Bonaire – You didn’t think I would forget the B of the ABC islands, did you? Bonaire was my favorite of the three islands, though it’s the smallest and probably the least suited for children (at least until they learn to dive). From the forthcoming Lonely Planet section on Travel with Children:
Bonaire does not have a slew of sights and activities catering specifically to children. But it’s a terrific destination for adventurous families.
Children as young as five years old can learn to snorkel, and Bonaire’s calm, warm waters – with the reef right near the shore – are the perfect place to start. Children as young as 10 years old can get their PADI dive certification. And children between aged five to seven years old can start to learn to windsurf.
Although Bonaire does not have the wide, sandy beaches of some neighboring islands, there are a few places to swim and build sand castles, such as Spice Beach Club. And let’s face it… that’s all kids really need.
That said, the larger resorts offer dedicated children’s programming, to keep kids occupied while their parents go diving.
When it’s time to take a break from the sea and sun, the small Terramar Museum offers a kid-friendly history of the island, and the Donkey Sanctuary provides plenty of opportunities to snuggle with donkeys.
