Bonaire cruise port is located right in downtown Kralendijk making it incredibly easy to explore the island as soon as you step off your cruise ship.
Bonaire is one of the most beautiful and easy-to-navigate ports in the Caribbean, and if you’re cruising there, trust me, you’re going to want to get off the ship. I’ve been coming to Bonaire for years, and it’s always a favorite stop.
Read on for some helpful tips around things you can do from Bonaire cruise port including top questions asked!
Walk Straight Into Downtown
The first thing to know about Bonaire Cruise Port is how incredibly easy it is to explore the island.
Unlike other cruise ports where you have to trek through long docks, Bonaire’s downtown, Kralendijk, is just steps from the ship.
You can easily walk into town to explore the local shops, restaurants, and stunning waterfront views.
Downtown is filled with great shops, including one of my faves, Phish Phaktory bags which are upcycled bags made from old sails.
There are all kinds of shops – ones to get trinkets to bring home, clothing stores, beach shops and more. It’s easy to get lost walking around the different alleys and popping into shops even though it’s really only a 2×3 block radius.
You’ll also find tons of great restaurants. One of my favorites is Cest La Vie, a small restaurant with a changing daily menu (written on the chalk board). A few more:
- Luciano Ice Cream: Perfect for cooling down in the hot weather.
- It Rains Fishes: A great place to grab fresh fish with a view of the water.
- Number Ten: One of my go-to spots for lunch or coffee.
For a drink by the water, head to Karels or Pier Dos for great views and a relaxed atmosphere.
You can find more of my favorite restaurants in the full Bonaire restaurant blog post by clicking here.
Want to see a walking tour of the Downtown and port area? You can find it in the video version of this blog post in the Youtube video below (or by clicking here)!
Visit Nearby Beaches
A popular question cruisers ask is how far the beach is from the port. Luckily, there are a few beaches nearby that are easy to access via taxi, and they offer different vibes depending on what you’re looking for:
- Bachelor Beach: A local favorite right by the airport with a great food truck that’s been around for years. Go here if you want something VERY VERY close.
- Sorobon Beach at Lac Bay: My personal choice. It’s a 10-15 minute drive from the port, with waist-deep water for what seems like forever. It’s the perfect place to chill, grab lunch, and enjoy the calm, shallow water.
If you’re more into the beach club scene, this is a great option for both getting into the water and having access to day beds, cabanas, plus drinks and food.
- Ocean Oasis: A beautiful spot with day beds, a bar, and restaurant. Just remember, it’s a rocky beach, so pack water shoes!
- Grand Windsock Beach Club: A new favorite, complete with sunbeds, drinks, and easy stairs or a pier for jumping into the water.
Explore by Taxi, Car, or Buggy, but maybe skip the Golf Carts
If you want to venture beyond downtown, you have a few options for getting around:
- Taxis are readily available to take you around the island. Or you can do a private tour, click here to see some suggestions.
- Single-day rental cars can be a good option if you want more freedom. Click here for Bonaire car rentals.
- Buggies or golf carts are fun but keep in mind they can be slow and lack air conditioning, which might be a dealbreaker depending on the heat and how far you want to go.
Why am I suggesting you skip the golf carts?
This one is up for debate! Many people LOVE golf carts, but if you’re someone who travels here regularly, all you can think of is “wow, that’s so slow and it’s making these poor tourists miss out on SO MUCH of what they COULD be seeing”.
Simply put: there are better ways to get around the island. Also, golf carts are expensive AF. I personally would get an air conditioned car.
Take a Tour to Klein Bonaire
One of the best beaches near Bonaire is actually on a tiny island called Klein Bonaire.
The key thing to know is that Klein Bonaire is completely undeveloped—there are no bathrooms, restaurants, or shade.
But the pristine white sand and beautiful snorkeling make it worth the visit. You can take a water taxi from the cruise port, and it’s only about a 5-10 minute ride.
Klein Bonaire is the undeveloped island on the right of the drone shot I took above.
However, if you’re really set on going to Klein Bonaire, I recommend getting on a tour instead of taking the water taxi. See some of the top rated tours on Viator for visiting the island by clicking here.
I went to Klein Bonaire for a drift snorkel tour. It was fun! You can book the same tour by clicking here. Don’t miss out on the “Things to do on Bonaire” (in general, not just the cruise port) blog post by clicking here.
Want to SEE the helpful tips in this blog post as well as a full walking tour of the cruise port area?
You’ll find that in the full “Bonaire Cruise Port Tour” Youtube video by clicking here or below!
Visit Secluded Beaches in Bonaire
Just about every beach in Bonaire is secluded once you drive 10 minutes South of the cruise port or airport. The most busy beaches are the one across from the airport (Te Amo Beach or Bachelor Beach), but beyond that, it’s rare to share a beach with more than one other car.
Another beach suggestion that is South and frequented by many locals is Pink Beach. You’ll find soft sand, an easy access into the ocean and some palm trees for shade.
Want something even quieter?
The MOST secluded beaches are in the National Park, however, that’s a drive away. Read more about visiting the National Park in this blog post or in the video below.
Here are some of the most secluded beaches on the island:
- Playa Chikitu: Located in the Washington Slagbaai National Park, Playa Chikitu is a secluded and undeveloped beach. It’s known for its rough waters and dramatic coastline, making it more suitable for scenic views and picnics rather than swimming.
- Playa Funchi: Also within Washington Slagbaai National Park, Playa Funchi is a hidden gem known for its serene environment. It’s not a typical sandy beach but offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty in solitude.
- Boca Slagbaai: A remote beach in the northern part of the island, Boca Slagbaai offers a mix of sand and pebbles with clear waters. It’s ideal for those looking for a quiet spot for snorkeling and swimming.
- Boka Kokolishi: Famous for its unique rock formations and dramatic landscape, Boka Kokolishi is located in Washington Slagbaai National Park. This secluded area is more about the rugged beauty and less about typical beach activities.
- Playa Frans: Situated on the eastern coast of Bonaire, Playa Frans is a secluded spot often missed by tourists. The beach is more rugged and offers a peaceful retreat, but be cautious as the waters can be rough.
- Tor’i Kora: A quiet, relatively unknown beach near Kralendijk, Tor’i Kora is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It offers clear waters for swimming and snorkeling in a serene setting.
- Playa Lagun: Tucked away in a small cove, Playa Lagun is a small, secluded beach perfect for relaxation and snorkeling. It’s a bit more accessible than some of the other secluded beaches and offers a chance to experience Bonaire’s marine life up close.
Want even more helpful tips? Don’t miss out on the Bonaire Cruise Port Guide and FAQs in the other blog post. See it by clicking here!
Sorobon Beach: A Tropical Paradise
Sorobon Beach at Lac Bay is a must-visit for its stunning turquoise waters and soft sand. It’s ideal for those seeking a tranquil beach day, with shallow waters perfect for wading and nearby amenities offering water sports and refreshments.
Not only can you find some of the most beautiful water here, but you can also learn to windsurf (or rent one), kite surf, or just hang out at the Hang Out Beach Bar. Learn more about these activities in the top things to do in Bonaire blog post by clicking here.
It’s also a top place to snorkel… read on for that.
Where to Snorkel on Bonaire Island
Bonaire is not just for scuba diving; its snorkeling spots are equally mesmerizing.
Contrary to popular belief, I DO NOT recommend 1000 Steps as the top place to snorkel! Why? It’s not “far”, but it’s definitely further away, generally has a lot of people, but the BIGGEST REASON is because the marine life is relatively far from the surface and it’s a better experience diving here than snorkeling.
If you’re looking for something equally good, but more convenient, the underwater marvels at Salt Pier and downtown’s Something Special might be a better fit. Each location offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant marine life.
See what these spots look like (along with places I recommend eating or drinking afterwards) in this video!
Don’t miss LANDSAILING!
Experience the unique adventure of land sailing. It combines the excitement of go-karting with wind power and is accessible to all ages. It’s an enjoyable way to spend a day, especially with the added bonus of visiting nearby local attractions like the Rincon distillery.
See what this is like in the video below!
See the Donkey Sanctuary!
The Donkey Sanctuary is a delightful spot, especially for families. However, be mindful of your transportation choice, as noisy vehicles like ATVs can disturb the animals. Enjoy the sanctuary peacefully, and engage with these friendly creatures.
Did you know you can WATCH all these tips? See more in the video below!
Bottom Line
If you skipped to the end, here’s what you need to know: Skip the golf cart—rent a truck or scooter instead, and visit Sorobon over Klein Bonaire for a logistically easier experience.
Dive into fun activities like landsailing and snorkeling, and check out the top local restaurants. Bonaire is super welcoming, uses US dollars, and everyone speaks English, making your visit easy and enjoyable.
The tips above will help you make the most of your time at Bonaire Cruise Port and have an unforgettable trip! OR watch the full Youtube video and see for yourself!