Something Special is one of the most accessible and vibrant Bonaire dive sites. With easy entry, colorful marine life, and a reef teeming with surprises, this close-to-town shore dive truly lives up to its name.
Welcome to one of the most inviting dive sites on Bonaire: Something Special. Despite its simple name, it offers rich reef life, calm conditions, and a great location just steps from Kralendijk. For divers and snorkelers alike, this site really is… something special.
Where is Something Special located?
Something Special sits just north of downtown Kralendijk, near Playa Pabou and the marina. It’s easy to miss if you’re not looking, but once you know where to park, you’re only a few fin-kicks from a beautiful reef system. This location is especially popular with underwater photographers and snorkelers thanks to its calm water and rich biodiversity.
How to reach the dive site?
Drive towards the beginning of the boulevard of Kralendijk and look for parking near the water’s edge—close to the Yellow Submarine dive center. The site is directly at the start of the boulevard, and local divers know the spot. Gear up at your vehicle, walk a short distance, and enter the water via a coral sand, sandy shoreline.
The reef starts close to shore, so you’ll be surrounded by marine life almost immediately. No cliffs, no ladders—just a simple, smooth entry into clear, warm Caribbean waters.
What makes Something Special so special?
“Something Special” might sound vague, but it’s a long-time favorite among local dive guides. The name came from early divers who didn’t quite know what to call it—just that it was… well, special. It stuck. And now it’s one of the most visited dive and snorkel sites on the island.
Next off: the reef. It may not be the deepest or the most dramatic, but it’s absolutely packed with life. From the moment you enter the water, you’ll see schools of fish swirling, corals glowing, and maybe even a turtle cruising by.
This dive site is also great for macro life—frogfish, nudibranchs, and shrimp hide in the coral nooks. If you’re into underwater photography, you’ll find plenty of opportunities here. And because it’s close to town, you can even squeeze in a dive between lunch and sunset cocktails.
Sunwise’s diving experience at Something Special
We often recommend this site to guests who want something easy and rewarding. There’s very little current, excellent visibility, and a reef system that always seems to surprise us. Even when we think we’ve seen it all, Something Special throws in a seahorse, a scorpionfish, or a school of squid.
This spot is ideal for both a first dive on Bonaire and a last relaxing one before flying out.
Great marine life!
Expect everything from trumpetfish and parrotfish to moray eels and spotted drum. Seahorses are often seen here, clinging to coral with their tails. Look carefully and you might find a frogfish tucked into a sponge. At night, octopuses and tarpons patrol the reef, giving this place a whole new vibe.
This is also one of the best snorkel spots on Bonaire, with plenty of fish visible even in the shallowest areas.
Water conditions at Something Special
Water temperatures typically range between 27–29°C and visibility often exceeds 25 meters. The site is mostly sheltered from wind and waves, making it ideal for beginners and underwater photographers. Even if you’re short on time, this is the kind of site you can dive in under an hour and still come back raving.
Diving conditions
Depth ranges from 3 meters near shore to around 30 meters further out. Most of the action takes place between 8 and 20 meters. Use a dive light to uncover hidden creatures and details in the coral.
Sunwise’s snorkeling experience
Snorkelers love this site for its shallow reef, minimal wave action, and easy access. Swim along the edge of the reef and you’ll find yourself immersed in a colorful underwater world. Be sure to keep an eye on your surroundings—some divers may be just below.
The easy walk-in entry makes getting in and out of the water a breeze, even without fins.
The best tips for your visit
Best time to dive at Something Special?
Morning dives offer clear light and calm conditions, especially ideal for macro photography. Midday dives bring out the vibrant colors in the reef. Evening dives? That’s when the night shift comes out—octopuses, tarpons, and hunting jacks.
What is nearby?
The dive site is just minutes from central Kralendijk. After your dive, walk to a nearby restaurant for a nice lunch or dinner. Dive shops, grocery stores, and cocktail bars are all within easy reach.
Beaches and snacks
There’s no beach at the site itself—just a rocky shoreline—but Coco Beach and Eden Beach are nearby if you want a post-dive swim or cocktail. Want something more local? Have a pastechi and a beer at a nearby snack.
Top tips before you go
- Wear booties or solid sandals—the entry can be a bit rocky.
- Don’t touch the reef—just watch and enjoy.
- Make sure you have your STINAPA tag before diving.
- Bring a flashlight—even for daytime dives.
Accommodations near Something Special
Want to stay close? We have many vacation rentals in Kralendijk center and on the boulevard—ideal for quick tank refills and spontaneous dives. For example: Seaside Apartments, Elegancia Ocean View, and Playa Lechi Penthouse, all within walking distance of Something Special. You’ll also find dive schools and rental shops just around the corner.
Sunwise’s hidden gems
Insider tip from a local
Go around 8 a.m. to have the reef all to yourself. Bring a flashlight for peeking into coral holes—you might spot a seahorse or cleaner shrimp waiting for clients.
Vacation rental you must see
Our pick? Beach House Sea You Soon — located only steps away from Something Special. This oceanfront house offers unbeatable proximity to one of Bonaire’s top dive sites, with stunning sea views, private access to the boulevard, and everything you need for the perfect dive holiday. Gear up and be in the water within minutes!
So… is it really “something special”?
Absolutely. This site delivers a dive experience packed with color, life, and surprises. No boat required. No hassle. Just you, your gear, and a slice of reef paradise. So grab your fins, check your gear, and discover why this is one of the top Bonaire dive sites.
Something Special is calling. Don’t keep it waiting.
Ready to explore more? Browse our full dive site map or check out more Sunwise-approved snorkeling and diving spots across Bonaire here.
