1000 Steps may well be Bonaire's best-known dive and snorkel site. A limestone stairway that descends to a small white beach, followed by a spectacular coral reef where sea turtles are all but guaranteed. But... there aren't a thousand of them. This short guide covers everything you need before you go.
How many steps are there really?
67, to be exact. The name "1000 Steps" is a joke that arose because divers with a tank on their back feel like there are a thousand. Climbing back up with gear after a dive is indeed tough — especially in the heat. For snorkelers it is a lot easier, but still: wear sturdy shoes.
Location and parking
1000 Steps is on Bonaire's west coast, about a 20-minute drive north from Kralendijk — between the dive sites Karpata (further north) and Buddy's Reef (further south).
- Access: along the north coast road
- Parking: along the road at the top, unofficial but free
- Yellow marker stone: "1000 Steps" is clearly painted
- GPS: ~12.226°N, -68.346°W
What do you see underwater?
The reef begins almost immediately from shore — a gradual descent from shallow coral (1–3 m) to a drop-off at around 30 metres. For snorkelers, the first 5–10 metres are already spectacular.
What you will probably see:
- Hawksbill and green sea turtles — all but guaranteed here
- Stoplight parrotfish in every colour phase
- French angelfish and foureye butterflyfish
- Tarpon in schools, especially at dusk
- Octopus in coral crevices
- Moray eels among the rocks
- Living corals: pillar coral, brain coral, soft coral
Who is 1000 Steps for?
Divers
A beloved shore dive. Beginners can stay at 5–15 m, advanced divers head for the drop-off. The water on this west coast is nearly always calm.
Snorkelers
One of the finest snorkel sites on Bonaire. The reef sits just below the surface — no long swim needed.
Best skipped by
- People with knee or back problems (the descent is steep)
- Untrained swimmers (no lifeguard, a limited shallow zone)
- Anyone arriving solo with very heavy gear
Practical tips
- Booties or water shoes are essential. The beach is rocky and the reef starts close in.
- Bring your STINAPA Nature Tag. This site is checked regularly.
- Dive flag. Required for divers — there can be boats in the bay.
- Go early. The best light is in the morning, and it is quieter before 10:00.
- Don't touch. Turtles may not be touched — fines run up to $500.
- Bring water. There are no facilities on site.
- Buddy system. Even for snorkelers: don't go alone.
What if the descent is too much?
A good nearby alternative is Front Porch at Plaza Beach Resort in Kralendijk — an easy entry, similar marine life, no climbing. Or Andrea I/II, also an easy entry.
Best time to visit
- Morning (8:00–11:00): calm, lovely light, cooler
- Late afternoon (15:00–17:00): tarpon active, golden light
- Avoid: midday (the sun beats down on the descent) and Sundays (busiest)