Dive Freedom on the Caribbean’s Shore Diving Capital

Shore Diving, Flamingos & Island Vibes on Your Schedule

Welcome to Bonaire, the Caribbean’s undisputed shore diving capital and one of the most beloved islands in the dive world. With more than 85 marked dive sites accessible right from the shoreline, crystal-clear water, and virtually no current, Bonaire offers the freedom to dive when you want, how you want, and as often as you wish.

On this 8-day BlueBound adventure, you’ll base yourself at the legendary Captain Don’s Habitat, where you’ll wake up just steps from the sea, dive your favorite sites at your own pace, and still have time to explore the vibrant island culture that sets Bonaire apart.

Our trip includes unlimited shore diving, guided by our BlueBound professionals, plus the option to add 10 scheduled boat dives for access to Bonaire’s top boat-only sites. We’ll visit iconic locations like Salt Pier, Hilma Hooker, 1000 Steps, and spend a full guided day diving within the wild and stunning Washington Slagbaai National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or newly certified, Bonaire’s welcoming waters, accessible reefs, and relaxed vibe make this trip unforgettable.

What It’s Like to Dive Bonaire with BlueBound

Your morning starts with fresh fruit and a sea breeze as you sip coffee overlooking the calm Caribbean. After breakfast, you grab your gear, load up the truck, and head to one of the island’s famous roadside dive sites. Maybe it’s Karpata, with its dramatic drop-offs and vibrant reef fish, or Salt Pier, where towering pilings create an underwater cathedral of light and life.

After your morning dives, you return to the resort for a relaxing lunch or a nap in a shaded hammock. Later, you might hit a different site like Hilma Hooker, a sunken cargo ship now covered in coral and home to giant tarpon.

Evenings are for exploring. Some nights, we dine as a group, laughing and storytelling at It Rains Fishes or sipping cocktails at Karel’s Beach Bar over a fiery sunset. Other nights are yours to wander, sample local cuisine, or simply unwind by the water under the stars.

• Whale Sharks: While not guaranteed, whale sharks have been spotted in the waters around Bonaire, offering a unique and exciting diving experience.

• Marine Park and Conservation: Bonaire has a well-established marine park that helps protect the reefs and wildlife.

• Shipwrecks: Bonaire has several shipwrecks that are popular dive sites, including the Hilma Hooker, a large wreck adorned with colorful tube sponges.

• Pristine Coral Reefs: Bonaire is renowned for its healthy and diverse coral reefs, teeming with vibrant colors and marine life.

• Easy Shore Diving: The island is known for its "shore diving capital" status, with many dive sites accessible directly from the shore.

Bonaire is one of three Dutch Caribbean islands, along with the better known Aruba and Curacao, lying approximately 80km off the coast of Venezuela in the Leeward Antilles. The island is comprised of a wide range of complex natural habitats, from reefs and beaches to deserts and rainforests, all available to explore. Aside from Papiamentu, the island’s native language, English, Spanish and Dutch are also spoken on Bonaire.

Lying outside of “Hurricane Alley” to the south, Bonaire offers a consistently warm and sunny climate, averaging around 30ºC year round. During the rainy season from December through March, you can expect a daily downpour, but they usually don’t last long and the sun almost always reappears afterward.

You need a valid passport from your home country, and it must remain valid throughout your stay. Visitors of most countries do not need a visa to enter Bonaire, but some do. See a list of countries that do require a visa, here.

While it is true that Captain Don’s Habitat was built and is operated by divers for divers, nothing could be further from the truth. Approximately 45% of guests are non-divers and many of them repeat guests…with a world-class restaurant, The Spa, a beautiful view of Klein Bonaire and Bonaire’s unbelievable sunsets, the freshwater pool overlooking the sparkling Caribbean Sea, one of the best house reefs on the island for snorkeling…many non-divers have come to enjoy the peace, tranquility and beauty that Bonaire has to offer while enjoying the services, surroundings, and ambiance of Captain Don’s Habitat.

Fly into Flamingo International Airport (BON). From there, you’ll pick up your shared rental truck (assigned in groups of 4) for getting around the island and accessing dive sites.

A minimum of an Open Water certification is required. Bonaire’s shore diving is accessible for all skill levels, and boat dives are calm and easy to manage.

Unlimited shore diving is included, plus optional 10 boat dives (6 morning and 4 afternoon). Night dives are guided by BlueBound guides and are highly recommended.

This iconic dive resort features oceanfront rooms, a full-service dive shop, gear lockers, and direct access to the house reef. It’s casual, diver-friendly, and ideally located for exploring Bonaire.

Breakfast is included daily at the resort. Other meals are on your own. We’ll make group dinner reservations at local favorites and offer recommendations if you’d like to explore on your own.

Yes! Bonaire is fantastic for snorkeling, windsurfing at Lac Bay, hiking in the national park, or simply relaxing by the water. There’s something for everyone.

Yes. Our day trip to Washington Slagbaai National Park includes guided dives and the chance to see Bonaire’s rugged landscape, flamingos, and hidden beaches. There’s also a full island tour led by a professional guide on Day 7.