Explore Bonaire: Seven Scenic tours on Bonaire
Discover the hidden gems through seven scenic Bonaire tours that showcase the island’s diverse attractions, from breathtaking natural landscapes to unique local flavors and exhilarating adventures. Whether you’re in the north or south of the island, or seeking an adventure in Washington Park, Bonaire offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
The Seven Tours on Bonaire
A. Scenic Route to the North
B. The South of the Island
C. A day amongst the Animals
D. The Lighthouses on Bonaire
E. Washington Slagbaai National Park
F. Street Art Bonaire
G. The 123-Voucher Route
Tour A: The beautiful scenic route to the north
1. 1000 Steps:
This spot is perfect for capturing stunning photos and maybe even snorkeling a bit.
2. Tolo:
Dive into snorkeling with a high chance of spotting sea turtles. But watch out for the strong currents!
3. Goto Lake:
Pause here and let the stunning scenery of Lake Goto surround you. It’s so quiet, you might even see some beautiful flamingos.
4. Posada Para Mira:
Lunch time! This place is the top spot to try local dishes like stewed goat, funchi, and iguana soup. Note: It’s closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
5. Cadushy Distillery:
After lunch, why not enjoy a drink? (Just not for those driving 😉). Taste unique, locally made liqueurs that have won awards!
6. Landsailing Adventures:
If you’re still up for some excitement, try landsailing (blokarting). It’s like go-karting but with a sail. It can get really fast on windy days. It’s a blast for all ages and great fun to do with family and friends. Just remember to book in advance!
7. Cruz Seru Largu:
Finish your day with an amazing view of the entire island from Seru Largu. It’s also a perfect spot to watch a bright orange sunset.
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Tour B: The south of the island
1. Te Amo Beach:
This charming beach features two tasty food trucks. Between the reefs, there’s a narrow passage where you can swim out and enjoy some beautiful snorkeling.
2. Ocean Oasis:
Stop here for a delicious coffee at one of the island’s most luxurious beach clubs. Enjoy a tasty meal here in the afternoon or evening, and don’t miss out on the often lively parties!
3. Salt Pier:
As you drive, you might notice the pink-glowing salt pans around you. Further on, you’ll see huge salt mountains that look like something out of a winter resort or Pablo Escobar’s backyard. A large pier crosses the road, carrying salt on a conveyor belt to waiting cargo ships.
Bonaire salt pans
4. White Pan:
These white slave huts serve as a somber reminder of the island’s history, showing the cramped conditions where slaves were forced to sleep, often eight to ten in one hut.
5. Red Pan:
The red slave huts housed slaves during the work week. On weekends, they returned on foot to their families in Rincon, the northernmost village of Bonaire — a harsh reality of their lives.
6. Willemstower:
The southernmost of the island’s five lighthouses, Willemstower was built in 1837 and stands beautifully against the constant Northeast trade winds with the rough Caribbean Sea in the background.
7. Hangout Bar:
Located on the east side of the island in the vast Lac Bai bay, known for windsurfing and great beach bars. Hangout Bar, the first and arguably the best there, offers tasty meals, delicious cocktails, and the island’s best BBQ on Thursday nights. Dance on Sundays when DJs turn the beach into a vibrant party.
8. Donkey Sanctuary:
Visit Bonaire’s donkey sanctuary to cuddle with over 700 friendly donkeys. It’s a perfect way to end your day on a happy note.
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Tour C: A day amongst the animals
1. Flamingo Adventure Golf:
This mini golf course is all about fun, with each hole featuring a different theme like a pirate ship, an airplane, King Kong, and Mickey Mouse. It’s a great place for family competition to see who can beat Tiger Woods’ record.
2. Mangrove Center:
Paddle through the mangroves by kayak with a guide who will show you this stunning natural area. Surrounded by rare floating trees, you’ll also have chances to snorkel at various stops along the way. Be sure to book your spot in advance.
3. Wild Bird Rehab:
Located within the Mangrove Center, this rehab is dedicated to rescuing and caring for wild birds in need. More than 100 flamingos receive care here from Elly, the caretaker. Donations are welcomed to support their efforts.
4. Lac Cai:
Visit the secluded beach of Lac Cai, famous for its historical shell mounds left from when ‘Karkos’ were harvested and eaten. Although this practice is banned, the massive shell piles remain. The bay’s shallow waters filled with seagrass attract numerous sea turtles, making it a prime spot for snorkeling.
5. Maiky Snack:
Ready for lunch? Drop by Maiky Snack, a local favorite known for its authentic, no-frills service and delicious food located off the beaten path. Note, they are only open on Friday, Saturday and Sundays around lunchtime only.
6. Horse Ranch:
Ever wanted to go horseback riding through scenic trails? Here’s your chance to walk and even wade through water with horses. It’s an experience perfect for animal lovers.
7. Animal Shelter:
This shelter cares for Bonaire’s stray dogs and cats and is always in need of volunteers. You can visit, lend a hand, or even take a pet on a trial to see if they’re a good fit for you. Adoption support, including health checks and travel documentation, is available if you decide to take a pet home.
8. Hillside:
End your day at this hillside resort, which boasts stunning island views and a cozy bar where you can relax with a drink, enjoy a meal, and watch sports. The swimming pool is also available for a small fee. A perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.
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Tour D: The lighthouses on Bonaire
1. Willemstower Lighthouse:
The southernmost of the island’s five lighthouses, Willemstower was built in 1837 and stands beautifully against the Northeast trade winds with the rough Caribbean Sea in the backdrop.
2. Fort Oranje Lighthouse:
This historic fort dates back to 1639, shortly after Bonaire was captured by the Netherlands. The fort was briefly held by the British in 1804 but returned to Dutch control in 1816. The cannons on site are relics from this British period.
Lighthouse downtown Kralendijk in Fort Oranje
3. Harbour Village Marina Lighthouse:
The newest lighthouse, located in Harbour Village, is now integrated into Oscar’s Lighthouse restaurant, providing a unique dining backdrop.
4. Spelonk Lighthouse:
Reaching this lighthouse is an adventure, requiring a drive past the Lagun Ruins and along a rugged dirt road for four kilometers through an area known as Bolivia. The lighthouse and its neighboring ruined country house offer dramatic views against the backdrop of crashing sea waves.
Lighthouse Spelonk during goldenhour
5. Seru Bentana Lighthouse:
In Papiamento, Seru Bentana means “window in a mountain,” named for the unique rock formation beside the lighthouse that resembles a square window. This lighthouse is a highlight within the Washington Slagbaai National Park.
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Tour E: Adventurous day Washington Slagbaai National Park
1. Warehouse Supermarket:
Start your adventure by stocking up at one of the island’s largest supermarkets. It’s essential to grab sunscreen, plenty of water (at least 2 liters per person), and some tasty snacks for the day ahead in the National Park.
2. Washington Slagbaai National Park:
Situated in the northwest of Bonaire, this expansive park is managed by the nature organization STINAPA and is located near Rincon, the oldest village and former capital of Bonaire. Note: the park is closed on Mondays and may also close on public holidays or rainy days.
3. Seru Bentana Lighthouse:
Named “window in a mountain” in Papiamento due to the unique rock formation beside it that resembles a window, this lighthouse offers picturesque views and a touch of local lore.
Lighthouse Malmok near Seru Bentana
4. Brandaris:
The highest peak on Bonaire, standing at 241 meters. A challenging but rewarding hike to the top offers stunning panoramic views. It’s best tackled early in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
5. Boka Slagbaai:
Located halfway through the National Park, this is a perfect spot to relax and snack. For thrill-seekers, cliff jumping into the water is a must—just wear water-appropriate shoes to protect against thorny cacti.
6. Posada Para Mira:
When it’s time for lunch, there’s no better place than Posada Para Mira. Savor local dishes like stewed goat, funchi, and iguana soup. Note: closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
7. Cadushy Distillery:
Wind down after dinner with a unique drink at Cadushy Distillery, where you can sample locally made, award-winning liqueurs (just not for those driving!).
8. Landsailing Adventures:
Still got energy? Try landsailing, or blokarting, which combines go-karting with sailing. It’s a fast-paced, fun activity suitable for all ages and a great way to bond with family and friends. Be sure to book in advance.
9. Cruz Seru Largu:
Finish your day with a breathtaking view of the entire island from Seru Largu, an ideal spot for watching the vibrant orange sunset dip below the horizon.
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Tour F: Street Art Bonaire
1. Isabel di Boneiru: by Tymon de Laat
2. Leilana: by Tymon de Laat. After this you can walk to Kaya Korsow, which is right behind it. Here you will find street art from Dodici.
3. Wonders in de Deep: by Rita carswell & Jeannie Villacorte
4. Wall at Sabadeco: unknown
5. Plastic Flamingo: by Maria Koijck & STINAPA Junior Rangers
6. Art Hotel Bonaire: by Aloha Bonaire
7. Top Market wall: by Henk Roozendaal
8. Kaya International wall: Student artists of S.G.B (high school)
9. Trippin’ Tuna: by Fred Ros
10. Esmeralda Ruins (Ghost Hotel): Various artists
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Tour G: De 123-Voucher Route
1. Hang Out Beach Bar: – 2nd cocktail for free! Open every day.
2. Beer & Burgers: – Free add-on to your burger! Open Tue-Thu.
3. Gio’s: – 1 free scoop of ice cream. Open daily 08:00 – 22:00
4. Captains Table: Closed
5. VIP Diving: – 10% discount on dive courses beginner and advanced. Open daily 08:00 – 17:00.
6. Breeze ‘n Bites: – 10% discount on your food. Open Thu-Mon.
7. Trocadero: – One free cocktail of the day. Open every day till late.
8. Echo: – Plant one native tree for free. Guided tours on Fri 17:00 & Sat 08:00.
9. Bonaire Golf: – 3 free logo balls with 2 pax greenfee. Reserve your tee time online.
10. Epic Tours: – 10% discount on all catamaran tours and the Watertaxi to Klein Bonaire. Open every day.
11. Solobon Sailing: – 10% discount. Available every day.
12. At Home: – 10% discount on all wines with your private chef. By reservation only.
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Getting around by Car
We hope you enjoyed exploring the seven curated tours we’ve designed for you. At 123 Car Rental, we’re more than just a car rental service; we’re your guide to discovering Bonaire’s hidden gems and spectacular off-the-beaten-path sites. Considering how to best navigate the island? Here are three compelling reasons to choose 123 Car Rental for your travel needs:
1. Unparalleled Local Knowledge:
Our team is equipped with the insights and tips to help you explore Bonaire like a local, ensuring you see the best spots, from popular attractions to secluded treasures.
2. Flexible Rental Options:
Whether you need a car for a day, a week, or longer, we offer flexible rental terms to suit your schedule, without any hidden fees. Our booking process is straightforward and user-friendly, making it easy to get on the road quickly.
3. Top-Quality Vehicle Selection:
Drive in comfort and style with our fleet of vehicles that are perfect for Bonaire’s terrain. From compact cars for quick trips to rugged SUVs for adventurous drives, all our vehicles are well-maintained and ready for your journey.
Experience Bonaire at your own pace with 123 Car Rental—where your adventure begins with the turn of a key. Contact us today to find out more and to reserve your perfect ride!
By Rubin van der Veen, Rental Agent 123 Car Rental
and Luite Berkenbosch, CEO 123 Car Rental