Other Activities:

BONAIRE: IT'S MORE THAN JUST SOME PRETTY FISH-- ENJOY THE WHOLE ADVENTURE!

Strict government environmental legislation that ensures that the island's surroundings remain sanctuaries for preservation have provided Bonaire with a museum-like quality underwater world that has been captivating visitors for decades. Yet, some of Bonaire's most exquisite natural treasures lie beyond its celebrated fish and include an abundant collection of land-based geographical, historical and wildlife attractions and activities geared towards the eco-adventure experience. Protected, unharmed natural habitats above the water provide inviting locations for some of the best exploring, kayaking, windsurfing, mountain biking, bird watching, hiking, fishing and eco-touring, all in an ideal Caribbean setting.

Windsurfing at Lac Bay
The peaceful, protected lagoon at Lac Bay is the perfect spot for windsurfing with extraordinarily clear, waist-deep water with constant 15-to-25 knots per hour on-shorewinds. Here, windsurfing operations feature top-of-the-line equipment and classes for beginners to advanced board sailors. Production or custom boards can be rented by the hour, day or week. Some windsurfing shops even provide transportation to and from island resorts.

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Exploring Washington-Slagbaai National Park
One of the first national parks in the Caribbean and the first national park in the Netherlands Antilles, Washington-Slagbaai National Park occupies 13,500 acres in the northwest part of the island. Home to 189 species of birds, thousands of towering candle cacti, herds of goats, stray donkeys, lizards and EVEN more lizards, the Park’s terrain is varied and those who are ambitious enough to climb some of the steep hills are rewarded with majestically sweeping views.

Jeeps and cars can be taken through the Park on one of two driving trails and many of the points of interest are worth a closer inspection on foot. Small hidden beaches with exquisite crashing waters by the cliffs provides great places to picnic, rest and explore throughout the northeast end of the Park. With names like Boca Cocolishi and Playa Funchi you'll be sure to remember the view and the name. The entrance fee is $10 per adult, $2 per child, and maps are available at the park entrance gate. Please note that those who have already paid the Nature Fee are exempt from the admission fee--please show your receipt for entrance. The park is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, although no entrance is permitted after 2:30 pm.

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Flamingo Watching at the Salt Flats
During the last century, the number of nesting places for the Caribbean Flamingo decreased from 30 to four, and the bird's numbers quickly dwindled. To reverse this trend, Bonaire created a preserve within the salt works, and today, Bonaire's flamingo population during the breeding season swells to almost 10,000, nearly outnumbering the island's human population.

The best place to watch flamingos is at the island's salt ponds in Washington-Slagbaai National Park, at Goto Meer, or at the southern end of the island at the solar salt works. While the solar sanctuary within the salt works is close to the public and requires a special permit for entry, the flamingos can be seen from the road. For lucky birdwatchers during breeding season, it is an awesome sight to see many of the flock take wing at sunset to fly the short 50-mile trip to Venezuela to spend the night.

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Fisherman's Friendly Waters
Accessibility, calm waters and abundant fish -- the same features that attract divers -- are what make fishing on Bonaire so special. The catch in Bonaire varies by season - November through February is best for bill fish, including Marlin and Sailfish; February, March and April is Dorado; March to late June is Wahoo and Amber Jack; June through September is Yellowfin and Bonito. A number of charter boat operations are available and they rarely return empty-handed. Bonefishing is also available

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Kayaking
The calm water surrounding much of Bonaire makes kayaking a relaxing and appropriate mode of transport. On the windward side of the island, visitors can explore the mangroves at Lac Bay, a lagoon, which is a nursery for fish life, on guided kayak excursions. The mangroves also create a wonderful set of tunnels in which to see beautiful wildlife including the island’s many birds. On the leeward side of the island, several dive shops rent kayaks as a means to peacefully view the coast or to visit the small uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire.

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Cycling/Mountain Biking
A popular way to see the island, there are over 300 kilometers of trails on Bonaire, consisting of goat paths and unpaved roads. Using orange painted rocks to mark bike paths, cyclists can explore on their own or on a guided tours through Washington-Slagbaai National Park, Rincon, Bonaire’s oldest settlement, and Kralendijk. Many local bike shops and hotels offer rentals, sales, repairs, as well as guided tours.

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Horseback Riding
Bonaire's best known area for riding is the Warahama Ranch, a wonderful retreat tucked away in the wilderness. A ride through the ranch grounds reveals domesticated and wild animals as well as indigenous foliage. There are also two playgrounds for children and carriage rides.

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Lounging at Pink Beach
The miracles of nature turn an oasis of sand into glowing pink jewels as the sun sets in the southeastern part of the island. Pink Beach is a perfect place to relax and watch the sun set after an adventure-filled day.

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The Capital City
Only a few blocks in size, Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire is a quiet town of colorful, well preserved buildings. Sightseeing highlights are Fort Oranje, Queen Wilhelmina Park, Government House and the miniature Greek temple-style fruit and vegetable market. Kralendijk's numerous restaurants and bars offer a variety of cuisines including authentic local seafood dishes and Amstel beer at reasonable prices and stores offer souvenirs and duty free bargains. A number of open-air cafes overlook the waterfront, so visitors can watch the fish and listen to the waves lapping as they dine.

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Finding a Secluded Beach:

Many a couple has raved about the romantic memories of quiet days spent on Bonaire's secluded and uncrowded beaches. One such beach is Boca Cocolishi, a hidden treasure of scenery, seduction and sand located in Washington-Slagbaai National Park. On the rocky coast of the National Park, Boca Cocolishi is a picturesque, two-part "black sand" bay, perfect for picnics, privacy and seclusion. Its deep, rough seaward side and calm, shallow basin are separated by a ridge of calcareous algae. The basin and the beach were formed by small pieces of coral, mollusks and their shells (cocolishi means shells), thus the "black sand." The basin itself has no current, so it's perfect for swimming close to shore. Like Boca Cocolishi, other secluded beaches dot the island's coastline and provide endless ways to explore and relax. Try Boca Chikitu, a beautiful white sand bay and beach or Boca Bartol whose shore is comprised of coral rubble and flat, eroded rock. (return to top) Rincon: The old Spanish missionary town of Rincon, Bonaire’s oldest settlement, has many undiscovered treasures to explore, from traditional marketplaces and historical buildings to great places to eat and drink. Established in the 16th century, it was chosen because of its protected location in a valley. Today Rincon is still a quiet town where the history and culture of Bonaire lives in festivals and events like the monthly Rincon Market Day and Bari Festival. Check out some of Rincon’s hidden gems at their Web site at www.infobonaire.com/rincon. Download a List of 40 Special Activities: Download and print this concise listing of 40 different non-diving activities, and bring it with you on your next Bonaire vacation. This file is formatted in Adobe Acrobat Reader"pdf" format. If you do not currently have Reader on your computer system, you may download it for free by clicking on the link to the right. ("40 Things to Do on Bonaire" reprinted with permission from Caradonna Caribbean Tours) (return to top) Please Note: It is necessary for all who use the waters of the Bonaire National Marine Park to pay a Nature Fee of $10.00 per year ($25.00 for scuba divers). At the time of payment, you will receive a specially designed tag indicating your support for nature preservation and a receipt. Keep both, as they will also provide you with complimentary admission to Washington-Slagbaai National park throughout the year your tag is valid. Tags are available at all dive operations, hotels, resorts, windsurfing operations, sport fishing charter boats, sail/snorkel/water taxi operations, marinas, and other water sports operations on Bonaire.