The license plates on Bonaire may read "Diver's Paradise," but it would be a mistake to think that great diving and snorkeling are the only activities for which this island is famous. People who visit solely for the Marine Park may be surprised to find themselves caught up in Bonaire's world-renowned windsurfing, or entranced by the island's complex and unusual ecology. For a closer look at some of the adventures and activities you can find on Bonaire, follow the links.
Drive or hike through the varied terrain of the island's 13,500 acre Washington Slagbaai National Park, a wildlife sanctuary where birds, lizards, goats and iguanas are found in their natural habitat.
Diving/Snorkeling
Due to the accessibility of the reefs, a visitor can wade right from the shore to the reef to snorkel, or dive at any of the Marine Park's 80 sites to view a colorful array of coral formations and abundant marine life, day or night. For an in-depth look at why Bonaire is one of the world's top diving destinations, please visit our diving section.
Mountain Biking
Aside from being the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation, biking is an ideal way to see the islands natural beauty. There are over 300 kilometers of trails, consisting of smooth coastal drives, unpaved back roads, and even goat paths, allowing you to explore all of Bonaire's amazing natural resources. Our biking pages offer a look at what is quickly becoming one of the island's more popular pastimes.
Consistent conditions make the shallow, calm waters of Lac the epicenter of Bonaire's internationally-known windsurfing. On the island's leeward side, the calm offshore wind provides just the right sort of air to explore Klein Bonaire. Winds blow December through August at 15 - 25 knots, September through November at 12 - 18 knots. To learn more about Bonaire's "other water sport," browse the "Windsurfing at Lac" page.
Atlantis Beach near the salt mines on the southwest coast is where Bonaire's local kiteboarding community congregates. Brisk tradewinds, a light sandy beach and shallow waters make for a safe learning environment. Deeper waters and waves are close by for those looking for an additional challenge.
Snacks and cold drinks are usually available on the beach and a safety boat is almost always present.
Paddle the protected waters of Lac Bay, or head for the miles of flats and mangroves in the South (the island's nursery) where baby fish and wildlife can be viewed.
Bonaire is home to over 210 species of birds, 80 of which are indigenous to the Island. Most famous are its flamingos, which can number as many as 15,000 during the mating season. Our birdwatching page will help you get started on what to see and where to see it.
Fishing
Wahoo, Tuna, Dorado, Blue Marlin, Amber Jack, Grouper, Sailfish and Snapper can be found off the coast of Bonaire. This abundance and variety of sport fish make the island home to some of the best deep-sea fishing. Bonaire is also one of the best kept secrets of bone-fishing enthusiasts.
Want to get away from it all and back to nature with minimal effort? Try a day out on the water on one of Bonaire's charter yachts. Steady wind and calm seas make Bonaire ideal for sailing and yachting. A wide choice of excursions are available to whisk you away for a Caribbean adventure in the unparalleled Bonaire Marine Park. Enjoy the luxurious combination of gliding swiftly and silently over the water while Bonaire's professional crews take care of your every wish from serving up delicious tropical drinks to identifying colorful fish, sea birds, or coral species on Bonaire's pristine coral reefs. Chase the elusive "green flash" on a Sunset sail, or visit the deserted offshore island of Klein Bonaire for Some spectacular snorkeling. Some yachts even offer gourmet dinner cruises and full moon sails. If getting wet is not your thing, take a glass bottom boat trip and view the incredible underwater world from topside. You never know when a school of porpoises may be your escort, or even a whale shark or a pod of pilot whales! For more information on Bonaire's charter yachts, contact:
Spend part or all of the day at one of Bonaire's fine horse ranches, or "kunukus," where group tours, private lessons and trail rides are available. Some of the kunukus offer accommodations and meals, and they are wonderful places to meet locals or just let the time pass by.
Feeling lucky? Bonaire has two casinos if you want to test your skills at black jack, roulette or slots. There is also an occasional Caribbean Stud Poker game to be found.
The Divi Flamingo Resort Casino is open every evening at 8 until 3 as is the Coral Casino at Plaza Resort. You will find the players to be laid back and friendly. All visitors over 21 are welcome to try their luck.
