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Beautiful Bonaire: The Best Shore Diving In The Caribbean

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Overview

Introduction

Bonaire is the second-largest island in the Netherlands Antilles, and has sandy terrain contrasted by inviting blue waters. Under the waters, color abounds as rainbow-hued fish dash in between coral. Bonaire's relative lack of tourism means much of its coral has gone undisturbed, and many who have ventured to Bonaire believe that the diving and snorkeling is the best in the Caribbean. Bonaire is a very eco-friendly island, with local populations not wanting to disturb the fragile infrastructure of the coral, nor interrupt the peaceful atmosphere with heavy development and fast-paced nightlife. As a result, Bonaire's beaches and waters have remained safe, beautiful, and intact. Flamingos have become a symbol of the island, as they wander the landscape of multi-hued salt plains, enjoying their ideal sanctuary. 

Geography

Bonaire is the eastern-most Caribbean island of the 'ABC' islands, which consist of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Located in the Netherlands Antilles, Bonaire is only 50 miles north of Venezuela, 30 miles east of Curacao and 86 miles east of Aruba. Bonaire covers an area of 112 square miles and is only seven miles wide at its thickest point. A small island called Klein is also a part of Bonaire, though it is uninhabited.  Klein, or Little Bonaire lies close to the western shore of Bonaire near the island's capital town, Kralendijk.  

History

The island's rich history dates back to the late 15th century, when it was discovered by the Spanish. Before the Spanish arrived, Bonaire was already inhabited by the native Arawak Indians. The Arawak word for "Low Lands" was "Bojnay," which was eventually adapted into the word, Bonaire. Much of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of the island’s history can still be found in many of Bonaire’s landmarks, architecture and in its native population.

Economy

Tourism is one of the island’s main industries even though it is one of the less visited islands in the Caribbean, and as a result, it provides jobs to many local people.  In addition, the sale of Marine Park tags to tourists participating in water sports and scuba diving supports park management and services to protect the marine ecosystems of Bonaire.

Location:
  • Caribbean
  • Bonaire
Keywords: diving guides, caribbean dive travel, bonaire dive travel, bonaire diving, bonaire national marine park, council of underwater resort operators (CURO), klien bonaire, karpat, 1000 steps, playa bengi, boca slagbaai Author:
Melissa Gwaldis
Related Tags: Diving Guides