10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Bonaire

Planning a trip to Bonaire? The 10 Things to Know Before Traveling to Bonaire. Whether you are coming for world-class scuba diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, wingfoiling, kitesurifng, nature, or simply a relaxing Caribbean getaway, a little preparation will make your stay even more enjoyable.

Bonaire is a laid-back island with a very different pace of life from many other holiday destinations. Here are 10 things to know before traveling to Bonaire.

2. The U.S. Dollar Is the Local Currency

The official currency of Bonaire is the U.S. dollar (USD $). This is useful to know whether you are traveling from the United States, Canada, Europe, or elsewhere.

For our European guests, it is worth remembering that Bonaire does not use the EURO, even though many visitors arrive from the Netherlands and other European countries. Prices on the island are displayed in U.S. dollars ($).

At Oasis Guesthouse, we offer several convenient payment options for our guests. Depending on your preference, you can pay:

• Cash in U.S. dollars
• Bank transfer
• Revolut
• Maestro
• Credit card

Please note that we do not accept American Express (Amex).

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted on Bonaire, but we still recommend carrying some cash with you. Cash can be useful at smaller businesses, local vendors, or when you simply prefer to pay in cash.

If you are traveling from Europe or Canada, it is also a good idea to check with your bank before your trip about international transaction fees and currency conversion charges.

3. Bonaire Has a Warm, Dry Climate

Bonaire enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, making it an excellent destination for a Caribbean vacation in almost every season.

Temperatures are generally warm and sunshine is plentiful. The island is also relatively dry compared with many other Caribbean islands.

One thing you will notice quickly is the trade wind. The steady breeze is an important part of Bonaire’s climate and is one of the reasons the island is so popular with windsurfers, wingfoilers and kitesurfers.

The wind can also make warm temperatures feel pleasantly comfortable. Don’t forget that you can still get sunburned even when the breeze makes it feel less hot.

4. Driving on Bonaire Takes a Little Getting Used To

Bonaire drives on the right-hand side of the road.

The main roads around Kralendijk and the southern part of the island are generally easy to navigate. Once you venture farther out, you may encounter narrower roads, dirt roads, and more remote areas.

Drive carefully, especially around dive sites and in rural areas. You may encounter goats, donkeys, or other animals crossing the road.

And if you are exploring the island’s many shore dive sites, remember that some roads are unpaved. A suitable rental vehicle can make a big difference.

5. Tap Water Is Safe to Drink

One of the convenient things about visiting Bonaire is that tap water is safe to drink.

The island’s drinking water is produced through a desalination process and is carefully treated. There is generally no need to buy large quantities of bottled water during your stay.

6. Protect Bonaire’s Coral Reefs

Bonaire is famous for its incredible underwater world, and protecting it is everyone’s responsibility.

Bonaire is famous for its incredible underwater world, and protecting it is everyone’s responsibility.

The waters surrounding Bonaire and Klein Bonaire are part of the Bonaire National Marine Park, which is managed by STINAPA Bonaire, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting Bonaire’s natural and cultural heritage. STINAPA also manages Washington Slagbaai National Park. Their work includes nature conservation, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, scientific research, environmental education, and the protection of Bonaire’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

Don’t Forget Your STINAPA Nature Fee

If you are planning to enter the water during your stay, you need to purchase the STINAPA Nature Fee. The fee is currently US$40 per person per calendar year for visitors and is valid from January 1 through December 31. It gives you access to the Bonaire National Marine Park and Washington Slagbaai National Park. Children under 12 and residents of the Dutch Caribbean are exempt.

You may hear people refer to this as the STINAPA tag or nature tag. Today, the Nature Fee is purchased online and you receive proof of payment digitally.

The Nature Fee is more than an entrance fee. Your contribution helps STINAPA protect the places that make Bonaire so special. By paying the fee, you are directly supporting the sustainable management and conservation of the island’s parks and marine environment.

Be a Responsible Visitor

Whether you are scuba diving or snorkeling, follow a few simple rules:

• Never touch coral or marine life
• Keep your buoyancy under control while diving
• Avoid standing on coral
• Do not feed fish or other marine animals
• Keep a respectful distance from turtles and other wildlife
• Never take coral, shells, or marine life as souvenirs
• Use reef-friendly practices whenever possible

Bonaire’s reefs and nature are here for everyone to enjoy. By being a responsible visitor, you help ensure that future generations can experience the same beautiful island and underwater world.

At Oasis Guesthouse & Scuba School Bonaire, we are proud to support responsible diving and encourage all our guests to enjoy Bonaire, respect nature, and leave nothing but bubbles behind.

7. Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Sun Protection

The Caribbean sun can be stronger than you expect, especially when you spend time on or near the water.

Pack a good-quality, REEF SAVE sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and lightweight clothing that provides some protection from the sun.

For snorkeling and diving days, a rash guard or UV-protective shirt can be very useful. It provides extra protection and means you don’t have to rely entirely on sunscreen.

And remember: the wind can make the sun feel less intense than it really is.

8. Pack for an Active Caribbean Vacation

You don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe to Bonaire. Light, comfortable clothing is perfect for most days. Add swimwear, sandals or water shoes, comfortable walking shoes, and something slightly smarter for an evening out.

If you plan to dive or snorkel, consider bringing:

• Swimwear
• Rash guard or UV shirt
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Your personal dive equipment, if you prefer to use your own gear

Don’t forget a small backpack or beach bag for day trips around the island.

9. Life on Bonaire Moves at a Relaxed Pace

One of the things visitors love most about Bonaire is the relaxed atmosphere. This isn’t an island where you need to rush from one attraction to another. Take your time. Enjoy a long breakfast, go for a morning dive, explore Kralendijk, stop for a drink, watch the sunset, and let the day unfold.

You may notice that service in restaurants and shops can sometimes be slower than you are used to. Don’t worry, you’re on island time. Relax, be patient and enjoy the Caribbean pace of life.

10. Bonaire Is More Than Diving

Of course, Bonaire is world-famous for scuba diving, and for good reason. But there is so much more to discover above the water!

Whether you are an active adventurer, a nature lover, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing Caribbean getaway, Bonaire has something for you.

Here are just a few things you can experience during your stay:

• Hiking – Explore trails through Bonaire’s beautiful and rugged landscapes, especially in the north of the island.
• Kayaking through the mangroves – Discover the peaceful mangrove forests and learn more about this unique ecosystem.
• Kitesurfing at Atlantis – Head to the southern tip of the island and enjoy Bonaire’s famous trade winds.
• Land sailing – Experience the power of the wind in a completely different way and race across the salt flats.
• Beach BBQs – Pick up some local treats, find a beautiful spot by the sea, and enjoy your own Caribbean-style BBQ.
• Mountain biking – The northern part of Bonaire offers great opportunities for mountain biking and exploring the island’s rugged terrain.
• Windsurfing & Wingfoiling at Lac Bay – Thanks to the steady trade winds and shallow waters, Lac Bay is a fantastic spot for watersports.
• Bird watching – Bonaire is home to an incredible variety of birds. Keep your eyes open for flamingos, parrots, parakeets, herons, pelicans, and many other special species.
• Explore Kralendijk – Wander through the colorful streets, browse local shops, enjoy a coffee, or simply watch the world go by.
• Restaurants & local food – From casual beachside spots to excellent restaurants, there are plenty of opportunities to discover the flavors of Bonaire.
• Bars & happy hours – Enjoy a cold drink while watching the sunset or join one of the island’s popular happy hours.
• Salsa nights & local events – Put on your dancing shoes and experience the lively side of Bonaire with salsa, music, and other local events.

And sometimes the best activity is no activity at all. Spend a lazy afternoon by the pool at Oasis Guesthouse, relax with a good book, or enjoy a drink while getting to know fellow travelers.

Bonaire is an island where you can be as active or as relaxed as you want.

Your holiday matters to us!

Whether you come to Bonaire for diving, relaxation or a bit of everything, we’re here to help you make your stay memorable.

See you at Oasis Guesthouse Bonaire!