Bonaire: what to do on the Dutch Caribbean island
December 2, 2024
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Bonaire is one of those destinations where you immediately shoot into relaxation mode. The insanely blue sea, great snorkeling and laid-back atmosphere make this island a dream spot in the Caribbean. But what is the best place to stay on Bonaire? You'll find beautiful resorts, small-scale boutique hotels and fine apartments scattered throughout the island. In this article you will find a selection of the most beautiful accommodations and the nicest hotels on Bonaire, from stylish resorts to affordable gems. So your stay will be as unforgettable as the island itself!
What are the nicest places to stay on Bonaire?
Most of the nice hotels to stay in Bonaire are in and around Kralendijk, the cozy heart of the island. Here you stay close to colorful streets, tasty restaurants and the boulevard overlooking the sea. Just a little further south you will find Belnem, a luxury villa district where you can enjoy stylish boutique hotels and apartments in peace and quiet. This area is ideal for those who like to stay close to the most beautiful snorkeling spots and beaches. I share some accommodation tips for the lively center of Kralendijk and for a relaxing hideaway on Bonaire.
1. Van der Valk Plaza Royal Residence Bonaire
Dreaming of a vacation in the Caribbean with everything at your fingertips? Van der Valk Plaza Royal Residence Bonaire is a wonderful place to unwind. Located directly on the azure blue sea, this luxury 4-star resort is a true vacation paradise for sun, sea and water sports lovers.
What makes this place extra special are the new apartments on the villa island, located in a tranquil lagoon. The apartments are fully equipped and decorated in a chic boutique style. You have stunning views of the sea and the infinity pool and enjoy a private beach here with sun beds and umbrellas.
One of the things that made this resort so nice for me is the all-inclusive concept that didn't feel massive at all. The breakfast buffet is really very good. So extensive that I was able to try something new every morning. From fresh tropical fruits to crispy croissants and à-la-minute prepared omelets, it was a treat every day.
You book a vacation to Van der Valk Plaza Royal Residence easily through Corendon! With flight, because since the fall of 2024 Corendon also flies to Bonaire!
Also read: The best things to do on Bonaire
During my first introduction to Bonaire, I was immediately enchanted by the colors around me. Bonaire is a feast for the eyes. But what should you really not miss on Bonaire? I share my best tips for what to do and see on the island!
2. The Hut Bonaire
'Home is where the Hut is,' reads the slogan of The Hut Bonaire. And yes, at The Hut Bonaire you will feel right at home. Located just behind the boulevard of Kralendijk, this small and cozy resort is definitely one of the nicest places to stay on Bonaire. The cozy hotel rooms and studios, with stylish wooden details and the pool decorated with turtle mosaic tiles, make for a warm welcome and a comfortable stay.
After a day of adventure on Bonaire, it's great to relax at the bar with a cold beer or mojito while listening to fine music. Also be sure to check out El Bigote Mexican Kitchen, the restaurant that belongs to the resort. You can eat Mr. delicious Mexican food.
For diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, this is an incredibly nice place to stay on Bonaire. You'll find their own diving school at The Hut their, which will introduce you to Bonaire's impressive underwater world right away. Prefer to explore the island? There are scooters and cars for rent, so you can explore at your own pace. the most beautiful places of Bonaire can explore. With prices starting at €91 per night, The Hut Bonaire is also one of the most affordable options on the island.
3. Belnem House Bonaire
If you are looking for a quiet and stylish stay in Bonaire, then Belnem House highly recommended. This small-scale, adult-friendly resort feels like an oasis of calm, with a tropical garden and a lovely pool at its center. It's relaxed and convivial, putting you right into vacation mode.
Belnem House is located just outside Kralendijk, in the quiet villa district of Belnem. You stay at Belnem House starting at €135 per night. A big plus point? You can walk straight to Bachelor's Beach. This small but beautiful beach is a great place for snorkeling, diving and swimming.
The studios and apartments are modern and stylishly decorated, with attention to detail. What I love is that all accommodations overlook the pool. So you can take a refreshing dip right from your apartment.
4. Pure Bonaire Boutique Hotel
Looking for a stylish and peaceful stay in Bonaire? Pure Bonaire located just 200 meters from Bachelor's Beach, offers luxury studios and a spacious apartment starting at €120 per night.
The studios (for 2 persons) and the apartment (for 4-5 persons) are modernly furnished with their own kitchen, air conditioning and a private terrace with lounge sofa and hanging chair. In the tropical garden you will enjoy a magna pool, outdoor gym and BBQ facilities. In addition, pick-ups and (electric) scooters are rented at Puur Bonaire, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. A great base to relax and discover more of Bonaire.
5. Djambo
Djambo is a small adults-only (16+) complex within walking distance of Kralendijk and the Caribbean Sea. It is one of the nicest places to stay on Bonaire. The 17 apartments are situated around a tropical garden with a cooling magna pool, ideal for a relaxing vacation without crowds.
Each 1-bedroom apartment features a spacious outdoor terrace with outdoor kitchen and a bedroom with air conditioning and fan. The 2-bedroom apartments offer a separate living room with kitchen, a spacious bathroom with double sinks and a large terrace.
After a day of island adventures, the cozy Djambar is the place to chat over a drink and meet other vacationers. The bar is for Djambo guests only.
6. Bonaire Boutique Resort
Hidden among the swaying palm trees you will find the magnificent Bonaire Boutique Resort. The cottages, designed by a well-known Dutch designer, combine natural wood accents with subtle shades of green. It is a small and quiet resort outside the hustle and bustle of the city, but within 10 minutes by car you can be anywhere in Kralendijk.
Spending a nice day at the hotel? Start your day on the private veranda with birdsong in the background and take a refreshing dip in the pool. Each bungalow features a fully equipped kitchen and a Big Green Egg BBQ, perfect for a relaxing evening.
Tip: book your vacation to Bonaire Boutique Resort through By June! Your flight is already arranged and you have a rental car. Great on an island with so much to see and explore.
An adventure vacation to the ABC Islands
Why choose when you can also combine? A trip to Bonaire is very easy to combine with a visit to Curaçao or Aruba. The islands are a short flight distance apart, making it easy to get from A to B (or C!) and sample the different atmospheres. Bonaire enchants you with its pristine nature, tranquil beaches and insane snorkeling and diving spots, while Curaçao bustles with color, vibrant neighborhoods and a diverse mix of culture and adventure. Aruba adds a touch of luxury and expansive sandy beaches. With a short flight, you'll be on your next island in no time, ready for a new chapter of your Caribbean adventure!
Personalized Bonaire Travel Plan
Are you dreaming of a vacation on Bonaire that completely suits your needs? We will be happy to put together a tailor-made trip for you! Cozy boutique hotels, unique activities such as snorkeling with sea turtles or perhaps an adventurous combination trip with Curacao? Whatever you choose, everything will be arranged to perfection. From start to finish, we make sure your trip is perfectly organized, so all you have to do is enjoy all the beautiful things Bonaire has to offer.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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