Oil Slick Leap is one of the most thrilling Bonaire dive sites, with cliff jumps, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and easy access. Dive or snorkel right in, explore coral reefs, and stay just minutes away in stunning coastal villas.
Welcome to one of the quirkiest names and most epic shore dives on the island: Oil Slick Leap. Don’t worry—there’s no oil and no slick. Just crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, a cliffy jump-in spot, and a vibrant reef teeming with marine life. If you’re ticking off Bonaire dive sites, this one’s an absolute must.
Where is Oil Slick Leap located?
Oil Slick Leap sits just a few minutes north of Kralendijk, along Bonaire’s scenic coastal road. Tucked between other popular Bonaire dive sites like Andrea I and 1000 Steps, it’s easy to reach and hard to forget. Don’t let the industrial-sounding name fool you—this is pure Caribbean diving magic.
How to reach the dive site?
Hop in your rental truck and head north out of Kralendijk. Look for the yellow stone marking “Oil Slick Leap.” There’s parking right at the site. The entry point is just a few steps from your car, making it one of the easiest shore dives logistics-wise. No gentle beach stroll here. Just gear up, take a deep breath, and jump off the edge of a low limestone cliff into the warm water. Don’t want to jump? No problem. There’s a steel ladder for entry and exit. Either way, the shore dive here is a thrill.
What makes Oil Slick Leap so special?
First of all, the entry. It’s not your typical slow walk into the ocean. Here, you can leap straight off a low cliff or descend using a handy steel ladder. The reef starts close to shore and slopes gently into the blue, offering coral gardens and a wild mix of marine life. It’s also usually less crowded than some of the southern dive sites.
So, what’s the deal with the name?
Let’s clear this up first. “Oil Slick Leap” sounds messy, but it’s just a throwback to a plan for an oil terminal that never happened. Thankfully, nature won that round. Now, it’s just you, a rusty steel ladder, a 2-meter leap, and endless blue beneath.
Sunwise’s diving experience at Oil Slick Leap
Diving Oil Slick Leap always feels like a private show. The calm waters, epic visibility, and steady conditions make this a reliable spot year-round. At Sunwise, we often recommend it to our guests who want a fun, scenic, and uncomplicated dive.
Amazing marine life!
You’ll meet schools of parrotfish, cruising barracudas, camouflaged frogfish, and maybe even a curious sea turtle. Near the drop-off, keep an eye out for hunting jacks. And in the coral nooks? Seahorses love it there.
Water conditions at Oil Slick Leap? Nice and tropical!
Expect 27–29°C water temps and visibility up to 30 meters. There’s little current, making it perfect for relaxed dives or a long second tank. Oh, and the sunsets after your dive? Unreal.
Diving conditions
Depth ranges from 6 meters at the reef top to over 40 meters beyond the slope. Most of the action happens between 10 and 25 meters. Don’t forget to bring a dive light—even in daylight, it reveals hidden reef details.
Sunwise’s snorkeling experience
Yep, snorkelers love Oil Slick Leap too! Stick close to the cliff, where coral heads and reef fish come right up to the surface. The steel ladder makes getting in and out super easy—even without fins. Just be mindful of dive bubbles below!
The best tips for your visit
Best time to dive at Oil Slick Leap?
Morning dives are your best bet—calmer seas, fewer people, and stunning light on the reef. Plus, that’s when the fish are out and about. Around midday, the sun hits the coral just right, and colors really pop. Prefer something mysterious? Go late. Evening dives often come with bonus sightings: octopus, tarpon, maybe even a hunting jack.
What is nearby?
Oil Slick Leap is just a few minutes from the Caribbean Club and several other cozy northern rentals. It’s a quiet stretch of coast—no beach bars or crowds—but you’re only a short drive from dive shops, snack stops, and town life. After your dive, head south for a cold drink or a warm snack.
Beaches and snacks
No sandy beach at Oil Slick Leap—just rocks and reef. But that’s part of the charm. Want to chill after your dive? Cruise five minutes to Eden Beach or Coco Beach for a swim and a cocktail. Food trucks in town serve everything from lionfish burgers to local goat stew.
Top tips before you go
- Bring booties or solid sandals—the rocks can be slippery when wet.
- Respect the reef. That means: look, don’t touch.
- You’ll need a valid STINAPA tag—it’s your reef pass and protects marine life.
- And yes, morning dives are absolutely worth the early wake-up.
Accommodations near Oil Slick Leap
Want to stay close? The El Pueblo Villas are ideal for divers looking for quick access to northern dive sites like Oil Slick Leap. Located in the serene El Pueblo community, these villas offer stunning cliffside views, cooling trade winds, and total relaxation after a dive.
Sunwise’s hidden gems
Insider tip from a local
Want the reef all to yourself? Go around 7:30 a.m. before the crowd hits. And bring a flashlight—you’ll spot shy creatures hiding in the sponges.
Vacation rental you must see
Our pick? Kas Très – located right in front of Oil Slick Leap. This seafront villa offers unbeatable access to one of Bonaire’s top dive sites, with breathtaking ocean views, a private pool, and direct access to the coast. Wake up to the sound of the sea, gear up on your own terrace, and take the plunge just steps from your door. It’s the ultimate diver’s retreat.
Why we love Oil Slick Leap (and you will too)
Of all the Bonaire dive sites, Oil Slick Leap hits that sweet spot: thrilling, scenic, rich in marine life, and just a little offbeat. You don’t need a boat. You don’t need a guide. Just you, your gear, and a splash of courage.
So what are you waiting for? Oil Slick Leap is calling—time to dive in.
Discover even more top dive sites here and check out the full map of all Bonaire’s dive sites below.
