Situated just north of the equator, Bonaire enjoys one of the Caribbeanâs gentlest climates. Truly tropical, Bonaire sees extremely little seasonal variation in sunshine hours and both sea and air temperatures. Although rainfall is characteristically the only feature that alters throughout the year, it is still very minimal. An easterly trade wind is also present throughout the year and provides a fresh relief from the daytime sweltering temperatures and high humidity levels. This wind is also responsible for the rough water conditions on the east side of the island and the calm on the west. Relative humidity remains fairly constant throughout the year averaging around 85% during the hottest hours of the day before lowering down to 65% by the evening. The crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reef surrounding Bonaire provide ideal diving and snorkelling conditions. Given its climatic similarities, Bonaire naturally only receives two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry.
Wet Season
The short rainy season generally only lasts from the beginning of October until mid-January. Throughout this time the island receives approximately 320mm of rainfall, which is barely enough to actually class this season as âwetâ. Daily temperatures range from 27ºC to 29ºC and will commonly exceed 30ºC. Although rainfall is more common than any other point of the year, sunshine hours are still long assuring to never spoil a vacation. Hurricanes are also known to hit the Caribbean region at this time of the year. Bonaire is ideally situated in the southern area of the Caribbean and hurricanes passing from the north generally miss Bonaire and its surrounding islands before sweeping back out into the Atlantic.
Dry Season
Expanding from mid-January all the way until September, the extensive dry season is Bonaireâs most favourable period as hundreds of tourists flock the island year after year. Precipitation levels over the nine month dry season average at a tiny 200mm. This provides endless hours of sunshine and daily temperatures above 30ºC. Sea temperatures remain very similar to air temperatures; however they are still a very soothing way to freshen up after a long day in the sun. Travellers to the island should always make sure to use plenty of sun protection year round, particularly throughout the dry season as heat stroke is very common.