Belmar Oceanfront Apartments

Bonaire lies just north of Venezuela and is widely recognised as one of the Caribbean’s premier diving destinations. This crescent shaped island is just 21 miles long and together with its uninhabited sister island, Klein Bonaire, forms part of the Dutch Antilles.

It rarely rains and the waters surrounding the island are rich in nutrients, giving rise to its fabulous marine diversity and beautiful fringing reef, that runs the length of the islands west coast. Over 300 different fish species flourish in the seas off Bonaire. In 1979 the island recognised the importance of its natural marine habitat and created the Caribbean’s first protected Marine Park, which has effectively looked after the islands coral and marine life, both of which are very impressive.

Diving Freedom

There are over 90 dive sites around Bonaire, the majority of which are accessible from the shore. On average, underwater visibility exceeds 30 meters and average water temperatures range from 26°C in the winter months to roughly 29°C in summer. The fringing reef lies close to the shore, at usually no more than 10 meters. Although boat dives are available from all our centres, most divers hire a vehicle to dive and snorkel in their own time and at their own pace. Bonaire is the home of uncomplicated, stress-free diving. Dive packages start with unlimited air access, which is made available 24 hours a day. Shore entry dive sites (of which there are over 55), are generally not crowded or exposed to strong currents.

Diving and Snorkelling for Everyone

Bonaire is one of those rare dive destinations that will appeal to divers of all qualification levels. Novice divers will appreciate the superb training facilities, the lack of currents and clear waters. Experienced divers will enjoy the freedom of unlimited access to diving, day or night and the challenges presented by dive sites off the small island of Klein Bonaire. Keen photographers will appreciate the visibility, excellent bottom times and the lack of currents. Snorkellers can benefit from access onto one of the world's most accessible reefs, which invariably has a shallow upper reef shelf brimming with marine life.

Non-diving partners can enjoy a range of other active pursuits that includes the world-class windsurfing, available on the east coast at Lac bay or walking in Washington Slagbaai National Park. There is also kite boarding, mountain biking, cave excursions and bird watching available. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the relaxed laid-back atmosphere of this friendly island.

Marine Life

Bonaire’s seas abound with beautiful marine life and a fascinating variety of multicoloured tropical fish. The sea is remarkably calm and conditions remain superb year round for both scuba diving and snorkelling. Divers often encounter Turtles, Jacks and inquisitive Tarpon. Seahorses, the islands emblem, thrive in Bonaire’s waters, alongside rarely seen Frogfish. The Island’s corals are recognised worldwide for their healthy state of preservation. Management of the extensive in water and on land Bonaire National Park system is under the supervision of STINAPA www.stinapa.org, who receives your National Park fee. 

Dive Packs

Options available include 6 days unlimited shore and/or boat diving packages. Buddy Dive also offer a 'Drive & Dive' package options, which include your diving and rental vehicle; this is the most popular option. Please discuss your requirements with the Regaldive team, who will prepare a quotation suited to your needs.

Extras in Resort

• Bonaire Marine Park fee
• DIN tanks - it is recommended that you take DIN adaptors with you
• Nitrox fills
• Private guide fees
• Local sales tax payable in resort
• Dive equipment rental: Full equipment is available to hire, including BCDs, regulators, wetsuits, dive computers, full set incl. computer dive light (without batteries), fins, masks & snorkels

Bonaire is a small island in the South Caribbean, with a tranquil and laid back atmosphere, although there are numerous bars that provide great live music, some first class restaurants and plenty of fantastic activities.

The locals pride themselves on their friendly welcoming attitude, which combined with the wonderful environment goes a long way to explaining the large number of repeat visitors to the island. Bonaire has long been renowned for its pioneering role in marine conservation, which has kept the reefs of the island in immaculate condition for future generations. The island remains relatively untouched by outside influences both above and below the water, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape from a mainstream holiday destination.

Our chosen hotels are all within easy reach of the Dutch influenced capital, Kralendijk. Here you will find a variety of shops, restaurants and bars with live music and entertainments.

Time

Bonaire is -4 hours behind GMT.

Currency

The US Dollar is Bonaire's official currency.

There are ATM’s in Kralendijk. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Climate

Bonaire is outside the hurricane belt and the annual rainfall is very low. Average temperature annually is 27.5°C. July / August is the hottest period reaching up to 30°C. Conditions are normally warm and humid with a fairly constant, cooling sea breeze.

Water Temperature

Water temperature rarely drops below 26°C. A 3mm long suit is recommended (the long suit provides extra protection on shore entries/exits). Those carrying out multiple dives over a longer stay may prefer to add a vested hood or 5mm.

Car Hire

One of the best ways to enjoy Bonaire is to hire a vehicle locally. There are a number of vehicles available for rental in Bonaire. Should you be travelling over a peak period you should consider pre-booking your vehicle prior to departure.

Activities

Bonaire is the home of easy diving, dive sites around the island are well marked and easily accessed at any time of the day or night. The fringing reefs make for brilliant snorkelling for those not wanting to dive. Other activities include windsurfing at Lac Bai, a sheltered bay that is excellent for beginners and pros alike, cave snorkelling, sea kayaking, kite boarding and mountain biking.

With over 180 bird species, the island attracts ornithologists from around the world especially to the salt lakes where a huge colony of flamingos gather. The Washington Slagbaai National Park provides an excellent way of observing these incredible birds in their natural environment. Vehicles can be hired and there is a road that runs around the island and through the park. As the island is small everything is within easy reach.

Flights from UK

Flights with KLM from London Heathrow, London City, Birmingham and Manchester, via Amsterdam.

NB: some arrival times in Bonaire are the early hours of the morning. Unless specifically requested otherwise, your accommodation will be booked for the night before, which allows you to check in as soon as you arrive. Otherwise, you will need to wait until 14.00 hours to check in.

Other Regional Departures - Supplement:
Additional regional departures available from : Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Newcastle, Durham, Humberside, Norwich International, Cardiff, Bristol - supplement may apply.

Resort Departure Tax:
Payable in cash at the airport prior to check-in. Currently included for international departures on KLM. Subject to change without notice.

Visas

Entry requirements vary from country to country, and it’s important to check the latest visa information well before you travel. Some destinations may allow visa-free entry for a limited period, while others require an eVisa or a visa obtained in advance. To ensure you have the correct documentation for your trip, we recommend checking the official advice from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or contacting the relevant country’s embassy or consulate. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

Passports

Before you travel, make sure your passport is valid for the full duration of your trip and meets the entry requirements of your destination. Many countries require at least six months’ validity beyond your planned return date, while others may have different rules. For the most reliable and up-to-date information, visit the UK Government’s passport guidance or the official travel advice pages for your destination. Other nationalities should check with their own consulate/embassy.

If you’re planning to travel to or via an EU country (with certain exceptions) your UK passport must meet two key requirements, it must be less than 10 years old on the day you enter the country and it must be valid for at least three months after your planned departure date.

Vaccinations & Health Advice

Health and vaccination requirements differ depending on where you're travelling. Some destinations may require proof of specific vaccinations or recommend certain precautions to protect your wellbeing.

We’re not qualified to provide you with specific advice on vaccinations and strongly recommend that you contact your healthcare professional before you travel to discuss the inoculations you may need to consider.

For trusted guidance on health and vaccination advice, refer to the NHS Travel Vaccination Advice, Masta Travel Health or Travel Health Pro websites.