Scooter Rental on Bonaire

Renting a scooter on Bonaire is a popular choice for your first days on the island. You can easily explore downtown Kralendijk, find parking anywhere, and pay about half the price of a rental car. Most rental companies are based in Kralendijk and will deliver the scooter to your accommodation.

Prices and practical matters

Scooter rental costs between $20 and $50 per day, depending on the season and type. During low season (April-September) you'll pay around $25 per day for longer rentals, while high season (October-March) is more expensive. Electric scooters are available from $21 per day with free battery swapping. Most companies offer discounts for rentals of 3 days or more.

Helmet and lock are included as standard. Many companies offer free pickup and delivery service to your hotel. For scooters above 50cc you need an international driving license. Fuel costs are low because Bonaire is small and distances are short.

Where you can and cannot ride

With a scooter you can reach all beaches on the west and south coast without problems. The roads are paved and well maintained. You can easily ride to popular spots like 1000 Steps, Karpata, Salt Pier and Bachelor Beach. Lac Bay in the south is also easily accessible.

Note: scooters are not allowed in Washington Slagbaai National Park. The park has unpaved roads and steep hills that are not suitable for regular scooters. For the northern part of the island you need a car or 4WD vehicle.

Safety and traffic tips

Bonaire has quiet traffic, but watch out for free-roaming goats and donkeys along the road. Especially at sunset and early morning they walk on the warm asphalt. The animals have right of way, so brake and wait patiently until they move on.

Drive carefully in windy conditions. The trade winds can be strong, especially on the east side of the island. Always wear your helmet and bring enough water. Gas stations can be found in Kralendijk and at the airport. For short trips around town and to nearby beaches, a scooter is perfect, but for a complete island exploration you're better off choosing a rental car.

Why rent a scooter on Bonaire?

A scooter is perfect for exploring Bonaire. You're agile, can go anywhere, and park easily. Especially around Kralendijk, a scooter is ideal — you can ride straight from downtown to the dive sites along the coast.

Scooters are also much cheaper than cars. For couples and solo travelers, it's the smart choice. You feel the warm wind, smell the ocean, and stop wherever you want. The island is small enough to reach everywhere, big enough to stay interesting.

Bonaire has no traffic lights and little traffic. Perfect for relaxed touring around. Most rental companies are located in Kralendijk, close to the airport and hotels.

What does scooter rental cost on Bonaire?

Daily rates range from $25 to $45, depending on the type of scooter. A simple 50cc scooter is the cheapest. Want more comfort or a larger model? Then you pay a bit more.

Renting for a week? Then you usually get a discount. Many rental companies offer 10-15% discount for longer rentals. Do expect to pay a deposit — usually $100-200 per scooter.

Most rental companies offer basic insurance. Do check what's covered. Damage through your own fault often has to be paid by yourself. Fuel isn't a problem — scooters are economical and gas costs about $1.50 per liter.

What license do you need?

For scooters from 50cc onwards, you need a regular B license. That's the same license as for cars. Your Dutch license is valid on Bonaire — you don't need to apply for an international license.

Under 18? Then you can only ride a moped with a maximum of 25 km/h. For most tourists, a 50cc scooter is most practical — fast enough for all roads on the island.

Some rental companies strictly check validity. So make sure your license is valid for at least 6 more months. An expired license won't be accepted.

Traffic rules and safety

On Bonaire everyone drives on the right, just like in the Netherlands. The speed limit within built-up areas is 40 km/h, outside built-up areas 60 km/h. Alcohol limit is 0.5 promille — same as at home.

Helmet requirement exists on Bonaire. All passengers must wear a helmet. The rental company usually provides helmets, but check this in advance. Seat belts aren't required on scooters (obviously), but holding a phone while driving is prohibited.

The island has no traffic lights. Roundabouts are also rare. Most intersections work with right-of-way from the right. Local drivers are generally calm and respectful.

Road quality and routes

In Kralendijk and on the main roads, the asphalt is good. Going to remote places? Then it quickly becomes unpaved. Watch out for loose sand on the road — especially in curves this can be dangerous.

The coastal road to the south is perfect for scooters. You pass various dive sites and beaches. The route to Rincon in the north is also doable, though it's a bit more hilly.

Important warning: Do NOT take a scooter to Washington Slagbaai National Park. The roads there are unpaved and too difficult for regular scooters. You need a high SUV for that park. ATVs and golf carts are also prohibited there.

Preferably ride during the day. In the evening you see less well and more iguanas cross the road. Those animals are big enough to cause problems.

Types of scooters on Bonaire

Most rental companies have different types:

• Electric scooters: Quiet, environmentally friendly, perfect for short distances. Charging possible at most hotels.
• 50cc gas scooters: Standard choice, reliable, suitable for all roads on the island.
• 125cc scooters: More power, more comfortable for longer rides.
• Choppers and motorcycles: For those who want more style, though these aren't really scooters anymore.

Electric scooters are becoming more popular. They're quiet, so perfect if you want to go to dive sites early. The range is limited though — usually 50-70 kilometers per charge.

Reliable rental companies

Bonaire has many scooter rental companies. Some reliable names are Bon Scooters, Macho Scooters and Little John Scooters. For electric scooters you can go to Avila Electric Rental.

Most rental companies are located in Kralendijk. Some pick you up from the airport or hotel. Reserve in advance, especially during high season (December-April).

Practical tips

Always bring water — the sun is strong and you don't have air conditioning. Sunscreen is also essential. A small backpack for your things is handy.

Gas stations can be found in Kralendijk and at various rental companies. Most scooters have a small tank — enough for a day of touring.

Parking is never a problem anywhere. Bonaire has no blue zones or time restrictions. You just park your scooter where it's allowed.

Frequently asked questions about scooter rental on Bonaire

Do you need a license for scooters on Bonaire?

Yes, for scooters from 50cc onwards you need a valid B license. Your Dutch license is valid — no international license required. For mopeds up to 25 km/h, different rules apply, but those are too slow for tourism.

What does scooter rental cost on Bonaire per day?

Daily rates range from $25 to $45, depending on the type of scooter. A simple 50cc scooter is cheapest around $25-30. More comfort or power costs $35-45. Weekly rental often gives 10-15% discount.

Is it safe to ride a scooter on Bonaire?

Yes, Bonaire is relatively safe for scooter riders. There's little traffic, no traffic lights, and local drivers drive calmly. Do watch out for loose sand on roads and iguanas in the evening. Ride during the day and always wear a helmet.

Can you take a scooter to Washington Slagbaai?

No, scooters aren't suitable for Washington Slagbaai National Park. The roads there are unpaved and too difficult. You need a high SUV. ATVs, golf carts and regular scooters are prohibited in the park.

Is a helmet required on Bonaire?

Yes, helmet requirement applies to all passengers on scooters and motorcycles. The rental company usually provides helmets, but check this when booking. Riding without a helmet can result in fines.

What's the minimum age for scooter rental?

Most rental companies have a minimum age of 18 years for 50cc scooters. For mopeds up to 25 km/h this can be lower. You always need a valid license, even at 18+.

Are electric scooters available on Bonaire?

Yes, various rental companies offer electric scooters. They're quiet, environmentally friendly and perfect for short distances. The range is limited to 50-70 kilometers per charge though. Charging possible at most hotels.

Scooter or car rental on Bonaire, which is better?

That depends on your plans. A scooter is cheaper, agile and easier to park. Perfect for Kralendijk and the coastal route. Going to Washington Slagbaai or with more than 2 people? Then a car is better.