Bonaire Dive Trip
Warm water, easy shore diving, and reefs that basically refuse to stop showing off.
Weather vibe (and what that means for you)
Bonaire is typically warm, sunny, and breezy. That breeze is your best friend until you forget it exists and get sunburned anyway. Pack light layers for evenings, a rash guard for long boat days, and something that blocks wind on the shore.
Currency + money tips
Bonaire uses the U.S. Dollar, so most travelers don’t need to exchange currency. Bring a few small bills for quick purchases and tipping, and keep a backup card. ATMs exist, but “exist” and “convenient” aren’t always the same thing.
Entry, documents, and the boring stuff
Keep your passport handy, store a photo/scan separately, and travel with proof of return travel. If you’re bringing specialty gear or meds, toss a quick list into your phone. It’s rare you’ll need it, but it’s glorious when you do.
Getting around
Most divers rent a pickup or small truck for shore diving. Driving is on the right. Roads can be dark at night and wildlife (donkeys/goats) can appear like they own the place. Because they do.
Connectivity + power
Most places are traveler-friendly for charging and Wi-Fi, but island internet can be “vacation-speed.” If you need reliable data, consider an eSIM or local SIM and download maps before you wander off-grid.
Marine park + nature fee (reef-friendly basics)
Bonaire protects its reefs through the Bonaire National Marine Park. Plan to handle required fees and follow local reef rules. Your buoyancy matters, your fins matter, and yes, touching coral is still a bad idea even if it “barely counts.”
Tip: Buy/confirm the nature fee before heavy water time. (It’s typically tied to the calendar year.)
What not to do (aka how to not be “that tourist”)
- Don’t touch, stand on, or collect coral, shells, or anything living.
- Don’t feed marine life (it messes with behavior and ecosystem balance).
- Don’t leave valuables visible in vehicles at shore sites. Keep it boring.
- Don’t wear gloves to “grab stuff.” Good buoyancy beats grabbing.
- Don’t ignore signs, private property, or protected areas (especially on the wild east side).
Quick “smart traveler” checklist
- Sun protection that survives wind and salt (hat + rash guard = underrated).
- Hydration plan. You’ll feel fine right up until you don’t.
- Reef-safe habits: good buoyancy, controlled fins, no souvenir collecting.
- Keep an eye on official advisories for the region, even if you’re staying put.
Email dive@scubafusion.com and we’ll line up the diving, logistics, and the stuff you don’t want to babysit.