Frequently Asked Questions

General

Washington Slagbaai National Park

Marine Park Rules

Research permits

Who needs to purchase the Nature Fee? 

All visitors entering the sea in Bonaire. Exemptions include residents (with an official ID) of Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, Saba and children under 12 years old.

 

I’m only going to swim, do I pay less? 

No. In the past, there were two types of Nature Fee, one for scuba divers and one for other activities. Since January 1st 2023, all visitors pay the same price: $40. This Nature Fee allows you access to the Bonaire National Marine Park, meaning the beautiful light blue waters around the entire island and Washington Slagbaai National Park.

I purchased my nature fee, but haven’t received the QR code. What do I do?
After your purchase, you’ll receive an email from noreply@bonairenaturefee.org. Please check your spam or junk box. If it is not there, send us your date of birth and full name to info@stinapa.org so we can re-sent it.

Until when is my nature fee valid? 
It’s valid for one calendar year, from January 1st to Decemeber 31st.

 

 

 

When is the park open?
The park is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8AM to 5PM. Visitors are welcome to enter until 2.30PM.

Do I need a SUV to visit the park?
It’s not required. However, STINAPA does recommend vehicles with high-ground clearance. For example: Jeep, Jimmy, Pickup, and SUVs. Vehicles with low ground clearance can also be allowed, depending on the conditions of the road. This safety decision is up to the rangers at the booth. There are also tours available if you don’t have a suitable vehicle yourself. You can visit www.bonaireisland.com for information about tours. (Please note the speed limit in the park is 25km/h)

Can I enter with a golf cart?

Unfortunately, ATVs, quads, golfcarts, dirtbikes, crossers, and scooters, are not allowed in the park. Please read above which vehicles are acceptable.

Can I stay at the park?
Yes, plan your stay here. 

Where can I swim with my dog?
These are the zones allowed.

Is fishing allowed? 
Yes. However, there are zones, protected species, tools, and seasons that need to be taken into account. Read more here.

When is lobster season?
Lobster season is open from November 1st to April 30th.

Don't forget

Pay your nature fee

The Stinapa Bonaire nature fee is mandatory for all users of the Bonaire National Marine Park and the Washington Slagbaai National Park.

Valid per calendar year JAN-DEC

Pay your nature fee