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Bonaire


Bonaire, located 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela, will surprise you if you correlate the tropics with lush jungles: it has a desert-like landscape with cactus, parrots, divi-divi trees, and flamingos.


Activities

Diving

With more than 500 species of fish, visibility of up to 150 feet, and calm waters, Bonaire is considered one of the best dive sites in the Caribbean. Outfitter: Bonaire Dive and Adventure offers eight-day packages that feature six one-tank boat dives and unlimited shore diving. Details: from $695 per person, including accommodations, excursions, breakfast, a rental car, and taxes; 800 288 4773 (U.S. and Canada).

Major hotels, including Plaza Resort and Captain Don's, also have dive shops.


Cycling

Bike through Washington-Slagbaai National Park, a 13,500-acre nature sanctuary known for iguanas, Caribbean flamingos, and yellow-winged parrots. For a change of pace, park your bike and hike the marked trail to Branderis Hill, which at 784 feet, is Bonaire's highest point. Outfitter: Cycle Bonaire offers moderate to challeging day trips; for those in search of an easier ride, there are guided half-day trips that feature snorkeling stops along the way. Details: from $55 or $65 per person, including bike rental, entrance fee, and water.

Windsurfing

The steady tradewinds and warm, shallow water of Lac Bay make for ideal conditions. Outfitters: For the best on the bay, turn to Jibe City. Details: rentals from $20 (one hour) to $60 (full day); +599 717 5233. The nearby Bonaire Windsurf Place is another good bet. Details: rentals from $35 (two hours) to $60 (full day).

Kayaking

Lac Bay is home to one of the few pristine mangrove forests in the Caribbean, which shelters the bay's coral reefs, and makes for excellent conditions for paddling and snorkeling. Outfitter: Mangrove Info & Kayak Center takes small groups on naturalist-guided expeditions. Details: from $20 to $42.50 per person; +599 790 5353.


Hotels

Plaza Resort
Though it has a honeymoon suite, this resort is more for group travelers than those seeking cozy respite. One-bedroom villas accommodate four guests, while two-bedrooms accommodate six. The resort also has three convenient restaurants: Caribbean Point, Banana Tree, and the Tipsy Seagull. Details: from $155 to $370; +599 717 2500 or 800 766 6016 (U.S. and Canada).

Captain Don's Habitat
The island's original dive resort offers tank and gear pick-up 24 hours a day. Guests will also find oceanfront dining and an international menu at the resort's Rum Runners restaurant. Details: from $115 to $248 ; +599 717 8290 or 800 327 6709 (U.S. and Canada).


Restaurants

KonTiki Beach Club
Try the vegetarian papaya pasta. Details: $25; +599 717 5369. 

Blue Moon
Try the chicken filet with mango and spicy coconut sauce. Details: closed Wednesday; $35 ; +599 717 8617.


Editor's note: Hotel rates are European Plan (EP), meaning meals aren't included, unless otherwise noted; rates reflect a nightly fee unless otherwise noted. Tax and service charges are not included. Rates are subject to change during promotions and peak seasons. Restaurant prices are for an average three-course dinner, nonalcoholic drink, tax, and tip.


For more information, visit the Bonaire Tourist Office online.


*Additional reporting by Julie Dugdale.