Situated just off the northern tip of South America; Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao are the three islands that comprise what are known as the ABC Islands, which are one of the most beautiful parts of Antilles, Netherlands.
While all three of the islands embrace as much of nature's beauty as any of the more famous Caribbean vacation hot spots, Bonaire is a serene and soothing isle. So tranquil is life on the island that one could almost imagine that the entire 112-square mile island had simply slipped through time from the 15th century.
However, do not let the peace and beauty of Bonaire Island keep you from visiting, with the fear that you will be bored. Even though Bonaire does not offer the lively excitement of its sister islands, there is always plenty of stimulation to balance the relaxation.
Surrounded by dramatic and dazzling coral reefs which are a scuba divers fantasy, and embraced by warm waves of unbelievably clear Caribbean Ocean water; the Bonaire Tourist Department understands the need to provide visitors with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the beauty that even underwater Bonaire offers. In fact, Bonaire is recognized as one the finest scuba diving settings in the world. With average water temperatures of 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and underwater visibility of usually at least 100 feet, wouldn't you agree that the island deserves its claim to fame?
Aside from the magnificent underwater life, the wild life above ground on Bonaire is extremely impressive also. Bonaire National Park covers 13,500 acres of what were originally 2 separate plantations until 1969. The island takes great pride in its dedication to the preservation of the natural beauty and animals that call Bonaire home. When visiting the park, you can expect to see an amusing variety of animal species, in addition to some surprising and abundant plant life. Visitors can tour the park on foot, or in a four-wheeler, though the hiking trails are much better for bird and iguana watching. Furthermore, the endangered sea turtles that reside in the park are not exactly fond of the noise that the four-wheeler's make.
If a water tour is something that you would prefer; then you certainly should not miss out on a visit to The Bonaire Mangrove Forest, which is one of the most popular attractions in Bonaire's National Marine Park. You can ride in style during your tour through the forest, aboard either a kayak or a solar powered outboard motor boat. Whichever option you choose, the trip through one of the most carefully maintained endangered eco systems of the world is sure to be an experience that you never forget, or regret. You will see rare birds, fish, and more; some of them in the huge glass aquarium, and some swimming along side or flying above your boat.
Bonaire is not a place where you will find trendy nightclubs, crowded tourist attractions, or even shopping malls swarming with vacationing families. Instead, you will enjoy spectacular sand and surf, breath taking beauty and stunning vistas in every direction, exhilarating activities and entertainment as well.