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Destination guide

Bonaire

Drive, dive, repeat on the Caribbean's shore-diving capital

Marine Park Since 1979Shore-Diving ParadiseTrade-Wind StabilityTank Access
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Overview

Drive, dive, repeat on the Caribbean's shore-diving capital

Bonaire is purpose-built for self-guided diving and snorkeling. Since 1979 the entire coastline has been protected as a marine park, funded by a simple nature fee. Yellow-painted stones mark dozens of shore entries where reefs start within a short kick from the beach. Trade winds keep temps stable, visibility high, and surface chop manageable on the leeward side. East Coast boat dives add adrenaline, Lac Bay delivers world-class windsurfing, and Washington Slagbaai National Park rewards topside explorers.

Why Bonaire

  • Shore-diving freedom with 60+ easily accessed sites and convenient tank-swap locations.
  • Consistent conditions: warm water, steady trade winds, low hurricane exposure.
  • Conservation culture led by STINAPA with clear rules and simple permits.

Marine Park at a Glance

  • All waters to 75 m from shore are protected as Bonaire National Marine Park.
  • No anchoring, no gloves or kneepads while diving, and no touching or taking marine life.
  • Mandatory orientation/briefing before diving; SMB strongly recommended.

Typical Conditions

  • Water 26°C - 30°C year-round.
  • Trade winds around 20.0 kph - 35.0 kph; calmer Sep - Dec.
  • Visibility commonly 20 m - 30 m on the leeward coast.

Who Will Love It

  • Scuba divers chasing macro, wrecks, and unlimited shore dives.
  • Snorkelers seeking fish-rich, shallow fringing reefs.
  • Freedivers training from easy drop-offs with quick depth access.
  • Non-divers into hiking, wind sports, wildlife, and laid-back food trucks.

Highlights

Don't miss while you're here

Field notes from guides and contributors on what stands out immediately.

Salt Pier at Dawn (when no ship)

Slip in at first light to watch tarpon and jacks school among sponge-covered pilings. Do not dive if any vessel is present.

Klein Bonaire Drift

Taxi drop, snorkel with the current along the reef crest, then walk back on No Name Beach.

East Coast Boat

Add a half-day for turtles, rays, and a wilder sea state. Advanced only with local operators.