The island is ringed by a coral reef which is easily accessible from the shore along the Western and Southern sides.
Furthermore, the entire coastline of the island has been declared a marine sanctuary, preserving local fish life. Bonaire is also consistently recognised as one of the best destinations for snorkeling.
The coral reef around uninhabited Klein Bonaire is particularly well conserved, and it draws divers, snorkelers, and boaters.
Bonaire is also famed for its flamingo populations. Flamingos are drawn to the brackish water, which harbours shrimp they feed on.
Washington Slagbaai National Park, located at the north side of the island, is an ecological preserve. The highest point of Bonaire, Brandaris, located within this preserve has a complete view of the island.
Lac Bay, (also known as Lac Cai or Lac Cay) on the eastern side of the island, is a windsurfer's paradise. Locals like Taty and Tonky Frans are ranked in the top five of the world's freestyle windsurfing professionals.
Finally, Atlantis Beach, on the western part of the island, is the local kitesurfing spot.
More information on Climate, Currency, Traffic and Slagbaai National Park underneath the gallery
Climate
Bonaire is known for its consistently pleasant climate. The earth has undergone millions of years of transformation and eventually gifted Bonaire with the right ingredients that provide a delicious paradise.
The recipe for a warm, breezy, dry, sunny climate:
Location: The latitude of Bonaire is close to the equator at about 12 degrees north. This also means roughly 12 hours of daylight all year.
Air Temperature: With an average temperature of 28.7 °C/83.6 Fahrenheit in 2017 you're laughing really. Daily fluctuation is 10 Fahrenheit and seasonal variation is 2.5+- Fahrenheit. The highest temperature in 2017 was 34.2 °C/93.5 Fahrenheit and the lowest was 20.5 °C/68.9 Fahrenheit.
Water Temperature: Water temperatures average a lukewarm 25.6-28.9°C/78-84°F, with visibility averaging over 100 feet/30m, and frequently reaching up to 150 feet /50m
Rainfall: Low precipitation at 700mm average in 2017 of which 65% occurs October through January.
Sun: 'The sun is shining, the weather is sweet.' Bonaire's sun is shining with around 67.5% throughout the year.
Humidity: 79% average
Topography: The island is shaped so that a high proportion is protected from the Easterly winds.
Wind: Bonaire experiences consistent prevailing Easterly tradewinds at an average of 15 mph/25 Kmh or 13.5 knots. This creates an interesting dichotomy between a rough windward Bonaire Weatherside on the East coast and a calm leeward side on the West coast. This leaves the west coast where Kralendijk the capital is located with a soft breeze and perfect water conditions. Not only enjoyed by people but thriving coral reefs too.
Remember though Bonaire is a small island so weather can change quickly but it will also pass by in a flash. On the whole, you can predict mostly sunshine intermittently broken by clouds and occasional drizzle. But always expect the unexpected!
Currency
The local currency is American dollars. ATM machines take care of your cash needs. There is one at the airport.
Traffic
The best way to get around is to rent a car. We offer 10% discount on any car rented with Bonaire Rent a Car. It’s easy to drive on Bonaire, there are no traffic lights, the maximum speed is 40 kilometers (25 Mph) in the residential areas and 60 kilometers (37 Mph) outside. Mind you: donkeys and goats always have the right of way, and bicycles, well, give way to them too.
Slagbaai National Park Nature
Famous for its marine life, Bonaire also boosts a couple of national parks. The Washington Slagbaai National Park covers 1/3 of the island, the mangroves on the east side are a very important ecosystem for Bonaire, uninhabited Klein Bonaire also is a national park. At least 180 species of birds can be watched on Bonaire. The pristine caves with their spectacular stalagmites and stalactites are home to a healthy bat population.