Situated in the beautiful Southern Caribbean, the island of Bonaire, together with Aruba and Curacao, form part of the ABC Islands of the Leeward Antilles. Known as a top destination worldwide for its sustainable tourism, the island boasts balmy weather, Dutch colonial history, and a fascinating rich West Indian heritage. It is known for its natural beauty too, featuring pristine beaches, calm, turquoise waters, and swaying palms. Dive among magnificent offshore reefs, enjoy horse riding along the white-sand beaches, and spot a variety of native and imported flora species and exotics. Other popular activities include kitesurfing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. With over 80 dive sites teeming with coral and marine life, Bonaire is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. Its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and national parks make it a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts.
Diving
Bonaire is often hailed as the shore diving capital of the world, famous for its pristine reefs, easy shore access, and protected marine environment. With over 85 dive sites—many accessible from the shore—Bonaire is a top-tier destination for divers of all levels.
Best Time to Dive
Year-round diving is possible in Bonaire, thanks to its calm waters and consistent weather. However:
- Peak Season: December to April (dry season, with increased tourism)
- Low Season: May to November (rainier but still diveable, with fewer crowds and better pricing)
Water Temperature:
- Ranges from 78°F to 84°F (25.5°C – 29°C) year-round
- Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm shorty or full wetsuit.
Marine Life Highlights
Bonaire’s marine park is one of the most biodiverse in the Caribbean:
- Tropical reef fish: angelfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish
- Macro life: frogfish, seahorses, nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp
- Larger species: tarpon, barracuda, eagle rays, and the occasional turtle
- Night diving reveals: octopuses, basket stars, and bioluminescence
Water Conditions
- Visibility: Excellent, usually 80–100+ feet (24–30m)
- Currents: Generally mild to nonexistent, especially near shore
- Surface conditions: Calm—ideal for shore diving and beginners
Top Dive Sites
- Hilma Hooker – A famous wreck at ~100 ft, home to tarpon and garden eels.
- Salt Pier – Photogenic structure teeming with schooling fish and macro life.
- 1000 Steps – Known for dramatic coral formations, turtles, and rays.
- Karpata – Dramatic reef drop-offs and vibrant sponges.
- Bari Reef – Just off the coast from many hotels, it has the most recorded species in the Caribbean.
Many sites are marked with yellow rocks on the roadside for self-guided shore diving.
Special Considerations
- Marine Park Tag required for all divers and snorkelers—funds support conservation.
- No gloves allowed; touching marine life is strictly prohibited.
- Nitrox available at most dive shops and recommended for repetitive dives.
Recommended Dive Gear
- 3mm wetsuit
- Booties: Bonaire’s rocky entries make sturdy booties essential
- Dive computer
- Underwater camera for macro and wide-angle
- Tank banger or pointer stick (for signaling, not touching)
- Surface marker buoy (SMB) for boat dive safety
Other Tips
- Rent a truck—most divers drive to sites independently. Depending on who you choose to stay with, truck rental may be included!
- Plan surface intervals to explore the island’s hiking, flamingo spotting, or kayaking.
- Night diving is spectacular and easy from shore.
