Bonaire
 
 12⁰ 5'N 68⁰ 14'W

For more detailed information about the activities available visit: www.infobonaire.com

WINDSURFING - Most of the windsurfing takes place from the fine white sands of Sorobon Beach, Lac Bay.  Stretching some three miles long by one and a half miles wide, Lac Bay is a marine conservation area, and its warm, waist deep water is the most amazing, shimmering turquoise .  Large waves break on the coral reefs just outside the bay providing predominantly flat water on the inside.  The wind is cross onshore.  It is a fantastic spot for families because it provides a safe environment to learn in with no currents or obstacles to worry about.  It is also a brilliant location for those wishing to perfect their gybes, or to practice freestyle or to simply enjoy out and out blasting.  The large waves on the other side of the reef create excellent conditions for jumps, loops and wave riding, and can be accessed through the channel at the northern tip of the bay.

There are two windsurfing centres on Lac Bay where equipment can be hired and instruction is available.  Check out the following websites for information on prices, wind facts, equipment etc.  www.jibecity.com and www.bonairewindsurfplace.com  Windsurf clinics are organised by ABK: www.abkboardsports.com

Diving - The waters surrounding the island were designated a marine park in 1979, which has resulted in some of the finest diving in the world.  The crystal clear water has visibility averaging over 100 feet (30m) and frequently reaching up to 150 feet (50m).  Water temperatures average a warm 78-84F (25.6 to 28.9C0.  There are many places to dive around the island.

SNORKELLING - Snorkelling is great fun for all the family, and Bonaire has an abundance of sea creatures, coral and fish to be enjoyed.  You can snorkel just about anywhere in the relatively calm waters surrounding the island, but there is a list of suggested locations together with information on guided snorkel programmes on the tourist board website.

Photo courtesy of Mangrove Info & Kayak Centre

Kayaking - Guided mangrove and kayak tours can be booked through the Mangrove Info & Kayak Centre.  They also offer boat tours and guided mangrove snorkelling trips.  The Centre hosts an exhibition about the mangrove forest, including an aquarium featuring mangrove marine life. 

Discover Bonaire, Captain Don's Habitat and Buddy Dive offer a PADI course in kayak diving as well as the full certification course for ocean kayaks.

FISHING - In addition to bone fishing, there are a number of charter boats that will take anglers sport fishing.  Sailfish, marlin, tuna and tarpon are the most common, but wahoo, dorado and other edible species may also be caught.  Bonaire hosts a number of local and international fishing tournaments throughout the year.

SAILING - Sailing is a great way to relax and enjoy Bonaire.  There are a number of companies offering a range of trips from half days to weekend or weekly charters. You can choose from a variety of sunset or moonlit sails which include champagne, gourmet, Thai or Sushi dinner.  Trips can be arranged to suit your own needs perhaps some snorkelling, or a BBQ on Klein Bonaire, a cruise to the National Park.  Most charter companies' services can be booked with local tour operators such as Bonaire Tours & Vacations.

KITESURFING - Bonaire has several excellent kitesurfing locations.  Each has their own character, and offer something for all abilities from beginner to extreme.  Atlantis Beach, situated on the southwest tip of the island is currently the most popular destination.  The wind is predominantly off-shore, however, a rescue boat is operated here by Kiteboarding Bonaire, who also give lessons.

Photo courtesy of Discover Bonaire

CYCLING - A popular way to explore Bonaire.  Many of the bike companies also conduct tours through the Knuku (outback), the National Park and along the coastline.  A cycling trails map is available on the tourist website.

WASHINGTON NATIONAL PARK - Comprises some 13,500 acres of stunning flora and fauna, including a number of beaches to snorkel from.  It boasts over a hundred species of birds, and includes the island's highest elevation, Brandaris Hill at 784 feet.  The terrain is pretty bumpy and only 4-wheel drive vehicles, with a spare tyre, are allowed to enter, but tours are available.

PEKELMEER SALT FLATS - an impressive sight.  Huge mounds of sparkling white salt set against the colourful lakes of deep blue, purple and pink salt pans.  Using solar energy the salt pans are one of the most environmentally conscious plants in the world.

BIRD WATCHING - Bonaire is one of the few nesting places in the world for pink flamingos, and a special sanctuary has been set aside and developed.  The colony is flourishing with numbers estimated at 35-40,000. They are extremely shy creatures. A good time to see them is at the Gotomeer early morning or evening, and quite often a flock can be seen gently flapping by over Lac Bay.

The island has over 190 species of birds including the Lora (Amazon parrot), which is now protected by international treaty.