Bonaire in September

Why visit Bonaire in September?

September on Bonaire marks the transition from rainy season to drier months. You might still get tropical downpours, but they're usually short and intense. The benefits? Fewer tourists than winter, lower accommodation prices, and the island is beautifully green after the rains.

The weather is still tropically warm with temperatures around 81-90°F. Trade winds provide cooling, especially on the east coast at Lac Bay. September is an excellent month for diving - the water is 79-82°F and underwater visibility is often great.

For most activities, the month makes little difference. You can dive year-round, nature is always beautiful, and restaurants stay open. September falls in the quieter period, so you get more space at dive sites and beaches.

Weather and climate in September

Temperature and humidity

Air temperature ranges from 81°F at night to 90°F during the day. Due to the tropical location, it's warm year-round, but trade winds provide cooling. Humidity sits around 75-80%, which is noticeable but not unbearable thanks to the wind.

Rainfall

September still falls in rainy season, which runs from May to December. Average rainfall is 89mm spread across about 15 days. This doesn't mean it rains 15 days straight - tropical showers are often short but intense, followed by sunshine.

Wind and sea conditions

The northeast trade wind blows at 20-25 knots (23-29 miles/h). On the west coast, where most dive sites are located, the sea is usually calm. On the east coast at Lac Bay, windsurfers and kiteboarders benefit from the constant wind.

Diving and snorkeling

Water temperature and visibility

Seawater maintains a constant temperature of 79-82°F. A wetsuit isn't necessary - a rashguard or shorty suffices for sun protection and minor scrapes. Underwater visibility averages 65-100 feet, sometimes up to 130 feet.

Which dive sites are best?

All 86 dive sites around Bonaire are accessible year-round. In September, popular spots like 1000 Steps, Hilma Hooker (the famous wreck), and Town Pier are less crowded. Klein Bonaire, reachable by boat, often has the best visibility.

Nature Fee and practical matters

You need a Nature Fee of $40 per year to dive. This gives access to both Bonaire National Marine Park and Washington Slagbaai National Park. Dive shops check this, so arrange it upon arrival at STINAPA or a dive center.

Activities and attractions

Washington Slagbaai National Park

The park is open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM (closed Mondays). In September, the landscape is green from the rains. You need a high SUV for the 21 miles route. The park may close temporarily during heavy rainfall, so check status with STINAPA.

Flamingo spotting

Flamingos are present on Bonaire year-round. Best spots are Gotomeer, the salt pans in the south, and Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary. Keep your distance - disturbing them is prohibited. September is good because there are fewer visitors.

Lac Bay and mangroves

Lac Bay harbors one of the Caribbean's most important mangrove ecosystems. The mangroves are extra green in September from the rains. You can kayak here, windsurf, or simply swim in the shallow water.

Practical information

What to pack for September?

Bring light, breathable clothing and definitely a rain jacket or umbrella. Quick-dry clothes are handy after tropical showers. For diving, a rashguard suffices. Don't forget reef-safe sunscreen - other types are prohibited.

Accommodation and prices

September falls in low season, so accommodation prices are lower than winter. Still book in advance - the island has limited capacity. Many resorts and villas offer discounts.

Transportation

A rental car is practically essential on Bonaire. There's no public transport. Roads can be slippery after rain, so drive carefully. Speed limit is 25 miles/h in built-up areas, 37 miles/h elsewhere.

Events and festivals

September is quiet in terms of major events. This means you experience the 'real' Bonaire without festival crowds. Local restaurants and bars stay open, and you have more chance for contact with locals.

Some businesses use September for maintenance since it's low season. Check in advance if your favorite restaurant or dive center is open.

Food and drink

All restaurants stay open in September. This is a good time to try local specialties like kabritu stobá (stewed goat), funchi (cornmeal), or fresh fish. Many restaurants have terraces that are pleasant in the evening when temperatures drop.

Tap water is safe to drink - it's produced via reverse osmosis. In cafés and restaurants you pay in USD. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Related guides

Compare September with other months in our Bonaire in March guide or Bonaire in November guide. Considering a romantic trip? Read our Honeymoon on Bonaire guide for special tips.