Things to Do in Bonaire: Diving, Island Adventures & Excursions
Bonaire is not the kind of Caribbean island that tries to impress you with glossy mega-resorts or endless nightlife. Instead, it quietly wins you over with something far more enduring: unspoiled nature, protected reefs, and a deeply rooted commitment to conservation that has shaped the island for decades. This alone makes it one of my favorite places in the Caribbean to dive.
Located just off the coast of Venezuela, Bonaire is part of the Dutch Caribbean and, along with Aruba and Curaçao, forms the ABC Islands. Unlike many of its Caribbean neighbors, Bonaire sits outside the hurricane belt, making it a year-round destination with consistently warm water, steady trade winds, and dependable weather. But what truly sets Bonaire apart, and what it is best known for worldwide, is its marine conservation legacy.
Bonaire National Marine Park
In 1979, Bonaire established the Bonaire National Marine Park, protecting all surrounding reefs from the high-water mark down to 200 feet. This early and forward-thinking decision made Bonaire a global model for sustainable diving and reef management long before conservation became a buzzword. Today, that protection translates into healthy coral systems, thriving marine life, and some of the most accessible diving on the planet.
But while diving may be the headline act, Bonaire is far from a one-note destination. The island offers rugged national parks, flamingo-filled salt flats, mangrove forests, wind sports, quiet beaches, and a surprisingly good culinary scene for those willing to explore.
What to Expect
In this guide, I’m breaking down the best things to do in Bonaire into three clear categories so you can plan a trip that fits your travel style:
- Diving in Bonaire (shore and boat diving, plus top sites and marine life)
- Non-Diving Activities (for rest days, companions, or non-divers)
- Cruise Ship Excursions (with specific cruise lines and real excursion examples)
I’ll also recommend some places to stay on island, and provide a packing list for your convenience, because Bonaire is one of those destinations where the right planning makes all the difference.
Things to Do in Bonaire for Scuba Divers
Bonaire’s reputation as one of the world’s best dive destinations isn’t hype, it’s well earned. The island consistently ranks high for visibility, reef accessibility, and diver independence. Whether you’re new to the sport or seasoned, Bonaire delivers a gold standard diving experience that is relaxed, flexible, and deeply satisfying.
Shore Diving in Bonaire
Bonaire is often referred to as the shore diving capital of the world, and for good reason. There are over 60 dive sites accessible directly from shore, many marked by the island’s iconic yellow-painted stones along the coastal road. Many dive-centric resorts have direct acesss to fringing reefs and offer full kit and guided service to their guests.
At these designated shore diving sites you’ll typically find:
- Short surface swims
- Gentle slopes leading to reef drop-offs
- Minimal current on most days
- Excellent and simple navigation (reef on one shoulder out, switch on the way back)
Top Shore Dive Sites to Know
- 1000 Steps
Despite the dramatic name, it’s fewer steps than advertised, but climbing the steps after you’ve been diving all day will have you counting. Underwater, this site offers sloping reefs, healthy hard corals, and frequent turtle sightings. It’s a favorite for wide-angle photography. - Andrea I & II
Often calm and forgiving, these sites are ideal for relaxed dives and spotting schools of fish, eagle rays cruising past, and the occasional tarpon. - Salt Pier (Closed while ships are docked – check schedules with the local dive shop)
One of Bonaire’s most photographed dive sites. Massive pilings create a striking underwater structure filled with schooling fish, sponges, and coral growth. Tarpon and barracuda are frequent visitors here, but if you take your time you’ll also discover some macro favorites as well. - Hilma Hooker
Bonaire’s most famous wreck dive. This intentionally sunk cargo ship rests between 60–100 feet and is often combined with a reef dive. Expect schooling fish, tarpon, and dramatic light play around the wreck. - Oil Slick Leap
A fun entry point (optional giant stride!) with vibrant coral and frequent macro life, including blennies, shrimp, and nudibranchs.
Marine Life You Can Expect While Shore Diving
- Green and hawksbill turtles
- Schools of blue tang, creole wrasse, and chromis
- Parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish
- Tarpon, barracuda, and the occasional reef shark
- Macro favorites like seahorses, cleaner shrimp, and frogfish (with patience)
Boat Diving in Bonaire
While shore diving dominates on this little island, boat diving absolutely has its place, especially if you want variety, pristine reefs, or guided exploration. Klein Bonaire is a nearby island only accessible by boat and is definitely worth a trip for its untouched sanctuary feel. Also, shore diving can sometimes get rough if the trade winds pick up just right, and boat dives are a perfect alternative to access sites on the leeward side of the island.
Klein Bonaire: A Must-Dive Experience
Klein Bonaire is an uninhabited island just offshore, accessible only by boat (about a 10-20 minute ride). With over 20 dive sites surrounding the small island there are plenty of sites to choose from, so if shore diving isn’t your thing there is still plenty of reef to explore by boat. The reefs here are often slightly less trafficked and can feel especially serene.
Popular Klein Bonaire sites include:
- Forest: dense coral growth and excellent visibility
- Carl’s Hill: known for a healthy population of reef fish and lots of hidden treasures like frogfish, seahorses and cleaner shrimp
- Jerry’s Sponge: Lots to see at this generally active site, from turtles to large schools
- No Name: relaxed diving with frequent turtle encounters
Why Choose Boat Diving?
- Access to Klein Bonaire
- Easier entries and exits
- Professional guides for critter spotting
- Great option on windy days
Hybrid Diving
Many divers opt for a hybrid approach to their diving Experience on Bonaire; boat diving in the morning, shore diving in the afternoon, and night dives right off their resort or a favorite site.
My recommendation would be to plan one or two 2-tank boat dives. Do one on your first dive day. While you are on the boat with your divemaster ask for their shore diving favorites so you can narrow down your choices. Then rent a truck and some gear and make your way around the shore sights, fitting one more trip to Klein Bonaire at some point during the trip.
If your resort has a home reef, use it for at least one early morning dive and one night dive. These are two dives not to be missed as you will see completely different creatures and behaviors at dawn and dusk.
Things to Do in Bonaire for Non-Divers
Bonaire is a divers paradise, but that doesn’t mean that you need to be a diver to enjoy the island vibes. And let’s be honest, even the most dedicated divers need a day off, and Bonaire makes surface intervals worthwhile.
Washington Slagbaai National Park
This rugged park covers much of northern Bonaire and showcases the island’s raw beauty: cacti forests, dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and panoramic viewpoints. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and an early start is essential.
Check out this Guided Day Tour Through the Park.
Snorkeling
Many of Bonaire’s dive sites double as excellent snorkel spots, so if you party is going for a morning splash consider joining them for a float. Calm mornings offer the best conditions, with vibrant reef life just offshore.
Try this Klein Bonaire Snorkel Tour or for something a little more Luxe go for an all inclusive Catamaran Tour with food, drink and snorkeling.
Mangrove Kayaking
Guided kayak tours through Lac Bay’s mangroves reveal a quiet ecosystem teeming with juvenile fish, birds, and marine life. It’s peaceful, educational, and a great contrast to the dry landscape.
Try this Clear-bottom Kayaking Tour.
Explore Bonaire’s Cave Systems
For the adventurous, explore Bonaire’s underground cave systems, learn about the island’s geologic history, and even go snorkeling through crystal clear fresh water reservoirs with icicle-like stalactites overhead.
Try out this Expert Led Climb and Snorkel Tour and feel like a real spelunker.
Flamingos & Salt Flats
Bonaire is home to one of the Caribbean’s largest flamingo populations. The southern salt flats are also visually striking, with pink lakes, white salt pyramids, and endless sky.
This Private Guided Tour hits all of the island’s southern highlights.
Donkey Sanctuary
A uniquely Bonaire experience and a heartwarming stop, especially for animal lovers. The operators have rescued over 800 friendly donkeys that roam freely and love pets, snacks and positive attention from visitors.
No tour or reservations required, just visit between 10AM and 3PM daily. Visit the website for more information.
Horseback Riding
Experience riding through various island landscapes atop calm giants. Then finish your tour with a refreshing dip, because who hasn’t dreamed of riding through the waves on horseback.
Check out Horse Ranch Bonaire for an incredible experience.
Wind & Kite Sports
With consistent trade winds, Bonaire is a hotspot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Even if you don’t participate, it’s worth stopping by Lac Bay to watch.
For water-based activities check out this 3-hour Kitesurfing Lesson or for a drier activity check out this Land Sailing Tour.
Enjoy the Spirit of Bonaire at Cadushy Distillery
The only distillery on island in one of Bonaire’s oldest towns, Rincón, Cadushy Distillery offers an educational tour and tasting of their island liqueurs. A lovely afternoon for travelers that like .
No entrance fee required; simply visit any Monday – Saturday from 10AM to 5PM to experience true island spirits. Visit their website for more information.
Cruise Ship Excursions in Bonaire
Timing is everything when it comes to cruising, so it’s always a good idea to book excursions through your cruise line to ensure a smooth transition off and back on your ship. It is also easier to handle last minute itinerary changes or cancellations directly with your cruises reservation desk. However, if any of the tours above are more your speed most island operators are well aware of cruise ship schedules and should have no problem getting you back onboard with time to spare.
Bonaire welcomes several major cruise lines, including:
- Royal Caribbean
- Celebrity Cruises
- Holland America Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- MSC Cruises
- Princess Cruises
and Luxury Cruise Lines, such as:
- Seabourn
- Oceania Cruises
- Azamara
- Explora Journeys
Popular Cruise Excursions
For a one-day or half day visit, these are the types of tours you should look for from your cruise operator:
Snorkel Catamaran Tours
Offered by all of the major providers, these excursions typically visit calm reef areas with guided snorkeling and refreshments onboard.
Klein Bonaire Beach Escape
Available through Holland America and Princess Cruises. Ideal for guests who want a relaxed beach day with optional snorkeling.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Common across multiple cruise lines and perfect for non-swimmers or those with limited mobility.
Island Highlights Tours
Often include salt flats, flamingo viewing, and scenic coastal drives. These are widely offered by most providers.
Mangrove Eco-Tours
A nature-focused alternative available through select cruise lines, offering a quieter, educational experience.
Discover Scuba Experiences
Some cruise lines partner with local dive operators to offer introductory scuba programs that are perfect for first-timers curious about diving. You get a short pool session followed by a shallow dive.
Where to Stay in Bonaire:
Hotels, Villas & Dive Resorts
Hotels
Harbour Village Beach Club
A luxury beachfront property with Bonaire’s best sandy beach, private marina, and refined dining.
Boutique Hotel Sonrisa
Adults-only, charming, and centrally located—great for couples.
Delfins Beach Resort
Modern, stylish, and beachfront with on-site dining and a relaxed luxury vibe.
A luxury oceanfront hotel offering modern coastal decor and outstanding Caribbean views.
Villas
Belnem Villas & Oceanfront Rentals
Ideal for groups or longer stays, with ocean views and easy dive access.
Punt Vierkant & Sabadeco Estates
Upscale residential areas with spacious villas, private pools, and privacy.
Dive Resorts
Buddy Dive Resort
A Bonaire classic—drive-through tank station, house reef, and diver-focused amenities.
Captain Don’s Habitat
Historic dive resort with excellent shore diving and strong conservation roots.
Van der Valk Plaza Resort
All-inclusive option with on-site dive center, 3 pools and within walking distance to downtown Kralendijk.
Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino
All-inclusive or room only rates available, at this ocean front resort with something for everyone, from spa and casinos to 24-hour shore diving access and 6 custom dive boats.
Bonus: What to Pack for Bonaire
For Divers
- Full Kit (Travel BCD, regulator, fins, mask, etc.)
- Mesh Gear Bag
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Floating sunglasses
- Booties with sturdy soles
- Skin or Wetsuit (Water temps are typically 80°F to 83°F (27°C to 28°C))
- Dive computer & Surface Marker Buoy
- Compass for underwater navigation
- Save-a-dive kit
- Tank marker light and torch for night dives
- Wetsuit changing mat
- Microfiber towel (dries fast and packs light)
- Underwater housing for your smart phone
For Non-Divers
- Water shoes
- Lightweight hiking shoes
- Sun hat & UPF clothing
- Waterproof phone pouch for kayaking and snorkeling
For Everyone
- Reusable water bottle
- Hydration Tablets
- Dry bag
- Small backpack for day trips
- Lightweight sweater for breezy evenings
- Voltage Converter (check your electronics for voltage compatibility as Bonaire uses 127V/220V)
- Solar Portable Charger
For general pack guidelines and a downloadable checklist check out my Essentials Packing Guide.
Final Thoughts from Your Travel Consultant
Bonaire is a destination that rewards travelers who understand its rhythm. It’s not flashy, it’s not rushed, and it doesn’t try to be everything at once. Instead, it excels at what it does best: protecting its reefs, honoring its natural landscapes, and offering travelers the freedom to explore (and dive) on their own terms.
Whether you’re planning a dedicated dive trip, a mixed-activity escape, or a cruise port day that leaves a lasting impression, Bonaire delivers.
And when planned well, it’s the kind of place you don’t just visit once… you return to.
🌴 Want a Fully Customized Bonaire Itinerary? If you’d like help planning your Bonaire itinerary, selecting the perfect resort or villa, or pairing this island with another Dutch Caribbean destination, I’d love to help you craft a trip that fits your travel style beautifully. Get in touch with me on my Services Page to start planning your Bonaire Getaway.
