Bonaire Lighthouse: Discover all lighthouses on island

The history of all lighthouses on Bonaire

Located in the Dutch Caribbean, Bonaire is known for its historical architecture, rich maritime history, and beautiful tourist attractions. One of the things that make Bonaire unique is its collection of lighthouses. These lighthouses serve as important navigational aids, guiding mariners along the island’s coastlines. They have also become popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a glimpse into Bonaire’s cultural heritage and providing scenic viewpoints of the Caribbean Sea.

Key Takeaways:

• Bonaire is home to 5 lighthouses on all tips of the island
• The Willemstoren Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse on Bonaire dating from 1837.
• The Spelonk Lighthouse and the Seru Bentana Lighthouse are still important navigational aids along Bonaire’s rough coastlines.
• The lighthouse at Fort Oranje and Harbour Village Marina also serve as navigational beacons for marine traffic.
• Exploring all Bonaire’s lighthouses allows visitors to experience the island’s maritime history and enjoy its natural beauty.
• On certain nights from February until October the Milkyway can be seen at lighthouses Spelonk and Willemstoren.

Explore the Willemstoren Lighthouse

Located on the southern tip of Bonaire, the Willemstoren Lighthouse is found. It was build in 1837 and was named after a former king of the Netherlands William 1st. Its location offers breathtaking views of the coastline. On clear days Venezuela can be seen. As a historic landmark and popular tourist attraction, this lighthouse is a must-visit during your trip to Bonaire.

For diving enthusiasts, the Willemstoren Lighthouse is surrounded by a pristine reef teeming with soft corals and an abundance of marine life. However, it’s important to note that due to strong currents, diving at this site is recommended for experienced divers only.

The lighthouse can easily be reached as there is a paved road going round the southern tip of the island. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the beauty and history of this iconic lighthouse while exploring the island.

The Spelonk Lighthouse

The Spelonk Lighthouse is an iconic landmark situated along the rough east coast. This historic lighthouse holds immense significance for mariners navigating the eastern shores of Bonaire. It was build around 1909 and the Spelonk Lighthouse continues to guide ships safely through these treacherous waters.

You can only reach the lighthouse with a 4×4 car or pickup truck because its location is remote and the roads leading there are unpaved. During the rainy season, taking the journey is not advisable. Many visitors have stranded and gotten stuck in the muddy paths leading to the lighthouse.

A former keeper building is located next to the lighthouse and stands as a testament to Bonaire’s rich maritime heritage. The preservation of its historical architecture ensures that future generations can appreciate the lighthouse’s unique charm and significance.

Seru Bentana Lighthouse in Washington Slagbaai National Park

The Seru Bentana Lighthouse, located in Washington Slagbaai National Park, underwent a renovation in 2012. The historical renovation included the replacement of the old lamp with historically accurate parts. This lighthouse serves as a symbol of Bonaire’s maritime heritage and is a must-visit attraction in the national park.

Lighthouses Fort Oranje and Harbour Village Marina

The final two lighthouses are located on the leeward side of the island. Fort Oranje houses a historical lighthouse, and the Harbour Village Marina is home to the youngest lighthouse. The latter is currently hosting restaurant Oscars Lighthouse.

History of Fort Orange

Fort Orange was built in 1639 after the island of Bonaire was conquered by the Netherlands. The fort has four metre high walls with four canons.^[1] The original fort was open on the land side. In 1800, the British ignored Bonaire. By 1804, the British had landed their troops out of sight, taken Bonaire, and captured the fort without a fight from the open land side. The canons which are currently in the fort date from the British period.

In 1816, Bonaire was returned to the Netherlands. They reconstructed the fort and named it Fort Orange. The fort served as the headquarters of the Commander of Bonaire until 1837. In 1932, a stone lighthouse replaced the original wooden one. (source: Wikipedia)

Bonaire: A Dutch Caribbean Island with Lighthouses

Renowned for its rich colonial history, the Netherlands colonized Bonaire in 1636, and the island remained under Dutch control throughout the colonial period. Today, Bonaire is a popular destination for those seeking to explore its historical and cultural heritage, including its iconic lighthouses.

Exploring Bonaire’s lighthouses provides visitors with a unique glimpse into the island’s past. These structures have witnessed the island’s transformation and hold valuable insights into its maritime history. From their breathtaking coastal locations to their architectural beauty, Bonaire’s lighthouses beckon adventurers and history enthusiasts alike.

As you navigate Bonaire’s scenic landscapes, make sure to add the island’s lighthouses to your itinerary. Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating history and charm of this Dutch Caribbean gem. Discover the stories and legacy behind these lighthouses while indulging in the beauty of island exploration.

Bonaire Lighthouses and Tourist Attractions

Bonaire’s lighthouses are not only historical landmarks but also popular tourist attractions. Visitors to the island can explore these iconic structures while immersing themselves in the island’s natural beauty and charm.

With breathtaking scenic viewpoints, the lighthouses provide visitors with unparalleled vistas of the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding coastline. These vantage points offer the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs and take in the mesmerizing beauty of the island.

For diving enthusiasts, Bonaire’s lighthouses hold a special allure. The pristine reefs surrounding these lighthouses are teeming with vibrant marine life, making them ideal dive sites for exploring the underwater world. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, these dive sites offer unforgettable underwater adventures.

Moreover, Bonaire’s lighthouses are steeped in rich maritime history. As navigational aids, they have played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of ships and mariners passing through the Caribbean waters. Exploring these lighthouses allows visitors to delve into the island’s captivating maritime heritage and gain a deeper understanding of its historical significance.

When planning your Caribbean travel itinerary, be sure to include a visit to Bonaire’s lighthouses. These unique attractions offer a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. Discover the allure of Bonaire’s lighthouses and embark on a memorable journey of island exploration.

Milky way and night photography on Bonaire

Renowned for its dark skies, certain remote areas on Bonaire offer excellent opportunities for photographers to capture the night sky. From February to October, during the ‘Milky way season,’ you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye on some nights. Especially near lighthouse Willemstoren and lighthouse Spelonk, there is hardly any light pollution, making it possible to capture the starry sky with your camera.

“As an amateur photographer, I like to go out an capture the lighthouses on Bonaire. I enjoy night photography and the historic lighthouse form iconic landmarks to capture. Especially on clear nights during ‘Milky Way Season’ the night sky is stunning. At the most southern tip of the island you have the best chance of seeing the Milky Way with your own bare eyes. Turn off all lights, and your eyes will adjust to the darkness after 15 minutes. With a nice camera and sturdy tripod it is possible to photograph the starry skies.” Luite Berkenbosch

Below you will find some pictures from the night sky and the Milky way. (Photo credit: Luite Berkenbosch, author of this article)

Conclusion

Bonaire’s lighthouses, steeped in maritime history, are not only functional navigational aids but also captivating tourist attractions. These iconic structures stand as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and offer visitors a unique glimpse into Bonaire’s past. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking island exploration, a visit to Bonaire’s lighthouses is a must.

From the famous Willemstoren Lighthouse with its scenic viewpoints of the coastline and mainland of Venezuela, to the Spelonk Lighthouse ensuring maritime safety along the eastern coastline, each lighthouse showcases Bonaire’s dedication to preserving its historical architecture. The Seru Bentana Lighthouse, nestled in Washington Slagbaai National Park, adds to the charm with its historical renovation, while the light beacons at Fort Orange and Harbour Village Marina serve as vital navigational aids along the coastlines.

As a Dutch Caribbean island, Bonaire offers a unique blend of colonial history and natural beauty. Exploring the lighthouses allows visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s rich maritime heritage and learn about its connection to the Dutch Caribbean. The captivating views, diving opportunities, and the island’s overall charm draw you to Bonaire’s lighthouses, offering an unforgettable experience for all.