Exploring Bonaire by Car: Salt Flats, Flamingos, and Coastal Vibes

Kralendijk, the colorful capital of Bonaire, greeted us with sunshine, sea breeze, and the kind of relaxed island energy that immediately sets the tone. Instead of signing up for a cruise excursion, my friends and I decided to rent a car and explore the island on our own, and it couldn’t have been a better way to experience Bonaire.

We started by heading south, where massive white salt pyramids from the Solar Salt Works sparkled under the Caribbean sun. Not far from there, we pulled over at Pekelmeer Sanctuary to watch a flamboyance of flamingos wading gracefully through the shallow pink-tinged waters. Seeing them in the wild felt a little magical.

A bit further down the road, we reached Red Slave, also known as Peleké. The small yellow huts here once sheltered enslaved workers and stand today as a powerful reminder of Bonaire’s colonial history. Nearby, the Willemstoren Lighthouse marked the southern tip of the island, perfectly backlit by the sun for a glowing photo moment with waves crashing behind it.

We paused for lunch and beach time at Sorobon Beach, a breezy spot where windsurfers dotted the horizon and the water stayed impossibly clear. Just beyond 1000 Steps, we found a quiet stretch of coastline that begged for a few more photos. Even without hiking the stairs, the views alone were worth the detour.

Later, we made our way up to Rincón, one of the oldest towns in the Caribbean, to visit The Cadushy Distillery. The tasting room welcomed us with samples of their signature cactus liqueur and other local spirits. I couldn’t leave without picking up a few bottles as souvenirs.

Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at Goto Lake. The setting was peaceful and still, with soft reflections on the water and green hills rolling in the distance, a perfect way to wrap up the day.

Bonaire had the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and slow-paced charm. Whether you’re birdwatching at the sanctuary, sipping something unusual at a local distillery, or just enjoying the ocean from a rocky overlook, this island leaves a lasting impression.