About Bonaire
FAQ
Welcome to the Bonaire FAQ! Here you’ll find essential information about the island of Bonaire. From local attractions and activities to dining and transportation tips, we have all you need to make the most of your visit. Discover why Bonaire is a top destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation.
General
Yes, Bonaire is generally a safe destination, but it is always wise to take the usual precautions.
Popular activities in Bonaire include diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kitesurfing, hiking, and cycling.
Check out our tips on ‘what to do in Bonaire”
Yes, Bonaire is an excellent destination for families, with many kid-friendly activities such as snorkeling, beach visits, and nature hikes.
Try local dishes such as keshi yena, funchi, and pastechi, as well as fresh seafood.
Yes, you can drink water from the tap on Bonaire. The island’s tap water is purified and safe to drink, as it is sourced from desalinated seawater.
The best time to visit Bonaire is during the dry season, from December to April. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s natural beauty.
The best way to travel to Bonaire is by flying into Flamingo International Airport (BON), the island’s main airport. Several airlines offer direct flights to Bonaire from major hubs in the U.S., Europe, and other Caribbean islands. If you’re traveling from the U.S., you can find direct flights from cities like Miami, Atlanta, and Houston. European travelers can fly through Amsterdam with KLM.
No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days for U.S. Citizens and for most of the European Union Citizens. A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date is required.
On Bonaire, the primary languages spoken are Dutch, Papiamento, English, and Spanish. Dutch is the official language used in government and formal contexts, while Papiamento, a Creole language with roots in Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and African languages, is the most commonly spoken language among locals. English is widely used, particularly in tourist areas and by the expatriate community, and Spanish is also spoken by some residents and visitors.
Activities
Kiteboarding can be excellent at several spots on Bonaire. Atlantic Beach is the most well-known, and for good reason; this location is even called Kite Beach.
Yes, you can definitely play golf on Bonaire at the Piedra So golf course. It is a unique 18-hole ecological golf course.
Lac Bay and Sorobon Beach are the best spots for windsurfing and are world-famous for their excellent conditions.
Food & drink
Bonaire’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, with influences from the Caribbean, Dutch, and international cuisines. Try local specialties like goat stew and fresh seafood at restaurants such as It Rains Fishes and Sebastian’s. Street food is also popular, with dishes like pastechi (stuffed pastries) available at local stalls. For a luxurious dining experience, visit Brass Boer, a restaurant by top Dutch chefs offering spectacular sea views.
The nightlife on Bonaire is relaxed compared to other Caribbean islands. There are a few bars and restaurants that offer evening entertainment, but you shouldn’t expect busy nightclubs.
Beaches
There are a lot of beautiful beaches on Bonaire, for example Sorobon Beach, Pink Beach and No Name Beach. Take a look at our best 9 beaches.
Diving
In Bonaire, a Nature Fee is required for everyone entering the sea, including divers. This fee is intended to maintain and fund Bonaire’s nature parks. The cost of the Nature Fee is $4
The cost of diving on Bonaire varies depending on factors such as whether you are diving independently or joining guided dive trips, the duration of your stay, and the dive sites you wish to visit. An introductory dive starts at around $60. For an introductory course with certification, prices range from $280 to $500. Also, check out our tips for diving in Bonaire.
The best time to dive in Bonaire is between November and April. During these months, the weather is most stable, with little rain and calm seas, providing excellent diving conditions. Although Bonaire offers good diving conditions year-round, the summer months can sometimes bring more wind and waves, which may reduce underwater visibility.
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