Bonaire's Magical Marine Environment

Diver at the Hilma Hooker

The ocean around Bonaire, whether above the water's surface or below, is Bonaire's biggest attraction, by far. Snorkelers, scuba divers, windsurfers, and sailors spend hours plumbing its depths or skimming its surface. Bonaire's fringing reef system is a national park protected to a depth of 200 feet all around the island and around Klein Bonaire, the small uninhabited island located in the lee, to the west, of Bonaire. STINAPA and the Bonaire National Marine Park strive to inform residents and visitors how best to preserve and protect the resources of our oceans. No anchoring is allowed on the reef and special dive moorings have been installed to allow easy access to the reef without further damaging this fragile system. Additional moorings for visiting yachts are available on a first-come basis off Kralendijk's harbor area. (At right is Bonaire's famous Orange Cup Coral in full bloom at night at the Bonaire Town Pier).

Orange Cup Coral at night

Strictly underwater, we have an array of fun little critters to make you smile, like our famous frogfish. Frogfish are up to 4 or 5 inches long and come in an assortment of colors including bright yellow, red, green, white, black, and even pink. These little guys usually rest on sponges, move around by hopping along on finned feet. Ask your dive master where to look for one, and remember: Don't touch the marine life!

Klein Bonaire's small beaches offer nesting to Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles, while Green and Leatherback turtles are occasionally sighted in our waters as well. If you sight a turtle small or large, use the forms available at local dive shops to report it. If you do visit the beaches on Klein Bonaire, please don't walk through the dunes or any areas which may be marked off, turtle nests can be easily damaged by the weight of a human walking across it. Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire for more information.

Bonaire National Marine Park User Fee Notice

It is necessary for all who use the waters of the Bonaire National Marine Park to pay a Nature Fee of $10.00 per year ($25.00 for scuba divers). At the time of payment, you will receive a specially designed tag indicating your support for nature preservation and a receipt. Keep both, as they will also provide you with complimentary admission to Washington-Slagbaai National park throughout the year your tag is valid. Tags are available at all dive operations, hotels, resorts, windsurfing operations, sport fishing charter boats, sail/snorkel/water taxi operations, marinas, and other water sports operations on Bonaire.

Photographs Copyright © 1997-1999 by Jake Richter. - All Rights Reserved.

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