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Drone view of pink salt pans and Caribbean sea on the left, Bonaire

Itineraries for Your Trip to Bonaire

Bonaire locals share their perfect days.
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2 Days in Bonaire for First Timers

Curated by Lydia Schrandtwriter, editor, and award-winning photographer.

With two days to spend on the island of Bonaire, you’ll not only have plenty of time to get out on and into the clear waters that make the island famous, but also to explore the island itself and some of the land-adventure opportunities it offers. Read on for more on how to make the most of your 48 hours on Bonaire.


Day 1: Morning

Get oriented and learn more about this Caribbean island’s history with a tour around Bonaire. A half day is more than enough time to see its major landmarks and attractions, including the towns of Kralendijk and Rincon, the sprawling salt flats, flamingo-filled Goto Lake, and some of the historic structures where Dutch colonists once kept slaves.

Day 1: Afternoon

Stay on dry land this afternoon with one of many outdoor adventures. Explore Washington Slagbaai National Park on a guided 4WD tour of its beaches and plantations; take a quick lesson in landsailing and feel the wind in your hair as you zip across the ground in a 3-wheel Blokart; or go underground with a cave tour on the northern side of the island.

Day 1: Night

Despite its small size, Bonaire enjoys a diverse dining scene with influences from around the Caribbean and the globe. Look for a restaurant serving local specialties like keshi yena (a cheese stuffed with meat) or kabritu stoba (goat stew). Wash it down with some Caribbean rum or a cold Dutch beer.

Day 2: Morning

This morning, find out what brings travelers from around the world to this little corner of the Caribbean: its diving and snorkeling. Sail or kayak through the waters of Bonaire National Marine Park for a chance to spot some 340 species of tropical fish swimming along the colorful reef.

Day 2: Afternoon

Bonaire is famous for its diving, but you might not know that it’s also an excellent kitesurfing spot. This afternoon, learn the basics from your own private instructor with the newest equipment. For something a bit more low-key, head to the leeward coast of the island for some sunbathing or swimming.

Day 2: Night

To polish off a day spent enjoying the clear waters of Bonaire, head out on the water for a sunset cruise. Opt for a sailboat, where you can sip mojitos and snack on tapas, or board a glass-bottom boat for views of both the setting sun and the reef just below the surface of the water.

See more things to do in Bonaire