Bonaire Packing Guide 2026 — What to Bring for Diving, Shore Snorkeling & Island Days

Bonaire's UV index is extreme year round — similar to Aruba but with one key difference. Shore diving and snorkeling means you are in and out of the water repeatedly throughout the day, which requires more frequent reapplication than a single beach session. Most dive operators and the Bonaire National Marine Park require reef safe sunscreen — zinc oxide or titanium dioxide only. Chemical filters damage the reef that makes Bonaire worth visiting in the first place.

Apply 20 minutes before your first water entry and reapply every time you exit the water. Pay attention to the back of your neck, tops of feet and backs of knees — areas that face upward during snorkeling and burn quickly.

Tip: Buy sunscreen before you fly. Bonaire's small supermarkets and dive shops carry limited reef safe options at significantly higher prices than online.

Bonaire is a desert island. Annual rainfall is minimal, humidity is low and the trade winds create a false sense of comfort by keeping temperatures feeling manageable even when the UV index is extreme. Most visitors are surprised by how quickly they dehydrate — especially during multiple shore dive sessions where the physical exertion of carrying gear, suiting up and entering the water repeatedly adds up.

For driving loops through Washington Slagbaai National Park or the southern salt flats there are no shops or restaurants for long stretches. Carry more water than you think you need and keep it cold with an insulated bottle.

Tip: Freeze a partially filled bottle the night before long park days — it stays cold for hours in Bonaire heat.

A rash guard is more useful in Bonaire than almost any other Caribbean destination because of the amount of time spent in the water across multiple sessions per day. Sunscreen alone is not sufficient protection during four to six hours of cumulative water time — a UPF 50+ rash guard dramatically reduces your sun exposure without requiring constant reapplication.

It also protects against minor abrasions from rocky entries and accidental contact with the substrate. Essential for kids, highly recommended for adults.

Tip: Pack a separate rash guard for each full day of diving or snorkeling — wet rash guards in a dive bag get unpleasant quickly in Bonaire heat.

Most of Bonaire shore diving and snorkeling happens from roadside entry points — you park, gear up and walk to the water. There is no locker, no beach attendant and often no shade. A dry bag keeps your phone, wallet, car keys and camera safe while you are in the water. A roll-top waterproof bag that doubles as a beach bag is the most practical option.

Tip: The AquaVault portable safe is worth adding if you are doing solo dives or snorkeling without a buddy to watch your gear — it locks to your car.