Klein Bonaire
#3 in Best Things To Do in Bonaire
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- 0.0Food Scene
- 4.0Atmosphere
If you've ever wanted to know what it's like to live on a deserted island, hop the next water taxi to Klein Bonaire. A small, uninhabited island about half a mile west of Bonaire's mainland, Klein Bonaire is an unblemished oasis protected from development as part of Bonaire Marine Park. Though Bonaire's main island is admittedly not as urbanized as neighboring Aruba, travelers in search of pure isolation will want to spend a day exploring Klein Bonaire's reefs. Some recent travelers even went back for more than one afternoon of island relaxation. Because this land is untouched, the water visibility is excellent; meaning snorkelers and divers can see the coral and sea creatures clearly.
If swimming with the underwater flora and fauna isn't for you, Klein Bonaire also offers a peaceful beach atmosphere, with white sands perfect for building sandcastles. Just keep in mind that there are no refreshment stands, changing areas, or beach umbrellas on the island. You're truly marooned until you catch the water taxi back to the pier, so remember to pack water, food, sunscreen, and an umbrella for shade.
Good Return Bonaire water taxis leave the Town Pier daily at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., and return at 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Adult passengers will pay $15, and children under 12 can hop aboard for $7.50. Town Pier is where the cruise ships dock in Kralendijk. You'll find it across from City Café. For more information about visiting Klein Bonaire, head to the Tourism Bonaire website.
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2 of 8#1 Diving and Snorkeling
As part of Bonaire National Marine Park, the island's entire coastline has been protected for more than 30 years, making Bonaire one of the Caribbean's best diving destinations. With 53 easily accessible diving spots dotting the entire leeward side of the island, Bonaire offers divers an abundance of places to explore underwater splendors. As one TripAdvisor user says they "Love that you can pull over, put on your scuba gear and within 5 minutes be on top of the most beautiful reefs."
Remember that you must be certified before you can plunge into the deep blue sea. Though many island resorts offer diving packages—which include PADI certification—training before your trip may cut down the overall cost and allow you to start exploring from day one. All divers are required to purchase the mandatory $25 nature tag, which you must attach to your scuba gear. The fee grants you one year of unlimited diving, and the proceeds help maintain Bonaire Marine Park.
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