Bonaire Beaches

Almost all Bonaire beaches are public except for Sorobon, a clothing-optional beach located in a private, nudist resort where non-guests pay $10 for admission. Otherwise, be aware that nude bathing is illegal throughout the island and considered offensive to the locals.

Pink Beach, the longest beach on the island, has fine pink sand. It is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. The beach has been featured on the cover of Caribbean Travel and Life magazine has named it as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. A bus goes there throughout the day.

Washington-Slagbaai National Park has three major beaches -- Boca Cocolishi, Boca Slagbaai and Playa Funchi.

Boca Cocolishi on the north coast that is not well-suited for swimming because of the strong surf. But it is a black sand beach with lava-formed pools that make it appealing for hikers.

Boca Slagbaai, likewise popular with the flamingos, is a good swimming and snorkeling site. It has facilities and refreshments for sale. Some of the buildings there date back to 1869.

Playa Funchi is a highly recommended snorkeling site because of coral formations, attractive fish and calm waters. It has no sand or facilities, although it is popular with flamingos.

Other recommended beaches include Playa Chiquito, although swimming is forbidden because of the strong, dangerous surf. But the location is beautiful and ideal for sunbathing.

Boka Bartol, located in the Marine Park, is a good diving location with attractive coral formations.

1000 Steps is a snorkel and dive site on the north side of Bonaire and reachable by boat or car. Anyone who drives there actually will take 67 steps to reach the beach.

Lac Bay is a good swimming location with an attractive stand of mangroves. Bands play there each weekend for locals and tourists.