❖ What are the best diving and snorkeling spots on Bonaire?

From unspoiled Klein Bonaire with its crystal clear waters and pristine coral reefs, to the biodiverse Bari Reef and the iconic wreck of the Hilma Hooker, Bonaire is spectacular for any snorkeler or diver. You also have the Salt Pier and the staircase of 1000 Steps to explore for unforgettable encounters with colorful fish and breathtaking underwater landscapes.

What are the best snorkelling spots near Belnem House?

As Belnem House is situated in the south of the island, you’re just a few minutes away from the absolute hotspots. Bachelor’s Beach is practically round the corner; perfect for a quick early-morning dip. Drive five minutes south and you’ll find yourself at Salt Pier . Amongst the pillars covered in brightly coloured coral, you’re almost guaranteed to swim amongst green sea turtles and huge schools of silver tarpon. Are you looking for a quiet sandy beach where you can simply walk straight into the water? Then Te Amo Beach and Donkey Beach are ideal spots.

Can I hire snorkelling equipment at the resort, or do I need to bring my own?

You don’t need to cram your suitcase full of snorkelling gear. At Belnem House, you can easily hire a complete set including a mask, snorkel and fins. We also work closely with our regular PADI partner, Dive Friends Bonaire . Would you like to take the plunge with an introductory dive, book a guided snorkelling safari or get your diving certificate? We’ll sort that out for you straight away.

❖ Is it possible to rent snorkeling and diving equipment?

Absolutely! We work together with dive center Dive Friends. Here you can rent your diving and snorkeling equipment. We offer high-quality snorkel sets for rent, including goggles, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits.

What facilities does Belnem House offer specifically for snorkellers?

You’d rather not have salt water and coral sand in your apartment. That’s why you’ll find spacious fresh-water rinsing basins on our premises, as well as locked storage and drying areas where you can safely hang up your wetsuits, masks and underwater cameras. What’s more, we rent out pick-up trucks right here at the resort. This is the best way to explore the island: just throw your gear in the back and set off!

❖ Besides snorkeling and diving, what else can you do on Bonaire?

Bonaire is also great for water sports . The island has the flattest water in the Caribbean and the wind always blows. This makes Bonaire very suitable for sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing !

Can I go snorkelling on Klein Bonaire as well?

You really shouldn’t miss out on a day trip to this uninhabited little island off the coast. From the quay in Kralendijk, the water taxi will take you to the snow-white No Name Beach in under twenty minutes. The best way to explore the reef there is by ‘drift’ snorkelling: walk a short distance along the beach against the wind, step into the water and let the gentle current carry you back to the beach along the coral wall. Be sure to take a well-stocked cool box and a parasol with you from Belnem House, as there are no catering facilities or shaded areas on the islet itself.

Do I need a licence to go snorkelling on Bonaire?

Yes, if you wish to enter the waters surrounding the Bonaire National Marine Park and the Washington Slaghaai National Park, you must purchase the STINAPA Nature Fee online in advance. By doing so, you are making a direct contribution to the conservation and restoration of the vulnerable coral reef. Make sure you keep the digital receipt on your phone when you set off.

Snorkelling on Bonaire

Crystal-clear water and beautiful fish

Get your snorkelling goggles ready, because Bonaire’s underwater world practically starts right on your doorstep. Belnem House Bonaire enjoys a wonderfully peaceful location in the sunny south of the island and is the perfect place to come home to after a day on the water. From our resort, you’ll be on the beach in no time, ready to take a dip amongst the tropical fish and sea turtles. The atmosphere at our resort is wonderfully relaxed and intimate. After snorkelling, relax by the pool, enjoy the warm breeze and recharge your batteries for your next adventure.

Rifvriendelijke zonnebrand

Om het koraal te beschermen is gewone zonnebrandcrème met chemische filters (zoals oxybenzone) verboden. Gebruik uitsluitend zonnebrand op minerale basis (zoals zinkoxide).

Waterschoentjes of vinnen met open hiel

Veel instapplekken op het eiland bestaan uit aangespoeld koraal of kalksteenplateaus. Met een paar stevige neopreen waterschoentjes loop je veilig de zee in.

Beste tijd om schildpadden te zien

Vroeg in de ochtend (tussen 07:30 en 09:30) of aan het einde van de middag is de zee op haar kalmst en verzamelden de schildpadden zich dicht langs de kustlijn.