If you are a nature lover who wants to experience the beauty of both tropical life and sea life, Bonaire is your destination. Located 30 miles east of its sister island, Curacao, Bonaire lies on top of a 24-mile-long volcanic ridge off the coast of South America.
Known specifically for its spectacular diving sites, this island prides itself on the conservation of the environment. The island is fringed with coral reefs which means you don’t have to travel far from the shore to snorkel or dive.
Another highlight is the 190 species of birds including parrots, cuckoos, roseate flamingos and black-whiskered vireo that live on the island. There is no commercial over-development on the island and all of the hotels are small, locally run establishments that will make you feel like one of the natives.
Bonaire Facts
• Climate: Mostly sunny, temperatures average 82F throughout the year.
• Currency: The Netherlands Antilles guilder, but US currency is widely accepted.
• Banking: Banking hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. weekdays.
• Language: English, Papiamento and Spanish are commonly spoken, but the official language is Dutch.
History
Ever since Bonaire was discovered in 1499 by Amerigo Vespucci, governments and entrepreneurs have tried unsuccessfully to make a living off the island. After stripping the island of its hardwoods and dyewoods when they couldn’t find gold, the Spanish hunted wild goats and sheep. Through the years the Dutch, British, and even US merchant Joseph Foulke, failed at attempts to establish a viable economic base.
In more recent history, people on the neighboring islands and South America heard about the beauty and peacefulness of the island and decided to vacation there. As soon as the word got out, the people of Bonaire took advantage of the tourism possibilities. Careful not to ruin their tropical haven with commercial growth, the island has made laws protecting the environment of Bonaire.
Where to Stay
Bonaire is working to keep hotel and commercial growth to a minimum, so all of the hotels are quiet and locally run. Here are a few suggestions:
• Captain Don’s Habitat
• Coral Regency
• Carib Inn
• Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino
• Harbor Village Beach Resort
• Port Bonaire
• Sand Dollar Condominiums & Beach Club
• Sorobon Beach
• Sunset Inn
Transportation
Taxis are available on the island and are relatively unexpensive. If requested, most drivers will take you on a tour of the island.
Since it’s not expensive and the roads of Bonaire are in good condition, you might want to rent a car. Here are some agencies on the island: Avis and Budget.
Top Things to Do
Kralendijk – Town designed in a Dutch colonial style, filled with duty-free shops and some history such as a lighthouse and ancient cannons.
Bonaire Marine Park – Underwater preserve that is protected by law and includes Bonaire and the offshore island of Klein Bonaire’s shoreline down to 200 feet.
Goto Meer Lake – On the northern route, a beautiful saltwater lake that is the home of various birds, including flamingos.
Washington-Slagbaai National Park – 13,500 acres of untouched island with two dirt roads for exploring the landscape and creatures of the area. Also, there are hidden bathing beaches, rocky caves and plenty of areas where swimming and snorkeling are permitted.
Caiquetio Indian Inscriptions – Located near Boca Onima, these pink-red petroglyphs date back to at least 500 years ago and are found in several of Bonaire’s caves.
Diving And Watersports
Bonaire is known for its spectacular diving sites. The island is covered in coral formations and sea gardens that provide 86 incredible dive sites immediately offshore. The waters of Bonaire offer a visibility of up to 100 feet.
Shopping
The main shopping mall is La Terraza in Kralendijk. Although not all merchandise is duty-free, you will be able to get bargains on imported goods. Stores are open from 8:00 a.m. to noon everyday but Sunday and then re-open at 2:00 p.m. and close at 6:00 p.m. Island crafts range from black coral, Mexican onyx and painted wooden fish.
Food
There is a great deal of variety when it comes to dining on Bonaire, but you won’t be disappointed with the local cuisine. Reservations are recommended.