If you’re planning a trip to Bonaire Island, packing the right essentials can make a huge difference in how much you enjoy your adventure. Whether you’re hitting the dive sites, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the island, here are the must-haves you need to bring with you.
1. Thick-Soled Water Shoes
Let’s start with the most important: water shoes. But not just any water shoes—you need ones with thick soles. Bonaire’s beaches can be rocky, especially if you’re heading to dive spots like Salt Pier or Lighthouse.
Protect your feet and avoid stepping on sharp rocks or sea urchins by investing in durable water shoes.
- Less than $10 unisex slip on water shoes (click here)
- More rugged unisex “shoe like” water shoes (click here)
- Pictured below: extremely inexpensive water shoes (click here)
2. Diving Gear Essentials
If you’re diving, thick dive boots are a must like these ones, especially if you’re exploring the east side of the island or heading to dive spots like Shrimp Factory or Baby Beach.
Trust me, your feet will thank you. Also, pack your dive mask, fins, and an underwater camera (GoPro is my fave!) to capture all the underwater magic Bonaire has to offer.
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3. Reusable Water Bottle
You can drink the tap water on Bonaire island. That blows my mind. It’s an island, but it’s true!
It’s hot on Bonaire—really hot. You’ll be moving around the island, snorkeling, diving, or hiking, so staying hydrated is key.
Bring a large reusable water bottle that can hold plenty of ice and water, and refill it throughout the day. The tap water on the island is amazing, thanks to the desalination plant, so no worries there!
4. Reef-Safe Sunscreen and Aloe
The environment in Bonaire is precious, especially the reefs. Do your part and pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the underwater ecosystem. Below are a few favorite brands…
- Stream2Sea sunscreen (click here)
- Blue Lizard sunscreen (click here)
Also, don’t forget to pack some aloe vera (like this one) in case you don’t reapply sunscreen enough (we’ve all been there).
5. Hydration Salts
Bonaire’s heat can be intense, and staying hydrated is essential, especially if you’re diving, hiking, or spending long days in the sun. Regular water is great, but adding hydration salts or electrolyte powders can help your body recover faster after a full day of activities.
Products like Liquid IV hydration salts are great options—they help replenish electrolytes lost through sweat and keep you energized throughout the day.
I’ve found hydration salts particularly useful after long dives. Even if you’re not sweating, your body still loses a lot of fluids while you’re out in the water. Trust me, it’s easy to feel drained after a day exploring Bonaire’s dive sites.
Packing a small stash of hydration salts in your bag can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re not used to the island’s hot, dry climate.
6. Anti-Fog for Your Snorkel Mask
If you’re planning to snorkel or dive in Bonaire, having a clear mask is crucial. The waters are filled with beautiful coral reefs, colorful fish, and even sea turtles, but none of that matters if your mask is constantly fogging up! That’s why bringing a good anti-fog solution is key.
Anti-fog sprays (like this one) are easy to pack and use, and they make a big difference in your underwater experience. A few spritzes before you dive or snorkel can keep your mask crystal clear, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning underwater scenery. Some divers also swear by DIY methods like rubbing baby shampoo on the inside of the mask, but I prefer the convenience of a small anti-fog spray bottle.
Pro Tip: Make sure to clean your mask thoroughly with fresh water after each dive or snorkel session to keep it in good condition. This also helps the anti-fog solution work better the next time you use it.
7. A Waterproof Bag
Bonaire is a water lover’s paradise, and whether you’re diving, snorkeling, or kayaking, you’ll be near (or in!) the water most of the time. That’s why packing a waterproof bag (like these ones) is essential. You don’t want to risk damaging your phone, camera, or other valuables while you’re out exploring the island’s many beautiful beaches and lagoons.
A small waterproof bag is perfect for holding your car keys, phone, or wallet while you’re snorkeling. For longer excursions—like kayaking through Lac Bay or Sorobon—you may want to invest in a larger dry bag to keep extra gear dry. These bags are also handy if you’re renting a kayak or paddleboard, where splashes are inevitable.
Pro Tip: Choose a bag with a roll-top closure for extra water protection, and make sure it’s big enough to carry all your essentials. Some waterproof bags even come with straps so you can wear them like a backpack while exploring
Even though it’s a ONE way road all the way around, you may consider being CONNECTED while you’re out there. I always use eSIM cards like Sim Local to help me stay connected when I travel!
8. Protective Clothing for the Sun and Wind
Bonaire’s sun is no joke—it’s strong, and you’ll feel it from the moment you step off the plane. While sunscreen is a must, protective clothing can offer an additional layer of defense against both the sun and the wind, especially if you’re spending hours outside.
SPF clothing (like these top selling items), a long-sleeve rash guard or UV-protective shirt is great for both swimming and everyday island exploring. These items protect your skin from the sun while keeping you cool and comfortable.
A wide-brimmed hat is also a must for keeping the sun off your face and neck. However, Bonaire can get super windy, so make sure your hat has a strap or tie to keep it from flying off! I learned this the hard way when my hat blew off several times on windy days. Consider a packable hat with a chin strap for the perfect blend of style and functionality.
Pro Tip: You can also bring a lightweight scarf or sarong, which can double as a cover-up at the beach or an extra layer of protection from the sun while walking around. They’re versatile and easy to pack!
9. Casual Clothing
One of the best things about Bonaire is its laid-back vibe. The island is casual, and the dress code reflects that. You’ll see people in flip-flops and beachwear almost everywhere, even at some of the nicer restaurants. So, there’s no need to overpack fancy clothes—Bonaire is all about comfort.
For daytime, pack lightweight, breathable clothing like shorts, tank tops, and sundresses. Flip-flops will be your best friend on the island, and you won’t need much else unless you’re hiking or doing activities that require sturdier shoes. Even for evenings out, a casual dress or shorts with a nice shirt will be more than enough.
Pro Tip: Skip the high heels! The uneven, rocky terrain makes them impractical, and most places on Bonaire are sand-friendly. If you really want to dress up, bring one pair of nice sandals, but otherwise, keep it simple.
10. Bug Spray
Bonaire can be a bit of a mosquito haven during certain times of the year, particularly in the less windy months like September and October.
If you’re visiting during this time, make sure to pack extra bug spray (like these top selling bug sprays). Even during windier months, it’s always a good idea to have some on hand for evening outings, as mosquitoes tend to come out after sunset.
Besides regular bug spray, consider bringing bug repellent bracelets or candles for when you’re sitting outside in the evening. These can be especially helpful if you’re staying in an area with lots of vegetation or if you’re planning to spend time at outdoor restaurants.
Pro Tip: Mosquitoes on Bonaire can be relentless, so pack more bug spray than you think you’ll need. If you’re sensitive to bug bites, bring antihistamine cream or tablets to soothe any bites you do get.
11. Sunglasses and Hair Care
Sunglasses are a must on Bonaire. The sun is bright and you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors, so make sure you bring at least two pairs. Why two? Because sunglasses are easy to misplace, especially when you’re constantly taking them on and off for diving, snorkeling, or hiking. If you lose one pair, you’ll have a backup ready to go.
As for your hair, if you have long hair like me, the saltwater can do a number on it. I recommend bringing a good leave-in conditioner or hydrating hair mask to use after long days in the ocean. Saltwater dries out your hair quickly, and having something to restore moisture is a game-changer.
Pro Tip: Consider packing a hair wrap or scarf for days when you don’t feel like dealing with salty, tangled hair. It’s also a cute way to cover up while protecting your scalp from the sun!
12. Motion Sickness Pills
Even though boat rides on Bonaire are typically short, the water can get rocky. Motion sickness pills or ginger chews can help keep you comfortable on those rough rides. It’s better to have them and not need them than the other way around!
Bottom Line
When packing for Bonaire, focus on comfort and practicality. Bring sturdy water shoes, dive boots, reef-safe sunscreen, and gear to keep you hydrated and protected from the sun. Bonaire is a casual island, so no need to overpack—just bring what you need to enjoy the sun, sea, and all the adventures the island has to offer. Safe travels, and enjoy the beauty of Bonaire!