MileHacker Logo
Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Aruba Bonaire And Curacao

Iconic Landmarks

Must-visit sites with historical and cultural context.

Washington Slagbaai National Park, Salt Pans (Salt Pyramids), Slave Huts, Lighthouse at Willemstoren, Kralendijk Waterfront.

Visitor Information & Tips

  • Washington Slagbaai National Park: Open daily, 8 AM - 5 PM (last entry 2:45 PM). Entry calls for valid STINAPA Nature Fee. Guided tours are available.
  • Salt Pans, Slave Huts, Willemstoren Lighthouse: Open access, no specific hours or entry fees. STINAPA fee needed for nearby marine areas.
  • Salt Pans: Visit during sunrise or sunset for dramatic lighting.
  • Washington Slagbaai: Go early to avoid midday heat. Drive slowly for wildlife. Bring water and snacks.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

Major Museums

  • Museo di Bonaire (Bonaire Museum): Kralendijk. Showcases island history, culture, and natural heritage.
  • Mangazina di Rei: Rincon. Bonaire's oldest stone building, now a cultural center and museum for heritage, traditional crafts, and music. Insights into authentic Bonairean life.
  • Terramar Museum: Focuses on archaeological and geological history, from island formation to earliest inhabitants.
  • Art Galleries: Small galleries in Kralendijk feature local and international artists.
  • Cultural Centers: Mangazina di Rei frequently hosts cultural events and traditional performances.
  • Special Exhibits: Check local calendars for temporary exhibits or cultural events.

Historical & Cultural Sites

  • Archaeological Sites: Ancient rock paintings at Boca Onima, near Rincon.
  • Rincon: Bonaire's oldest village (16th century). Holds historical charm and architecture, a look into traditional Bonairean life.
  • Kralendijk: Colorful Dutch colonial architecture along waterfront and main streets. Charming buildings that speak to the island’s past.
  • Religious Sites: Several churches in Kralendijk and Rincon, important community and historical landmarks.

The Slave Huts serve as a powerful and somber memorial to the enslaved people who contributed to Bonaire's salt industry.

Natural Attractions

  • Bonaire National Marine Park: Surrounds the entire island and Klein Bonaire, protecting coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds. It is world-renowned for diving and snorkeling and needs a STINAPA Nature Fee.
  • Washington Slagbaai National Park: A diverse terrestrial park covering a large area, preserving Bonaire's natural landscapes and wildlife. It includes beaches, cliffs, cactus forests, and salt flats.
  • Goto Lake: A large saltwater lake in the north of the island, a prime flamingo breeding ground and bird-watching spot.
  • Pekelmeer (Salt Lake): Large salt evaporation ponds, distinctly pink due to brine shrimp, forming a striking landscape.

Scenic Views & Wildlife

  • Seru Largu:

    A hill presenting panoramic views of Kralendijk, Klein Bonaire, and the southern part of the island, notably stunning at sunset.

  • 1000 Steps:

    A popular dive and snorkel site with a scenic staircase leading down to the water, presenting picturesque views.

  • Flamingos:

    Can be seen at Goto Lake, Pekelmeer (the southern salt ponds), and within Washington Slagbaai National Park. Bonaire holds one of the largest flamingo populations in the Caribbean.

  • Donkeys:

    Bonaire is a large population of wild donkeys. The Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire tends to rescued donkeys and presents a chance to interact with them.

  • Beaches:

    Many small, uncrowded beaches dot the coastline, with clear, inviting water. Te Amo Beach and Sorobon Beach are distinguished.

Hidden Gems

Beyond the popular spots, Bonaire holds lesser-known treasures awaiting discovery.

Off-the-Beaten-Path & Local Favorites

  • Lac Cai

    A remote, rustic bay known for its extensive mangroves and an unique 'conch graveyard'. Popular with locals for fishing and snorkeling, it presents a peaceful, unspoiled atmosphere.

  • Spelonk Cave

    A small cave with a blowhole, calling for careful navigation to reach. It presents a taste of adventure and an unique geological formation.

  • Wayaka II

    A pristine, lesser-known snorkeling spot within Washington Slagbaai National Park.

  • Local Favorites

    Seek small local snack trucks (foodies) for authentic Bonairean flavors. Explore quiet local beaches away from the main tourist areas for a peaceful experience.

  • Emerging Destinations

    While Bonaire's core attractions remain its main draw, a growing focus on eco-tourism and cultural experiences in areas like Rincon presents immersion for visitors.

  • Unique Photo Opportunities

    Panoramic views from Seru Largu, especially at sunset. Striking white Salt Pyramids. Wild flamingos at Goto Lake or Pekelmeer. Colorful Dutch colonial architecture of Kralendijk. Abundant underwater photography chances.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

A vast nature reserve covering the northern part of the island, holding diverse landscapes and significant historical sites.

Salt Pans Salt Pyramids

Vast, gleaming white mounds of salt, an iconic sight representing centuries of active salt production.

Slave Huts

Small, stone huts built in the 19th century, a powerful historical reminder of Bonaire's past.

Historical Context

Bonaire’s history is visible through its well-preserved sites.

  • Archaeological Sites & Ruins: Ancient rock paintings at Boca Onima near Rincon present a connection to Bonaire’s earliest human history.
  • Historical Districts & Architecture: Kralendijk features colorful Dutch colonial architecture along its waterfront and main streets.
  • Religious & Spiritual Sites: Several churches in Kralendijk and Rincon serve as important community and historical landmarks.

Visual Insights

Explore Bonaire's breathtaking landscapes and historical markers through these images.

From the rugged beauty of its national park to the solemn reminders of its past, Bonaire's attractions invite discovery.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

A scenic view within the sprawling Washington Slagbaai National Park, demonstrating Bonaire's natural and untamed beauty.

Slave Huts along the Coast

The historical slave huts lining the coast serve as a somber and powerful monument to Bonaire's past.

Kralendijk Waterfront

The colorful capital of Bonaire, Kralendijk, with its charming Dutch colonial architecture along the waterfront.

Featured Attractions

Washington Slagbaai National Park

A diverse terrestrial park with varied landscapes and wildlife. Access requires a STINAPA Nature Fee. Book tours with GetYourGuide.

View Image

Slave Huts

Historic stone huts serving as a memorial to the enslaved people who worked in the salt pans.

View Image

Salt Pans

Vast, gleaming white mounds of salt, a centuries-old active production site and a flamingo habitat.

Seru Largu

A hill presenting panoramic views of Kralendijk and Klein Bonaire, especially striking at sunset.

Goto Lake

A large saltwater lake and a prime flamingo breeding ground, excellent for bird watching.

Natural Features

Bonaire is a sanctuary for nature lovers, specifically those interested in marine life and bird watching.

Highlights

  • World-renowned coral reefs and marine life.
  • Crystal-clear waters ideal for diving and snorkeling.
  • Abundant bird species, including flamingos.

Conservation Efforts

Bonaire's commitment to protecting its environment is evident in its park systems.

STINAPA Nature Fee

  • A valid STINAPA Nature Fee is needed for access to marine areas for diving or snorkeling.
  • The fee covers entry to Washington Slagbaai National Park.
  • This fee backs Bonaire's conservation efforts and protection of its natural environment.
  • The fee pertains to all users of the marine park, divers, snorkelers, and park visitors.

Traveler Tip

For optimal viewing of flamingos, visit Goto Lake or Pekelmeer in the early morning or late afternoon.

Remember to bring binoculars for better bird-watching experiences.

Additional Attractions

Explore more unique sites and experiences Bonaire holds.

Cultural Centers

Explore Bonairean heritage at cultural institutions.

Mangazina di Rei

  • Bonaire's oldest stone building.
  • Functions as a cultural center and museum.
  • Hosts cultural events and traditional performances.

Historical Sites

Connect with Bonaire's past through its well-preserved historical sites.

Rincon Village

  • Bonaire's oldest village, founded in the 16th century.
  • Retains its historical charm and unique architecture.
  • It presents a look into traditional Bonairean life.

Scenic Viewpoints

Discover breathtaking vistas across the island.

Top Spots

  • Seru Largu for panoramic island views.
  • 1000 Steps for coastal scenery.
  • Ideal for photography, especially at sunset.

These spots provide excellent photo opportunities.

Beaches & Waterways

Relax and play on Bonaire's inviting shores and waters.

Coastal Gems

  • Te Amo Beach for soft sands.
  • Sorobon Beach for calm, shallow waters.

Many small, uncrowded beaches dot the coastline.

Wildlife Hotspots

Encounter Bonaire's diverse animal residents.

Animal Sightings

  • Flamingos at Goto Lake and Pekelmeer.
  • Wild donkeys at Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire.
  • Abundant marine life during snorkeling and diving.

Iguanas, lizards, and various birds are common sights.

Explore More with GetYourGuide

Attraction Tickets

Purchase tickets for Bonaire's attractions and tours through GetYourGuide.

Guided Tours

Book guided tours for Washington Slagbaai National Park or other sites for insights.

Convenient Booking

Plan your sightseeing adventures ahead of time for a seamless experience on the island.

Attraction Planning Note

Always check current opening hours and any specific entry requirements for sites, especially for Washington Slagbaai National Park.