What is the most scenic route through the north of Bonaire?
In short: From Villa Carolina in Hato, drive by scooter or car in a single day past the most beautiful spots in the north of Bonaire. Snorkel at Andrea 1, Andrea 2, and 1000 Steps, spot flamingos at Goto Lake, have a local lunch at Posada Para Mira, and taste liqueurs at Cadushy Distillery in Rincon. Finish off with the view from Seru Largu and the sunset at Hidden Beach.
There is hardly anything better on Bonaire than cruising around, especially in the open air. With a Caribbean breeze in your face and the warm sun on your legs, it feels like pure freedom. Traffic on the island is wonderfully calm and safe, so you can set out with complete peace of mind. Hop on a scooter (or in a car) and travel along with us past flamingos, snorkeling spots, impressive views, and the coziest places in the north. Enjoyment guaranteed!
Where should you go snorkeling during a road trip to the north of Bonaire?
The first three stops are snorkeling spots along the west coast: Andrea 1, Andrea 2, and 1000 Steps.
1. Andrea 1 (approx. 5 min)
Armed with a snorkeling set and water shoes, this is an absolute must-stop. Tucked away in a quiet neighborhood lies one of the island's best snorkeling spots. The entrance to the water is conveniently marked with a yellow stone. To enter the water, you really need water shoes, so don't forget to bring them! Once underwater, you will be treated to gorgeous coral and an immense array of colorful fish. Definitely worth it!
2. Andrea 2 (approx. 1 min)
Just a minute further down is Andrea 2. This place feels completely different from Andrea 1, although you could technically swim between them through the water. Personally, I prefer taking it nice and easy: first discovering the coral and relaxing at one spot, and then driving on to the next stop. What I always love to do is look closely among the coral a bit further out; so many different species of fish hide there! Really take your time, including between your snorkeling adventures. That's how you get the absolute most out of your snorkeling trip!
3. 1000 Steps (approx. 8 min)
The ultimate spot to guarantee spotting sea turtles! The name sounds intense, but rest assured: in reality, there are 'only' about 64 steps. The name purely comes from the feeling you get when you climb back up with your tanks or gear after an intense dive or snorkeling session, feeling as though there are a thousand of them. Park your scooter or car at the top, walk down the stairs, and dive straight into the crystal-clear ocean.
What sights will you see in the north of Bonaire?
Along the way, you will pass Karpata Plantation House, a historic plantation home, and Goto Lake, home to wild flamingos.
4. Karpata Plantation House (approx. 8 min)
A wonderful piece of history. This 19th-century plantation home used to be the beating heart of a sugar plantation. Today, it is a monument of colonial architecture that takes you back into the island's history. It's lovely to wander around at your own pace while taking in the unique, serene atmosphere. It isn't actively maintained, but it's still fun to stroll through.
5. Goto Salt and Flamingo Lake (approx. 8 min)
During your journey through the north, you will drive past this breathtaking nature reserve. The lake is a permanent hangout for countless pink flamingos gracefully stepping around. The contrast between the saltwater, green cacti, and pink birds makes this a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Where can you eat and drink along the way in the north of Bonaire?
For lunch, head to Posada Para Mira, and in Rincon, visit Cadushy Distillery and grab an ice cream at John's.
6. Posada Para Mira (approx. 9 min)
You will quickly notice along the way that Bonaire is a true cactus island! Time for a well-deserved break with a breathtaking view over the hills and cacti. At Posada Para Mira, you can stop for a cold drink or a local lunch. Their homemade local lemonades are also super delicious! Be sure to try authentic Bonairean cuisine here, such as local fish dishes, stewed goat, or traditional iguana soup (similar to chicken soup). Tip: on Friday and Saturday evenings, they often have cozy live music (double-check their socials or website beforehand to see if they are open).
7. Cadushy Distillery
Time for some local craft! Visit Cadushy Distillery in Rincon and discover the unique taste of Bonaire. Here you can join a fun, free tour about the distilling process, taste various homemade liqueurs and spirits, and unwind with a refreshing drink at the cozy bar or in their snug garden.
8. Ice cream at John's
No road trip is complete without a great sweet ending. You'll find this ice cream parlor right across from Cadushy Distillery, at the end of the street (take an immediate right as you step out of the distillery). At John's, you can get artisan, homemade ice cream in tons of flavors. He is always up for a friendly chat and it's the perfect place to sit back and relax on his shaded terrace.
Where does the road trip to the north end?
On the way back, enjoy the view from Seru Largu, and conclude your day with the sunset at Hidden Beach.
9. Seru Largu
Time to head home, but not before enjoying literally the highlight of your day. From Seru Largu, you have a panoramic view over almost the entire island and the sparkling sea in the distance. A magical spot to pause and appreciate how beautiful Bonaire is. From here, you can even spot Villa Carolina—how cool is that!
10. Heading home
And afterwards? Time to head back to base to unwind and relax! Around 6:15 PM, we usually head out to catch the sunset at Hidden Beach, less than a 5-minute walk behind Villa Carolina (check out the video below on how to get there).
Frequently asked questions about a road trip to the north of Bonaire
Can you explore the north of Bonaire by scooter?
Yes, traffic on Bonaire is calm and safe, so you can set out by scooter or car with complete peace of mind.
Where can you see sea turtles in the north of Bonaire?
At 1000 Steps, you will almost always spot sea turtles while snorkeling.
Can you safely leave your belongings behind on the beach?
I wouldn't recommend it; there are special waterproof dry bags you can buy via Amazon for this. If you forget one, you can also easily buy them in Kralendijk or at a dive shop. You can keep your keys, phone, and money in them. You can still try hiding your things somewhere on the beach, but just to be safe...
Do you need water shoes?
Yes, to enter the water you really need water shoes. On Bonaire, you usually have to walk across a bit of rock before you can dive into the water. Without shoes on, this is quite painful for your feet!
Where can you see flamingos in the north of Bonaire?
At the Goto Salt and Flamingo Lake, where countless flamingos roam around.
Where can you enjoy a local lunch in the north of Bonaire?
At Posada Para Mira, you can eat Bonairean cuisine—such as local fish dishes, stewed goat, and iguana soup—with a view over the hills.