Money & ATMs on Bonaire

If you're planning to withdraw money Bonaire, there are several important things you need to know. The US dollar is the only valid currency on the island and you have various payment options. From ATMs to credit cards - this complete guide tells you everything you need to know about paying on Bonaire.

Currency and payment methods on Bonaire

US dollar as official currency

The US dollar Bonaire has been the official currency of the island since January 1, 2011. Until that date, people paid with the Netherlands Antillean guilder (NAf), but this has been completely replaced by the USD. This decision was made to make the island more accessible to American tourists and strengthen economic ties with the United States.

Euros are not accepted on Bonaire. The old Netherlands Antillean guilders are also completely out of circulation and have no value anymore. You must always pay in US dollars, whether it's cash Bonaire or electronic payments.

It's important to know that all prices on the island are displayed in USD. From restaurant bills to hotel stays - everything is priced in US dollars. Large dollar bills ($50 and $100) are not always accepted in small shops and warungs, so make sure you have smaller denominations.

Exchange rate and price level

The exchange rate between the euro and the US dollar fluctuates daily. Currently, the rate is around 1 euro = 1.05-1.10 dollars, but this can vary considerably. It's wise to check the current rate before you leave.

The price level on Bonaire is on average 20-30% higher than in the Netherlands. This is because almost everything has to be imported from the mainland. Daily groceries cost about $80-120 per week for two people. Lunch at a local restaurant costs $15-25, while dinner at a more upscale restaurant runs $30-50 per person.

Fuel is relatively cheap due to proximity to Venezuela and refineries on Curaçao. Count on about $1.20-1.40 per liter of gasoline. Car rental at Smiley Rentals Bonaire or Allroad Rental Bonaire costs between $35-60 per day depending on the vehicle type.

ATMs and withdrawing money on Bonaire

ATM locations

On Bonaire you'll find ATMs Bonaire at various strategic locations. The main spots are:

• Flamingo Airport: Right at the arrival hall there's an ATM, convenient to withdraw USD immediately
• Kralendijk center: Multiple ATMs at banks along the main street and at shopping centers
• Hato (near airport): Additional ATM at the gas station
• Rincon: One ATM at the local bank for when you're exploring the northern part of the island
• Hotels and resorts: Many large accommodations have their own ATMs or can help with money exchange

Most ATMs accept Dutch bank cards with the Maestro, Cirrus, Plus, or MasterCard logo. Instructions are available in Dutch, English, and Papiamentu, making it easy for Dutch tourists to use.

Note that some ATMs can run empty during busy periods, especially on weekends and holidays. It's therefore wise not to wait until your last dollars to withdraw money.

ATM fees and transaction costs

Withdrawing money Bonaire involves various costs. Dutch banks typically charge the following fees:

Additionally, local banks on Bonaire also charge ATM fees of $2-4 per transaction. This means a single cash withdrawal can easily cost you €5-7 in transaction fees. To limit these costs, you can better withdraw larger amounts instead of frequently small amounts.

A handy tip is to look into credit cards without foreign transaction fees. Some credit cards have lower exchange rate markups than regular bank cards, which can save you money on longer stays.

Activating bank card for international use

Before traveling to Bonaire, you must make your bank card Bonaire suitable for use outside Europe. Dutch banks automatically block the use of bank cards outside Europe to prevent fraud.

You can usually arrange this in three ways:

• Online banking: Log into your bank app or website and enable "worldwide coverage" for your bank card
• By phone: Call your bank and ask to activate worldwide coverage for your stay period
• Bank branch: Go to a location and arrange it on the spot

Important is that your bank card has the Maestro logo. Only V PAY cards don't work on Bonaire, because this system is limited to Europe. Check this in advance, because without a working bank card you'll have a problem.

Also report your travel dates to your bank. This prevents transactions from being marked as suspicious and your card being blocked during your vacation.

Using credit cards on Bonaire

Which credit cards are accepted

On Bonaire, credit cards Bonaire are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the best supported brands and are accepted almost everywhere - from restaurants and hotels to supermarkets and gas stations.

American Express has more limited acceptance. Especially smaller local businesses often only accept Visa and Mastercard. Diners Club is very rarely accepted, so don't count on that.

An important point is that you usually need your PIN code for credit card transactions. The American "swipe and sign" system is being used less and less. Make sure you know your PIN code before you leave.

Hotels, car rental companies like Smiley Rentals Bonaire, and dive shops like Wanderlust Dive Center Bonaire almost always accept credit cards. For smaller purchases, cash is often more convenient.

Contactless payments and Apple Pay

Contactless payments are gaining ground on Bonaire. Many modern shops, restaurants, and hotels have NFC terminals where you can pay contactlessly with your bank card or credit card.

Apple Pay is available at many locations, especially in Kralendijk and at tourist businesses. There's usually a limit of $50 per transaction for contactless payments, including Apple Pay.

Google Pay and Samsung Pay have more limited acceptance than Apple Pay. If you depend on mobile payments, make sure you have a backup payment method.

Contactless payment is convenient for smaller purchases like coffee, snacks, or souvenirs. For larger purchases like hotel stays or dive equipment, you usually use the traditional chip-and-PIN method.

Credit card for car rental and deposits

A credit card is often required when renting a car on Bonaire. Car rental companies like Allroad Rental Bonaire use your credit card to block a security deposit for potential damage.

The deposit varies from $500-1500 depending on the vehicle type. This is usually pre-authorized on your credit card and released after returning the car without damage. Note that this temporarily reduces your available credit limit.

Hotels also sometimes block an amount on your credit card for "incidentals" - extra costs like minibar, room service, or phone charges. This is standard practice and shouldn't be a concern.

A credit card also has the advantage of better protection against fraud than a regular bank card. In case of problems, you can more easily dispute payments.

Cash and cash-only situations

When you need cash

While electronic payments are popular, you still regularly need cash Bonaire. Especially for authentic local experiences, cash is essential.

Beach bars and small beachside establishments often only accept cash. Think of the small bars at popular beaches like Sorobon or Bachelor's Beach. A beer or juice costs $3-5 cash here.

Local warungs (small eateries) work almost exclusively with cash. These are exactly the places where you find the best local dishes for $8-15 per meal. Think of fresh fish, kabritu stobá (goat stew), or local funchi.

Local markets like the weekly market in Kralendijk are cash-only. Here you buy fresh vegetables, fruits, and local specialties. Many stalls don't have card terminals.

Taxis usually only accept cash, although some modern taxis now also accept card payments. A ride from the airport to Kralendijk costs $15-20 cash.

Tips are naturally given in cash. It's customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants, and housekeeping, guides, and taxi drivers appreciate a tip of $2-5.

How much cash to bring

For a week on Bonaire, we recommend bringing $200-400 cash, depending on your travel type:

Avoid large bills ($50 and $100) because they're not accepted everywhere. Ask in the Netherlands or at ATMs on Bonaire for smaller denominations: $1, $5, $10, and $20 bills are most convenient.

It's wise to divide your cash among different places - some in your wallet for daily use, some in your hotel safe as a reserve, and maybe some in a second wallet as backup.

For larger expenses like hotel stays, car rental, or dive packages, you usually use your credit card or bank card. Cash is mainly for smaller, daily expenses and situations where card payment isn't possible.

Safe handling of cash

Bonaire is generally a safe island, but it's always wise to be careful with cash. Don't carry more than $50-75 with you for daily use.

Use the safe in your hotel or apartment to store extra cash. If you're staying in a vacation rental via for example Waterlands Village Kas Palma, make sure you have your own small safe or divide your money among different hiding places.

Be extra careful at ATMs, especially in the evening. Preferably use ATMs at banks or hotels where security is present. Shield your PIN when entering it.

If you have a lot of cash with you (for example after a large withdrawal), don't go shopping or to busy places first. Go directly to your accommodation to store the money safely.

Tips and service charges

Tipping culture on Bonaire

The tipping culture on Bonaire is similar to that in the United States. Tips are not mandatory but expected and appreciated, especially because wages in service industries are relatively low.

In restaurants, 10-15% tip is normal if you're satisfied with the service. For exceptionally good service, this can also be 20%. Do check if service charges have already been added to your bill - this is usually listed at the bottom as "service charge".

For taxi drivers, 10-15% of the fare is customary, rounded up. For an $18 ride, you'd give $20 and tell the driver to keep the change.

Housekeeping in hotels appreciate $2-5 per day, depending on the type of accommodation. Leave this daily if possible, not at the end of your stay, because housekeeping staff often rotate.

Guides and instructors at dive shops like Wanderlust Dive Center Bonaire usually get $5-10 per dive for good service. For special tours or private guidance, this can go up to $20-30.

Service charges in bills

Many restaurants and hotels automatically charge service fees of 10-15% on your bill. This is usually listed as "service charge", "gratuity", or "service" at the bottom of the bill.

These service charges don't always go entirely to the staff. For good service, it's therefore customary to give an additional small tip of 5-10% extra on top of the service charges.

Always check your bill carefully before paying. Some establishments charge both tax (6% ABB-tax) and service charges, which can significantly increase your total.

In local warungs and small eateries, automatic service charges are usually not charged. Here you just give a cash tip that you think is appropriate.

Banking and financial services

Local banks on Bonaire

Bonaire has several local banks that provide services to tourists and residents. The main ones are Maduro & Curiel's Bank (MCB) and Orco Bank. These banks have branches in Kralendijk and limited opening hours.

MCB is the largest bank and has the most ATMs on the island. Their main office is on Kaya Grandi in the center of Kralendijk. Opening hours are usually Monday to Friday from 8:00-16:00.

For tourists, these banks mainly offer exchange services and ATMs. Opening a bank account as a tourist is complex and not necessary for a vacation. The banks do have international transfer services, should you need to transfer money.

Staff usually speak Dutch, English, and Papiamentu. For complex financial questions, you'd better make an appointment instead of just walking in.

Internet banking during vacation

Using your Dutch internet banking on Bonaire can sometimes cause problems. Banks sometimes block access from certain countries to prevent fraud.

If you have problems logging in, try calling your bank first. Tell them you're on vacation on Bonaire and ask for temporary access. Often they can arrange this immediately.

Always use a secure internet connection for banking. Avoid public WiFi in restaurants or on beaches. Most hotels have secure WiFi, but always ask for the password.

A VPN can help if your bank blocks access from abroad. There are free VPN apps available, but watch out for the security and privacy of these services.

Solving bank card problems

If your bank card is blocked or doesn't work on Bonaire, address the problem immediately. Don't wait until you're completely out of money.

Call the 24-hour number of your Dutch bank directly. Most banks have special numbers for assistance from abroad. Have your card details and identification ready.

Common problems and solutions:

• Card doesn't work: Often the bank hasn't activated worldwide coverage or your travel period has expired
• Too many attempts: Bank card may be blocked after multiple wrong PINs
• Technical failure: Try another ATM or come back later
• Suspicious transaction: Bank has blocked card - call to give confirmation

Always have a backup payment method with you, like a credit card from another bank or some extra cash for emergencies.

Costs and budgeting for Bonaire

Daily expenses and budget planning

A realistic budget plan for Bonaire varies greatly per traveler. Budget backpackers can survive on $75-85 per day, while luxury travelers easily spend $300+ per day.

Food and drinks form a large part of your budget. Breakfast at your hotel costs $15-25, lunch at a local restaurant $15-30, and dinner $25-60 depending on where you eat. Alcohol is relatively expensive due to import costs - a beer costs $4-7.

Transport is usually car rental because public transport doesn't exist. Gasoline costs about $1.30 per liter. Taxis are expensive ($15-25 for short rides), so a rental car is wise for longer stays.

Activities vary enormously. Snorkeling can be free (own equipment) or $40+ for organized trips. Diving costs $50-80 per dive. Boat trips like at Brandaris Boat Rental Bonaire cost $100-200 per day.

Mandatory costs and taxes

Every tourist deals with mandatory costs that you must plan into your budget:

The Visitor Entry Tax of $75 per person (13 years and older) and $10 for children is mandatory. You pay this online in advance or upon arrival at the airport. This tax applies to all visitors, regardless of length of stay.

The STINAPA Nature Fee of $40 per person is mandatory if you want to dive or snorkel. This fee gives access to all marine protected areas and Washington Slagbaai National Park. Children under 13 are exempt, unless they dive.

Divers usually pay the full $40 fee. For snorkeling only there used to be a cheaper option of $25, but since 2024 one rate of $40 applies for all marine activities.

Hotels and restaurants often charge 6% ABB-tax (a type of VAT) on your bill. This is usually added automatically and listed at the bottom.

Some accommodations charge extra resort fees or cleaning fees. Check this in advance when booking to avoid surprises.

Money-saving tips

With smart choices, you can save significantly on your Bonaire budget without compromising on fun:

Eat local at warungs and small restaurants. Fresh fish with funchi costs $12-18 versus $35-45 at a tourist restaurant. Look for places where locals eat - that's often the best and cheapest.

Cook yourself if you rent an apartment. Groceries are more expensive than in the Netherlands, but always cheaper than eating out every meal. Buy fresh fish directly from fishermen at the harbor.

Share a rental car with other travelers. Many accommodations help match guests for cost-saving arrangements. A 4-person car costs only $10-15 per person per day.

Shore snorkel instead of expensive boat tours. Bonaire has top-quality shore diving/snorkeling spots like 1000 Steps and Salt Pier. You save $30-50 per person compared to organized trips.

Visit during shoulder season (May-November) for 20-30% lower hotel and car rental prices. The weather is still great, but much less crowded.

Practical tips and preparation

Things to arrange before departure

Good preparation prevents many money problems during your vacation. Start at least two weeks before departure with the preparations.

Activate worldwide coverage on your bank card via internet banking or by calling your bank. Test this by making a small transaction in another country if you have the opportunity. Without worldwide coverage, your card won't work outside Europe.

Apply for a credit card if you don't have one yet. This often takes 1-2 weeks, so plan ahead. A credit card is handy as backup and often required for car rental.

Set up a travel notification with your bank. Tell them when you'll be where, so transactions aren't marked as suspicious. This can be done online or by phone.

Exchange some money at your Dutch bank in advance. You usually pay a better rate than at the airport. $100-200 is enough to get you through your first day.

Download your bank app and make sure your login credentials work. Save your bank's contact details for emergencies in your phone.

During your stay

Once on Bonaire, there are practical tips for safe and efficient money management:

Shield your PIN always when using ATMs. There's little fraud on Bonaire, but prevention is better than cure. Use ATMs at banks or hotels when possible.

Avoid skimming by visually inspecting ATMs for suspicious devices. Use your intuition - if something looks strange, use another ATM.

Always have a backup payment method with you. If your bank card fails, you don't want to be stuck. A credit card from another bank is ideal as backup.

Keep receipts from important expenses like car rental, hotel bills, and dive packages. This helps with any disputes and is handy for your administration at home.

Watch exchange rates with credit card payments. Some terminals ask if you want to pay in euros (DCC - Dynamic Currency Conversion). Always choose the local currency (USD) for a better rate.

Apps and digital tools

Modern apps make it easier to track your expenses and handle money smartly during your vacation:

Exchange rate apps like XE Currency or Currency Converter Plus show current rates. Handy when converting prices to see what you're really spending in euros.

Budget tracking apps like Toshl, PocketGuard, or standard iPhone/Android expense trackers help monitor your spending. Enter your expenses daily to stay within budget.

Banking apps from your Dutch bank let you check your balance and view transactions in real time. This way you immediately see if there are unusual expenses.

Google Translate helps understand bills and receipts in Papiamentu or English. Taking photos of text and translating directly is very handy.