Bonaire

Bonaire's unspoiled landscapes and welcoming community is perfect for a memorable getaway. From snorkeling adventures to enjoying a slow relaxed pace, the island promises something special for everyone.

Population26,552
LanguagesDutch, Papiamentu
Local time7:07 PM
Flagbq flag
CurrenciesNone
Area288 km²
Bonaire pink beach
30°C
few clouds
Feels like: 34°C

Best time to visit Bonaire

Bonaire is known for warm, steady weather all year, making it a solid choice whenever you go. The island sits outside the hurricane belt, giving it more consistent conditions than many Caribbean spots. That said, we recommend visiting from November to April for cooler evenings, low humidity, and the best underwater visibility (temperatur average around 82°F / 28°C). This is also the high season, so booking early is a good idea. May through October is quieter, with lower prices, fewer crowds, and only the occasional quick rain shower.

Where to stay in Bonaire

Bonaire is modest in size, easy to explore, and offers a calm atmosphere no matter where you stay. Most accommodations are near the coast, with options ranging from dive resorts and boutique hotels to peaceful villas. Below are some of the most popular areas to stay.

Kralendijk

Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire and the most popular place to stay. It offers a wide range of hotels, dive resorts, and casual apartments close to the water. It’s a good choice if you want to be near tour operators, boat trips, and walkable spots to eat or relax.

Kralendijk

Kralendijk. Photo by Matt Kieffer. CC by,

Other popular places to stay

Kralendijk is the most popular place to stay on the island, but there are a few other areas that attract visitors looking for more space, quiet, or direct access to the sea.

  • Belnem - A calm coastal area just south of town with oceanfront villas and a few low-key dive resorts.
  • Hato - North of Kralendijk, with casual hotels and easy entry points for snorkeling and diving.
  • Lac Bay - On the island’s eastern side, known for windsurfing and shallow turquoise waters. You’ll find a few small resorts and relaxed beachfront places to stay.

Is Bonaire safe?

Bonaire is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. The crime rate is low, especially when it comes to violent incidents. Petty theft can happen, but it is uncommon. As always, lock your doors, do not leave valuables in rental cars, and use the safe in your room for important items. Roads are generally safe to drive, and the local people are known for being welcoming and helpful.

Top things to do in Bonaire

Bonaire is all about nature, calm waters, and slow travel. From small towns and colorful reefs to salt flats and wild national parks, this island offers more than just beach time. Whether you stay close to Kralendijk or head off the beaten path, there’s plenty to explore.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

This protected park in the northwest shows off Bonaire’s rugged side with cactus hills, hidden beaches, and birdlife. Keep an eye out for flamingos, parrots, and iguanas as you explore the trails or drive. A few remote snorkel spots also sit within the park.

Washington Slagbaai National Park, Bonaire

WS National Park Coast. Photo by Paul Asman. CC by.

Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary

Located near the salt flats in the south, this protected area is home to one of the few natural flamingo breeding sites in the world. You can’t enter, but views from the road offer stunning glimpses of the birds in bright pink water. Early morning is the best time to visit.

Flamingos in Bonaire

Flamingos in Bonaire

Klein Bonaire

Just offshore from Kralendijk, this uninhabited island is a local favorite for snorkeling and quiet beach time. A short water taxi takes you to clear waters full of coral, turtles, and tropical fish. Bring your own supplies and enjoy a few hours of peaceful nature.

Diving in Bonaire

Diving in Bonaire

Klein Bonaire Marine Park Snorkeling Excursion
Free cancellation
5 (313)
Klein Bonaire Marine Park Snorkeling Excursion
3h 30min
$80
Watertaxi to Klein Bonaire on the No Name Beach
Free cancellation
5 (13)
Watertaxi to Klein Bonaire on the No Name Beach
0h 25min
$26
Semi Submarine Boat Experience to Klein Bonaire
Free cancellation
5 (30)
Semi Submarine Boat Experience to Klein Bonaire
1h
$33

Nightlife in Bonaire

Nightlife in Bonaire is relaxed and easygoing, focused on sunset views, music, and casual drinks by the sea. Most spots are in Kralendijk, where you’ll find beach bars, lounges, and live music without the crowds. Here are some popular places we recommend checking out:

  • Karel’s Beach Bar - Overwater bar known for sunset cocktails and a friendly vibe.
  • Little Havana - Popular bar offering live music, a good rum selection, and a local crowd.
  • Spice Beach Club - Beachside lounge with weekly events, happy hours, and evening BBQs.
  • Rum Runners - Waterfront bar and restaurant with ocean views and occasional live music.
  • The Hang Out Beachbar (Lac Bay) - Daytime windsurf spot that turns lively in the evening with drinks and chill music.

Where is Bonaire?

Bonaire is part of the ABC Islands, located just off the coast of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. It is modest in size, stretching around 40 kilometers from north to south. Its smaller sibling, Klein Bonaire, sits just offshore. Bonaire does not share any land borders, but nearby islands include Aruba and Curaçao.

Fun facts about Bonaire

  • Bonaire is one of the best shore diving destinations in the world with over 80 marked dive sites.

  • Flamingos are so common in Bonaire that the island’s airport is named Flamingo International.

  • Wild donkeys roam freely across the island and even have their own sanctuary.

  • Pink salt flats cover parts of the island and create amazing photo spots.

FAQ Bonaire

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