Bonaire is a small, dry island in the southern Caribbean, part of the Dutch Caribbean, and it is known above all for what lies under the water. Resort guests who never leave the property miss the salt flats, the flamingo lagoons, the national park in the north and a coastline that is protected as a marine park. This guide sets out what is worth leaving the resort for, how to group the sights, and what to confirm before you go. Fees, hours and tour schedules change, so check them with each operator.

Diving and snorkelling are the main event

The waters around Bonaire are protected as the Bonaire National Marine Park, and the island has built its visitor identity around shore diving. Many dive sites can be reached directly from the shore, marked along the coastal road, which makes it popular with independent divers. Visitors who dive or snorkel are generally asked to pay a nature fee and to wear the tag or follow the rules of the park, so check the current requirements on the official park pages. Operators also run guided boat trips for those who prefer them.

Snorkellers do not need to dive to enjoy the reefs, and many sites have reef close to shore. Respect the reef: do not stand on coral, do not touch marine life and use reef-safe habits. Our guide to snorkelling from a resort beach: safety and reef etiquette covers the basics. If you are a beginner, book an introductory session with a licensed operator, and ask about the ratio of guides to guests.

Klein Bonaire

Klein Bonaire is an uninhabited islet a short boat ride from the main island, and it is popular for snorkelling and diving. Water taxis and tour boats serve it. Bring sun protection, water and food, because there are no facilities, and follow the rules about not removing shells or disturbing wildlife. Our guide to sun protection at a beach resort is worth reading before a day with little shade.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

The national park occupies much of the north of the island. It has dry scrubland, cacti, hills, coastal viewpoints and several beaches and bays, and visitors typically tour it by driving or by guided tour along marked routes. Roads inside can be rough, and some are best handled by a higher-clearance vehicle, so ask the park or your rental company before you set out. Bring plenty of water, because there is little shade. Opening hours and last-entry times apply, so plan an early start.

Salt flats, flamingos and the south

The south of Bonaire has large salt flats and shallow ponds, and the colours of the water can range from pink to deep orange depending on conditions. Flamingos are often seen in the area. Keep a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the birds, and note that some areas are restricted. Along the roadside you can see small stone huts that date from the era when enslaved people worked the salt pans. They are a sobering reminder of the island’s history and are worth a short stop with an informed guide or good signage.

Lac Bay and the east coast

Lac Bay is a sheltered bay with mangroves on the island’s east side. It is known for windsurfing and kitesurfing because of the shallow, steady conditions, and for kayaking through the mangrove channels. Rentals and lessons are available, but you should confirm safety briefings, equipment and insurance with the operator. The east coast is generally windier and rougher than the west, so swimming conditions differ from the calm water in front of most resorts. Our guide on rip currents and beach flags explains what to look for.

Kralendijk and Rincon

Kralendijk, the capital, has a waterfront with cafes, shops and restaurants, and it is an easy place to spend an evening. Rincon, the island’s oldest settlement, lies inland in the north and has a quieter, more traditional feel. Both give a view of local life beyond the resort, and you can reach them by car or taxi. Renting a car is common on Bonaire, and our guide on renting a car abroad and whether you need an international driving permit explains the paperwork to check.

Planning notes

Check entry requirements, fees and tour conditions from official sources before you travel, and treat the details here as a planning guide rather than a schedule.