Bonaire Between Caves, Mangroves and Sea

Bonaire brings together cave landscapes, mangroves, protected coastal waters and a wide range of opportunities for outdoor activities. You can give different emphasis to nature watching, exploring the terrain, water sports and culture. When planning your trip, it’s worth first considering which of these sides of the island you’d like to shape your stay.

Caves, Coast and Special Natural Areas

Barkadera is notable for its high concentration of sinkholes and caves. These include dry and water-filled caves, bat nurseries and speleothems such as stalactites and stalagmites. Indigenous art and opportunities to snorkel in caves are also among the features mentioned there. Barkadera thus combines geological formations with nature and cultural experiences.

The coastal landscapes also vary. Lac Bay on the southeast coast is a shallow bay with an offshore coral reef, seagrass beds, mangrove forest and sandy beaches. Lac is also described as a lagoon on Bonaire’s windward side. The mangrove area near Lac has served for generations as a nursery for various fish species that live in Bonaire’s waters, and is used as a recreational area.

Bonaire’s entire coastline is protected as part of the Bonaire National Marine Park; all coastal waters are also included in the protected area. Most, but not all, are open to recreational users. Restrictions may vary by location, and temporary closures may occur. Bonaire and Klein Bonaire together have more than 22 tropical beaches—a combined figure, not a figure for Bonaire alone.

Hiking, Cycling and Wildlife Watching

Washington Slagbaai National Park covers almost a quarter of the island. At 241 metres, Mount Brandaris is Bonaire’s highest point. The park has beaches on the west coast that are well suited to exploration. Washington Slagbaai is also a stopover for migratory wetland birds and a breeding area for terns and snowy plovers. Together with the Pekelmeer Sanctuary, the park is mentioned as a destination for birdwatchers; Het Pekelmeer is home to one of the most important breeding colonies of Caribbean flamingos.

If you enjoy walking, the national park has two marked routes of different lengths: the Lagadishi “Lizard” Walking Trail is rated easy and takes two hours. The Kasikunda Climbing Trail is rated moderate and takes 45 minutes. The difference in duration and difficulty can help with day planning; trail conditions may vary. A route described in the park brochure takes about two hours and leads to 20 featured points, including birdwatching spots, beaches, salt pans, blowholes and historical sites. Check the current brochure before setting out.

Cyclists will also find a variety of landscapes on Bonaire: more than 300 kilometres of routes range from goat paths to unpaved roads and offer opportunities to explore by bike. A 34-kilometre mountain biking route also runs through Washington Slagbaai National Park. It is suitable for experienced riders; rough terrain and high temperatures should be taken into account, and conditions may vary. The Bara di Karta Hiking Trail is another way to explore Bonaire on foot.

Water Sports and Island Experiences

Sorobon is on Bonaire’s eastern side in a large, sheltered bay. Steady winds and warm, shallow water characterise the area, which is considered a windsurfing destination; local conditions may vary. A kitesurfing area is located at the island’s southwestern tip. Bonaire offers divers more than 85 dive sites, 54 of which are easily accessible from shore. The number of sites may change over time.

Lac offers another perspective on the island’s natural environment: at 700 hectares, it is the largest lagoon in the ABC islands, is part of the Bonaire National Marine Park and has been a Ramsar site of special importance as a wetland since 1980. These different interests can help guide your choice of holiday rental: nature watching, hiking, cycling and water sports each offer a different focus for your stay, without implying any particular accommodation or amenities.

Bonaire’s Culture and History

The Mangazina di Rei Museum presents Bonaire’s history and geography. Tanki Maraka Heritage Park is an open-air museum about the Second World War; it highlights the site of a US military camp from 1942 to 1947. In Rincon, the Rincon Exhibition offers an overview of the cultural heritage of the place, which is considered Bonaire’s oldest settlement. Dia di Rincon takes place on Bonaire every year, although the specific celebration dates vary.

Local guides show visitors the island’s sights and explain its history, culture, birdlife and marine life. For a day trip from Bonaire to Klein Bonaire, the ferry is the recommended means of transport; check current operators and schedules in advance. Much of Bonaire can be explored by car, taxi or bus. When looking for a holiday rental, you can therefore first base your decision on the experiences that matter to you, then research suitable accommodation for your trip.

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Go to the main travel overview: Bonaire.