Bonaire Water Activities
Centuries ago, galleons and merchant vessels dropped anchor to load up with the famous Bonarian salt. European sailors gaped in awe through crystal clear waters at the fairyland scenery below. In a twist of fate that changed Bonaire’s history, Captain Don arrived in 1962. Here was a man who not only understood the uniqueness and importance of Bonaire’s natural resources, but also had a powerful vision of the future. His determination led to the creation of the world’s first-ever Marine Park.
"The world’s first-ever Marine Park."
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Snorkeling
Whether you’re entering from Sand Dollar to Bari Reef, or exploring further afield, there are plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with colourful corals, tropical reef fish, turtles, eagle rays, and more! Some dive entries offer shallower reefs than others and our neighbour, Dive Friends, are always ready with helpful advice. Bring your own snorkel gear, rent at the dive center, or purchase from one of several well-stocked retail outlets. Snorkeling while visiting Bonaire is a must!
Windsurfing
The east coast of Bonaire features a huge bay, protected by a wall of reef. The calm, shallow waters and clean, brisk winds have made this area a world renown windsurfing mecca. Not just for visitors, our Bonarian locals have put this little island on the world map with their many award-winning championships, particularly in freestyle competitions. Have a drink or meal at one of the casual beach bars and be inspired by their joy and dedication as they practice leaps and twirls high in the air. For both beginner and advanced windsurfers, there is equipment for rent, instruction available, and plenty of space in this beautiful bay to join in on the action.
Kite surfing
Atlantis Beach, lying in the south along the western coastal road, is the home for kite surfers. Here you’ll find a passionate community that uses kites to harness the wind and skim along the water and leap up into the sky. Equipment rental, instruction, and safety boats gather at this one beach, leaving other locations safe for divers. Whether you stop for a short time or make it the focus of your vacation, Atlantis Beach brings together a close-knit group of avid kite surfers, amongst a scenery backdrop of bright, vibrant colours and exciting stunts.
And so much more...
The calm, tropical waters and impressive above and below-water scenery have created so many opportunities to get out and connect with nature. Popular water activities include boating and sailing, stand-up paddle boarding, deep-sea fishing, water skiing, tubing and so much more!
A unique, special Bonaire experience not to be missed is a trip kayaking through the mangroves. Tours offered by the Kayak Mangrove Centre are fun and educational, and kayaking and snorkeling in the heart of the mangroves, our ocean nurseries, is an experience to remember forever.
