Scuba Diving in Bonaire, Netherlands
The license plates on all the cars in Bonaire read Diver’s Paradise. Need any more be said? Perhaps – for those who have never been to paradise. How about 84 degree water temperature and visibility over 100 feet? Bonaire is not only a “Diver’s Paradise” because of the awesome fact that its exceptionally pristine waters are designated as an official marine park, or because its calm, clear waters are the ideal environment for underwater photographers, or because it is famous for its flamingos (which number as many as 15,000 during the mating season!), but also because Bonaire offers tons of wondrous other sites to behold and ventures to experience after a day of diving.
Hike through the terrain of the island’s 13,500-acre National Park ~ a wildlife sanctuary where birds, lizards, goats, and iguanas are found in their natural habitat! Mountain bike on the 300+ kilometers of trails, consisting of smooth coastal drives, unpaved back roads, and even goat paths! Windsurf on the shallow, calm waters of Lac Bay ~ an internationally-known hot spot for windsurfers. Kayak on the protected waters of Lac Bay or head for the miles of flats and mangroves to the south where baby fish and wildlife can be viewed.
Birdwatch Bonaire’s 170+ species of birds (80 of which are indigenous to the Island!) Deep sea fish for Wahoo, Tuna, Blue Marlin, Amber Jack, Sailfish, and Snapper. (Bonaire is also one of the best kept secrets of bone-fishing enthusiasts!) Sail out on the water on one of Bonaire’s charter yachts. Horseback ride at one of Bonaire’s horse ranches. More low-key than its Latin-influenced big sisters, Aruba and Curacao, it’s really quite cool to see how Bonaire has gone to great lengths to preserve its natural resources. Need any more be said now?
Oh yeah, beach diving is available right out your back door 24/7! While there are lots of waters in the world in which to dive deep below the surface of the sea, it’s always great to select a spot that offers lots of natural activities and goosebump-inflicting places to explore on dry land as well.