Angel City is one of Bonaire’s most unforgettable shore dives. With easy beach access, vibrant marine life, and a spectacular double reef, it’s a must-see for divers of all levels. This dive spot is packed with surprises and lives up to its heavenly name.
Welcome to Angel City, where sand channels, coral gardens, and a second reef just a few fin kicks away create magic below the surface. Tucked close to the southern stretch of Bonaire’s coastline, this is more than just a beautiful dive—it’s an experience.
Where is Angel City located?
Angel City is just south of Kralendijk, near the Salt Pier. You’ll find it between Alice in Wonderland and the ever-popular Hilma Hooker wreck. It’s easy to spot: a yellow mooring buoy and yellow stone marks the site. Pull up, gear up, and walk right in. The beach entry makes it great for shore diving and snorkeling alike.
How to reach the dive site?
Drive along the southern coast of Bonaire, and when you see the bright yellow buoy and stone, you’ve found Angel City. There’s ample space to park your car nearby. Suit up right at the car, take a few steps across the rocky shoreline, and you’re in. No boats, no hassle—just you and the Caribbean Sea.
The first reef begins just a short swim from shore. Cross the sandy patch—often patrolled by southern stingrays—and the second reef will rise before your eyes. It’s like diving into a hidden world.
What makes Angel City special?
This dive site is named after the angel fish that frequent the area, and yes—you’ll see plenty. But the real gem? That double reef structure. It’s rare, it’s striking, and it’s full of life. Between the reefs, the sand channel acts like a superhighway for marine creatures: garden eels, eagle rays, and the occasional turtle.
The layout is perfect for underwater photography. Macro lovers can find shrimp and nudibranchs, while wide-angle shooters will love the coral bridges and large schools of fish. With a max depth of around 40 meters, but loads to see at just 10-15 meters, you don’t have to go deep to get wowed.
Sunwise’s diving experience at Angel City
We love recommending Angel City to our guests. It’s easy to reach, the current is usually mild, and visibility often reaches between 15-30 meters. We’ve spotted everything from moray eels and parrotfish to elusive frogfish hiding in sponges.
It’s a fantastic first dive of your trip or a chilled farewell splash before flying out. The reef always seems to show us something new.
Great marine life!
Expect to meet trumpetfish, angelfish, filefish, and maybe even a scorpionfish lurking under a ledge. Don’t forget to check the sand for jawfish and flounders. Oh—and those eagle rays? Jaw-dropping. Night dives turn things up a notch: octopuses, hunting jacks, and tarpons cruise the reef like it’s theirs (and, well, it kinda is).
Water conditions at Angel City
You’ll typically enjoy warm waters—between 27 and 29°C—with a visibility average of 20 meters. The reef is fairly sheltered, which makes it a smart pick for beginners, snorkelers, and casual divers looking for a relaxed outing.
Diving conditions
The depth starts at around 4.5 meters and goes to about 40 meters. Most of the action, though, happens in that sweet spot between 8 and 20 meters. Bring a dive light—even during the day—and peek into coral nooks. That’s where the real stars hide.
Sunwise’s snorkeling experience
Snorkelers, listen up! You don’t need to go deep to be dazzled at Angel City. Just float along the shallow reef and look down—fish, coral, and the occasional seahorse will make you feel like you’re flying. The entry is gentle enough to wade in without fins.
You’re never far from the reef here, and the colors pop even in just a few feet of water.
The best tips for your visit
Best time to dive at Angel City?
Morning dives are magical. The sunlight hits the coral just right, especially between the twin reefs. Midday dives give you full brightness, ideal for spotting colors and fish. If you’re feeling brave, go at sunset or night for the nocturnal critter show.
What is nearby?
You’re minutes from other dive sites, like Alice in Wonderland and Hilma Hooker. When you’re done, swing by the Kite City food truck at Te Amo Beach for fish tacos. Or head into Kralendijk for shopping and sunset cocktails.
Beaches and snacks
Angel City doesn’t have a sandy beach, but nearby you’ll find Donkey Beach and Pink Beach for a relaxing post-dive dip. Want something more local? Grab a pastechi and a cold drink from a foodtruck nearby.
Vacation rentals near Angel City
Stay close and dive often. Sunwise offers several rentals in the Punt Vierkant area, just minutes from Angel City. Favorites include Belmar Oceanfront Apartments, Villa Wayaka, and Kas Vis. Perfect for spontaneous dives and quick gear rinses.
Sunwise’s hidden gems
Local tip
Want to beat the crowd? Head out just after sunrise for a solo swim through the reefs, when marine life is at its liveliest and visibility is crystal clear. Bonus: you’ll have the parking and fish all to yourself!
Vacation rental you must see
Our star? Kas Flamingo in Punt Vierkant. This stylish, comfortable home is just a short drive from Angel City, offering peace, privacy, and fast access to the reef. Dive in the morning, relax on the porch by noon.
Angel City—an underwater escape like no other
If you’re after a dive site that blends beauty, ease, and variety, Angel City has it all. From shallow snorkeling spots to deep coral channels, from frogfish to eagle rays—it’s an underwater playground waiting to be explored.
Still curious? Browse our full dive site map and uncover even more Bonaire favorites approved by the Sunwise team here.
