Frequently Asked Questions about Bonaire

What is the best time to visit Bonaire for a vacation?

Bonaire is a fantastic holiday destination year-round. The daytime temperature almost never drops below 28 degrees Celsius, even in winter. The seawater temperature is also around 28 degrees Celsius, so you won't feel cold while swimming, snorkeling, or diving. Bonaire's climate is perfect for enjoying a sunny vacation at any time of the year.

• Check out the most beautiful accommodations on Bonaire at Agoda!

In spring, the island looks a bit greener. We took this photo in Washington Slagbaai National Park.

Fortunately the diver's island lies outside the hurricane zone. However, there tend to be more mosquitoes during the winter and hotel prices are slightly higher during this time. From the end of December until March Bonaire is pleasantly busy. During Carnival in February it becomes very difficult to book a hotel or other accommodation. The low season runs from the end of April to mid-December. Our favorite time to visit this tropical island is in May and June. The island looks lush and green, prices are lower, there are fewer mosquitoes, and during this period you can spot many flamingos. How wonderful is that?

• Read our travel report (holiday in June) with plenty of personal tips!

How long is the flight to Bonaire?

The flight time from the United States to Bonaire varies depending on the departure city and any layovers. Direct flights from cities like Miami or Houston to Bonaire typically take around 4 to 5 hours. Flights with layovers can take longer, depending on the route and waiting times.

• Check out cheap flight tickets and book now!

A Dutch plane arrives at the Bonaire Airport.

What is the time difference between the United States and Bonaire?

The time difference between the United States and Bonaire depends on the location in the U.S. and the time of year due to daylight saving time.

• East Coast (Eastern Time - EST/EDT): Bonaire is typically 1 hour ahead of the East Coast (EST). During daylight saving time (EDT), there is no time difference, so it's the same time.
• Central Time Zone (Central Time - CST/CDT): Bonaire is 2 hours ahead of the Central Time Zone (CST) and 1 hour ahead during daylight saving time (CDT).
• West Coast (Pacific Time - PST/PDT): Bonaire is 4 hours ahead of the West Coast (PST) and 3 hours ahead during daylight saving time (PDT).

Are there sandy beaches on Bonaire?

You’ll find more sandy beaches on Aruba and Curaçao than on Bonaire, but don’t be mistaken—there are still some amazing sandy beaches on this sun-drenched island. The beaches on Bonaire aren’t very large and are usually peaceful. The powdery white sand beach (No Name Beach) on Klein Bonaire definitely fits into the category of a tropical paradise beach. In our opinion, No Name Beach is the most beautiful beach on the island. There is also a stunning coral reef near Klein Bonaire where you can enjoy fantastic snorkeling and diving. We’ve seen many colorful fish here, and occasionally even came across a sea turtle. Several hotels and apartments on Bonaire are fortunate enough to have a private sandy beach.

• Check out the Top 10 most beautiful beaches of Bonaire.

The sandy beach (No Name Beach) on Klein Bonaire is absolutely beautiful!

Are there all-inclusive hotels on Bonaire?

There is one all-inclusive hotel on the island: the 'Van der Valk Plaza Beach & Dive Resort'. We stayed at the Van der Valk Plaza Beach & Dive Resort and found it to be an excellent hotel. We enjoyed the resort's beautiful location and the delicious food. The hotel has its own private sandy beach and a stunning house reef right in front. While snorkeling, we spotted sea turtles several times. We even saw an eagle ray swimming in the resort’s house reef, which is quite rare and a wonderful sight to see.

• Check out Van der Valk All-Inclusive Plaza Beach Resort at Expedia (8.0)
  

Rated with 8.0!

Tip Van der Valk Plaza Beach & Dive Resort Bonaire

What a wonderful time we had at the all-inclusive hotel 'Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire'! Spacious rooms, the beach right at your doorstep, and if you're in the mood for a cocktail or another drink, just take a short walk to the bar. We also really enjoyed the beach barbecue—such a treat! And for snorkeling, you don't have to go far; the house reef is beautiful! We even saw turtles and an eagle ray, absolutely unforgettable! When we return to Bonaire, we'll definitely stay there again.More information
& check prices!

Do you have to pay tourist tax on Bonaire?

Since 2023 you are required to pay tourist tax on Bonaire. It’s best to pay this Visitor Entry Tax before your departure on the Bonaire government’s website. This way you won’t have to deal with it at the island's airport, saving you a lot of hassle.

Can you drink tap water on Bonaire?

The tap water is of good quality and is safe to drink. Seawater is used as the source for tap water. After purification this salty seawater becomes fresh drinking water with a great taste. However, be sure not to drink water from outdoor taps.

Is Bonaire good for nightlife?

Bonaire offers great options for going out. The island has excellent restaurants and trendy bars, with most of the nightlife centered in Kralendijk. Be sure to enjoy some food and drinks along the Kralendijk boulevard—the view is absolutely phenomenal. The island even has a cinema and some hotels feature their own casinos.

If you're a foodie, don’t miss the restaurant of renowned Dutch chef Jonnie Boer. His restaurant, Brass Boer, is located at the beautiful Delfins Beach Resort.

• Book the Delfins Beach Resort at Expedia and enjoy a culinary experience at star chef Jonnie Boer’s restaurant! (9.2)

The colorful Kralendijk is the best place for nightlife on Bonaire.

Is Bonaire a safe destination?

Bonaire is a relatively safe island and crime rates are low, especially when compared to other islands in the Caribbean archipelago. There is a strong sense of social control among the local population. However, even on this diving paradise theft can occur. So it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings. For instance don’t leave cameras, laptops, or wallets unattended in your car or on the beach. To avoid damage from break-ins it’s advisable not to lock your rental car. Always store your valuables in the hotel room safe. We have never felt unsafe on Bonaire.

Are there any 5-star hotels on Bonaire?

Currently, there are no 5-star hotels on Bonaire. The most luxurious hotel at the moment is the Harbour Village Beach Club. The Harbour Village Beach Club boasts a beautiful private sandy beach right at its doorstep. The hotel is highly rated by its guests, and Agoda has awarded it 4 stars.

Rated with 9.1!

Tip Harbour Village Beach Club

Exceptional!

Luxury suites right on the private beach, top-notch service, a stunning marina that will leave you in awe, and a super relaxed atmosphere. That’s the most luxurious hotel on Bonaire: Harbour Village Beach Club. Here you are pampered in every way and you’ll never want to leave. There’s a wonderfully refreshing pool and a spa & wellness center for ultimate relaxation. This hotel is also highly recommended for your honeymoon. Bet you’ll never forget this vacation!More information
& check prices!

Are there adults-only hotels on Bonaire?

Bonaire offers adults-only hotels and adult-friendly accommodations, perfect for those seeking a tranquil and relaxing getaway. These exclusive retreats cater to couples, solo travelers, and groups of friends looking for a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle. Whether you're looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a cozy boutique stay, Bonaire has the ideal adults-only option to make your vacation unforgettable. The adults only hotels on Bonaire include:

• Check out Bamboo Bonaire Boutique Resort (9.4) 
• Check out Belnem House Bonaire (9.2) 
• Check out Djambo (9.0) 
• Check out Sonrisa Boutique Hotel (9.0) 
• Check out Boutique Hotel Wanapa (9.5)

Is Bonaire also a great vacation destination if you don’t like diving or snorkeling?

There’s much more to experience on Bonaire than just diving and snorkeling. It’s definitely an island for those who appreciate nature. Don’t expect extensive nightlife or sandy beaches like Aruba has. But if you love peace and stunning natural beauty, Bonaire is a fantastic destination. And there’s plenty to do. How about sailing, boating, windsurfing, kitesurfing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, or paddleboarding? We personally enjoy hiking, biking, and snorkeling. But maybe you just want to relax and enjoy the sun, sea, and beach. You can do it all on beautiful Bonaire!

The nature on Bonaire is stunning. We took this photo at Goto Lake.

What is the currency on Bonaire?

You pay with the US dollar on Bonaire. There are plenty of ATMs on the island and credit cards are accepted at many hotels.

Is it allowed to fly a drone over Bonaire?

No, you are not allowed to fly a drone anywhere on Bonaire.

Are there any rules if I want to go diving or snorkeling on Bonaire?

Yes, there are definitely rules when diving on the island, as the sea around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire is a protected nature reserve. For example, you are not allowed to touch the coral and spearguns are prohibited. Read more

The sea around Bonaire is a protected nature reserve.

How many tourists visit Bonaire annually?

In 2022, a total of 183.7 thousand tourists visited Bonaire by plane. However, most visitors come to the diving island by cruise ship and those should be added to the total. Did you know that most tourists are either Dutch or American nationals?

All Inclusive Plaza Resort Bonaire

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