If you’re looking for a scuba diving vacation in the Caribbean, look no further than Bonaire. This pristine island escape is the “B” in the ABC island chain along with Aruba and Curaçao, and offers a less-crowded, stress-free getaway for divers and snorkelers alike.

Thanks to the stunning beaches that lead to many of Bonaire’s dive sites, you don’t have to leave your nondiving companions to go diving. Just bring them with you, and they’ll have the option to hike, lounge in the sun or snorkel at some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches. And a perfect example of that is 1,000 Steps.

The picturesque 1,000 Steps beach is a favorite site in Bonaire — not just for divers, but snorkelers and beachgoers too. Soft, white sand meets a glittering turquoise sea at the beach, which is protected from wind thanks to a staggering cliffside.

Named for the limestone staircase that leads to its pristine shoreline, 1,000 Steps is one of Bonaire’s most iconic dives. And while there aren’t nearly as many stairs as the name suggests, the trip to 1,000 Steps is far more enjoyable aboard Buddy Dive Resort’s spacious boats.

Rays of sunshine illuminate the turquoise sea as you head north toward the site, where you’ll get an incredible view of the impressive cliffs rising along the shore. But it’s the scene below the surface that will take your breath away.

A rainbow of coral welcomes you as you descend along the thriving reef. Vibrant parrotfish and wide-eyed squirrelfish linger among gorgonian trees. Take it slow as you explore the lush garden of sponges and sea fans. Bonaire’s crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, from large schools of blue tangs to tiny fairy basslets. Whether you encounter a dancing angelfish or spot a tiny blenny hiding in the coral, every dive at 1,000 Steps is worth savoring.

1,000 Steps Dive Site Information and Bonaire Weather:

Weather: 84-89 degrees F year-round
When to go: Year-round
Water Temperature: 82-degrees from June through December, and between 79-81 from January through April.
Visibility: 80-100+ feet year round
Depth: 35-60 feet
Experience required: Open water diver and completion of the Bonaire National Marine Park check-out dive.
Gear to bring: Remember to bring booties if you dive from shore! And an underwater camera to capture the underwater and topside views. Most divers wear bathing suits, skins or 1 mm wetsuits.

For more information about Bonaire’s best shore dives, activities, and information on prices and resort amenities, go to buddydive.com.

Contact Info:

For more information on Buddy Dive Resort and the best shore diving in Bonaire, go to buddydive.com

Information: Kaya Gob. N. Debrot 85, Bonaire
Phone: Toll free for the US/Canada 1-866-GO-BUDDY
International +599 717 5080
Email: [email protected]
Website: buddydive.com