Fun Things to Do on Bonaire

Welcome to Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire – your ultimate destination for an unforgettable vacation filled with adventure and relaxation on the stunning island of Bonaire.

Bonaire is renowned for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, pleasant climate, and exotic underwater world. But the island has so much more to offer. If you're wondering what to do on Bonaire, which must-see sights to explore, and what tips will help you make the most of your stay, you've come to the right place. On this page, we’ll share our best recommendations for must-visit attractions and useful tips to ensure you experience all the highlights of Bonaire.

Kralendijk
Looking to shop or soak up some local culture? Head to Kralendijk! The colorful capital of Bonaire is like a coral reef brought to life. While the town is small, it has everything you’d expect from a charming island hub. Browse lively markets, stroll along cozy shopping streets, and pick up the perfect souvenir to remember your trip.

The Pink Salt Lake (Pekelmeer)
The name gives it away – this lake is bright pink! The Pekelmeer is used to extract salt from seawater. Due to the high salinity, only one type of algae can survive in the lake. That algae is eaten by a unique type of shrimp, which gives the water its signature pink hue. And if you're lucky, you might spot one of Bonaire’s famous Caribbean flamingos!

Another scenic lake worth visiting is Goto Lake (Gotomeer). Surrounded by stunning nature, it's also a great place to spot flamingos in their natural habitat.

Slave Huts
A site with deep historical significance – and a must-visit while on Bonaire. These small white huts were once used by enslaved people who worked in the island’s salt production industry, which began under Dutch rule in the 17th century. The site offers a sobering glimpse into Bonaire’s colonial past.

Washington Slagbaai National Park
Had enough of the beach? No worries! Visit Washington Slagbaai National Park, a vast and beautiful nature reserve covering much of northern Bonaire. The park features dramatic cactus-strewn landscapes and an incredible variety of wildlife.

You can explore the park on your own or book a guided tour to discover its full scope. Since it's a protected area, certain rules apply to help preserve this precious ecosystem – you can find those on the park’s official website.

Impressive Caves
Bonaire is home to over 400 caves. While most are not accessible to the public, a number of them can be visited with an experienced guide who will explain their formation and history. These are fascinating water-filled caves where you can even go snorkeling. Some caves still contain ancient indigenous drawings!

Donkey Sanctuary
Love donkeys? Then a visit to the Donkey Sanctuary is a must! This rescue center cares for and protects hundreds of these adorable animals. You can drive through the sanctuary, feed the donkeys, and even adopt one to support the cause. A heartwarming and fun experience for all ages.

Klein Bonaire
Ever dreamed of visiting an uninhabited island? Klein Bonaire is a small, untouched island with no facilities or residents. Here, you can enjoy pristine nature or go snorkeling in one of the best spots on the island – sea turtles are often spotted here!

Make sure to bring your own food and drinks, as there are no services available. The island is easy to reach by water taxi – you'll be there in just 15 minutes.

Mangrove Tours – Kayaking & Snorkeling
From the Mangrove & Kayak Center Bonaire, you can book a guided tour through the island’s breathtaking mangrove forests. Paddle and snorkel under expert guidance while encountering a variety of tropical fish – and maybe even sea turtles. Note: snorkeling with fins is not allowed here, as it can harm the fragile mangrove ecosystem.

Scuba Diving
Discover Bonaire’s incredible underwater world and dive into the Caribbean Sea. Explore colorful coral reefs and swim among exotic marine life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Bonaire is the perfect destination. At Van der Valk Plaza Resort, our on-site dive center offers a range of options for you to explore this underwater paradise.

Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
Ride the waves and experience Bonaire’s vibrant surf scene. The island features several popular surf spots where both beginners and advanced surfers come together to enjoy the sport and the ocean breeze.

Travel Tips for the Best Bonaire Experience
Now that you’ve discovered the highlights of Bonaire, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your stay:

• Rent a scooter or car to easily explore the island and visit all its top sights.
• Plan your dive and snorkel adventures with reputable dive centers to discover the most beautiful spots. Tip: Book your (first) dive with our private dive school, Toucan Diving, for a safe and unforgettable experience.

Renting a Car or Scooter
To fully explore the island’s hidden gems, we recommend renting a car or scooter. Van der Valk partners with Macho Scooter & Car Rental to offer our hotel guests convenient vehicle rental options. You can easily arrange this at the front desk during your stay.