Bonaire: An Unforgettable Scuba Diving Paradise and Island Adventure

It's rare to find a destination so captivating that leaving feels truly difficult. While I've loved Bologna's charm and Panama City Beach's beauty, I've always eagerly returned home to Scott and summer in San Diego. Bonaire, however, left me with mixed emotions—one of the best weeks of my life ended too soon.

Typically, tropical islands enchant me with their scenery alone. But Bonaire felt like home: I was leaving new friends and untouched landscapes I'd yet to explore.

 Bonaire holds a special place as my first scuba diving destination. Renowned for world-class diving, its reefs may set an unbeatable standard. The Buddy Dive Resort staff welcomed me like family, while my travel companions provided safety and encouragement as I conquered my fear of breathing underwater.

Bonaire's locals share compelling stories. Walter and Liezeth of Bowalie Sailing left everything behind to buy a yacht and settle here—sans sailing experience. We joined their sunset sail, even taking the helm ourselves.

Beyond the underwater wonders, Bonaire's surface thrilled me. I rode bareback on Scarlet at Rancho Washikemba, laughing as she swam through a lagoon with me aboard.

Scarlet from Rancho Washikemba

Inspired by Riviera Maya's cenotes, I explored Bonaire's 300+ caves—mostly fossilized reefs. Guide Leo at Flow Bonaire led us snorkeling in a wet cave amid cave shrimp.

 Bonaire leads in conservation: mandatory orientations, check-out dives for buoyancy control, and a strict 'look but don't touch' policy protect its marine park.

Bonaire was the perfect spot for my scuba certification. Though surfing keeps me in San Diego, I dream of convincing Scott for annual months-long stays.

 

Plan Your Trip to Bonaire

With over 10 years of travel experience, we rely on trusted sites for flights and stays.

Flights:

• Momondo searches hundreds of sites, including budget airlines, with a price calendar for the cheapest days. From the US, book Saturday-to-Saturday for direct flights.

Accommodation:

• Booking.com guarantees the best prices on hotels, apartments, and villas worldwide, with reviews for all budgets.

 

Thanks to Tourism Bonaire, Travlin' Girl, Amanda Castleman, Lisa and Victor from Explore Traveler, and Buddy Dive Resort staff for an unforgettable trip.