Shore Entries in Bonaire: Technique, Equipment, and Respect for the Environment

Bonaire is one of the few places in the world where most dive sites can be accessed directly from shore. That freedom has its own special charm — you gear up, take a few steps, and you’re already floating above a reef full of life. But like everything in diving, doing it right requires technique, preparation, and respect for the environment.

1. The Right Gear: Hard-Soled Boots and Spring-Strap Fins

For shore diving in Bonaire, hard-soled dive boots are not optional — they’re essential. The shoreline is made up of ancient coral formations, often sharp, and areas where sea urchins live. A sturdy sole provides stability and protection, preventing a urchin spine from piercing through.Still, even with good boots, it’s important to watch carefully where you step. Many rocks and old coral structures serve as shelter for small marine life — crabs, shrimps, tube worms, or juvenile fish hiding in the crevices. Even a piece of coral that looks “dead” may be hosting a vibrant micro-community, or could be the foundation of a young coral trying to establish a new colony.

2. Algae, Substrate, and New Life

Areas covered in algae aren’t just “slippery” or inconvenient; they’re an important part of the ecosystem. Algae serve as food for parrotfish, surgeonfish, and turtles, and often coexist with small coral polyps beginning to grow. That’s why every step matters — being mindful helps protect the delicate process that keeps the reef healthy.

3. Southern Shore Entries: Easier, but Still Require Care

The southern entries of the island are generally easier than the northern ones, with gentler slopes and calmer waters. Even so, STINAPA has placed rocks to mark the best — and sometimes only — safe entry and exit points. Using these markers is part of good dive practice: it protects the reef and keeps you safe from tricky footing.

4. Waves and Ocean Rhythm

If there are waves at your entry point, don’t rush. Waves come in cycles — if you watch for a couple of minutes, you’ll notice moments of calm between each set. Entering at the right time can make the difference between a smooth entry and a struggle. Patience is key; shore diving is not about speed, it’s about reading the sea.

5. Gear Preparation and Organization

A small but valuable upgrade is using fins with spring straps. They make it faster and easier to put fins on or take them off, especially when the surf is moving.Also, make sure everything is clipped to your D-rings — flashlights, cameras, SMBs, pointers… any loose gear can easily get lost in a rough entry or exit. Double-check that clips and buckles are closed and that nothing is dangling.

6. Extra Tips for a Perfect Entry

• Do a quick visual inspection before gearing up. Check the shore, entry path, current, and wave pattern.

• Balance your weight before stepping in. Make sure your tank and weights are well-distributed — an uneven load can throw off your balance.

• Teamwork matters. Agree on a signal with your buddy before entering, in case you need support or need to wait for each other.

• Rinse your boots well after diving. Salt and crushed coral can wear out the soles over time.

• Always look before you step. You might find a moray eel, scorpionfish, or another creature exactly where you’re about to place your foot.

7. The Entry as Part of the Dive

The shore entry isn’t just a way to get to the water — it’s the beginning of the dive itself. It’s the moment when you transition from land to sea, and where your respect for life underfoot shows what kind of diver you are. In Bonaire, every entry is an opportunity to do it right — safely, consciously, and with care.