When we tell friends we are headed to Bonaire for another exciting diving adventure, the first thing we get asked is “where is Bonaire?”.  Bonaire is part of the ABC islands, located less than a hundred miles off the coast of Venezuela.  It’s less known than its neighbors, Aruba and Curacao.  According to Wikipedia, population is about 18,905.

Bonaire is the perfect destination for relaxing and diving; un-touched paradise.  Maybe that is why in the last 4 years, we have visited it 3 times.

Beach in SP

Flamingos

Cocktails @ Lac Bay

Sea Life

Bonaire

Some divers in our group registered 18 dives in 8 days.  Even if you aren’t a diver, like myself, snorkeling is amazing and you get to experience the underwater beauty of this part of the world.  Some of our dive sites this trip were: Alice in Wonderland, The Lake, Pink Beach, Tori’s, Something Special, Slagbaai, Sarah’s Smile, Monte’s, Heaven and Hilma Hooker.  We were fortunate enough to see the ostracods on one of the night dives; once in a lifetime experience. The entire ocean lit up around us.

This trip was not all about the diving.  We took a day to explore the national park, Washington Slagbaai National Park.  The terrain in the park was dry and rugged.  Checked out the blow holes, lighthouses, deserted beaches and the views from the cliffs.  We stopped at Wakaya I, II and III as a possible diving spot(s).  Popular spot with the snorkeling groups; did look pretty amazing from the cliff.  There were stairs involved and we didn’t want to take all the diving gear down the narrow steps. On we went and found a great sandy beach at Slagbaai.  Also found the flamingos.  This was a great spot.

We all got to try the lion fish. Considered a predator, it’s actually quite tasting grilled on a bun.  Several of the local food trucks around the island offer fresh lion fish; we tried Cactus Blue at the Donkey Beach. When on the island, we try to stick to fresh fish.  Most restaurants had fresh catch of the day.  Our local favorites, which we always visit: Karel’s, It Rains Fishes and Blennies.   Also tried Cuba Compagnie and now have a new favorite for dinner.  Food was great, service friendly and they even made a great caipirinha. Another spot I would recommend is Jibe City.  Doesn’t look like much, but it’s a pretty happening bar right on Lac Bay.  Fun was had by all.

Another fabulous trip comes to an end and we say “ajo”.  Until we meet again.