During covid, when traveling was something that needed quite a bit of extra planning, I managed to book myself on a trip to the tropical Carribean island of Bonaire. Located about 40km north of Venazuela, Bonaire is part of the ABC islands (Aruba (most westwards), Bonaire (most eastwards) and Curacao (the middle island).
Compared to their perhaps more known sisters, Bonaire feels more relaxed and it is well known for their dive sites all around the island. They call it a Diverโs Paradise!
Why Bonaire is a Diving Mecca
Bonaire is frequently categorized as the shore diving capital of the world. Located in the southern part of the Caribbean, measuring 24 miles long and 5 miles wide, it is easy to explore all that Bonaire has to offer. From shallow reefs, to steep walls and historical wrecks, the endless options make Bonaire a โmust experience diveโ for every diver. With a myriad of shore diving sites, and several different boat destinations to dive from, youโd never have to dive the same site twice โ unless you really just wanted to. With the great weather and amazing year-round conditions, Bonaire is a must-visit destination as you plan your diving trips for the year.
Best Time to Dive in Bonaire
While there is a defined official dive season, one of the aspects of Bonaire that makes it so great is that you can dive year-round. The official diving season, the islandโs peak season, is December through April. May through August is the windy season and November through January is the rainy season, where divers will experience daily, light showers.
No matter when you plan your trip, the โbest timeโ is really as soon as you can get there. Any chance you can, Bonaire is a trip worth making.
Bonaire Diving Conditions to Consider
Diving conditions in Bonaire vary based on the time of day, the month, and even from year to year. With Bonaire being located further south in the Caribbean, water temps stay a relatively warm and inviting temperature โ averaging 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures are perfect for the new SCUBAPRO Everflex 1.5mm dive wear, designed for men and women.
Water clarity is typically the beautiful turquoise blue you expect to see in the Caribbean, and the clarity only improves the further you get off the coast.
The sea state can change depending on which side of the island you choose to dive from and when you decide to dive. The shape of Bonaire provides a natural shield on the west side of the island against the constant eastern trade winds creating numerous protected dive sites, accessible at all times. The North and East sides of Bonaire need more planning but make for beautiful dives that see less traffic, with untouched corals, and an abundance of marine life.
