BONAIRE. A petite-sized naturalistic island, less popular to tourism, however highly regarded by those who love to dive and it’s ruled by the Dutch!
Now you know where we are headed are you ready to learn more?
But there is so much more to enjoy beyond scuba diving and sometimes its the small things, so read on and I’ll share what I know!
So exactly where is the best Bonaire Resort?
If you are looking for a flashy, outstanding building, you’re not going to find this resort!
Remember never to judge a book by its cover because it blends with the natural environment but its rich interior pathways and open reef experience are what make this the best Bonaire resort!
Really, Bonaire is a water-lover’s dream come true and this Caribbean Island is an exceptional destination, but not always on everyone’s radar?
ABC Islands
Often overshadowed by both Aruba & Curacao, Bonaire puts the ‘C’ in what some refer to as the ‘ABC Islands!’
But, if you are headed to Aruba or Curacao, make time to ‘jump to” Bonaire and steal away a few days enjoying the island!
It won’t disappoint and I’ll share where to stay while you are there!
In fact, you’ll be right in the heart of where Kralendiijk the capital is located.
Fresh. Simple. Clean.
Bonaire is a Caribbean island rich in preserved nature!
Don’t worry, the best Bonaire resort is not just for those who love to dive, nor will you find the accommodations to be extravagant, rather, fresh, clean, and simple.
Nor will you experience a snobby ambiance rather a very laid-back, light, relaxing vibe that carries from the staff throughout the complex!
Additionally, the best Bonaire resort offers a great location as it is central to shopping and dining options within about a 5-minute walking distance!
Unpretentious Rooms & So Clean!
Oceanview or pool view? Those are your options and either way you get to enjoy views of tranquil, gorgeous water!
So take a look through my lens and visit an ocean view room!
Simply accommodations, that offer pristine living are exactly what you’ll get in each room at the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort!
Enjoy the waterfront venue morning, noon & night right from your balcony!
What’s in the room?
- coffeemaker
- ice bucket
- hairdryer
- iron (sorry not using an iron-on vacation I’m on vacay but it is there if you need it!)
- safe
What Should You Pack for Time in Bonaire?
Everyone comes for a different reason, but if you dive, bring your favorite wetsuit.
Beyond that, depending on why you have traveled to Bonaire, that will drive your wardrobe.
For us: bathing suits, beach shoes, coverups, shorts, and a dress (let’s say CASINO!) and some shorts and tees for town!
Keep it simple, as it’s vacay!
The Divi Flamingo Resort is booked solid and regularly and I can understand why.
From cleanliness to the location it’s got it all.
Glimpse and see the perfect ocean view from every and angle. This was taken on the balcony in the room, and just a fast glimpse so you could see!
What To Do First While at The Best Bonaire Resort?
Best Resort In Bonaire: Easily Accessible Snorkeling Day or Night (1)
Snorkeling doesn’t get any easier than waking up, tossing on a swimsuit, and heading out steps from your living quarters!
Don’t haul snorkeling equipment with you, Divi Flamingo has a Pro Dive shop on its property.
You will soon learn that it is a very busy shop and that you can use the complimentary equipment.
The Divi Flamingo resort boasts the Calabas Reef (offering quick shore access) and it’s on the property so you have no excuses to not snorkel while in Bonaire!
Pool Time Part of the Best Bonaire Resort Experience (2) Personally, if you don’t take time to smell the roses… you’ve basically missed a great part of the Bonaire Island experience!
Poolside is perfect for the gorgeous and enjoyable weather that Bonaire experiences daily!
Plus, it’s the perfect combination of quiet and welcoming at the same time quite the unusual, yet very explainable!
Pool Side Views
This area of the Divi Flamingo Resort, while not oceanfront, offers a pool view of pool #2, which is close to both the Pro Dive Shop and the Casino!
Additionally, this pool boasts a small soaking tub!
Suggestion: Roam from one pool to the other at your leisure and then take a dip and snorkel.
Pool #2: Poolside Amenities That Allow You To Experience The Ambiance
Stunning! Isn’t it?
Those cabanas have your name on them and they are every bit as comfortable as you might hope they are (personally tested!)
Have you been to some resorts where they save the cabanas for those that pay a fee?
We set up camp here until we went snorkeling.
Did I mention that there are also seats with large umbrellas?
Completely Gorgeous Poolside. Time To Relax
My personal thoughts: stay planted poolside round the clock!
I am sure you are wondering where all the people are that stay here, but I’ll share that with you below!
It’s straight-up 12Noon and no one is around the pool, ain’t that grand? NO battling for seats here!
Insider Knowledge
The best Bonaire Resort, a.k.a. Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino, attracts those that dive because the Pro Dive Shop is right on-premises.
Divers get to sleep a bit earlier than other vacationers so that they are rested and ready to leave for a double tank dive early in the AM to see the best of the best in marine life!
Naturally, with the Dive shop so close, once back they refuel and head back out for their next dive. So, many of those staying here is not at the pool!
Best Seats In The House For Daytime & Nighttime
These are the best chaise lounge seats in the house from sunrise to sunset.
I will say this, a little bit of sun time goes a long way in the Caribbean.
Behind these are a series of cabanas, they are most helpful for keeping you outdoors without scorching from the sun!
Here is where you can hide for a bit if you want to shelter from the sun!
Personal note + Insiders Info
Don’t plan on bar service around this pool, you will need to walk to the bar, which is close to the pool with the cabanas in order to get drinks.
Not a dealbreaker, but totally worth mentioning! But I do have an alternative for you, so keep reading if you prefer beverage service and sand!
Sand + Sun
As you head away from the ‘cabana pool’ you begin to walk towards the other pool as well as the Pro Dive Shop, as you pass by the restaurant and bar!
Here, you will find more ‘beach-like seating if you prefer the ultimate beach experience!
#3 Multi-Functional Pier – Snorkeling on Premises
I could toss that cocktail back right now, couldn’t you?
Remember I shared that oceanfront room view with you?
Now take a look at the waterfront location where you can snorkel!
Crystal clear water and super calm conditions! Perfect for the beginner or those that love to get in the water and look explore!
The deck area overlooks the snorkeling.
#4 Sun & Fun on The Pier
Caution, you are about to actually see people, something that has been non-existent so far in all of my photos!
Well, where there is water and alcohol, you’ll find people!
These chairs are prime territory because the bar is right here and they bring the drinks!
What Is A Day in Bonaire without A Drink?
I’ll tell you that it is not a vacation!
I am so glad you asked because I tested a few out for you. Check out my Margarita.
Simple Pathway, Big Finds Inside the Best Bonaire Resort
Use this path to get to the Dive Shop, Casino, restaurants, bar, car rental, water area, snorkeling pier, and all the pools and rooms.
This is your everywhere path.
After or Before a Dive!
These are seats right by the dive shop.
If you just returned from a dive chances are you have visited the bar to unwind and enjoy a cocktail.
Wondering where it is on the property?
The seating you see here is direct across from pool number 2, the non-oceanfront villas, though once you open your door you can see the ocean!
Divi Dive Bonaire Pro Shop
Think about whatever you need for diving and then don’t think about it again.
Why? The Divi Dive Bonaire shop has it all!
They are the outfitters for your adventures, so don’t drag gear, it’s already here!
Also, a nice gift shop and where you buy your marine park water passes for entering the water!
While I will detail the diving and snorkeling far more in a different article, this is right on the property of the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort.
You can build diving and snorkeling right into your package and it is the best of the best.
Dive instructors are top-notch! I would NOT get in the water unless they were, and these guys got you and they know the area like the back of their hands.
Drinks & Eats At Best Bonaire Resort
While I did not experience dining at PureOcean (it’s where breakfast happens), I did dine at the Chibi Chibi Restaurant.
I will share more with you in a separate article for dining at the Divi Flamingo Resort.
Shop. Eat Out. Learn History! (5)
Admittedly, I’ve never visited an island, country, state, city, town, etc without a drink in a local bar, learning a bit of history and some shopping.
I mean, what trip is complete without all of the above? So, don’t forget to do that while in Bonaire!
Life is a Big Game at Least While You are At the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort Bonaire
If LOVE were a 7 letter word & not 4, it would be BONAIRE! However, we will say that LOVE a 4 letter word = DIVI!
Those are 5 things to enjoy in Bonaire besides scuba diving at the best Bonaire Resort! 🤿
See you snorkeling, shopping, eating, drinking, poolside, and diving! ~ Dana XO
My thanks to Divi Flamingo Resort 🤿for hosting our stay! Opinions, images are based on my time spent at the resort!