Nature on Bonaire

Bonaire: one of the best-protected islands in the Caribbean

While many Caribbean islands struggle with coral bleaching and overfishing, Bonaire has had a fully protected coastline since 1979. The Bonaire National Marine Park was one of the world's first marine parks and protects the entire reef down to 60 meters depth.

The result: one of the healthiest coral reefs in the western hemisphere, more than 350 fish species and an underwater world that divers and snorkelers can literally step into from shore. Above water it's equally remarkable: over 250 bird species, thousands of flamingos, sea turtles nesting on the beaches and a robust network of national parks and reserves.

Wildlife spotting on Bonaire

Bonaire is one of the best places in the Caribbean to see wild animals in their natural habitat.

Flamingos

The national symbol of Bonaire. Thousands of Caribbean flamingos gather at the Pekelmeer salt pans and Gotomeer. You'll see them almost everywhere along the coast, especially early morning and at sunset.

Sea turtles

Three species nest on Bonaire: the green turtle, hawksbill and loggerhead. The Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire (STCB) monitors every nest. You can encounter them while snorkeling at almost any spot along the west coast.

Dolphins and whales

Nine dolphin species swim in the deep waters around Bonaire. Bottlenose dolphins are regularly spotted from shore. With luck you'll see a humpback whale (January-March) or whale shark (October-December) during a boat trip.

Birdwatching

Over 250 species have been recorded on Bonaire, from tropical pelicans to the rare Caribbean parakeet. Washington Slagbaai National Park and the salt pans are the best spots for birdwatching.

Iguanas and lizards

The green iguana is everywhere on the island. Bonaire is also home to the endemic Bonaire whiptail and various geckos. Look closely at rock walls and cacti.

Ecosystems

The coral reef

More than 60 coral species form a reef accessible directly from shore. The double reef system along the west coast, a shallow terrace reef transitioning into a steep drop-off, makes Bonaire unique. Thanks to strict protection since 1979, the reef here is healthier than on most Caribbean islands.

Lac Bay mangroves

The mangroves on the southeast coast serve as a nursery for reef fish, turtles and crabs. You can kayak through them from Lac Bay, one of the best eco-experiences on the island.

Salt pans

The historic salt pans in the south (Pekelmeer) and north (Gotomeer) are not just industrial heritage but also the most important flamingo habitat. The pink water at sunset is one of Bonaire's most photographed spots.

Parks and reserves

Washington Slagbaai National Park

The entire northwest of Bonaire: 4,286 hectares of rugged nature with cactus landscapes, limestone caves, flamingo lakes and deserted beaches. Two driving routes (short and long) take you past the highlights, with stops for snorkeling, hiking or birdwatching.

Bonaire National Marine Park

Protects the entire coastal area down to 60 meters depth. All 86 official dive sites fall within the park. An annual nature tag (0) is required for anyone entering the water.

Klein Bonaire

The uninhabited island 800 meters from Kralendijk. Reachable by water taxi. Here you'll find Bonaire's whitest beach, the best snorkeling spots and the most important sea turtle nesting site. No facilities, bring water and shade.

Conservation

Bonaire's nature isn't a given, it's the result of decades of active protection. STINAPA manages both the marine park and Washington Slagbaai. STCB protects sea turtles and their nests. Echo Conservation works on restoring the lora parrot, Bonaire's endangered native parrot. Reef Renewal Foundation restores coral by growing fragments and replanting them on the reef.

As a visitor you contribute through the mandatory nature tag and by snorkeling and diving responsibly: don't stand on coral, don't take anything, and keep your distance from nesting turtles and flamingos.