Good air - this is how the name of the wonderful island is literally translated. However, not only the air, but also the azure Caribbean Sea, silky mother-of-pearl beaches, impressive landscapes, and high-quality service are wonderfully good here. I can’t even believe that several centuries ago such a chic place served as a refuge for exiles, because today a holiday in Bonaire is a fairy tale, prestige, and quality.
Bonaire on the map
Bonaire Island on the world map or a detailed map of the island can be viewed using the navigation buttons (+/-). Caribbean on the map
The exotic land is part of the small Caribbean islands, separated from the coast of Venezuela by 90 km. If measured from the north-west side to the south-east, then the length of Bonaire does not reach 40 km, the width in some areas is a maximum of 11 km, and the total area is 288 km². The highest point on the island of Bonaire is Mount Brandaris, with a height of just over 240 m.
The island is often called the Caribbean Netherlands, since, together with St. Eustatius and Saba, it belongs to the overseas possessions of the above-mentioned state. The population of the blooming sultry gem is about 16,000 people, the main city of the island is Kralendijk.
Holidays in Bonaire
All conditions have been created here to allow you to have a wonderful rest. Those suffering from a lack of adrenaline can enjoy diving, windsurfing, yacht regattas, opponents of passive pastime - sports fields, cycling and walking, exciting swims. Newlyweds will not forget romantic picnics under the stars and exotic sunrises on a secluded beach, parents of little travelers will be able to safely go on excursions - their children will be entertained by professional animators.
One hundred percent of all the guests of the island rate the beach holiday “excellent”: the miraculous charm of the Bonaire coast, coupled with excellent service, deserve the highest rating. The most popular beaches are Playas Chiquitu, Playas Funchi, Boca Slagbai, Playas France, Boca Bartol, Pink Beach, Southend Steps, Sorobon, Rappel, Boca Cocolishi. Nudists prefer Sorobon Beach, since this is the only place in the state where you can sunbathe without swimwear, and Boca Kokolisi is preferred by tourists with children, since the lagoons here are shallow and there are practically no waves.
Bonaire nature
The most beautiful places, breathtaking views, rich fauna and flora - that's all about Bonaire. Since the late 70s, the coral reef covering the coast of the island has been given the official status of a Marine National Reserve, therefore the underwater and terrestrial nature here is under state protection. Exotic marine inhabitants of incredible colors, several species of turtles, about 450 species of exotic fish, about 70 varieties of algae - you can really see these wonders with your own eyes, diving under water. Ecotourists have the opportunity to observe wild goats and donkeys, bats, iguanas, and the life of birds, of which there are more than two hundred species.
The emotions of a trip to a large nesting site of majestic flamingos are unforgettable - about ten thousand timid birds found shelter in the Pekelmer Nature Reserve. But donkeys, unlike flamingos, are extremely friendly and curious - they can even stick their cute faces into open car windows in the hope of a treat.
The grandiose Washington-Slagbay Park, which occupies more than twenty percent of the entire area of Bonaire, also attracts tourists - delight and amazing impressions are guaranteed.
Attractions Bonaire
In addition to its stunning beaches, the Caribbean island is filled with must-see destinations. Keen diving enthusiasts should dive to the Hilma Hooker wreck near Angel City Reef or dive at Alice in Wonderland Reef. However, there are plenty of alternatives for those who are not ready for extreme sports:
– Museum of Culture and History of Bonaire;
– entertainment venues in Kralendijk;
– Fort Orange and stone lighthouse;
– the oldest city of Bonaire – Rincon (beginning of the 16th century);
– located near Bonaire and until the end of the 90s of the last century, and therefore previously closed to tourists, the island of Klein Bonaire;
– the Cargill Salt salt plant, the path to which runs past pink and turquoise lakes;
– slave huts in the southern part of Bonaire near Witte Pan beach;
– colonial buildings of the 19th century near the Boka Slagbai beach;
– Butterfly Garden in the capital;
– зоосад Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire;
– Cadushy Distillery winery.
Bonaire loves and knows how to have fun, so tourists are very lucky if they get to any of these original and exotic holidays: the main national carnival at the end of February, festivities and processions in honor of the Queen’s birthday, a week-long diving festival in June, a six-day masquerade at the beginning January, spectacular events dedicated to the patron saints of Bonaire, Saints Juan and Pedro, Rincon Settlement Day, held on April 30.
When is the best time to go to Bonaire
Rains are frequent in October-January, but they rain at night, while the days are clear and sunny, so a holiday on the island will delight you in any season. Still, the preferred time to visit Bonaire is February-May. The average annual air temperature is plus 30˚, the sea is warm all year round.
A voyage to the Caribbean is always full of impressions. So why not plan your next trip to wonderful Bonaire to get your fill of the sun, bask in the clear sea, and taste all the delights of an exotic holiday. To finally make sure that the air here is truly amazing!