Bonaire Ladies Trip, May '24

Those who know the island of Bonaire prize it for what it's missing. Traffic lights, high rises, congestion, sound pollution and stress; all gone. In their place, you will find a picturesque harbor town, intimate waterfront resorts and many miles of undeveloped coastline that overlook the blue Caribbean. Pristine coral reefs set the stage for stellar scuba diving and snorkeling. Once you visit, you'll see why it is known as the "Diver's Paradise."

What's the diving like?

The majority of sites along the island's western coast and around the nearby island of Klein Bonaire feature similar profiles: Beaches or rocky shorelines are fronted by a coastal ledge that slopes gradually from the waterline to a depth of around 25 feet, then turns downward at a steeper angle to reach depths of around 100 feet. At some sites, coral growth begins right at the shore, while more often the upper ledge features a sandy bottom, with dense coral cover beginning at the edge of the drop. This profile makes it easy for divers to wade in and get comfortable, then drop onto the coral slope and choose their depth. Water temperatures range from the high 70s to mid-80s.

Where will you be staying?

The all-inclusive Plaza Resort, Spa and Casino is located right on the beach on the Western side of the island. Think amazing sunsets. This laid-back resort is about 1.5 miles from both Bonaire National Marine Park and Bonaire International Airport. The suites offer balconies or terraces, the airy rooms sleep up to 4 people (though 2 is standard) and provides free Wi-Fi, flat-screens and mini-fridges, as well as tea and coffeemakers. Suites have sitting areas. Upgraded suites add sea views. Parking is complimentary. There's also a buffet-style eatery with sea views, plus a rustic beach bar, an outdoor pool and regular live entertainment. Other amenities include a casino and a spa. Water sports and bike rentals can be arranged. Island excursions can also be arranged.

Tips and Info

• If shore diving with a rental car, look for the yellow-painted and numbered stones along the shore that mark the entry point for each site.
  
• A 3mm wetsuit, open-heel fins and thicker-soled boots for shore dives, a small tarp for gearing up from a rental car, and a water jug and towel for rinsing off afterward.

Best Places to Dive in Bonaire

1. The Hilma Hooker is an easy yet impressive wreck that can be accessed from shore.
2. The pilings of Salt Pier harbor a menagerie of marine life.
3. Karpata combines abundant marine life with groves of elkhorn coral starting in shallow water.
4. Tarpon flash through schooling baitfish at Bari Reef.
5. On Klein Bonaire, Monte's Divi is a good bet for seahorses and Forest offers thick growths of soft corals and black coral trees.

Trip Pricing

REQUIRED FOR DIVERS
Dive Accident Insurance

RECOMMENDED FOR ALL
Travel Insurance