Learn to Dive in Bonaire
Bonaire’s Highlights
One of Bonaire’s main attractions is that the majority of dive sites are located from shore. You have the freedom to rent tanks and a car, driving yourself and buddies to your dive site of choice. You’re able to plan your own dives and do as many as you wish to during daylight hours. You’ll get an introduction on how to preserve the local reef and be a responsible diver by the shop you rent tanks from.
Bonaire is surrounded by a marine park and the western side of the island is protected from winds making it ideal for diving. It has been protected for over 35 years, making coral vibrant and marine life abundant. Divers of all levels and experiences will enjoy scuba diving in Bonaire. Day trips to Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island, make for some interesting boat dives.
When is the best time to go diving in Bonaire?
Diving in Bonaire can be done at any time of year. January to April is considered the peak tourist season. May to October is the best time to visit as the weather is great but there are less crowds.
Water Temperature: Between 25°C and 29°C all year-round.
Currents: None to medium
Visibility: 30 to 50 meters.
Bonaire’s best dive sites
1000 steps
To get to this dive site, there is quite an inordinate number of steps, not exactly 1000, but you get the point. It’s a shallow dive featuring a beautiful coral reef. It’s protected with little current making it great for inexperienced divers.
Karpata
While many of Bonaire’s dive sites have a similar topography. Karpata is something different. The reef drops to 30 meters, featuring beautiful hard and soft coral. Divers have a high chance of spotting turtles.
Nukove
Featuring stunning soft and hard coral, Nukove is a beautiful dive site to explore. Nurse sharks are known to be sleeping amongst the staghorn coral. Entry is directly from the beach.
About the country
Bonaire is a unique fusion of Caribbean chill with European vibes. People are very friendly but you will most likely hear locals conversing in Dutch. Kitesurfing is extremely popular in Bonaire. People visiting enjoy other water sports from sailing to paddle boarding.
Recreational Courses in Bonaire
Dive Centers in Bonaire
Getting to Bonaire
Bonaire is easy to get to from North America, South America and Europe. Bonaire’s airport is Flamingo International Airport. The prevalence of flights depends on the time of year and season. To get around the island, it’s easiest to rent a car or truck.
Other important information
- Capital: Kralendijk
- Official Language: Dutch
- Demonym: Bonairean
- Currency: United States Dollar USD $
- Calling code: +599 7
- Driving Side: right
- Population: 20,100
- Pressure: PSI
- First Stage: INT/Yoke
