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| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A
Type A:
Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
US Dollar (USD) £1 ≈ US$1.33 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Bonaire, especially in tourist areas, though cash is still widely accepted.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary, with 10-15% being the standard in restaurants. Small tips are also appreciated for hotel and taxi services. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in designated areas, especially on beaches and during events. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces such as restaurants and shops. |
| Dia di Rincon (April) |
Expect lively celebrations and parades in the town of Rincon. |
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| New Year’s Day (January) |
Expect public celebrations and some business closures. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 |
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| Taxi apps: | Bonaire Taxi |
| Other: | Bonaire is known for its excellent diving and water activities, as well as its beautiful beaches and wildlife. |
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
Don't miss
- 🐠 Dive the vibrant coral reefs of Bonaire Marine Park
- 🐢 Snorkel with sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters
- ⛰️ Climb Mount Scenery, the highest point in the Netherlands
- 🦩 Explore the colorful salt pans and flamingos near Pekelmeer
- 🏄♀️ Windsurf at Lac Bay’s calm turquoise lagoon
- 🍹 Stroll through Kralendijk’s harbor and enjoy seaside dining
Why travel to Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba?
These islands are a dream for eco-tourists and nature lovers. Bonaire is world-famous for its pioneering marine conservation and some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean. Saba impresses with its mountainous terrain, including the highest point in the Netherlands, Mount Scenery, ideal for hiking enthusiasts. Sint Eustatius offers stunning volcanic landscapes, historical sites and pristine reefs. However, transportation infrastructure is limited with no public buses, roads can be steep or rough and night driving requires caution. Also, accommodations and services tend toward a higher price level, reflecting their exclusivity and remoteness.
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Bonaire
A Caribbean island in the Dutch Caribbean, Bonaire offers world‑class diving, coral reefs and a relaxed atmosphere. The capital, Kralendijk, features historic architecture, local markets, easy access to nature reserves and experience local cuisine.
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Bonaire International Sailing Regatta
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Saba Carnival
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Statia Day Festival
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Taste of Bonaire Food Festival
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Sint Eustatius Day
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Saba Mountain Classic Marathon
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Bonaire Kite Festival
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Saba Festival of The Sea
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Oranjestad Carnival
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Bonaire Jazz Festival
Knowledge before you go
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen; coral reefs are protected and sensitive.
- Arrive early for snorkeling to avoid crowds, especially near Klein Curaçao and Bonaire’s West Coast.
- Check local weather forecasts; sudden squalls can affect sea conditions and flight schedules.
- Explore the historic district of Kralendijk on foot; its Dutch colonial architecture offers unique photo opportunities during sunset.
How to travel to Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
Bonaire's Flamingo International Airport handles most air traffic, with connections mainly through Curacao and other Caribbean hubs. Saba and Sint Eustatius can be reached by short flights from Bonaire or via ferry from St. Maarten. Due to their small size and remote access, planning transfer times is crucial.
Access summary
- Fly into Bonaire (BON) from Amsterdam, Atlanta; Curaçao.
- Sint Eustatius (EUX): Flights from St. Maarten; ferries St. Kitts.
- Saba (SAB): Flights from St. Maarten; no large local airlines.
Where to stay in Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
Accommodations range from boutique hotels, resorts and vacation homes to guesthouses and eco-lodges. Due to the islands’ exclusivity, prices tend to be higher than typical Caribbean destinations. Options are limited but offer a close-to-nature and intimate atmosphere, best suited for travelers seeking tranquility and unique experiences.
Hotel recommendations
How to get around Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
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Safety information overview
Packing recommendations for Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
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