda Turistiko, Bonaire, Netherlands
Bara di Karta Hill
Bara di Karta Hill, Bara di Karta Hiking Trail, Bonaire, Netherlands
Coco Loco
Coco Loco, Lima 73, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Bellafonte Luxury Oceanfront Hotel
Bellafonte Luxury Oceanfront Hotel, EEG Boulevard 10, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Put Bronswinkel
Put Bronswinkel, Short Route, Bonaire, Netherlands
Boka Onima
Boka Onima, Kaminda Onima, Rincon, Netherlands
Casa Mantana Bonaire
Casa Mantana Bonaire, Kaya Finlandia 10, Kralendijk, Netherlands
Travel Tips for Bonaire
Getting Around
Renting a car, jeep, or pickup truck is highly recommended as public transportation is limited. Several international and local rental agencies operate at the airport and in Kralendijk. Driving is on the right side with Dutch road signs. Taxis are available but expensive and should be arranged in advance for longer trips. Bicycles are popular for short distances in town. Many visitors rent golf carts for exploring the island. For diving, most operators provide transportation from hotels. The island is small (24 miles long, 3-7 miles wide) making it easy to explore. Navigation apps like Google Maps work well, but offline maps are useful in remote areas.
Best Time To Visit
December to April offers the driest weather with average temperatures of 82°F (28°C) and minimal rainfall, though this is peak tourist season. May to November is warmer and more humid with occasional brief showers, but offers fewer crowds and better rates. September and October have the highest chance of rain. The island hosts several festivals worth planning around: the Bonaire International Sailing Regatta (October), Bonaire Dive Festival (October), Carnival (February/March), and Dia di Rincon (April 30th) celebrating the island's oldest village.
Local Customs
Bonaire has a relaxed 'Bon Bini' (welcome) culture blending Dutch and Caribbean influences. Dress is casual but modest when not at the beach - cover up when leaving beach areas. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10-15% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Greet people with a friendly 'Bon dia' (good day). Respect the environment - touching coral or collecting shells is prohibited. The island celebrates both Dutch and local holidays. Sunday is generally quiet with many businesses closed. Papiamento is the local language - learning a few phrases is appreciated. The pace of life is slow - practice patience. Nudity is illegal on all beaches.
Safety Information
Bonaire is generally very safe with low crime rates. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Exercise normal precautions in urban areas and at night. Petty theft can occur, especially from unattended vehicles or beach bags - never leave valuables visible in rental cars. Theft from boats and dive equipment left unattended has been reported. Avoid isolated areas after dark. Road conditions are generally good, but watch for wandering goats, donkeys, and iguanas. When diving, follow established safety protocols and never dive alone. Be cautious of strong currents at some dive sites. There are no dangerous sharks in Bonaire's waters, but respect marine life and coral by maintaining proper buoyancy.
Health Information
Medical facilities on Bonaire are adequate for routine care, with the main hospital being Hospital San Francisco in Kralendijk. For serious medical emergencies, patients may need evacuation to Aruba, Curaçao, or the United States. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance covering medical evacuation. No special vaccinations are required, but routine vaccines should be up to date. Dengue fever occurs occasionally, so mosquito protection is recommended. Tap water is safe to drink as it comes from a modern desalination plant. The island has several pharmacies, but bring any prescription medications you need. Dehydration and sunburn are common concerns - drink plenty of water and use strong sunscreen.
Languages Spoken
DutchPapiamentoEnglishSpanish
Quick Facts
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
$
$
Timezone
America/Kralendijk -04:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+599
Electricity
Driving Side
Right
Population
22,600
Area
294 km²
Government
Special municipality of the Netherlands with island council and lieutenant governor
ISO Code
BQ-BO