If you follow our adventures on Instagram, then you’ll know how much we love to visit the Caribbean! So, if you’re in desperate need of a good ol’ dose of vitamin sea, then we’ll always recommend going on a Caribbean vacation or holiday to get your fix. Maybe you’re dreaming of a luxury break in Cancun, planning to explore the entire island of Barbados, or anticipating relaxing on a beach in Turks and Caicos. Well, this time around, we’re here to tell you about another island you need to check out… Bonaire.
This particular island was voted one of Travel + Leisure readers’ favourite islands in the Caribbean and with good reason. Bonaire delivers on the promise of clear turquoise waters, sun-soaked beaches, and warm weather year-round, but it also offers a quieter small-town nature experience.
There are probably lots of things you’d love to know about Bonaire. Here are some frequently asked questions about this Dutch Caribbean island… asked by travellers like you!
What is Bonaire best known for?
Oh, Bonaire is a dazzling jewel in the Caribbean, famed for its world-class scuba diving and snorkelling! The island’s surrounding waters are part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, offering pristine, crystal-clear visibility and a stunning array of marine life. Imagine swimming alongside vibrant parrotfish, majestic sea turtles, and schools of shimmering fish – it’s like entering a whole new world under the sea!
What is there to do in Bonaire if you don’t dive?
The lush Washington Slagbaai National Park, covering a significant part of the island, is a haven for hiking, bird watching, and discovering the island’s diverse flora and fauna. Let’s not forget windsurfing and kitesurfing! With consistent trade winds, Bonaire’s Lac Bay is a paradise for windsurfers, while the island’s western and southern shores are perfect for kitesurfing enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the island’s conditions and schools make it an ideal spot to catch the wind in your sails!
Which island is better? Curacao or Bonaire?
Choosing between Curaçao and Bonaire is like picking between two slices of paradise! Curaçao dazzles with its vibrant culture, colourful architecture, and lively beaches, perfect for those seeking a blend of history and beach life. Bonaire, on the other hand, is a haven for nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts, renowned for its serene beauty, world-class diving, and commitment to conservation. Your choice depends on what you’re after – cultural vibrancy and bustling beaches in Curaçao or tranquil natural beauty and aquatic adventures in Bonaire!
How many days do you need in Bonaire?
To truly savour the wonders of Bonaire, a stay of at least 7 to 10 days is ideal. This duration allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s exceptional underwater world with multiple diving or snorkelling trips. You’ll also have ample time to explore Bonaire’s natural landscapes, like the Washington Slagbaai National Park, indulge in leisurely beach days, and even try windsurfing or kitesurfing. A week or more ensures a relaxed pace to experience both the adventurous and serene sides of this Dutch Caribbean paradise!
Is Klein Bonaire worth visiting?
Absolutely, Klein Bonaire is a must-visit! This uninhabited islet, a short boat ride from Bonaire’s main island, is a slice of untouched paradise. Renowned for its pristine beaches and some of the best snorkelling and diving spots, Klein Bonaire offers an idyllic escape into nature. You’ll find stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life just off its shores. With no developments, it’s a perfect spot for a tranquil day of sunbathing, swimming, and exploring the rich underwater world. A true gem, definitely worth visiting!
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What are the best things to do in Bonaire in 2024?
Without further ado, here are some of the best and most enjoyable things you can do in Bonaire. Hopefully, our list of activities will give you some inspiration when planning your trip.
Table of Contents
1. Stay for the Dives
Bonaire is known to be one of the best diving spots in the world. Its surrounding waters are the protected Bonaire National Marine Park which boasts more than 57 species of coral and 350 species of fish.
You can book a diving package at one of the island’s resorts to enjoy idle stays and world-class diving services. All of these diving spots are just a short drive from many of Bonaire’s luxury villas that are available for tourists to book to make the most of their travels. These villas offer more privacy and flexibility after checking out more than 85 diving sites on the island.
2. Catch some Kiteboarding Winds
If you hear the words “kiteboarding” or “kitesurfing” and you get a rush, then Bonaire has a special place for you. The island is known as one of the best kiteboarding spots in the Caribbean.
Head to the Atlantic Kite Beach on the island’s southern tip. You can bring your own gear or rent from the kiteboarding schools. Those who have yet to explore the sport can also take private or group lessons.
Must-haves for every beach holiday! Don't forget to pack these travel essentials for your Bonaire trip
3. Explore the Mangroves
The mangrove forests here are among the best-preserved in the Caribbean. You can take tours to see the rich mangrove forest ecosystem and marine life. You can also book kayak tours through the Mangrove Information Centre Bonaire. They offer guided tours daily through a kayak or solar-powered boats. Additionally, you can do snorkelling on some of the tours.
4. Drift with Views Towards Klein Bonaire
Hugged by the crescent-shaped island of Bonaire is an islet called Klein Bonaire. This islet is known for its vast array of marine life, and it’s a great spot to take half-underwater photos with a GoPro!
You can take a water taxi from the promenade in Kralendijk that will take you offshore to begin a drift snorkelling adventure. Let the current lead you to the beach to lounge in the sun or set up a picnic. You can also book a yacht or catamaran cruise to explore the coastline while enjoying food and drinks on board.
5. Sail on Land
Yes, you read that right. Bonaire offers an adrenaline boost in the form of a unique land sailing activity. Also known as “blow karting”, land sailing is just like go-karting, but the wind pulls you along as you hold on to a sail.
Once you book your adventure, you can rest assured that your activity provider will supply necessary equipment, as well as training for those who are newbies.
6. Visit the Donkeys
The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire takes care of more than 800 donkeys that have been injured or orphaned.
You can visit the Sanctuary and spend time with the donkeys as part of a guided tour. Feed the donkeys by driving your car in the park or walk through the special care meadow to see the sick, injured, or newly born donkeys.
7. Savour the Local Bonairian Cuisine
In 2022, Bonaire was certified as a Culinary Capital by the World Food Travel Association (WFTA). Bonaire’s rich culinary culture of influences from different parts of the world, coupled with the freshest ingredients, has made dining here a must-do.
The island offers authentic island food with its many waterfront restaurants, eateries, and food trucks. You can taste the fare at top restaurants Bras Boer and CHEFS Bonaire, snag a Lionfish burger at the Cactus Blue food truck, or taste the goat stew at Maiky Snack.
8. See Pink! Flamingo Watching
Bonaire is an excellent place for birdwatching. Among the many species of birds on the island, the vividly coloured flamingos might be one of the most visited.
The Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary is one of only four areas in the world where flamingos breed. Although tourists are not allowed in the sanctuary, you can head to the nearby viewing spots to marvel at more than ten thousand flamingos in one place.
As you can see, Bonaire is home to some really great activities, so these are just a few of our top picks for places to enjoy on your trip.
With our comprehensive list of the best things to do in Bonaire, you’ll be sure to find an activity that helps you to have a holiday or vacation to remember.
Plan Your Trip to Bonaire
Excited? Count down the seconds until your Bonaire trip with our CAN’T WAIT! Vacation & Holiday Countdown App !
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GUIDED TOURS, ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO IN BONAIRE
- GetYourGuide.com – Excellent guided tours and all of the best things to do in Bonaire, hand-picked by local, English and Dutch speaking tour guides.
PLACES TO STAY IN BONAIRE
- SunwiseBonaire.com offers the lowest prices from a huge choice of luxury villas in Bonaire!
CHEAP FLIGHTS TO BONAIRE
- Skyscanner will get you up to 20% OFF your flight price by comparing flight prices on hundreds of websites including Expedia, Opodo, British Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, KLM and more! Book a few weeks in advance and you’ll find cheap flights to Bonaire, including international flights flying direct to Flamingo International Airport from major cities.
