If you’re considering scuba diving on Bonaire Island in the Dutch Caribbean, you’ve likely heard Bonaire Island has over 80 dive sites and is one of the best Caribbean scuba diving destinations in the world. However, one thing you might not know, is some of the best diving on the island IS NOT shore diving…
This post will give you the helpful things to know, some insider tips about diving on this island as well as a breakdown of some of the top dive sites!
Bonaire Island is a shore diving destination
If you’ve never been shore diving, it’s a different experience than boat diving. It requires a higher level fitness because you can’t simply “walk into the water” at every dive site. Sometimes there are waves, challenging rocks to navigate around, or a ladder or stair entry.
One thing that is VERY helpful about Bonaire, it has dive markers. Each dive site has a yellow rock that marks the dive site, a yellow rock to show the best place to enter and exit the dive, and a dive marker in the water to show the best place to drop down.
Helpful things to know
There are also some other unexpected things about diving in Bonaire.
- Most people don’t lock their cars (otherwise you’re likely going to get it broken into), so not only make sure you have a TRUCK, but your Bonaire truck rental has insurance!
- The weather is dry and warm year round with very little rain. It’s located OUTSIDE the hurricane belt.
- Water temp is generally in the 80s
Even better? Rent a BUGGY. These are SO MUCH FUN to drive around the island. Send Fred a note and ask him to give you a discount (Christine sent you!).
A breakdown of the above can be found in an overview of Bonaire scuba diving with more helpful tips in the video below
The best Bonaire dive sites
Bonaire Island has some of the best shore diving in the world, but there is a reason these 6 Bonaire dive sites standout as ones not to be missed.
- 1000 steps (a very popular spot on the island)
- Salt Pier (for variety of what you can see)
- Turtle City and White Hole (to see “big stuff” and more turtles than you can count)
- Something Special (if you like eels)
- Hilma Hooker (if you like wrecks)
- Red Slave (given it’s location on the corner of the island, this dive has a very unique profile)
The video below breaks down what these dives are like, why they are special and unique, and helpful tips on what to know.
Other dive sites
Want more? I break down 10 additional dive sites with helpful tips around the entry/exit, profile and what you might be able to see in this video including:
- Vista Blue
- Bari’s Reef
- Jeff Davis
- Andrea I
- Lighthouse
- Alice in Wonderland
- Red Beryl
- Boka Bartol
- Playa Funchi
- Tolo
Want to see a map of the Bonaire Dive Sites? Check it out below!
Dive operators
When I dive in Bonaire I generally dive with the team of One Blue Ocean. We navigate ourselves and dive without an operator. However, I love using VIP diving for getting Nitrox air tanks.
Insider tip: One thing NOT to miss? Boat diving. Bonaire East Coast Diving (and booking well in advance) is an absolute must when scuba diving in Bonaire (get a discount by using promo code LOZADA23). The East side of the island will give you a glimpse into a side of Bonaire you simply WILL NOT get shore diving from it’s North, West and South dive sites.
The Best Dives on Bonaire
This one is up for debate, but to be honest, if you want to see 57 turtles on a 57 minute dive, you can only do that in Turtle City. And the only way to get to Turtle City is by BOAT.
Not only that, you’ve got access to Funchi Reef and all the BIG things. Big eels, big fish and if you’re ever going to see sharks and other things like manta rays, it’s likely off a boat dive.
Shore diving is a must on Bonaire, but you’ve MISSED THE BOAT if you don’t do a dive off the East side of Bonaire Island.
Even better, grab a discount using LOZADA23 or mentioning this blog post to Fred when you book with East Coast Diving.
Want to SEE what these dives are like? Checkout the video below!
I care about other traveler’s reviews. See the top rated dive operators on Bonaire!
Don’t forget to pack THIS!
There’s nothing worse than forgetting something important on your vacation! Year after year I travel to Bonaire and THIS is the specific pack list I use for this island.
Get a free printable pack list and save yourself the headache!
When is the best time to scuba dive in Bonaire?
Bonaire is a superb scuba diving destination throughout the year due to its steady weather and location outside the hurricane belt.
For optimal visibility and calmer waters, consider visiting in the fall months (September to November). This period also tends to have fewer tourists, making the dive sites less crowded.
However, if witnessing unique marine events like coral spawning and turtle nesting are on your agenda, plan your visit for late spring to early summer (April to June). Despite these suggestions, the island’s vibrant marine life and excellent diving conditions are present year-round.
Do I need to be certified to scuba dive in Bonaire?
Yes, you do need to be certified to scuba dive independently in Bonaire.
However, if you’re not certified, you can still experience diving through introductory “Discover Scuba Diving” courses offered by many local dive centers.
These courses allow you to dive under the direct supervision of a professional instructor.
One option for this is with VIP Diving. I’ve been renting my scbua tanks from them for years and they offer this kind of service!
What marine life can I see while diving in Bonaire?
Bonaire’s vibrant underwater world is teeming with a wide variety of marine life. As you dive, you can expect to encounter colorful coral reefs populated by diverse tropical fish species. Sea turtles, seahorses, and various species of rays are also commonly sighted.
While less frequent, larger marine species like sharks can be seen, particularly on boat dives. Regardless of when you visit, Bonaire promises a rich underwater spectacle for all diving enthusiasts.
What are the rules or regulations for diving in Bonaire?
All divers in Bonaire are required to purchase a Stinapa Marine Park tag, which funds local conservation efforts. To ensure the preservation of the marine environment, touching or disturbing marine life is strictly prohibited.
As part of the marine park rules, divers are also required to complete a local orientation and checkout dive if they’re diving independently. Check with your dive center or local authorities for the most current guidelines and regulations to ensure a safe and responsible diving experience.
Can I rent diving gear on Bonaire?
Yes, Bonaire has numerous dive shops and resorts that offer diving gear rentals. You can find everything from full equipment sets to individual items based on your needs.
I use VIP Diving for my scuba tanks, but they also have gear for rent.
Insider tip: DO NOT forget your camera equipment. While there are a few shops around the island that have camera gear, if you’re in a pinch (i.e. “I need a new Go Pro Underwater Filter!” you might be sh** outta luck).
What about non-diving activities?
Bonaire is JUST for divers, right? No! There’s a ton to do on the island if you’re not scuba diving. Read more here or checkout the video below!
Bottom Line
Bonaire shore diving is some of the best in the world and with nearly 100 dive sites, picking the right ones for your skill level and also based on what kind of a dive you like is key!