Ten Things to Make Bonaire Shore Diving Easier!

Are you traveling to Bonaire to shore dive? Would you like to know ten things you can do to make your Bonaire shore diving experience easier and more enjoyable? Well that’s what this video is all about!
Bonaire is the #1 shore diving destination in the Caribbean for a reason. It’s awesome! Beautiful water, beautiful reef and abundant marine life; all easily accessible from shore. Bonaire shore diving is probably a bit different than diving your local beaches, lakes or quarries. It’s even different than other Caribbean shore diving destinations like St. Croix, Cayman Brac and Curacao.
Bonaire shore diving is different for two main reasons:
#1. 80 to 90% of the dive sites are isolated in that they’re not near a town, or services you might need (emergency services, automotive services, a phone…). You need to be self sufficient and self reliant.
#2. Bonaire, compared to other shore dive destinations, has very different terrain. You won’t be entering the water from a sandy beach or a boat ramp. You won’t have nice ladders or stairs into the water (unless you’re diving a dive resort’s house reef). The coast of Bonaire is rugged with jagged iron shore, beaches of coral rubble that shift under your feet and slimy, slippery hard pack leading into the water. Once in the water, you may have to step down onto unknown ground with ankle twisting holes combined with an ever changing bottom. There are hidden coral heads and rocks that move with the surf. Pretty much everything in between your rental truck and you floating in the water is designed to make you slip and fall. I don’t say this to discourage you. shore diving Bonaire is AWESOME! It’s total dive freedom. Dive where you want, when you want. Thousands of people happily shore dive Bonaire every year.
But why not make it as easy and as comfortable as possible?
This list will do just that. These are ten things that you can do or bring to Bonaire that will make your shore diving experience Easier and more Enjoyable. Make sure you watch until the end of the video, because there is a BONUS tip - something you’re going to love.
If you like the video, please give it a thumbs and leave us a comment. We’d love to know what you found most helpful. Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you at the next dive site!
Links to purchase items mentioned/seen in this video (Check with your LDS too):
Bonaire Shore Diving Made Easy www.bsdme.info/order.html
Reef Smart Guide to Bonaire amzn.to/3i3Ak4S
Trekking Poles (Walking Stick) amzn.to/3Fa1ClR
Latex Tubing for tank straps amzn.to/3BLqs7C
Bungee Material for tank straps amzn.to/375dQKA
Bare Evoke 5mm women's wetsuit amzn.to/3nC7ivM
NeoSport 3mm X-SPAN jacket amzn.to/3so54SE
Frogskins 1.5mm neoprene top www.probewetsuits.com/shop/ca...
Fourth Element Amphibian Dive Boot amzn.to/3x8Q1vN
Tusa Imprex Dive Boot amzn.to/3ycfFB6
Tusa Spring Straps for Fins amzn.to/3BPSzT0
Universal Spring Straps for Fins amzn.to/376xqpA
Fin Keeper amzn.to/3TtBnvi
Suunto Dive Compass amzn.to/3BNQNBR
Small Dry Box amzn.to/3zJzwIy
Scuba Tank O-Ring Kit amzn.to/372Hik6
Inflator Adaptor amzn.to/3iTFrUn
Air 2 Adaptor for Inflator Adaptor amzn.to/3l0qT8f
Hero Clip - Medium amzn.to/2VfMPkI
Hero Clip - Small amzn.to/3rEe7h5
Hero Clip - Mini amzn.to/3l4313l
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A special thanks to our favorite Bonaire dive shop, Tropical Divers, for allowing us to use their sign in our opening montage! tropicaldiversbonaire.com/
Opening montage music (licensed thru artlist.io) - I Promise performed by Ian Post
Our Studio Setup
24 x 36 Light Kit amzn.to/3iR5eN3
20 x 28 Light Kit amzn.to/2VffYN0
GoPro Tripod Stand amzn.to/3rBHfFz
GoPro Hero 7 Black Camera amzn.to/2UTWHRw
GoPro microphone adapter amzn.to/3BONTNi
GoPro Vlog Case amzn.to/3zHQLK5
Edutige ETM-001 amzn.to/2UMhlmJ
Edutige microphone cable www.edutige.net/shop/el-030/
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White Seamless Background amzn.to/3l44GG7
Additional Gear for Outdoor Video
Microphone Wind Muffs amzn.to/3iUmbGn
Polarizing Camera Lens Filter amzn.to/2Vi3unJ
Portable mini camera tripod amzn.to/3BIGlMh
Suction cup camera mount amzn.to/3iMwxb6
DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links when available. If you click one of the affiliate links and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission.
** SCUBA diving can be dangerous. Dive at your own risk. **

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Links to items mentioned in the video are in the description (down arrow to the right of the title).

[@tombergamini2453]

I'm not finding the links because I'm not finding a down arrow. I see a DOWNLOAD arrow which takes me to an ad for KZbin Premium, which I don't have. I'd appreciate any help you can offer. Thank you.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

@@tombergamini2453 are you on a PC or laptop? If so look for the "show more" link at the bottom of the description. On a mobile device, there's an upside down ^ next to the title. I hope this helps. Let me know.

[@Mollyream]

@@KevinandLizGrogan I am still not seeing the links on my Samsung phone. ??

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

@@Mollyream they’re in the written video description. Depending on the device there’s a down arrow you have to press or a “see more” button.

[@maureenmcdonald-michalski5249]

Love your video. I am on my 2nd trip there. I rent scooters there, so fun. I scuba there too. Love it.

[@martinschuessler1936]

Many thanks for your recommendations. The number one thing that we kept commenting on was the mask/fin keeper that you clip to your BC. I bought those on your recommendation and they were worth their weight in gold! Super highly recommended!

[@savannahcochrane1080]

This was incredibly helpful!! Thank you for making these videos!

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching!

[@SkyyBluChic]

Thanks for the tips! I've been diving all over the world, but haven't been shore diving before. This video really helps to gain some perspective on what I may need for the trip.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks Stacy! I really appreciate the feedback. Shore diving is total freedom; enjoy your trip!

[@johnkirkenir2015]

We really enjoyed your video and as we watched it we ordered virtually every item suggested from Amazon. Used it all (tire inflator was key, so were the trekking poles). We actually had some other divers come up to us and asked if we watched your video. Thanks made our trip very enjoyable.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Awesome John, we’re glad the tips helped! Thanks so much for taking time to come back to the video and leave feedback. It means a lot. Congrats on a great Bonaire trip!

[@TotalEpicAdventures]

Bravo!! Love the video and the Top 10 + 1 tips :) It's not often that I have my mind blown, but a few of your tips were like, WOW, what a simple, yet great idea. The tire inflator suggestion still has me smiling. Happy Diving!

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks TEA!! We’re so happy you found the video helpful!

[@toddchannell1890]

Great video

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks Todd!

[@vahinewahine916]

hi there! just wanted to say a general comment that I've watched most of your Bonaire videos and they've been a wonderful resource for me. I'm "just" a snorkeler but I've been to many of the sites noted here. I especially appreciate how you show the access to the site (where to park, how to enter).

[@21Lillith]

Great video. The stick and the last trick with the tire thingy are brilliant. My husband and I joke there’s no graceful entries and exits on Bonaire . I’ve fallen on and crushed an expensive camera strobe so I will certainly be getting a stick for myself.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks so much for taking time to comment Mel! Like I say in the video, using a stick will change your Bonaire shore diving forever! Check out the link in the video description for a good, sturdy pair of trekking poles. Let's hope all this "covidness" ends soon, so we can get back to Bonaire. Thanks again!

[@toddlichtenstein5892]

Thanks so much for all the tips. We just got back from Bonaire. We bought walking sticks and we also switch to smaller tanks (60's). This made all the difference for us old shore divers. We still prefer boat dives but we actually did do a fair amount of shore diving for the first time. We also love the fin keepers.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks so much for the feedback Todd! We’re so glad you had a great trip and found the tips helpful. We’re also jealous you were in Bonaire! Our fingers are crossed for our upcoming trip.

[@toddlichtenstein5892]

@@KevinandLizGrogan American and Delta will be flying to Bonaire non stop from tomorrow June 5. United is still saying they won't start until November but I hope that will change

[@gklearnerpoint1489]

Super 👌

[@joelclappe203]

Great video. Oring tip should be number one. My dry box experience was on the hilma hooker. Got almost to the wreck an my box to imploded . Very unnerving sound. Luckily it was in my bc pocket. Anyways.... good tips for divers

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Gotta love hearing a mysterious “whoomp” when you’re in/on a wreck... Thanks for watching Joel!

[@emma100908]

Excellent video! I would love to see one on the entry/exit of Bari reef. When we stopped by there was no one getting in or out so we feared we were in the wrong area.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks Emma! We'll add Bari to our list.

[@rosedarlington2290]

Hi Kev & Liz really enjoyed watching your Bonaire top tips as we have a trip coming up this summer. I have a query, I've found TUSA Imprex in a slippers form as well as the boot. The soles appear to be the same. I was contemplating the slipper due to the weight and the fact we won't need the warmth, as a first time visitor to Bonaire the unknown for me is the terrain. Would you mind commenting on whether you think the slipper will be suitable or I should stick with the reccomend boot instead ? Also do you lock your truck whilst diving, we have had a comment from else where to not lock the truck ? Many thanks for your help Rose

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Hi Rose! I think slipper vs boot is really a preference thing. With that said my only experience with a low rise/slipper is with the 3mm Seasoft Sunray (more low cut boot than slipper). While the sole was perfect for Bonaire, I found that the thin material combined with the lower cut, caused consistent heel slip. I gave them to a dive buddy of mine, and still uses them today (years later), so go figure. Are you snorkeling or diving? If diving I’d say go with the boot. Regardless the extra material over your ankles will provide additional protection from scrapes and bumps when entering the water. Just my two cents. And yes, do not lock your truck at the dive sites. It’s also good habit to roll down a window or two. Do not leave anything of value in the truck while diving. An old towel and t-shirt are typically ok to leave, but nothing that you can’t live without if taken. Petty theft at dive sites is indeed a thing, but not rampant, and not 100% guaranteed to happen. But, it DOES happen often, so don’t make yourself a target. And it’s not always locals. Our fellow divers are often opportunistic thieves as well. Have a great trip! Kevin

[@toddlichtenstein5892]

I just bought a set of walking sticks. They come as a pair because normally one would use both of them. Would you recommend using both poles or is one enough for shore diving?

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Hi Todd! I’ve only ever used one. My other hand is normally holding my camera. You could always offer the 2nd stick to your dive buddy, or keep it as a back up. Thanks for watching!

[@richardlang3460]

I bought a 'dry box' case that looked similar to that at a dive shop; I think it was meant for snorkeling. Failed badly and came open on a dive. I've had better luck by far with the sealable plastic pouch products. Some modern key fobs are electronic, and leaving it in the truck during a dive not wise. A reliable pouch is a big deal.

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Thanks Richard, pouches are a great idea! Although I must say that the small dry boxes that Liz and I use haven’t failed us in hundreds of Bonaire shore dives. You also make an excellent point about the electronic key fobs. We recommend NEVER taking your key underwater with you. Every dive spot has plenty of great hiding spots. Thanks again!

[@vahinewahine916]

@@KevinandLizGrogan funny story on our first trip we had a waterproof pouch fail on us and it flooded the keyfob. Thankfully we had paid the extra $4/day for 'comprehensive' insurance thru our car rental company and they didn't even care when we told them about it. Thank goodness!!

[@qdroman]

As someone that has truck problems on Bonaire I like the tire inflator idea . But I am uncertain about how the two items work together. I have an Air 2 BCD. Amazon doesn’t know it will be available but other sites may have it. Do you have descriptions of putting it together. Photos?

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

The adaptor for the tire inflator plugs into the inflator hose of your reg set up. The tire inflator then plugs into the adaptor. Air 2 users need the adaptor because the connector on the end of the inflator hose is different from just the normal inflator. Clear as mud? It really is easy; just like plugging the hose into the BCD.

[@c0kement0s]

Someone told me walking sticks are illegal in Bonaire. I have one anyway as it makes no sense why you cant make your entry and exit easier. Thanks! Understand me tomorrow!

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

This has been a subject of debate for many years. They are not illegal. In addition I can find nowhere in their policies, nor can anyone else show me, where STINAPA forbids the use of sticks/canes/poles for entering and exiting the water at the shoreline. The use of the stick as a pointer or steadying mechanism DURING the dive is definitely prohibited. When using the stick to enter and exit the water at the shoreline, take care to only place the stick where you would otherwise place your feet. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching!

[@davegink9222]

Leaving this Friday. Are those dive site guide books available on the island?

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

Bonaire Shore Diving Made Easy should be available at the larger dive shops. I left mine at home a few years ago, and picked one up at the Dive Friends Delfin resort location. I’m not sure about the Reef Smart guide, but Amazon can probably get it to you before you leave. Have a great trip!

[@davegink9222]

@@KevinandLizGrogan Thanks so much! Now I just wish you had a packing guide video. 😉

[@KevinandLizGrogan]

We’ll add that to our video list! One quick suggestion you may already know. If you have soft sided luggage, pack your fins in a way (one on each side) that they create hard sides for your bag. This is a great way to protect other gear in your bag.

[@davegink9222]

@@KevinandLizGrogan Thanks so much for the tip!

[@Chogogo717]

I was really bummed out Reef Smart didn’t include Klein, well other than the one site.

[@gabrielafuchs4612]

aquapac rather than the box, less things to hang on yourself and mess with your trim, you can hang it on your neck and keep it under the wetsuit, glasses can go in an old case and keep in your bcd pocket, as for blowing o-rings, just dive DIN, problem solved. i'm not sold on the walking stick, they can make it worse if it gets stuck between the rocks, sink in the sifting grouns as you just mentioned, my recommendation is to gear up in the water

[@AK-rx6hv]

2:00 that's not necessarily true. There's dive resorts with awesome shore reefs with steps down etc