South America > 🇧🇶 Bonaire
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Bonaire can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Bonaire; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Bonaire?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Bonaire?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.🏙️ Main Cities in Bonaire
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|
🐠 Should You Rent a Car in Bonaire? 🚗🌴
Bonaire is a diver’s paradise with crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, flamingo-filled salt flats, and desert landscapes. Unlike many beach islands where you stay in one place, Bonaire encourages exploration. So, should you rent a car in Bonaire? Let’s find out how transport affects your experience.
🌊 When You Don’t Need a Car
If you plan to stay at a dive resort or spend most of your time on organised boat dives, you may not need to rent a vehicle every day.
✅ Car-Free Situations
| Traveler Type | Why a Car Isn’t Necessary | Best Transport Option |
|---|---|---|
| Staying at a dive resort | Most dives depart directly from the hotel | Boat dives & resort shuttles |
| Visiting Kralendijk only | Compact, walkable town | Walking or bike |
| Cruise passenger | Short stay with port excursions | Guided tours |
➡ Without a car, you can still enjoy dining, shopping, and reef trips near town.
🚗 When Renting a Car Makes Your Trip Better
Bonaire is built for exploration. The best beaches, snorkel spots, and national parks are not located in town, and many are only accessible by car or pickup truck.
✅ Reasons to Rent a Car
| Benefit | What You Can Experience |
|---|---|
| Beach hopping | Visit Sorobon Beach, 1000 Steps, Pink Beach |
| Shore diving | Load air tanks in a pickup and dive independently |
| Scenic drives | Explore Washington Slagbaai National Park |
| Wildlife spotting | Flamingos, donkeys, and parrots in the wild |
➡ A rental pickup truck is especially popular for divers carrying gear.
🚦 What Driving in Bonaire Is Like
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You drive on the right-hand side
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Roads are generally quiet and well-maintained
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Some coastal tracks are unpaved but manageable
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Parking is free and easy at beaches and dive sites
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Fuel stations are located near Kralendijk
🚕 Alternatives to Renting
| Transport Type | Best Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Taxis | Airport or dinner trips | Limited availability |
| Bicycles | Short distances only | Too hot for long rides |
| Scooters/Golf carts | Easy for light exploring | Not suitable for dive gear |
| Guided tours | National park and snorkel tours | Good for non-drivers |
🏁 Final Recommendation
| Traveler Style | Car Needed? | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Dive resort guest | ✅ Yes (pickup) | Best access to shore dive sites |
| Snorkeler/beach hopper | ✅ Yes | Beaches are spread around the island |
| Town-based visitor | ❌ No | Walking and short taxis are fine |
| Cruise traveller | ❌ Optional | Tours cover main highlights |
| Nature lover | ✅ Yes | Washington Slagbaai NP requires a car |
✨ Final Takeaway
So, should you rent a car in Bonaire?
👉 Yes, if you want to enjoy the island’s best beaches, shore diving sites, and national parks at your own pace.
👉 No, if you’re planning a short trip focused only on boat dives or staying exclusively in town.