Shore diving at it’s finest! If you are ready for pristine reefs, eco-tourism and scuba diving at your own pace, Bonaire is waiting for you. Pack your gear bag and book a flight! Bonaire is really laid-back and informal. Your resort wear is likely overkill anywhere on the island but maybe a casino. Divers – t shirts and shorts, beach waves in your hair and nothing more. Most everyone is in bed by 8!
What to pack for a week of shore diving in Bonaire:
Dive Essentials
- BCD
- Air Delivery System
- Mask
- Spare Mask
- Fins
- Snorkel
- 3mm – 5mm wetsuit
- Hood if you get cold
- Flashlight (if you plan to night dive)
- Marker light (if you plan to night dive)
- Mesh/Net bag with backpack straps
- Log Book
- Pen
- Certification Card if Already Certified
- Diving Insurance card (if already certified, and have insurance)
- Ties and tethers for in-the-field fixes
- Key storage for your dive truck (seal-able dry bag you can take diving)
Clothing
- Sunglasses
- 1 Pair walking shoes
- 1 Pair sturdy sandals (beaches are broken coral, not sand)
- 2 Fast Dry Shirts or rashguard
- 2 Fast Dry Shorts
- 3 Swim Suits
- 2-3 Pairs shorts with pockets for land excursions
- 1-2 Longsleeve lightweight shirts
- 1-2 Pairs of Pants
- Ladies: leggings with pockets are great!
- 1-2 Tank tops
- 3-4 T-shirts
- 1 Rain jacket
- Hat (baseball or something that covers your ears)
- Going out for dinner?
- Ladies: pack a dress and a necklace/earrings
- Gentlemen: pack a pair of pants and a collared shirt
Entertainment
- Book
- Music player + headphones (leave in your hotel)
- Camera equipment
- Underwater filters (red)
- Tethers
- RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES ONLY
Toiletries
- Reef Safe Sunscreen (biodegradable, non-toxic)
- Bug Spray (not kidding – sand fleas)
- Toothpaste
- Toothbrush
- Floss
- Hair brush/comb
- Hair products (spray, gel, etc.)
- Leave-in conditioner for long hair
- Hair ties for long hair
- Shampoo/conditioner/soap
- Shave oil (prevents red marks with seawater, easier to pack)
- Razors
Extras
- Bonaire dive site guide book (available on the island)
- Microfiber Towel
- Water bottle or jug for drinking
- Packable reusable grocery bags or beach bag (something inconspicuous as petty theft is a thing)
- Combo lock
- Snacks
- Cash for:
- More snacks, or lunch
- A drink on the far side of the island
- Park permit (check with your reservations, it may be included)
Safety
- SMB
- Cutting Tool
- Save a Dive Kit
- Tool Kit
- Packable First Aid Kit (checked)
- Written Safety Plan
What not to bring:
- Batteries that cannot be recharged
- Sunscreen that is not reef-safe
- Fancy clothing
- Expensive jewelry
