Postcard from Bonaire

A wild paradise in the southern Caribbean with blue skies, gentle breezes and serene, mutli-hued water. A diver's paradise with a vibrant underwater world, in Bonaire, you just relax and enjoy the ride.

Words by Monica Walton

IMMERSE yourself in the vibrant world under the sea. With pristine coral reefs close to the shoreline this desert wonder is one of the best spots in the world to dive and its certainly earned its place. The National Marine Park protected area offers more than 90 official dive sites with over 300 species of tropical fish and over 120 different types of coral.

MARVEL at the stunning salt pans in Bonaire. Green, blue and vibrant pink, the flat shoreline on the island allows the sea to fill shallow pools, known as salinas. As the salt water sits, the sun and wind evaporate the water, leaving the salt behind to crystallize and form the iconic, colourful pools against a backdrop of white salt pyramids. It’s Bonaire’s oldest industry and a unique feature on the island.

PARTY at Coco Beach, one of the most popular beach bars on the island. Watch the sunset over Klein Bonaire while sipping on a cool cocktail. Stay until late and the bar gets packed with tourists and locals dancing to everything from soca to beachy house music with their toes in the sand.

WINDSURF One of the things that truly makes Bonaire stand out is the bright blue water that frames the island. Visit one of the many beautiful beaches to kiteboard, soak up the sun or – one of the must-do’s while you’re in Bonaire – windsurf in the iconic shallow turquoise waters of Sorobon Beach.

TASTE the local delicacies in Bonaire and you won’t be disappointed. The traditional krioyo cooking unique to the Dutch Antilles includes flavours from Africa, Europe & Spain. Try the Stoba Kabritu – kabritu (goat). This delicious stew, based on the island’s local goat meat, is loved by every Antillean.

KAYAK through the calm waters on the windward side of the island. Cruise though the mangroves at Lac Bay and you'll see beautiful wildlife and marine life in and around this peaceful lagoon.

CLIMB down the famous landmark on the island - One Thousand Steps, which earned its name from divers climbing the 67 steps with tanks on their backs, making it feel like a thousand. Take in the glistening Bonaire waters at this gorgeous viewpoint nestled in the cliffside or trek down to the bottom and you'll find a great dive site and a charming hidden bay.