Bonaire
Encircled by sun-drenched shores renowned for exceptional scuba diving, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire proudly holds the distinction of being the world’s first Blue Destination. This tranquil escape pairs a rich heritage and vibrant culture with natural beauty as dazzling as its tropical reefs and colorful architecture.
Long celebrated as a diver’s paradise, Bonaire has evolved into a refined retreat where luxury, adventure, and cultural authenticity exist in harmony with its protected marine parks and flourishing landscapes. Its thriving culinary scene now showcases Michelin-starred expertise, elevating the island’s dining experiences to new heights. Travelers can unwind in an array of upscale accommodations, from elegant private villas to intimate boutique hotels set along the beach. Visit our website
Dining
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean while dining in Bonaire. The island offers a diverse collection of restaurants, many led by award-winning regional and international chefs who bring their own creative flair to every dish. Bonaire’s rich cultural heritage shines through its cuisine, delivering a true feast for the senses.
As a tropical island, Bonaire is known for its fresh fish, thoughtfully and creatively prepared. You’ll also encounter traditional stews and soups featuring ingredients such as goat or iguana, reflecting the island’s culinary roots. Local fruits, including soursop, limes, mangoes, shimaruku (a native cherry), and mispel, add bright, tropical notes to many dishes, giving each meal a uniquely Bonairean touch.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamentu
Currency: Bonaire’s currency is the US Dollar.
Climate: Lying outside of “Hurricane Alley” to the south, Bonaire offers a consistently warm and sunny climate, averaging around 86ºF year-round. During the rainy season from December through March, you can expect a daily downpour, but they usually don’t last long, and the sun almost always reappears afterward.
Electricity: The electric current on Bonaire is 127-220V/50Hz; adaptors are not required.
Time Zone: Bonaire is on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time and four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time.
Driving: A valid American driver’s license is accepted. Driving is on the right-hand side, and on crossings and roundabouts, traffic coming from the right always has the right-of-way unless road signs state otherwise. Bonaire has no traffic lights, so road signs must be followed.
Activities
Bonaire has something for everyone, no matter your favorite way to explore. Whether you’re diving into warm tropical waters or discovering the island’s breathtaking natural landscapes, you’ll find your perfect adventure here.
Renowned as a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, Bonaire’s waters have been protected since 1979 as part of the Bonaire National Marine Park. Beneath the surface, you’ll encounter nearly 60 species of coral, colorful reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves teeming with marine life.
If water sports are your passion, there’s plenty to keep you moving, ranging from windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, fishing, and kayaking.
For those who prefer land-based activities, Bonaire delivers just as much excitement. Hike scenic trails, try the thrill of landsailing, or stay active with fitness centers, yoga classes, and even stand-up paddleboard yoga for wind sports enthusiasts. Explore the island at your own pace by renting a car, scooter, or bike, or take a self-guided walking tour through downtown Kralendijk or the historic village of Rincon. Learn more
- Flight Information
- Entry Requirements
- Getting Married
- Cultural/Annual Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
- Voluntourism
Flight Information
American Airlines operates four weekly flights on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from Miami.
Delta Air Lines operates weekly Saturday flights from Atlanta.
United Airlines operates weekly flights on Saturday from both Newark and Houston.
Local partners Divi Divi Air and ZAir have their daily operations connecting Bonaire with Curaçao and Aruba.
For more information, see Bonaire’s Flight Schedule.
Entry Requirements for Americans
Americans do not require a visa but must have a valid passport for the duration of their stay. There is a Visitor Entry Tax that must be prepaid. Official site: https://tourismtax.bonairegov.com/
For more information, follow this link: US State Department/Bonaire
Getting Married
You need to allow a minimum of eight weeks before the wedding date to have all the paperwork processed in advance. The following documents must be sent by mail or courier:
- A certified copy of both birth certificates
- A certified copy of both passports
- A declaration of the bride’s and groom’s current civil status, not older than six months
- If divorced or widowed, a divorce decree or death certificate is required, not older than six months
- The United States is part of the Apostille Convention and as such is required to provide an ‘Apostille’ that is not older than six months.
If all the documents are correct and approved, the pre-wedding and wedding date will then be confirmed. A pre-wedding appointment will be held two days before the actual wedding date. At that time, all original documents should be presented to be authenticated.
Witnesses are required: 2-4 witnesses for indoor weddings and 6 witnesses for beach weddings. Wedding coordinators can help arrange local witnesses if needed.
Additional paperwork may be required. Contact the Burgerzaken (Office of Civil Registry) well in advance of your intended wedding date for a complete list of requirements and costs associated with a destination wedding in Bonaire.
For more information on the required paperwork, please send an email to Burgerzaken@bonairegov.com or call +599 717-2211
Cultural/Annual Events
Bonaire is the scene of many events of international stature, including Carnival, Simadan, Dia di Rincon, Taste of Bonaire, King’s Day, Regatta International Sailing, among others.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of Bonaire observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, April 27, 2026 – King’s Day
Thursday, April 30, 2026 – Dia di Rincon
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labor Day
Thursday, May 29, 2026 – Ascension Day
Monday, June 8, 2026 – Whit Sunday
Sunday, September 6, 2026 – Bonaire Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical Information
The island has several doctors, including specialists. There is an ambulance plane on call for emergencies.
Hospital:
Hospital San Francisco (Fundashon Mariadal)
Kaya Soeur Bartola 2
Phone: +599 715 8900
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is a recompression chamber in Bonaire, at the Hospital San Francisco. Learn More.
Accessiblity
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from the United States.
Airport Services
Bonaire / Flamingo Airport (BON):
- Accessible parking
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Ambulift is available; service requested by your airline
MiVaBo is a foundation working to improve the lives of the disabled in Bonaire. They are a resource for those wishing to visit with physical disabilities.
Phone: +599 786 4967
Transportation & Activities:
Blessing Transport provides transfers (roll-on, roll-off transportation), rental equipment if needed as well as tours around Bonaire that are accessible.
Phone: +599 790-0819
Email: blessingtransportbv@gmail.com
For Accessibility information at hotels located in Bonaire please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
Sustainability
Sustainability Commitment
Sustainable Tourism: Tourism providers are increasingly implementing environmentally responsible practices, including offering electric vehicle rentals, promoting reef-safe products, and supporting coral-friendly diving activities.
Renewable Energy: The island generates wind energy through the Morotin wind farm, which operates 12 turbines, and is moving toward a hybrid system combining wind, solar, and biodiesel with the goal of achieving a fully sustainable energy supply.
Marine & Nature Conservation: Bonaire’s entire coastline is designated as the Bonaire National Marine Park and is supported through visitor fees. Conservation initiatives include coral reef restoration, seagrass protection, and control of the invasive lionfish population.
Voluntourism
Reach out to these organizations to discover ways you can give back and make a difference:
Reef Renewal Foundation: Protecting and restoring reefs in the waters around Bonaire.
STINAPA: Accepts volunteers for on-land activities, including bird counts, fencing, and assisting with nature education.
Sea Turtle Conservation: Protecting the three endangered species of sea turtles native to Bonaire.
Echo Bonaire: Protecting our Yellow-shouldered Amazon Parrots by restoring their dry forest habitat.
Mangrove Maniacs: Dedicated group of volunteers protecting Bonaire’s mangroves.
Wild Bird Rehab: Dedicated to the care and recovery of the island’s wildlife.