Bonaire (Caribbean)

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Bonaire (Caribbean) - At a Glance

Bonaire (Caribbean)

Getting to Kralendijk

Getting to Bonaire is more straightforward than you might think. All international flights land at Flamingo International Airport (BON), which is just a short drive from the main town of Kralendijk.
  • From North America: You can find direct flights from major US cities like Atlanta (Delta), Miami (American Airlines), and both Houston and Newark (United Airlines). JetBlue also offers year-round service from New York (JFK). For our Canadian mates, WestJet has weekly flights from Toronto.
  • From Europe: KLM and TUI Airlines operate direct flights from Amsterdam. Corendon Dutch Airlines also recently started twice-weekly flights from Amsterdam to meet the growing demand.
  • Regional Connections: If a direct flight isn’t an option, you can easily connect through regional hubs like Curaçao (CUR) or Aruba (AUA) and catch a short, local flight to Bonaire.
Once you’re on the island, getting around with your gear requires a bit of planning. We highly recommend renting a pickup truck or a Jeep with high ground clearance. This is the most popular option and for a good reason—it’s perfect for stashing your boards and sails and for navigating some of the unpaved roads on the island, especially if you plan to explore Washington-Slagbaai National Park. Just be sure to book your rental in advance, especially during peak seasons, as they can get snapped up quickly.

Where to Stay in Kralendijk

Bonaire has a great selection of accommodation that caters specifically to water sports lovers, often run by fellow riders who get it.
  • For Kiters: The Windhoek Resort is a kiter’s dream, with owners who are passionate kiteboarders themselves and a location only 10 minutes from Atlantis Beach. You’ll find a great community vibe here. Another great choice is Casa Calexico, a budget-friendly guesthouse also owned by kiters and within walking distance of Kralendijk’s restaurants and bars.
  • For Windsurfers & Wingfoilers: If you want to be right on the water, check out the Sorobon Luxury Beach Resort or The Villas at Sorobon, both located directly on Lac Bay. A more budget-friendly option is Hotel Wanapa, just an 8-minute drive from the bay, or Red Palm Village, which is only a 3-minute drive. For the ultimate in convenience, Beach Studio Aerial lets you walk right onto the beach at Lac Bay.

Kralendijk's - Food & Nightlife

Bonaire’s vibe is famously relaxed, so don’t expect a wild nightlife scene. The focus here is on unwinding with good food and a cold drink after a big day on the water. This laid-back atmosphere is perfect for getting a good night’s rest so you can be up early for your next session. The food scene is a tasty mix of Caribbean and Dutch influences, with an abundance of fresh seafood and local specialities like “kabrito stoba” (goat stew). Food trucks are a popular and affordable option. Look out for King Kong near Atlantis Kite Beach for burgers and hot dogs, or Kite City across from the airport, which is known for its super-fresh fish. For windsurfers, the beach bar at Jibe City in Lac Bay is a classic spot for a post-session feed. It’s a good idea to have some US dollars on hand, as many food trucks, local vendors, and smaller cafes prefer cash.

Activities Around Kralendijk

When the wind drops or you need a rest day, Bonaire truly shines as a destination that offers plenty to do.
  • Diving & Snorkelling: Bonaire is a world-renowned “Diver’s Paradise” and the “shore diving capital of the Caribbean”. The entire sea around the island is a protected marine park, ensuring pristine reefs and abundant marine life. The water is crystal clear and warm all year.
  • Land-based Adventures: The Washington-Slagbaai National Park is a massive protected area offering driving routes, hiking trails, and the chance to spot wildlife like flamingos and donkeys. You can also explore the striking pink salt lakes in the south of the island or visit the Donkey Sanctuary.
  • Other Water Sports: You can get out on the water in other ways, with options like kayaking through the mangrove forests of Lac Bay, caving, or stand-up paddleboarding.

Travel Tips

Before you go, here are a few handy tips to make sure your trip to Bonaire is as smooth as possible.
  • Marine Park Fee: This is a crucial one. All visitors engaging in water activities or visiting the national parks must pay a mandatory Nature Fee of $40 USD per calendar year. This fee helps fund the conservation of Bonaire’s unique ecosystem and is a legal requirement. You can purchase it online, which is the easiest way to go.
  • Spot Rules: Bonaire is a very well-managed eco-destination, and there are specific rules for where you can practice your sport.
    • Kitesurfing is strictly limited to the designated zone at Atlantis Kite Beach.
    • Windsurfing is exclusively permitted within the protected waters of Lac Bay.
    • Wingfoiling is a bit of a mixed bag; while it’s “condoned” in Lac Bay, ongoing discussions are happening to formally zone the area, so it’s a good idea to stay informed.
  • It’s important to remember that riding in the “light blue water” anywhere else on the island is prohibited and can result in fines.
  • Roads & Animals: Many roads, especially in the north, are unpaved, which is another reason a pickup or jeep is a good idea. Keep an eye out for free-roaming donkeys and goats, as they often appear on the roads unexpectedly.
  • Safety: Always secure your valuables, as theft from vehicles can occur. It’s also a good idea to check that your travel insurance covers water sports activities.

Tours that Visit Kralendijk

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