Getting out on Bonaire, the best nightlife spots

It is no Ibiza or Lloret de Mar, where a rousing nightlife with lots of clubs and discotheques fills in a very important part of the vacation fun. But that is not to say that there is nothing to do on Bonaire. On the contrary even Bonaire has a number of entertainment venues. Bonaire is buzzing and we tell you where to go.

During the day you can laze around on the beach, dive under every now and then to watch the tropical fish or hang onto your kite sportily and let the trade winds carry you away. But when the sun drops and you’ve enjoyed your dinner on one of the many terraces of a beach club or restaurant, it’s time to go out on Bonaire.

This requires a bit more self-initiative because large exuberant events or festivals are not very common, but for a nice party, Bonaire is the place to be. The offer is varied, from a relaxed dance party on the beach to a quiet cozy drink evening at sunset.

Scoor a Happy hour!

Two for the price of one, or cocktails at a steep discount. If you are watching the little things and want to go early for a drink, a happy hour is always a good idea. Almost all bars, pubs and restaurants participate in this on Bonaire. One hour or often even longer drinks at a lower rate. Add a tasty snack and enjoy. Local music blares from the speakers. The feet are already off the floor on salsa or merenque. Enjoying a hip-swaying vacation. The ultimate summer feeling!

Livemusic

Really mega nightclubs do not exist on Bonaire. But instead there are many live performances by bands and musicians. In the bars, on the terraces, in the capital Kralendijk and at the many beach bars and restaurants. Sometimes as background music while dining, but often for dancing. It is also difficult to sit still to the rhythmic sounds of Caribbean music styles. The atmosphere is right there and often these types of music evenings turn into a splashing party at the tideline.

Music also plays a big role during the annual carnival. This is exuberantly celebrated by the residents of Bonaire. It often takes months of preparation to make the best possible appearance during the carnival parade. It attracts thousands of visitors and all to the rousing sounds of salsa and merenque music.

Places to be

Besides the hotel bars that are often favored by the older guests on the island and mostly visited by American tourists, you will find most of the upscale clubs, bars and terraces in the capital Kralendijk where the atmosphere is mostly Caribbean. Karel’s Bar is popular and Trocadero Bonaire on the boulevard offers trendy cocktails and finger food with music. A bit more classic is Little Havana where, how could it be otherwise with such a name, you can smoke thick cigars in a luxurious ambiance. Sitting lazily on the Chesterfield with a Cuban cigar and a view of the Caribbean ocean accompanied by jazz music.

By the sea, Tiki&Co is also popular. Here you score especially exotic cocktails with swinging music.

The Beach

But the upcoming favorite is definitely The Beach, perhaps the hippest beach bar on the island. Its location right by the sea right across from the Grand Windsock Resort is ideal. The combination of a beach bar with a restaurant is perfectly chosen, allowing you to move right on with a cocktail in hand and your dancing shoes on after a lovely cozy meal. Although? Those shoes can be taken off and just put your feet in the sand. Swinging with your lover in the light of a sun slowly setting and to the music that carries you along on the waves of the ocean. Summertime pure!

Nightlife tip: try your luck at one of two casinos

The Coral casino in Kralendijk is always good for a fun night out. Located in the center of Kralendijk, you can try your luck at the blackjack table, slot machines or poker table. Entry with ID and over 21 years of age. The casina at the Dive resort also has a roulette table.