Top Things to do in Bonaire
The 10 Best Free Things to do in Bonaire, Bonaire
Are there more flamingos than people on Bonaire? It's possible, and it's part of this unspoiled island's appeal. Bring your binoculars and your scuba gear to make the most of Bonaire's natural charms: more than 200 different species of birds live here, and the island itself draws divers from around the world to its reef-lined coast, a National Maritime Park.
Restaurants in Bonaire
1. Saltshop Bonaire
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 61 reviews
The SaltShop is the home of Mr. Saltman, 'ambassador' of the Bonaire Sea Salt. Sea Salt is the only and most unique product of Bonaire! A high quality, 100% authentic, natural product in unique locally designed packages. You may also find the NEW Bonaire Liquor 'YATUBLU', a delicious historical recipe of Anisette and Lemon in colored Obelisk shape bottles! The most authentic after dinner Liquor from Bonaire which reflected our history and culture.
Reviewed By KatyFE
This is my eighth year visiting Bonaire and I always go to the Saltshop. The owner is very personable and takes pride in running a stylish clean shop. The different salts are the perfect gift plus it's made on Bonaire. Don't miss one of the best shops on the island!
2. SunSmiles
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By A5550FKheleng - Weybridge, United Kingdom
Came off of a cruise ship in Bonaire on my birthday day for a walk around town. We came across this brilliant shop. I usually cannot wear toe post shoes, as I find them really uncomfortable, however, after these had been demonstrated to me and I had worn them around the shop, I found them so comfortable that I brought a set with two very different types of laces. I wore them for the rest of my cruise and received many compliments. Still happy with them on our return home
3. Nu Kua Ceramics
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 15 reviews
Nu Kua Pottery is a one-women working studio with all pottery made on site by local artist Monique. The studio is situated in Nord Salina, Kralendijk, Bonaire. Easily found only 1 minute off the main road to Rincon. Come and watch Monique create her unique, one of a kind and colorful work. Artist statement: Pottery to me is a beautiful process where earth, water, air and fire come together when I create a piece with love, to use and warm your heart. This truly is where I am completely happy, and I hope that reflects in my work. I know, I am blessed and my gratitude for people around me who have always supported me is huge! I do hope you enjoy your piece of pottery, a piece of Mother Earth and a little love from me. Happy Creating Monique
Reviewed By Michael1963b - Ottawa, Canada
We discovered this place unexpectedly while scootering back to Kralendijk from Rincón. We were greeted warmly by Monique who made us feel welcome - and who was happy to provide background on her shop, her craft and the items on display. Interesting and original pieces of all types, sizes and price points. (We always try to bring back a pair of coffee mugs from each trip, so this was the place for us!)
4. Beachvibes Surf Shop
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 85 reviews
The Place to be for unique handmade souvenirs, gifts, beachwear, kitegear, jewelry, accessories and many more! Brands: - Billabong - Mystic - Protest Sportswear - Salty Crew - 69 Slam - Hang Eleven - At aloha - By Nouck - Island Bracelets - Ice Watch - A La Find us in the alley next to Gio’s Ice Salon on the Kaya Grandi 34
Reviewed By Tony_Playa - Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Cool local surfshop located in the centre of Kralendijk. If you are looking for the perfect beachoutfit (male/female), handmade souvenirs or kitesurf gear this is the shop you need to go to! Owners and staff are very friendly and always in for a chat.
5. Gotomeer
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
Great place to visit at sunset to watch the daily take-off of flamingos to Venezuela.
Reviewed By 27claudettec - Washington, United States
This was part of a recent cruise ship excursion and our number one must see. We got to see these beautiful birds in their natural habitat. Getting pictures from a bus was challenging though.
6. Lac Cai
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Very pretty beach on a lagoon off the southeast coast.
Reviewed By 124curth - Golden Valley, United States
The north side of Lac Bay has this quaint little spot that's not very crowded. Very relaxing on the nice beach and calm waters.
7. Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 251 reviews
Salt water flats in southern Bonaire.
Reviewed By LaraKZ - Prague, Czech Republic
The trip to Pekelmeer is just breathtaking especially on a sunny day with the pink salt ponds on one side and so many shades of blue in the sea just cross the road. The southern lagoon gets yet other intriguing blue-green shades and if you are lucky to see flamingos they will do a wonderful color contrast with the water. It`s a place to stop and just take in all this color palet, part natural part man made. Recommend renting own transportation as the drive south is very scenic. Drive a bit further when the road turns east to see more of flamingos after you passed the yellow slave huts and the light house, than once the lagoon finishes recommend returning still on the west coast for the views or stops to snorkel. It`s a must see of the island for sure.
8. Salt Pier
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 306 reviews
Dive site that requires a local divemaster with Harbor Master's permission.
Reviewed By Tamaragw - The Netherlands, null
When there is no boat, go there for a great dive or snorkel experience. It is like stepping into an aquarium. In the shallows you will be able to see turttle's feeding on the see grass totally ignoring you while grassing. You will be able to see big tarpons, small schools of reef squid, green murray, barracuda and lot's of more nice fish. Easy to navigate
9. Hilma Hooker
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 235 reviews
Reviewed By wilsonw202 - Birmingham, United Kingdom
Bonaire is an awesome place to dive because most dives are accessible from the shore after a short dive. Its an easy walk in from the shore and a short (50m) swim on the surface to the shot line buoy. The wreck is just passed this buoy in the middle of a double reef. the fore and aft of the wreck are marked with their own marker buoys - so navigation to and from the wreck under water is fairly easy. The wreck is in good shape. There are the regular culprits of Bonarian marine life at the wreck. The underside of the wreck also has a number of large Tarpon hiding in the shadows. What is also good about the dive is that it slopes away so the top of the wreck is at about 18 metres, but the lowest part is at about 30 metres. Water is clear and warm - we dived in shorts and a rash vest. Try and get there early, as it can become quite crowded during the mid morning with dive concerns converging on the wreck.
10. Bari Reef
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 415 reviews
Great place to spot exotic sealife.
Reviewed By U8493WYmarkb - Harrisburg, United States
Second year in a row visiting the site. Shore entry is pretty easy. Bari Reef is well known for having a great diversity of marine species. We used it as a drift dive down to Eden Beach.
