This dive site, encompassing the island of Bonaire, is renowned as 'Diver's Paradise' for its pristine fringing coral reefs and calm, accessible waters. The island's entire coastline is a protected marine park, allowing divers to easily navigate numerous marked shore dive sites. While there's no specific historical event for 'Bonaire' as a single dive site, its history is tied to pioneering marine conservation efforts that began in the 1970s, making it a leader in sustainable dive tourism.
Divers can expect to encounter an abundance of Caribbean marine life, including diverse hard and soft corals forming extensive reef systems. The description explicitly mentions sharks, rays, and turtles, alongside various coral formations. Many species of reef fish, barracudas, moray eels, and macro life like nudibranchs and crustaceans thrive here. Unique opportunities include observing bioluminescent Ostracods during night dives, particularly around the new moon.
The best time to visit Bonaire for diving is generally year-round due to its consistent warm weather and water temperatures. For a chance to witness the spectacular Ostracod bioluminescence, planning a night dive during the new moon phase is highly recommended. Both scuba divers and freedivers will find excellent conditions, with numerous shallow, healthy reefs perfect for snorkeling and breath-hold diving, as well as deeper walls for more experienced divers. The ease of shore diving makes it ideal for unlimited bottom time.
