1-Day in Bonaire: Best of Bonaire Tour

My husband and I went on a Southern Caribbean cruise with Royal Caribbean earlier this year and Bonaire was on our itinerary. We had 1-day in Bonaire to see the highlights and experience the island. To maximize our experience we did the Best of Bonaire tour through Royal Caribbean and then after the tour we explored the town of Kralendijk on our own. We didn’t have nearly enough time to see the island on this stop, but below I’ve shared an overview of the Best of Bonaire tour and how we made the most of our short 1-day in Bonaire.

About Bonaire

Bonaire is a small island located in the Caribbean sea with a population of approximately 25,000. Bonaire is part of the “ABC Islands” (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) that are special municipalities of the Netherlands and have Spanish and Dutch heritage. The island is located outside of what’s known as “hurricane alley,” is recognized as a top destination for sustainable travel (worldwide!), and is a popular diving destination.

Helpful Travel Info

• Languages: the official language of the island is Dutch, however Papiamentu, English and Spanish are also commonly spoken
• Electricity: 127/120V – ensure you know what adaptors to bring (if any!)
• Shopping: some stores close for the lunch hour from 12pm – 2pm
• Medical: there is a hospital on the island: San Francisco Hospital and there are other medical/pharmaceutical facilities around the island
• Transportation: options include car rentals, taxis, motorcycle/bike/scooter rentals, and water taxi. There is no formal “public” transportation on the island

Best of Bonaire Tour Highlights

The Best of Bonaire tour began at the cruise terminal and was facilitated through Royal Caribbean. The cost of the tour was approximately $50 USD per person and was a very leisurely tour of the island. This would be a great tour option for anyone who can’t walk long distances, because there is very minimal walking required for this tour. I don’t recommend this tour for children, as it’s not very active, and is primarily focuses on learning about the history of the island.

Salt Flats

The tour began on a scenic drive to see the salt flats. On the way we learned about the historic salt production during slavery and in modern days. These pink salt pools are full of shrimp and other organisms that attract beautiful flamingos to the island. The flamingos actually get their colour from eating the shrimp and organisms that thrive in the salty pools. The water is drawn in directly from the ocean and the salt forms through evaporation from the sun and wind. The salt has various uses from table salt for food to being used to de-ice roads.

19th Century Slave Huts

You can see the small cement huts used during slavery on the island to house labourers of the salt flats and other agricultural work. These crude homes were small and not tall enough for the men to stand inside them. They’ve updated the roofs from palm leave to modern materials to withstand the wind and natural elements and require less maintenance. The hut colours indicate the work/occupation of the men – white for the salt pools, and reddish/orange for the agriculture fields. Like many of the Caribbean islands, slavery is part of Bonaire’s history and is a somber part of their cultural heritage.

Lac Bay

On the Southern part of Bonaire, Lac Bay is a perfect location for snorkeling, windsurfing and swimming. The bay provides calm waters, yet the ocean breeze creates the perfect conditions for windsurfing. There are two windsurfing shops located along the beach that offer lessons and equipment rentals for tourists and locals alike. Beach bars are also an attraction here, offering beach-goers food and drinks to keep them satisfied throughout the day. There are beach chairs and umbrellas located along the edge of the water for tourists to spend a sunny afternoon.

Exploring Kralendijk

Back in the capital of Kralendijk there are many shops located alongside the cruise terminal and further into the city. Everything was within walking distance (though this obviously depends on your walking preferences/abilities) and very colourful. The water here was some of the most beautiful water views I’ve ever seen. I really enjoyed the laid back island vibes and friendly locals. There were many shops and restaurants to explore and they even had a brewery!

Best of Bonaire Summary

I wish we had more time to explore the island. Despite the short visit, we had a fantastic time on the island. As the island saying goes “once a visitor, always a friend.” We will definitely be back one day to explore. Check out my other posts from this cruise to see more about Aruba, Curacao and the Freedom of the Seas.