Since Bonaire is a small island, renting a car will allow you to explore much of the island. A car will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Bonaire does not have public transportation. Although there are some minibusses that serve as public transport, they are often irregular and do not always run to all the attractions. With a rental car, you are not dependent on public transportation and can more easily explore. There are a variety of car rental companies on the island with a wide range of vehicle options, from small, fuel-efficient cars to spacious SUVs and pickup trucks. A majority of the rental cars are stick-shift, so the inventory for automatic cars goes fast. Driving on the island is generally easy, as far as traffic and rules are concerned. Main roads are paved, and road signs are written in both English and Dutch.

Taxis are a great way to get around for short-distance travel. There is no public transportation, Uber or Lyft, so this is the quickest means of transportation. Taxis have fixed rates, but be aware that fares can increase late at night and early in the morning. Some taxi companies offer half-day tours, that is typically charged by the hour for up to four people per car.

The popular way to travel from Bonaire to the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire is by water taxi. This quick and easy transportation option offers beautiful views of the clear waters along the way. Many times, you’ll even encounter a school of dolphins. Water cabs depart several times a day from the boulevard in Kralendijk. Different operators offer various departure times. Check with each provider for schedules, service area and fares.

Electric golf carts and bicycles can be a great mode of transport on Bonaire. Because of the small distances and the fact that the island is quite flat, especially in the south. It’s an environmentally friendly and inexpensive way to get around. However, keep in mind that it can be very hot on the island, which makes riding a golf cart or bicycle a bit less comfortable. In addition, during the rainy season, there can be occasional heavy downpours. Sometimes, Bonaire’s poor road conditions bring a challent for golf cart and bicycle transportation. Overall, it’s a fun way to explore the island on your own, and the carts or bicycles are easy to drive.

A motorcycle or scooter can also be a great way to get around the island. They both allow for the freedom to ride at your own pace and it is often cheaper than renting a car. However, the downside can be the poor condition of some of the roads. There are many roads unpaved or poorly paved and also have many potholes. In addition, street lighting on most roads is poor, which makes it easy to overlook crossing goats and donkeys.

We recommend 3 – 5 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.

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