4 Things you don't want to miss on Klein Bonaire

From the beach of Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire, you look out over the azure sea and see it directly: that intriguing, flat strip of land on the horizon. Klein Bonaire. Only 800 meters away, but once there you find yourself in a totally different world. No buildings, no roads, no traffic. Only unspoiled nature and absolute tranquility.

What to do on Klein Bonaire?

To make your stay on this uninhabited island unforgettable, we have listed the four most fun things to do for you:

1. The 'Drift Snorkel'

If there is one reason why snorkelers come to Klein Bonaire, it is for the Drift Snorkel. The concept is as fun as it is relaxing: you hardly have to swim. The current around Klein Bonaire almost always flows gently from east to west. You let yourself be 'dropped' by a water taxi at the reef, or walk from the beach to the well-known yellow pole marking the entry point. Once in the water, you simply let yourself be carried along. While you float at ease, a film of colorful coral, parrotfish, and purple tube sponges passes you by. All you have to do is breathe and enjoy.

2. Spotting sea turtles

Klein Bonaire is the nursery of the region. The soft sandy beaches are invaluable for the nests of the hawksbill turtle (hawksbill turtle) and the loggerhead turtle (loggerhead turtle). The nesting season roughly runs from May to December, but you have the chance to see a turtle swimming year-round. While snorkeling along the edge of the reef, you often encounter them: grazing in the shallow or swimming quietly in the deep blue. An encounter with these animals in their natural habitat is a moment you will not soon forget.

Tip: Do you see markings on the beach? Keep your distance. Here lie the nests where the next generation of turtles is preparing for the adventure.

3. A 'Do-It-Yourself' picnic

On Klein Bonaire, you will not find beach bars, waiters, or shops. And that is precisely the ultimate luxury. You are completely 'off-grid' for a while. This is the time to treat yourself with a well-prepared picnic. Since there are no facilities on the island; no running water and no shade structures except for some low vegetation and two small canopies, adequate preparation is essential. Fill a cooler box with ice-cold drinks, fresh fruit, and delicious sandwiches. Find a spot on the pristine white sand of No Name Beach, and enjoy a lunch with the most beautiful view in the Caribbean. Don't forget: everything that goes, must also come back. We like to keep paradise clean.

4. A relaxing walk along the water's edge

After snorkeling, there is nothing as soothing as a walk along the waterfront. The pristine white sand of No Name Beach invites you to take off your shoes and let the gentle surf over your feet. At the water's edge, there is also a delightful cooling sea breeze.

Practical tips for your visit

• Protection: The sun is bright and shade is scarce. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and reef-friendly sunscreen (or wear a UV shirt while snorkeling).

• Nature Fee: To access the sea around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire, the STINAPA Nature Fee is mandatory ($40 p.p.). Arrange this easily online or at our Sea & Sense shop before you depart, so you can enter the water worry-free.

• Water: Since there is no drinking water available on the island, it is essential to bring enough water.