Washington Slagbaai National Park, Bonaire: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Established in 1969 as the first nature sanctuary in the Netherlands Antilles, Washington Slagbaai National Park covers an impressive 5,643 hectares (13,944 acres) of Bonaire’s northern tip — nearly 20% of the island’s total land area. This ecological treasure houses over 200 species of birds, ancient Arawak petroglyphs, and serves as a critical nesting ground for all four Caribbean sea turtle species. As you explore this rugged wilderness, you’ll discover why this protected paradise has become the crown jewel of Bonaire’s natural attractions.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Washington Slagbaai National Park is located in the northwestern part of Bonaire, approximately 35 km (22 miles) from the capital city of Kralendijk. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.

To reach the park, you’ll need to drive north from Kralendijk along the coastal road, passing through Rincon (Bonaire’s oldest settlement). Follow the signs to the park entrance, where you’ll find a visitor center with exhibits about the park’s history and ecology.

Important Planning Tips

• The park is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Last entry to the park is at 2:30 PM
• Bring your nature fee receipt and valid ID
• Pack plenty of water, food, and snacks (no restaurants in the park)
• Wear sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is highly recommended

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

Bonaire enjoys a warm, sunny climate year-round with average temperatures between 24-32°C (75-90°F). The island lies outside the hurricane belt, making it a reliable destination throughout the year.

Getting Around Locally

Navigating Washington Slagbaai National Park requires careful planning and the right vehicle. The park features 34 km (21 miles) of unpaved, rugged roads with challenging terrain.

Vehicle Requirements

STINAPA (the park management organization) strongly recommends vehicles with high ground clearance of at least 30 cm (12 inches). Suitable vehicles include:

• Jeep Wrangler or similar 4WD vehicles
• SUVs with high clearance
• Pickup trucks

Park Routes

There are two main driving routes through the park:

Both routes converge and follow the same path along the western coastline, passing Playa Funchi, Wayaka, and Boca Slagbaai.

Where to Stay

While there are no hotels within Washington Slagbaai National Park itself, you have several accommodation options nearby:

Camping in the Park

For a truly immersive experience, you can stay overnight at Slagbaai by renting one of three cabins located at the Slagbaai lagoon. These basic accommodations allow you to fall asleep to the sound of lapping waves and wake up with the flamingos. Advance reservations are required through STINAPA.

Nearby Accommodations

Dining & Local Cuisine

There are no restaurants within Washington Slagbaai National Park, so you’ll need to bring your own food and drinks for the day. However, there are several dining options before and after your park visit:

Pre-Park Dining Options

• The Real Dutch Bakery: Located on the way to the park, perfect for picking up fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches for your park adventure
• Rose Inn: A local restaurant in Rincon serving authentic Bonairian breakfast
• Posada Para Mira: Offers local cuisine with beautiful views of Rincon

Post-Park Dining Options

• Cadushy Distillery: Stop for a refreshing drink made from local cacti
• John’s Homemade Ice Cream: Cool down with delicious homemade ice cream in Rincon
• Rincon Krioyo: Enjoy authentic local cuisine in a casual setting

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Washington Slagbaai National Park offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Top Beaches & Snorkeling Spots

Scenic Viewpoints

• Seru Bentana: Bonaire’s northernmost lighthouse with panoramic views
• Playa Chikitu: A dramatic windward beach with powerful waves (not for swimming)
• Seru Grandi: Limestone terraces with fossilized coral reefs
• Boka Kokolishi: A beautiful beach scattered with shells and protected tide pools

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Washington Slagbaai National Park is rich in cultural and historical heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into Bonaire’s fascinating past.

Museum & Visitor Center

The park’s entrance features a visitor center with a small museum that showcases:

• The park’s geological formation and natural history
• Indigenous Arawak artifacts and history
• Colonial plantation era exhibits
• Conservation efforts and wildlife information

Historical Sites

Throughout the park, you’ll find remnants of Bonaire’s colonial past:

• Plantation Houses: Historic buildings from when the area was comprised of two of the largest plantations on the island
• Salt Pans: Traditional salt production areas
• Lighthouse: The historic Seru Bentana lighthouse
• Ruins: Remnants of early settlements and industry

Cultural Events

While the park itself doesn’t host regular events, nearby Rincon celebrates several cultural festivals throughout the year:

• Dia di Rincon (April 30): The park is closed for this important cultural celebration in Rincon
• Simadan: Traditional harvest festival with music and dance
• Bonaire Eco Week: Environmental education events that sometimes include park activities

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Hiking Trails

The park features three main hiking trails of varying difficulty:

Wildlife Watching

The park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts with opportunities to observe:

• Flamingos: Four salt lakes (salinas) in the park are home to these iconic pink birds
• Parrots: The endemic Yellow-shouldered Amazon Parrot (Lora)
• Iguanas: The native Bonairian iguana can be spotted throughout the park
• Sea Turtles: The beaches serve as nesting grounds for four species of sea turtles
• Birds: Over 200 species including tropicbirds, frigate birds, and herons

Water Activities

Beyond snorkeling at the beaches mentioned earlier, visitors can enjoy:

• Kayaking: Explore the coastline from Boka Bartol to Boca Slagbaai
• Swimming: Several beaches offer safe swimming areas
• Photography: Capture the dramatic meeting of desert and sea

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Safety Tips

• Hydration: Bring at least 2 liters of water per person
• Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
• Vehicle Preparedness: Ensure your vehicle has adequate fuel (no gas stations in the park)
• Wildlife Awareness: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially iguanas which can be territorial
• Swimming Safety: Only swim in designated areas and never alone
• Hiking Precautions: Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time

Park Etiquette

• Stay on designated roads and trails
• Pack out all trash (no garbage facilities in the park)
• Do not remove rocks, plants, shells, or any natural items
• Observe wildlife from a distance without feeding or disturbing them
• Respect closed or restricted areas
• Follow the 25 km/h (15 mph) speed limit

Cultural Considerations

The park has significant cultural importance to Bonairians:

• Respect historical structures and artifacts
• Learn about the park’s history as plantation land
• Appreciate the conservation efforts that established the park
• Support local communities by visiting businesses in Rincon before or after your park visit

Practical Travel Tips

Nature Fee

All visitors to Washington Slagbaai National Park must pay a nature fee of $40 USD per person, which is valid for one year and also covers the Bonaire National Marine Park. This fee helps maintain the parks and support conservation efforts.

What to Pack

• Nature fee receipt and valid ID
• Plenty of water (minimum 2 liters per person)
• Food and snacks for the day
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Swimwear and towel
• Snorkeling gear if planning to snorkel
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
• Camera and binoculars
• Basic first aid kit
• Park map (available at the visitor center)

Suggested Itinerary

Here’s a sample one-day itinerary for Washington Slagbaai National Park:

• 8:30 AM: Pick up snacks and water in Kralendijk or Rincon
• 9:00 AM: Arrive at the park entrance and visit the museum
• 9:30 AM: Begin driving tour (short or long route)
• 11:00 AM: Snorkeling at Playa Funchi
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at a picnic area
• 1:30 PM: Snorkeling at Wayaka II
• 3:00 PM: Visit Boca Slagbaai and observe flamingos
• 4:00 PM: Begin return journey to exit before 5:00 PM closing
• 5:30 PM: Stop in Rincon for a post-park treat

Ready for Your Washington Slagbaai Adventure?

Washington Slagbaai National Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural history that makes it a must-visit destination on Bonaire. From snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish to hiking the island’s highest peak, from spotting flamingos in their natural habitat to exploring historic plantation ruins, the park provides unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

With proper planning and preparation, your visit to this ecological treasure will surely become a highlight of your Bonaire journey. Remember to respect the park’s natural environment, follow safety guidelines, and take only photographs, leaving nothing but footprints behind.