Diving on Bonaire: A Paradise Below Sea Level

Diving on Bonaire is like a dream come true! Bonaire is a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea and is known for its breathtaking underwater scenery and pristine coral reefs. For diving enthusiasts all over the world, this small island is a true paradise. With its crystal clear waters and abundance of colorful marine life, Bonaire provides the ideal environment for diving adventures you will never forget. In addition, you will experience a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere on Bonaire, enjoy the beaches and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants.

Bonaire is blessed with one of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. From the moment you go underwater you will be mesmerized by the diversity of marine life that can be seen underwater. Colorful tropical fish, sea turtles and beautiful coral formations are waiting to be discovered.

Shore diving on Bonaire

Bonaire is known for its shore diving. The island offers approximately 63 marked dive sites and a number of unmarked sites that are easily accessible from the shore. It's simple to drive to your desired dive site, get your dive gear ready and then head out into the crystal clear waters.

Diving options for every diver

Whether you are a novice diver or a seasoned professional, Bonaire has something to offer for every level of diver. Numerous diving schools with professional staff are available to guide and support you on your diving adventure. With their expertise and knowledge of the local ecosystem, they ensure that your diving experience on Bonaire is safe and memorable.

Go to these dive sites when you go diving on Bonaire

Bonaire is known as one of the best diving destinations in the world. Every dive site Bonaire has its unique characteristics, making every dive a new experience. Here are ten examples of popular dive sites on Bonaire:

Karpata

Karpata is known for its spectacular reef, which starts in the shallow end and descends to a depth of more than 30 meters. The reef is dotted with colorful corals and sponges. The water conditions at Karpata are usually excellent, with very clear water and good visibility. Karpata is a shore dive, which means you can enter the water directly from the beach. Although the side can be a bit rocky, a landscaped path makes access to the water relatively easy. There is a lot to see in the shallow part of Karpata, making it a good location for novice divers as well.

1000 steps

The name is somewhat misleading: in reality there are only about 67 stone steps leading from the car park to the beach. However, it can feel like "1000 steps" when you climb back up with all your dive gear! While the stone steps can take some effort, especially after the dive, entry into the water is relatively easy from the white coral beach. 1000 Steps is a popular spot for its healthy reef and variety of marine life. The reef starts relatively close to shore and descends to great depths, making it suitable for both novice and advanced divers. You can expect to see a variety of coral species and tropical fish, and it's also a popular place to see turtles.

Salt Pier

Salt Pier, located in the south of Bonaire, is one of the most unique dive sites on the island due to the presence of an operational salt pier. The pier's pillars act as artificial reefs, attracting a diversity of marine life. The pier attracts many fish including trumpet fish, moray eels, parrot fish and many more. It is also not uncommon to see tarpons and barracudas swimming around the pillars.

Hilma Hooker

A must for wreck divers. The Hilma Hooker sank in 1984 after it was seized due to suspicions of drug smuggling. The Hilma Hooker is located between Angel City and Alice in Wonderland dive sites, about 60 meters from the shoreline. The wreck lies at a depth of between 18 and 30 meters.

Bari Reef

Bari Reef is easily accessible from the water's edge, making it a great spot for both novice and advanced divers. The depth of Bari Reef varies from about 3 meters close to shore to more than 30 meters further offshore. Bari Reef is famous for its biodiversity. More than 300 different species of fish have been recorded in this area. In addition to fish, divers can also see different types of coral, sea snails and sponges. Bari Reef is an excellent place for night diving. When the sun goes down, other types of marine life emerge, such as lobsters, squid, and octopus.

East Coast Diving

Most dive sites on Bonaire are located on the west coast of the island. However, the east coast (also known as the "wild side") offers a very different kind of experience. Despite the more difficult conditions, the east coast of Bonaire can be very rewarding for divers. It is one of the few places in Bonaire where you have the chance to see sharks. Other species commonly sighted include turtles, eagle rays, barracudas and dolphins. Due to the more challenging conditions and remote location, dives on the east coast are usually organized by specialist diving schools on the island.

Protection of Bonaire's Underwater Heritage

Bonaire is proud of its commitment to nature conservation and sustainable tourism. STINAPA is responsible for the management and protection of Bonaire's two nature reserves: the Bonaire National Marine Park (BNMP) and the Washington Slagbaai National Park. STINAPA plays an essential role in preserving the island's unique natural environment through education, enforcement and scientific research. As a diver, you are encouraged to respect the park's rules and regulations so that future generations can also enjoy this natural treasure.

Why will Bonaire be your next dive destination?

Diving on Bonaire is a dream come true for every lover of the underwater world. With its breathtaking coral reefs, crystal clear waters and unparalleled ease of diving, Bonaire is the perfect destination for an unforgettable diving adventure. Whether you are an experienced diver or have never dived before, this Caribbean paradise is sure to enchant you.