Did you know that Lac Bay in Bonaire is home to one of the Caribbean’s largest and most pristine mangrove forests, covering over 700 acres of protected habitat? This stunning shallow lagoon on Bonaire’s eastern coast isn’t just a windsurfing paradise—it’s a thriving ecosystem where baby reef fish grow up before venturing to the open ocean, making it one of the most biologically important areas in the entire Caribbean.
Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to ride the perfect wind, a nature enthusiast eager to explore unique ecosystems, or simply someone who wants to relax on pristine beaches, Lac Bay offers something special for every traveler. This guide will take you through the best things to do in Lac Bay, Bonaire, with insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Getting to Lac Bay & Planning Your Journey
Lac Bay is located on the eastern coast of Bonaire, approximately 15 minutes by car from the capital city of Kralendijk. The bay is easily accessible and well worth the short journey.
How to Reach Bonaire
First, you’ll need to get to Bonaire itself. The island is served by Flamingo International Airport (BON), which receives direct flights from several destinations:
- Direct flights from Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Connections from the United States via Miami, Atlanta, or Houston
- Regional flights from Curaçao and Aruba
- Seasonal charters from various European cities
Finding the right flight is crucial for starting your Lac Bay adventure on the right foot.
Getting to Lac Bay from Kralendijk
Once you’ve arrived in Bonaire, you have several options to reach Lac Bay:
Rental Car (Recommended)
The most convenient way to explore Bonaire and reach Lac Bay is by renting a car. The drive from Kralendijk to Lac Bay takes about 15-20 minutes along well-maintained roads. Having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to explore different parts of the bay and carry all your gear.
Taxi Services
Taxis are available from Kralendijk to Lac Bay, but they can be expensive for round trips. If you’re staying for the day, arrange a pickup time with your driver or get the number of a local taxi service. Expect to pay around $25-30 each way.
Tour Operators
Many tour companies offer transportation as part of their packages to Lac Bay. This is a convenient option if you’re planning to participate in guided activities like kayaking through the mangroves or windsurfing lessons.
Bicycle Rental
For the adventurous and physically fit, renting a bicycle is an eco-friendly option. The ride from Kralendijk to Lac Bay is approximately 12 km (7.5 miles) and takes about 45-60 minutes, depending on your pace.
Ready to explore Lac Bay?
Book your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth journey to this natural paradise.
Best Time to Visit Lac Bay & Weather Tips
Lac Bay enjoys Bonaire’s consistently warm and sunny climate year-round, but certain times offer better conditions for specific activities.
Year-Round Climate
Bonaire boasts a stable tropical climate with temperatures averaging between 82°F and 88°F (28°C-31°C) throughout the year. The water temperature in Lac Bay stays wonderfully warm at around 80°F (27°C), making it perfect for water activities any time you visit.
Best Months for Windsurfing
Lac Bay is world-renowned for windsurfing, and the best conditions typically occur from December through July when the trade winds are strongest and most consistent. During these months, you can expect winds of 15-25 knots, perfect for both beginners and experienced windsurfers.
| Season | Months | Wind Conditions | Crowds | Recommended For |
| High Season | December – April | Strong, consistent (15-25 knots) | Busiest | All windsurfers, especially those seeking reliable conditions |
| Shoulder Season | May – July | Good, slightly less consistent | Moderate | All levels, good balance of conditions and fewer crowds |
| Low Season | August – November | Variable, occasionally light | Fewest | Beginners, those seeking tranquility, budget travelers |
Rainy Season Considerations
October through December can see slightly more rainfall, though showers are typically brief and followed by sunshine. The advantage of visiting during these months is fewer crowds and lower prices. The mangroves are particularly lush after rain, making it an excellent time for nature enthusiasts.
Weather Tips for Visitors
- The sun is intense year-round – always wear reef-safe sunscreen, even on cloudy days
- Bring a light windbreaker for windy days, especially if you’re taking a mangrove tour
- Hydrate frequently – the combination of sun, wind, and salt water can be dehydrating
- Early mornings offer the calmest waters for snorkeling and paddleboarding
- Afternoons typically bring stronger winds, ideal for windsurfing
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to windsurf, check the wind forecast before your visit. Websites like Windguru or Windfinder provide accurate predictions for Lac Bay conditions up to 7 days in advance.
Getting Around Lac Bay
Lac Bay covers a significant area with several distinct sections, each offering different activities and experiences. Understanding how to navigate the area will help you make the most of your visit.
Key Areas of Lac Bay
Sorobon Beach
The main beach area on the western side of Lac Bay, home to windsurfing centers, beach bars, and the most developed facilities. This is where most visitors begin their Lac Bay experience.
Lac Cai
A more secluded beach area on the northern side of the bay with pink sand and queen conch shells. Less crowded than Sorobon and perfect for those seeking tranquility.
Mangrove Forest
The eastern portion of Lac Bay features extensive mangrove forests accessible primarily by kayak or guided tours. This protected area is crucial for the bay’s ecosystem.
Transportation Options Within Lac Bay
Once you’ve arrived at Lac Bay, you’ll need to consider how to explore its different areas:
- Walking: Sorobon Beach area is easily explored on foot, with beach bars, rental shops, and facilities within walking distance of each other
- Kayaking: Rent kayaks to explore the mangroves and reach more remote parts of the bay
- Driving: To reach Lac Cai from Sorobon, you’ll need to drive around the bay (about 10 minutes)
- Water Taxi: Some local operators offer water taxi services between different parts of the bay
Important Note: The mangrove forests are protected, and you can only enter with a licensed guide. Unauthorized access is prohibited to preserve this delicate ecosystem.
Where to Stay Near Lac Bay
While there are no large resorts directly on Lac Bay, you’ll find several accommodation options nearby that provide easy access to all the bay has to offer.
Accommodations by Location
Sorobon Area
- Sorobon Beach Resort – Eco-friendly chalets right on the beach with direct access to windsurfing
- Sorobon Apartments – Self-catering apartments within walking distance of the beach
- Windsurf Place Guesthouses – Basic accommodations attached to the windsurfing center
Kralendijk (15-20 minute drive)
- Delfins Beach Resort – 4-star resort with the largest pool on Bonaire
- Bamboo Bonaire Boutique Resort – Intimate resort with excellent dining options
- Eden Beach Resort – Beachfront resort with water taxi service to Klein Bonaire
Accommodation Types
Bonaire offers diverse lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets:
Boutique Resorts
Smaller, more intimate properties with personalized service and unique character. These often feature amenities like pools, restaurants, and dive facilities.
Vacation Rentals
Apartments, villas, and houses available for short-term rental. These provide more space and self-catering facilities, ideal for families or longer stays.
Eco-Lodges
Environmentally conscious accommodations that minimize impact while providing comfortable stays. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a more authentic experience.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Lac Bay
Book early to secure the best accommodations, especially during the high windsurfing season from December to April.
Pro Tip: If you’re coming primarily for windsurfing, staying at Sorobon puts you right where the action is. For those wanting to explore more of Bonaire, accommodations in Kralendijk offer better access to restaurants, shopping, and other island attractions.
Dining & Local Cuisine at Lac Bay
Lac Bay offers several charming beach bars and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood, Dutch-Caribbean fusion cuisine, and refreshing drinks with your toes in the sand.
Beach Bars & Restaurants at Sorobon
Jibe City Beach Bar
A popular spot among windsurfers, Jibe City offers casual dining with a view of all the action on the water. Enjoy burgers, sandwiches, fresh salads, and cold drinks while watching windsurfers zip across the bay. They don’t charge for using their beach beds, making it a perfect spot to relax between activities.
Sorobon Beach Resort Restaurant
This eco-friendly resort’s restaurant serves health-conscious meals with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Their smoothie bowls and fresh juices are perfect for a nutritious breakfast or post-windsurfing refreshment.
Hang Out Beach Bar
A laid-back spot with colorful décor and a friendly atmosphere. Their menu features Caribbean favorites like fresh fish, conch, and local specialties. Don’t miss their happy hour with spectacular sunset views.
Dining at Lac Cai
If you venture to the quieter Lac Cai side of the bay, you’ll find:
Lac Cai Seafood Bar
This simple seaside spot serves incredibly fresh seafood caught daily. The menu is small but everything is prepared with authentic local flavors. Their fish platters and grilled lobster (when available) are highlights.
Local BBQ Stands
On weekends, you might find local vendors setting up BBQ stands serving traditional Bonairean dishes. This is a great opportunity to try authentic island cuisine at reasonable prices.
Local Specialties to Try
- Stoba Kabritu – Goat stew with vegetables and aromatic spices, Bonaire’s national dish
- Fresh Catch of the Day – Usually served grilled with Creole sauce
- Pastechi – Savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or fish
- Kadushi Soup – Made from local cactus, a traditional delicacy
- Awa di Lamunchi – Refreshing lime water, perfect for hot days
Dining Tip: Most beach bars at Lac Bay are casual, so no need to dress up. Bringing cash is recommended as some smaller establishments may not accept credit cards. For the best seafood, ask what was caught that day rather than looking at the menu.
Top Things to Do in Lac Bay, Bonaire
Lac Bay offers a diverse range of activities for all interests and skill levels. From world-class windsurfing to peaceful nature exploration, here are the best things to do during your visit.
1. Windsurfing – Ride the Perfect Wind
Lac Bay is internationally renowned as one of the world’s premier windsurfing destinations, particularly for beginners and intermediates. The shallow, warm water, steady trade winds, and protective reef create ideal learning conditions.
For Beginners
Several windsurfing schools offer lessons for complete beginners. The shallow water (often just waist-deep) means you can stand up if you fall, making it less intimidating to learn. Most schools offer:
- 1-2 hour introductory lessons
- Multi-day packages for those wanting to progress quickly
- Equipment rental included in lesson price
- Patient instructors who speak multiple languages
For Experienced Windsurfers
If you already know your way around a board, Lac Bay offers:
- Equipment rental from beginner to advanced gear
- Consistent winds for freestyle and slalom riding
- Areas with small chop for practicing jumps
- A friendly community of fellow windsurfers
Ready to Catch the Wind?
Book a windsurfing lesson or equipment rental with one of Lac Bay’s premier centers.
2. Kayaking Through Mangrove Forests
Exploring Lac Bay’s extensive mangrove forests by kayak is a must-do activity for nature lovers. These unique ecosystems serve as nurseries for reef fish and provide habitat for numerous bird species.
Due to the protected status of the mangroves, you must join a guided tour to explore this area. Licensed guides ensure minimal impact on this delicate environment while providing fascinating insights into the ecosystem.
What You’ll See: Baby reef fish using mangroves as nurseries, upside-down jellyfish, various bird species, and the intricate root systems that make mangroves unique. The crystal-clear water allows excellent visibility of marine life.
Most mangrove kayak tours include:
- 2-3 hour guided experience
- Stable, easy-to-paddle kayaks (often clear-bottomed)
- Snorkeling stops to observe underwater life
- Educational commentary about the ecosystem
- Small groups for minimal environmental impact
Explore the Magical Mangroves
Book a guided kayak tour to discover one of Bonaire’s most unique ecosystems.
3. Snorkeling the Reef
While Lac Bay itself is primarily a sandy-bottomed lagoon, the reef that protects the bay from ocean waves offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. This barrier reef is home to vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life.
The best snorkeling is found at the outer edges of Lac Bay, particularly:
Sorobon Reef
From Sorobon Beach, you can wade through the shallow water toward the reef (about a 20-minute walk/swim). The reef is visible from shore as the area where waves break. This area features:
- Shallow coral formations that reach near the surface
- Diverse tropical fish species
- Occasional sea turtle sightings
- Relatively calm waters on the bay side
Snorkeling Safety Tips
- Only snorkel on calm days when wind is minimal
- Wear water shoes for the walk to the reef
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen thoroughly
- Stay a safe distance from coral to avoid accidental contact
- Be aware of currents, especially on the ocean side of the reef
- Consider joining a guided snorkel tour for the safest experience
What to Bring: Your own snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins), reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a waterproof camera if you have one. There are limited rental options at Lac Bay, so bringing your own equipment is recommended.
4. Relaxing on Pristine Beaches
Sometimes the best thing to do is simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of Lac Bay. The area offers several stunning beaches with different atmospheres:
Sorobon Beach
The main beach area with facilities including beach bars, restrooms, and chair rentals. This is where most of the action happens, with windsurfers providing entertainment as you relax. The shallow, clear water extends far from shore, making it perfect for wading.
Lac Cai Beach
A more secluded beach on the northern side of the bay with pink-tinged sand and scattered queen conch shells. The water here is exceptionally calm, and you’ll often see locals enjoying weekend gatherings. There are fewer facilities but much more tranquility.
Coco Beach
A small, hidden stretch of sand between Sorobon and the mangroves. This less-visited spot offers privacy and natural beauty with minimal development. Bring everything you need as there are no facilities.
Beach Essentials: Bring plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a beach towel or sarong. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent at Sorobon Beach but not at the more secluded spots.
5. Paddleboarding in Crystal Clear Waters
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is perfect for exploring Lac Bay’s calm waters. The bay’s flat surface and shallow depth make it ideal for paddlers of all skill levels, from first-timers to experienced SUP enthusiasts.
Paddleboarding offers a unique perspective of the bay, allowing you to:
- Glide silently over crystal-clear waters
- Spot marine life from above
- Explore areas too shallow for boats
- Enjoy a full-body workout while taking in the scenery
You can rent paddleboards from several operators at Sorobon Beach, with hourly and daily rates available. Some places also offer brief introductory lessons if you’re new to the sport.
Best Time for Paddleboarding: Early mornings offer the calmest conditions before the wind picks up for the windsurfers. This is also when you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife and enjoying peaceful solitude on the water.
6. Photography Opportunities
Lac Bay is a photographer’s paradise, offering diverse landscapes and activities to capture. Some of the best photo opportunities include:
Landscape Photography
- Sunrise over the mangroves with golden light filtering through the trees
- The contrast between turquoise waters and white sand beaches
- Colorful windsurfing sails against the blue sky
- Panoramic views from the lookout point near Sorobon
Wildlife Photography
- Birds feeding in the shallow waters, including herons and flamingos
- Underwater scenes of fish and coral (with appropriate underwater camera gear)
- Unique mangrove ecosystems with their distinctive root systems
- Donkeys that occasionally wander near the roads around Lac Bay
Photography Tip: The “golden hours” shortly after sunrise and before sunset offer the most flattering light for photography at Lac Bay. The midday sun can be harsh, though it does create those vibrant blue water colors that the Caribbean is famous for.
7. Kiteboarding at Atlantis Beach
While not directly in Lac Bay but nearby, Atlantis Beach (also known as Kite Beach) is worth mentioning for those interested in kiteboarding. Located on the southern coast of Bonaire, this beach offers excellent conditions for kiteboarding with consistent winds and a designated area for the sport.
Several schools offer lessons and equipment rental, making it accessible for beginners while also providing challenges for experienced kiteboarders.
Experience More of Bonaire’s Water Sports
Expand your adventure beyond Lac Bay with kiteboarding lessons at nearby Atlantis Beach.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Lac Bay
What to Bring
Preparing properly for your visit to Lac Bay will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Essential Items
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect both your skin and the marine environment with mineral-based sunscreen free of oxybenzone and octinoxate
- Water Shoes: Essential for navigating rocky areas and protecting feet from sea urchins
- Hat and Sunglasses: The Caribbean sun is intense, even on cloudy days
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated in the tropical heat
- Cash: Many smaller establishments don’t accept credit cards
Activity-Specific Gear
- Snorkeling Equipment: Bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins if possible
- Rash Guard: Provides sun protection during water activities
- Dry Bag: Keeps valuables protected during water sports
- Beach Towel or Sarong: Lightweight options that dry quickly
- Waterproof Camera: For capturing underwater memories
Safety Considerations
Lac Bay is generally very safe, but keep these tips in mind:
- Sun Protection: The Caribbean sun is stronger than you might expect. Reapply sunscreen every 60-70 minutes, especially after swimming
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration
- Marine Life Awareness: Don’t touch coral or marine creatures, and watch for sea urchins when wading
- Wind Conditions: Be aware that wind can pick up suddenly, particularly in the afternoon
- Reef Protection: When snorkeling, maintain proper buoyancy to avoid damaging coral
Environmental Etiquette
Bonaire is committed to conservation, and visitors are expected to follow these practices:
- Use only reef-safe sunscreen products
- Never touch or stand on coral
- Take all trash with you, including biodegradable items
- Stay on designated paths when near mangroves
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance
- Follow all guidelines from the Bonaire National Marine Park
Nature Fee: All visitors to Bonaire’s marine park (including Lac Bay) must pay a nature fee that supports conservation efforts. The fee is $45 for divers and $25 for non-divers, valid for one calendar year. You can pay this fee online before your trip or upon arrival.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Understanding local customs will enhance your experience:
- Bonaire operates on “island time” – services may move at a relaxed pace
- Casual attire is acceptable everywhere, though cover-ups are expected when not on the beach
- Tipping is customary (15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars)
- Basic greetings in Papiamentu (the local language) are appreciated: “Bon dia” (good day) and “Danki” (thank you)
- Respect quiet hours if staying near residential areas
Experience the Magic of Lac Bay, Bonaire
Lac Bay offers a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and relaxation that makes it one of Bonaire’s most treasured destinations. From the thrill of catching your first wind while windsurfing to the peaceful exploration of ancient mangrove forests, the experiences here connect you with nature in meaningful ways.
What makes Lac Bay truly special is its preserved state – the result of decades of conservation efforts by the people of Bonaire. By visiting respectfully and supporting local businesses, you contribute to the ongoing protection of this natural wonder for future generations.
Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water, tranquility on pristine beaches, or connection with unique ecosystems, Lac Bay delivers unforgettable experiences that will call you back to Bonaire’s shores time and again.
Ready to Experience Lac Bay?
Start planning your Bonaire adventure today!
The above is subject to change.
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