What to do on Bonaire
What to do on Bonaire
Are you looking for a destination where adventure and relaxation come together in the Caribbean Sea? Bonaire offers a unique blend of natural wonders and authentic experiences.
Discover the hidden treasures of this Caribbean paradise
Bonaire is known for its unspoiled nature and rich underwater world. Start your adventure in Washington Slagbaai National Park, where you’ll find hiking trails through rugged landscapes and hidden bays like Boka Slagbaai. For diving enthusiasts, the Bonaire National Marine Park is an absolute must, with crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs that you can explore from locations such as Salt Pier and Te Amo Beach.
Meet the locals at The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire, where you can meet the island’s friendly donkeys. Water sports fans will find their happiness at Lac Bay, perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing at Kite Beach. For a unique adventure, you can take a boat trip to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island with pristine beaches. Don’t forget to visit the Cadushy Distillery for a tasting of local liqueurs, or relax at Hang Out Beach Bar while soaking up the Caribbean sun.
At Blue Bird Tours & Travel, we connect you with local guides who will show you the hidden gems of Bonaire, far beyond the standard tourist routes. Discover Bonaire your way and experience why this island has so much more to offer.
Nature adventures and cultural discoveries on the island
Discover flamingos and nature reserves
A visit to the Flamingo Sanctuary is an unforgettable experience where you will observe the iconic Caribbean flamingos in their natural habitat. At Saliña Goto you will find calm waters where these beautiful birds forage. For nature lovers, the Caves and Karst Nature Reserve is a fascinating area with underground caves and unique rock formations. Climb Seru Largu, Bonaire’s highest point, for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and the surrounding Caribbean waters.
Diving and snorkeling with local experts
Join Dive Friends Bonaire for professional diving excursions suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. The National Marine Park Bonaire protects more than 80 dive sites along the coast. Discover the mission of Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire and learn how the island protects these endangered species. For a complete diving adventure, Epic Tours organizes combined trips that combine diving with other island activities, perfectly bookable through platforms such as Blue Bird Tours & Travel.
Active experiences on land
Outdoor Bonaire offers exciting kayak trips through mangrove forests and coasteering adventures along the rugged coastline. For something a little more unique, try Bonaire Landsailing Adventures, where you sail across the flat salty lakes in a land sand yacht. Visit the Mangrove Information Center to understand how important these ecosystems are to the island. The STINAPA Nature Tag program supports conservation and offers informative tours through various protected areas, where you will meet local guides who share their passion for nature.
Historical sites and local culture
Stroll down the main street Kaya Grandi in Kralendijk and discover local shops and restaurants such as IRIE Jamaican Cuisine Bonaire, where authentic Caribbean flavors surprise you. Visit Fort Oranje, the historic 17th-century fort that overlooks the harbor and provides insight into the island’s colonial past. For a special experience, join Cave Tours Bonaire, where you will navigate through ancient caves and learn about the geological history and life of the original inhabitants.
Relaxing stays for every traveler
Plaza Beach Resort combines comfortable accommodations with direct access to diving facilities, ideal for underwater enthusiasts. For a more intimate experience , SENSES Boutique Hotel & Apartments offers modern rooms with Caribbean touches in the heart of Kralendijk. Families appreciate Delfins Beach Resort’s all-inclusive concept, while divers often choose Plaza Beach & Dive Resort for its on-site dive school. The luxurious Van der Valk Plaza Royal Residence Bonaire Hotel offers premium amenities and spectacular views of the harbor.
Beach relaxation and beach clubs
Discover Donkey’s Beach, a quiet beach on the south coast where you can snorkel in peace among colorful fish. At Ocean Oasis Hangout Beach Bar you can enjoy refreshing cocktails while your feet are in the sand and the sun sets over the Caribbean horizon. Blue Bird Tours & Travel helps you combine accommodations with beach activities and transportation, such as rental cars from Sunny Cars, so you can flexibly explore every corner of the island and set your own pace.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between Washington Slagbaai and other nature parks on Bonaire?
The Washington Slagbaai National Park is the largest protected nature reserve on Bonaire and covers almost a fifth of the island. Unlike smaller reserves, this marine park offers both terrestrial and underwater attractions. You will find diverse ecosystems from cactus forests to coral reefs, while smaller areas such as the Caves Reserve focus on specific natural phenomena. The park is ideal for day trips with combinations of hiking, snorkeling and wildlife observation.
Can I combine trips to other Caribbean islands through Blue Bird Tours & Travel?
Absolutely! Blue Bird offers tours and accommodations in five destinations: Bonaire, Aruba, Curaçao, Sint Maarten and Suriname. These Caribbean islands are easy to combine in one trip. Popular routes are the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) with short interisland flights, or a contrast between beach islands and the rainforest of Suriname. Through the platform, you can put together accommodations, tours and transport for multiple destinations in one booking.
Which accommodation in Bonaire offers the best value for money for families?
The Corendon Van der Valk Plaza Royal Residence Bonaire Hotel combines luxurious facilities with family-friendly amenities such as spacious apartments and swimming pools. For budget-conscious families, Delfins Beach Resort offers all-inclusive options with children’s activities. Blue Bird helps you compare different accommodations based on your needs. All the resorts mentioned are close to the center and important diving and snorkeling sites, which makes transportation easier.
Where can I taste authentic local food on Bonaire?
Walk through Kaya Grandi, the main shopping street of Kralendijk, where you will find several local eateries. IRIE Jamaican Cuisine Bonaire serves Caribbean specialties with fresh ingredients and authentic spices. Also visit the local markets for fresh fish and tropical fruits. Blue Bird’s local guides can take you to hidden culinary gems that aren’t in standard guidebooks, from family-run restaurants to street food stalls selling traditional snacks.
Is Bonaire still part of the Netherlands Antilles?
No, since 2010 the Netherlands Antilles have been dissolved as a country group. Bonaire is now a special municipality of the Netherlands, together with St. Eustatius and Saba. This means that the euro is the official currency and the Dutch administrative system applies. No visa formalities are required for European visitors. This status as Caribbean islands within the Kingdom of the Netherlands makes Bonaire accessible to Dutch travelers and guarantees well-organized infrastructure.
What transport do I need to reach all the sights of Bonaire?
A rental car is essential to fully explore the island, especially for remote areas such as the Washington Slagbaai park and northern beaches. Blue Bird works with reliable partners such as Sunny Cars for vehicle rental. For the national park, a 4×4 is recommended due to unpaved roads, but a regular car will suffice for most coastal locations. Book your rental car directly through the Blue Bird platform along with your tours for seamless coordination.
What makes the Donkey Sanctuary so special to visitors?
The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire offers shelter to more than 400 rescued donkeys that roam freely on a large site. Visitors can feed these friendly animals, pet them, and learn about their history on the island. The Donkey Sanctuary works entirely on donations and volunteers, so your visit directly contributes to animal welfare. It’s a heartwarming experience for all ages, perfectly combining with other northern attractions through Blue Bird tours.
Which unique beach club experience should I not miss on Bonaire?
Ocean Oasis offers a laid-back beach club atmosphere with local cocktails, fresh seafood, and sun loungers right on the water. Unlike busy tourist beaches, you will find an authentic Caribbean vibe with live music during weekends. The location is ideal for sunset with panoramic views over the coast. Blue Bird can combine this visit with other southern attractions such as the historic Fort Oranje and walks through Kralendijk for a full day experience.
Your journey, just the way you want it
Whether you dream of a private snorkeling tour, a surprise trip for a special occasion or just want to be completely unburdened, we will arrange it!
Together, we’ll put together a unique experience that perfectly suits your needs. Personalized, flexible and organized to perfection.
