Transportation on Bonaire: rental cars, taxis and public transport

Transportation on Bonaire is organized very differently than in the Netherlands. The island has no public transport and you depend on a rental car, scooter or taxi. For most visitors, renting a car is the best option to explore the island and reach the dive sites.

Overview of transportation options on Bonaire

Bonaire has a compact size of 288 km², but the distances are too large to walk or bike everywhere. The road network is straightforward with a main road along the west coast and several cross connections.

No public transport on Bonaire

Bonaire has no public transport. You won't find buses, trams, metro or other forms of collective transport. The bus stops you might still see standing around are no longer in use. This means you depend on a rental car, scooter, bicycle, taxi or your own legs for transportation.

The government has deliberately chosen not to introduce public transport due to the limited population of about 26,500 inhabitants and the relatively short distances on the island.

Why personal transport is necessary

Personal transport on Bonaire isn't just convenient - it's actually necessary. Many dive sites are scattered along the coast and are only accessible by car. Think of popular spots like 1000 Steps, Salt Pier or the various dive spots in the south of the island.

You also need personal transport to visit Washington Slagbaai National Park. The park is located 25 kilometers north of Kralendijk and covers a large area that you can only drive through with a car.

For daily activities like shopping, going to restaurants or visiting different beaches, a car or scooter is also practical. Kralendijk has everything you need, but if you're staying outside the center, you become more flexible with personal transport.

Rental cars on Bonaire

Renting a car is the best choice for most visitors. You have the freedom to go wherever you want, can easily transport your dive equipment and reach all corners of the island.

Advantages of a rental car

With a rental car you're completely flexible. You can spontaneously decide to go to another beach, aren't dependent on taxis and can safely leave your belongings in the car. For divers, a car is actually essential - your dive equipment fits well and you can reach all shore diving spots.

A car also gives you the opportunity to explore the entire island at your own pace. You can stop wherever you want for photos, grab a drink at a beach bar or spontaneously make a dive if you see a nice spot.

For daily vacation life, a car is also convenient. Shopping becomes easier, you can go to restaurants outside Kralendijk in the evening and you're not limited to accommodations and facilities near your hotel.

Pick-up trucks vs regular cars

On Bonaire you'll notice many pick-up trucks driving around. These are popular for good reasons. A pick-up offers plenty of space for dive equipment - you can just throw your tanks, wetsuit and other gear in the bed without your car getting full of salt and sand.

Pick-ups also have higher ground clearance, which is useful for the unpaved parking areas at many dive sites. Some access roads to beaches are not paved and after rain, holes can form.

For Washington Slagbaai National Park, a pick-up or SUV with high ground clearance is actually necessary. The park has 50 kilometers of unpaved roads that are difficult to drive with a regular car. A pick-up usually costs $10-15 more per day than a regular car.

Car rental companies and prices

Bonaire has several car rental companies, both international brands and local businesses. Avis and Bonaire Rent a Car are reliable options based on the island.

Prices for a rental car range from $40-70 per day, depending on the type of car and season. A small car costs about $50 per day, a pick-up truck about $70 per day. During high season (December-April) prices are higher and availability is more limited.

Reserving is especially necessary during holidays and busy season. Many rental companies offer transfer to and from the airport. Automatic transmissions are available, but most cars have manual transmissions.

Requirements and regulations for driving

Specific requirements apply for renting a car on Bonaire. Most are similar to the Netherlands, but there are some differences to consider.

Driver's license and age requirements

Your Dutch driver's license is valid on Bonaire - you don't need an international license. This makes renting a car simple for Dutch visitors. Make sure your license is still valid for at least six months during your stay.

The minimum age for renting a car varies by rental company but usually ranges between 21 and 25 years. Some companies charge a surcharge for drivers under 25. A valid credit card is required for the deposit and payment.

All passengers must carry valid identification while driving. For Bonaire this is a passport - a Dutch ID card is not accepted as a travel document to the island.

Insurance and deductible

Car insurance is mandatory and usually included in the rental price. Most rental companies offer different insurance packages, from basic insurance with deductible to comprehensive coverage without deductible.

The deductible can be quite high - sometimes up to $1000 per damage. BON4RENT Car Rental offers options with 0% deductible, which provides extra peace of mind.

Note that damage from salt water (for example at dive sites) is not always covered. Read the insurance terms carefully and ask for clarification if in doubt. Some rental companies offer 24-hour roadside assistance, which can be useful on an island.

Traffic rules and traffic safety

Driving on Bonaire is generally relaxed, but there are some specific rules and points of attention to consider.

Speed limits and traffic rules

In Bonaire you drive on the right side of the road, just like in the Netherlands. International traffic rules apply, making driving familiar for Dutch visitors. The speed limit within built-up areas is 40 km/h, outside built-up areas 60 km/h.

A notable difference from the Netherlands: Bonaire has not a single traffic light. So you never have to wait for a red light! There are also hardly any roundabouts - most intersections are regular T-junctions or crossings where right-of-way rules apply.

On roundabouts, traffic on the roundabout has right of way. At intersections, through traffic has right of way instead of traffic from the right. Road signs are in Dutch, English and Papiamentu - usually you can understand where you need to go.

Parking is free almost everywhere, except at the airport. There are no paid parking spaces or blue zones like in Dutch cities. In Kralendijk you do need to be careful not to park on the sidewalk - police check for this.

Safety tips for driving

Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all passengers in the car. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited - you must use a hands-free set if you want to call. The maximum allowed blood alcohol level is 0.5 per mille, just like in the Netherlands.

An important point of attention on Bonaire are the wild animals on the roads. Donkeys, goats and sometimes pigs cross the road without paying attention to traffic. Especially in the early morning and evening you need to be extra careful. Therefore drive slower outside Kralendijk.

After rain, unpaved roads can become very slippery and difficult to navigate. Most main roads are paved, but many access roads to dive sites are unpaved. When in doubt, you'd better wait until the road has dried.

There are only three gas stations on the entire island, so make sure your tank doesn't run empty. If you're driving north or to Washington Slagbaai, fill up beforehand in Kralendijk.

Scooter and motorcycle rental

A scooter is a popular alternative to a car, especially for shorter trips and if you want to feel the wind in your hair while driving. It's cheaper and you can find a parking space anywhere.

Advantages of scooter rental

A scooter is much cheaper than a car - you're mobile from just $25 per day. Parking is even easier than with a car and you can get everywhere. For trips within Kralendijk or to nearby beaches, a scooter is perfectly suitable.

Riding a scooter gives you a different feeling of freedom. You feel the warm wind, smell the sea and are more connected to the environment. Stopping for photos is also easier - you don't need to find a parking space.

Many scooter rental companies on Bonaire offer free pickup and delivery service at your accommodation. This is convenient when you've just arrived and don't have transport yet.

Electric vs gasoline scooters

Avila Electric Rental has specialized in electric scooters, which is better for the environment. An electric scooter has a range of about 50 kilometers on a full battery - more than enough for a day on Bonaire.

Electric scooters are quieter and produce no exhaust fumes, which is pleasant for nature and other road users. You do need to account for charging time - an empty battery takes several hours to fully charge.

Gasoline scooters have a larger range and you can refuel quickly, but they make more noise and emit exhaust. Macho Scooters Bonaire has various options for both electric and gasoline scooters.

Scooter rental prices and conditions

The price for renting a scooter starts at about $25 per day. For a week you usually pay around $150, which amounts to a nice discount. Most rental companies ask for a deposit of $100-200, which you get back when you return the scooter without damage.

To rent a scooter you need a valid driver's license - a regular car license is sufficient. The minimum age is usually 18 years, but some rental companies set 21 as the lower limit.

A helmet is mandatory on Bonaire and is usually provided free with the scooter. For full insurance you often pay less than $10 extra per day, which removes the deductible. Note that scooters are not suitable for unpaved roads - you're limited to paved routes.

Taxis on Bonaire

Taxis are available on Bonaire, but work differently than in the Netherlands. They're especially useful for airport transfers and if you don't want to rent a car or scooter.

Taxi rates and pricing structure

Taxis on Bonaire don't have meters - all rates are fixed and regulated by the government. Taxi drivers are required to have a rate list in the car where you can check the prices. At the airport the rates are posted on a board.

A ride from Flamingo Airport to downtown Kralendijk costs $15-20 for up to four people. To hotels outside the center you often pay $20-30. There are surcharges for rides in the evening (after 8:00 PM), at night and on weekends.

For longer distances the prices become quite high. A ride to Washington Slagbaai quickly costs $60-80 one way. For daily transportation, a taxi quickly becomes expensive compared to a rental car.

Where to find taxis

You mainly find taxis at Flamingo Airport and at the large hotels. Taxi Bonaire, Tours, Transfers & Taxi 14 & Katja's taxi and Taxi 11 Tour&Guider Transfer are reliable companies on the island.

It's not common to hail a taxi on the street like in the Netherlands. You usually call ahead to order a taxi at +599 717 8100. Taxis are recognizable by the letters TX on their license plate.

At large hotels taxis usually wait, especially during busy times. If you're staying in smaller accommodation, it's convenient to have a taxi company's phone number in your phone for when you have no other transport option.

Taxi tours and longer rides

Many taxi drivers also offer island tours - you rent the taxi for a whole day to explore the island. This usually costs $45 per hour, with a minimum of four hours. For groups this can be an interesting option.

A taxi tour has the advantage that the driver also functions as a guide and provides you with local information. You don't have to navigate yourself and can relax and enjoy the scenery. Make good price agreements in advance.

For rides to specific dive sites you can also use a taxi, but then you need to arrange when you'll be picked up. Not all drivers want to wait at remote locations.

Bicycles and alternative transportation

Besides cars, scooters and taxis, there are several other transport options on Bonaire, each with their own advantages for specific situations.

Bicycle rental on Bonaire

Bike Rental Bonaire offers different bike types, from regular touring bikes to electric mountain bikes. You can rent a regular bike for about $15-20 per day, an e-bike costs $30-40 per day.

Bicycles are especially suitable for trips within Kralendijk and to nearby beaches. For longer distances you need to account for the constant wind from the east and the heat. An e-bike makes this much more comfortable.

A major disadvantage of cycling on Bonaire is the lack of bike paths. You share the road with cars, scooters and taxis. Most main roads do have a shoulder where you can cycle, but you need to stay alert. For trips to dive sites, a bicycle is usually not practical due to the distances and transporting dive equipment.

Golf carts and tuk-tuks

Golf carts are a fun and unique way to get around, especially popular at resorts and for short trips. They drive a maximum of 25 km/h and are only suitable for paved roads within Kralendijk and the immediate surroundings.

Renting a golf cart costs about $50-60 per day. They seat 4-6 people and often have a canopy for sun protection. For a relaxed day in and around Kralendijk this can be a fun experience.

Some rental companies also offer tuk-tuks - three-wheeled vehicles originally from Asia. These are somewhat more maneuverable than golf carts and give your vacation an exotic touch.

Roads and routes on Bonaire

The road network on Bonaire is straightforward and well-maintained. Since the island is only 288 km², you can easily drive from north to south and back in one day.

Main roads and road quality

The main roads on Bonaire are paved and generally in good condition. The coastal road along the west coast is the most important route - it connects the airport with Kralendijk and continues north to Washington Slagbaai.

Many access roads to dive sites are unpaved. These coral roads are usually passable with a regular car, but after rain they can become slippery and bumpy. Places like 1000 Steps and Karpata have paved access roads, but Salt Pier and some southern dive sites are reached via unpaved paths.

In Washington Slagbaai National Park all 50 kilometers of roads are unpaved. These coral roads can be quite rough, with holes and loose stones. A car with high ground clearance is actually necessary here.

Important routes and distances

The distances on Bonaire are manageable. From Flamingo Airport to downtown Kralendijk is 6 kilometers - about an 8-minute drive. To popular dive sites in the south you drive 15-20 minutes, north to Washington Slagbaai about 30 minutes.

A loop around the entire island takes about 1.5 hours of driving, excluding stops. This makes it possible to explore different corners of Bonaire in one day. Many visitors do this as a day trip, with stops at various attractions and dive sites.

The route to Lac Bay in the southeast is popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers. This 10-kilometer drive from Kralendijk takes you to the mangrove bays and the best windsurfing conditions on the island.

Parking and gas stations

Parking is free everywhere on Bonaire, except at the airport where you pay $2 per hour. There are no paid parking spaces or blue zones like in Dutch cities. At most dive sites, beaches and attractions you'll find sufficient parking space.

Bonaire has only three gas stations: two in Kralendijk and one at the airport. This means you especially need to watch that your tank doesn't run empty on longer trips. Gasoline prices are higher than in the Netherlands - expect about $1.50 per liter.

At dive sites you usually park on coral gravel - coral debris that has formed over time. This is stable and hard, but at some beaches you need to watch for soft sand areas where your car can sink.

Transportation to Klein Bonaire

Klein Bonaire is the small uninhabited island that lies 800 meters off the coast of Kralendijk. It's only accessible by boat and a popular destination for day trips.

Ferries and water taxis

Various operators provide the crossing to Klein Bonaire. Brandaris Boat Rental Bonaire is one of the providers organizing day trips. The crossing takes about 20 minutes and usually costs $25-30 per person round trip.

Water taxis depart from Karel's Beach Bar on the boulevard in Kralendijk. There are various departure times per day, usually between 9:00 and 2:00 PM. Reservations are recommended, especially during high season when Klein Bonaire is popular.

Klein Bonaire has no facilities - no restaurants, toilets or vendors. Therefore bring enough water and snacks. The island does have a beautiful white sand beach (No Name Beach) and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities directly from the beach.

Practical tips and costs

For a complete transportation experience on Bonaire, there are some practical matters to consider, from costs to safety.

Fuel costs and budgeting

Gasoline on Bonaire costs about $1.50 per liter, which is higher than in the Netherlands. An average rental car uses about $30-40 in fuel for a week of exploring the island. Pick-up trucks are more fuel-efficient than you'd expect due to the relatively short distances.

For your total transportation budget you can count on $50-70 per day for a rental car including insurance and fuel. A scooter costs $25-35 per day including fuel or electricity. Taxis are the most expensive - count on $20-30 per trip within Kralendijk, more for longer distances.

Tip: many hotels and dive resorts offer package deals with car rental, which can be cheaper than booking separately. Ask about it when making your reservation.

Driving in the dark

Bonaire has virtually no street lighting outside Kralendijk. Driving in the dark requires extra caution - ensure good headlights and drive slower than during the day. Wild animals are more active in the evening and at night and can suddenly enter the road.

Sunset on Bonaire is year-round between 6:15 and 7:30 PM. Within half an hour after that it's completely dark. Plan your trips so you're back before dark, especially when driving unfamiliar routes.

Reflectors and well-functioning lighting are important. Check when picking up your rental car that all lights work - for both your own safety and that of other road users.