It's possible to travel around Bonaire in just a few hours. To get to a beach from Kralendijk it's normally necessary to hire a taxi. Taxis can be hailed quite easily, with fixed rates set to various destinations. Price lists can be produced by taxi drivers on request. There is also an informal minibus system and a number of tour buses operate around the island from Kralendijk. Scooters and mopeds are also a good option for getting around and can be hired easily. Parts of the town are easily accessible on foot and many find this the easiest way to get around. A number of local and international car hire companies have offices in Kralendijk. Travellers from the US, Canada and Europe are able to rent a car with a valid license from their home country; otherwise an International Driving Permit is required.
Local time is GMT -4.
The electrical current is 127 volts, 50Hz. Some electrical devices may require a transformer.
The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency. ATMs are available and major credit cards are widely accepted.
The international dialling code for Bonaire is +599. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are available in tourist centred areas. As international roaming costs can be high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option.
911 (Police); 114 (Ambulance)
2020 | 2021 | |
New Years Day | 1 Jan | 1 Jan |
Carnival Monday | 24 Feb | 15 Feb |
Good Friday | 10 Apr | 2 Apr |
Easter Sunday | 12 Apr | 4 Apr |
Easter Monday | 13 Apr | 5 Apr |
Kings Day | 27 Apr | 27 Apr |
Labour Day | 1 May | 1 May |
Ascension Day | 21 May | 13 May |
Bonaire Day | 6 Sep | 6 Sep |
Kingdom Day | 15 Dec | 15 Dec |
Christmas Day | 25 Dec | 25 Dec |
Boxing Day | 26 Dec | 26 Dec |
Situated close to the equator, Kralendijk enjoys a tropical climate with hot and humid weather all year round. The best time to visit is between December and April. It tends to be quite windy between May and August. There is little seasonal temperature variation, with Kralendijk experiencing average temperatures around 82°F (28°C), with temperatures rarely dropping lower than 65°F (18°C). During the rainy season, from October to January, the city experiences late night and early morning showers, usually clearing by late morning.
There are no public buses in Bonaire, however most hotels provide shuttles on request.
Car hire agencies operating from the airport include Avis, Budget, and Hertz.
Taxis are available from the airport. There may be extra fees for additional passengers, public holidays, waiting times or journeys between midnight and 6am.
Airport facilities include ATMs, restaurants, souvenir and liquor shops, public telephones, a smoking area and VIP lounge. Handicapped facilities are also available.
Parking is $1 per hour. Daily rates are $12 for short-term parking, and $6 for long-term.
There is free wifi in the departures area.