BONAIRE
+ ABOUT
Bonaire is a Caribbean island that politically part is of the Netherlands. It is a mostly flat, riverless coral island renowned for diving, windsurfing, and bird watching (particularly flamingos). Lacking many sandy beaches. It instead has lush coral reefs.
TerrainThe southern portion of the island is flat with a few hills, sparse vegetation and negligible natural resources other than white coral beaches and salt. The northern part of the island is a rugged and arid national park. The southern tip of the island is a series of giant water-filled salt pans for sea salt production and an off-limits flamingo sanctuary.
ClimateThe climate is tropical marine with little seasonal temperature variation. Temperature is moderated by constant trade winds from the Atlantic Ocean, with averages of 28°C (82°F). Rainy season lasts from the last week of October to the end of January, but it is still relatively dry. During rainy season, late night and early morning rains are common, usually clearing shortly after sunrise.
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Scuba divingBonaire is renowned among divers as one of the top shore-diving locations in the world. The reef along the western side of the island has been protected for years and is in excellent condition, offering visitors the opportunity to literally wade in from the beach in front of their hotel and experience an amazing underwater world.
The eastern side of the island is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean and is significantly rougher, so diving opportunities are limited to guided dives on all but the calmest days.
KralendijkKralendijk is the capital city and main port of the island of Bonaire. It is a small, quiet town with many pastel-coloured buildings. The centre of the town consists of a boulevard (Kaya Craane) and a shopping street (Kaya Grandi).
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+ MAP