As you step off the plane onto Bonaire’s sunny, breezy shores, you’ll immediately feel like you’ve entered a diver’s paradise. Any scuba diver should make time to visit Bonaire, which is well-known throughout the world for its warm, clear seas and convenient shore diving. This fantastic diving location also has a unique, welcoming island atmosphere that makes vacationers feel right at home.
Shore Diving and So Much More
Did you know that Bonaire has more than 85 diving sites? That’s remarkable, given that the island is ten times smaller than Hawaii’s Big Island. Many of these sites are easily accessible from shore, so divers often rent a pickup truck and explore at their own pace.
One of the most popular dive sites is the Salt Pier, where stunning underwater pillars coated with coral provide the illusion of exploring an underwater cathedral. Schools of multicolored fish cluster beneath the pillars, while juvenile green turtles munch on seagrass in the shallows. Another place to dive is 1000 Steps, named for the limestone stairs that lead down to the beach (don’t worry, there are only about 67 steps!). Beautiful coral formations and excellent visibility allow for many encounters with parrotfish, angelfish, and the occasional curious barracuda. The ease of shore diving on Bonaire adds significantly to Bonaire’s popularity.
Though the shore diving in Bonaire is amazing, make sure to set out a day or two for boat diving, particularly on Klein Bonaire, a little island only 15 minutes away. This island is overflowing with untouched reefs and varied marine life. Also, visit the east coast, where boats offer encounters with turtles, tarpons, and eagle rays.
Is Bonaire Good for Beginner Divers?
Bonaire is an excellent choice for first-time divers due to its calm, clear seas and easy shore access. There is rarely any current, and visibility can often reach 100 feet. The island has many well-marked diving sites, most of which are accessible directly from the shore. The reefs begin quite shallow, allowing you to enjoy the very best of Bonaire while diving within your limits. For more experienced divers, there are dive sites like the Hilma Hooker, a well-known wreck dive, and Red Slave, which is known for passing eagle rays on their way to the east coast.
Accommodations on Bonaire
Where you stay can set the tone of your entire scuba holiday, and Bonaire has something for everyone. Buddy Dive Resort is an excellent place to stay, providing the ideal balance of luxury and convenience. Their ‘Drive & diving’ packages are especially good, as they include a rental truck for exploring diving spots at your own pace, as well as unlimited air fills. After a day spent underwater, sitting by the resort pool with a cold drink is an absolute joy. Other alternatives include boutique resorts and renting an apartment or villa. Yes, this includes oceanfront villas.
Best time to visit
When putting together a trip to Bonaire, timing may enhance your experience. The best time to go is during the dry season, which spans from November to May. During these months, the weather is ideal, with little rain and calm seas offering the best diving conditions. However, Bonaire’s calm waters make it a year-round diving destination. If you prefer fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons in May and October also offer good conditions.
Restaurants and Other Activities
Beyond diving, Bonaire has a variety of activities and dining options. The island’s culinary industry is an exciting combination of Caribbean flavors and Dutch influences. We highly recommend dining at It Rains Fishes in Kralendijk; their locally caught fish is delicious. For a more informal meal, Between 2 Buns serves tasty sandwiches and smoothies that are ideal for a quick lunch.
If you’re not diving or dining, roaming the island is just as rewarding. Drive up all the way north and explore Washington Slagbaai National Park, where you’ll see flamingos and iguanas. You can also take your car (or walk) through the donkey sanctuary, where you’ll be surrounded by hundreds of the island’s famous donkeys. Another must-see attraction is the Bonaire Museum, which teaches visitors about the island’s rich history and culture.
Join Scuba.Com on a Trip to Bonaire
If you want to visit Bonaire, look into joining one of Scuba.Com’s organized trips to the island. You’ll explore some of the world’s best shore diving destinations while staying at a dive resort with your travel group. A trip leader who is also a dive guide will be with you during your stay, providing an unforgettable and well-guided dive holiday. This is a fantastic opportunity to discover Bonaire.
