First Time Bonaire

Your first time in Bonaire: what you need to know

Bonaire is different from other Caribbean islands. No big resorts or crowded beaches, but the world's best diving and nature you won't find anywhere else. If you're going to this 111 sq mi island for the first time, it helps to know what to expect.

This island is all about underwater life. With 86 dive sites that are almost all reachable from shore, Bonaire is the shore diving capital of the world. But even if you don't dive, there's plenty to do: spotting flamingos, windsurfing in Lac Bay, or hiking through Washington Slagbaai National Park.

This guide tells you everything you need to know for your first visit: from practical matters to the most beautiful places to discover.

Before you go

Travel documents and currency

You need a valid passport to travel to Bonaire. A Dutch ID card is not accepted, even for Dutch citizens. Bonaire has used the US dollar (USD) as official currency since 2011. Credit cards are widely accepted, but bring some cash for small expenses.

The island is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone (UTC-4) without daylight saving time. From Amsterdam you fly about 9 hours direct with KLM or TUI.

What to expect weather-wise

Bonaire has a tropical climate year-round with temperatures between 81-90°F. The trade winds ensure it never feels muggy. The rainy season runs from October to January, but this usually means short, intense showers followed by sun.

Water temperature ranges between 79-82°F, ideal for diving and snorkeling without a thick wetsuit.

Getting around the island

Rental car is essential

Bonaire has no public transport, so a rental car is practically essential. The island has no traffic lights and the speed limit is 37 miles/h outside built-up areas, 25 miles/h inside. You drive on the right, just like in the Netherlands.

Parking is free and unlimited everywhere, there are no blue zones or time limits. Taxis are available but expensive: expect $15-20 from the airport to downtown Kralendijk.

Roads and accessibility

The main roads are good, but you reach some dive sites and beaches via unpaved roads. For Washington Slagbaai National Park you need a high SUV, regular cars can't get through.

Diving and snorkeling

Shore diving: why Bonaire is special

88% of Bonaire's dive sites are reachable from shore. You park your car along the road at the yellow-painted stone with the dive site number, walk into the water and dive. No boats, no fixed times, complete freedom.

The coral reef often starts just 16-35 feet from shore and underwater visibility averages 65-100 feet, sometimes up to 130 feet. You'll see parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels and regularly sea turtles.

Nature Fee and rules

To dive or snorkel you pay a Nature Fee of $40 per year to STINAPA. This also gives access to Washington Slagbaai National Park. Dive shops check this, so arrange it upon arrival.

Important rule: don't touch the coral. Gloves are prohibited in the Marine Park. Two areas are completely closed: the Queen Maxima Reserve and the King Willem-Alexander Reserve.

What to do besides diving

Klein Bonaire

The uninhabited islet Klein Bonaire lies 0.5 miles off the coast. You reach it by water taxi ($25 return) from Kralendijk. No Name Beach has the whitest sand in the region and is an important nesting area for sea turtles.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

This 4,286 hectare nature park in the north harbors almost 210 bird species. The park is open Tuesday to Sunday from 8:00-17:00 (last entry 14:30). You follow a 34-kilometer route past beaches, salt lakes and viewpoints.

Note: you need a high SUV for the unpaved roads. Bring your own food and water, there are no restaurants in the park.

Spotting flamingos

Bonaire has more than 10,000 flamingos. The best spots are the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary (only viewable from distance), Gotomeer and the salt pans in the south. Always keep your distance, disturbance is strictly prohibited.

Food and nightlife

Local cuisine

Try local dishes like kabritu stobá (stewed goat meat), funchi (corn porridge), piska kriyá (fried fish) and pan bati (corn bread). Warungs (local eateries) serve authentic dishes for $10-15 per person.

With over 100 restaurants you have plenty of choice. Expect $25-50 per person in restaurants. A tip of 10-15% is customary.

Nightlife is limited

Bonaire is not a party island. Nightlife is limited to a few cafes in Kralendijk. The island sleeps early, by 22:00 it's quiet everywhere.

Practical tips for beginners

Budget planning

Bonaire is not cheap. Expect $150-200 per day for two people including accommodation, rental car, food and activities. Groceries are 30-50% more expensive than in the Netherlands due to imports.

What to bring

Bring reef-safe sunscreen, other types damage the coral. A light wetsuit or rashguard is useful for extended snorkeling. Check our complete packing list for an overview of everything you need.

Best time to visit

Bonaire is good to visit year-round. April to November has the calmest seas and best diving conditions. December to March can have more waves due to trade winds. September and February are popular months each with their own charm.

For families with children: Bonaire is very suitable for children who can already swim. The shallow water of Lac Bay is ideal for beginning snorkelers. Read our special family-friendly guide for tips.

Related guides

Discover more about Bonaire with our other guides: Honeymoon in Bonaire for romantic tips, and our packing list so you don't forget anything for your trip to this special island.