1000 Steps

1000 Steps (Bonaire North)

Prepare for one of Bonaire's most iconic shore dives at 1000 Steps, a dive site celebrated for its stunning underwater scenery and the memorable entry. While the name suggests a daunting descent, divers will find approximately 67 to 73 limestone steps leading from the coastal road to a picturesque white coral-rubble beach. The "thousand steps" refers to the effort of hauling gear back up, but the reward below the surface makes every step worthwhile.

Diving Conditions and Underwater Topography

This dive site is ideal for beginner divers, requiring only an Open Water Diver certification. We can expect mild to limited currents, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience. The water temperature in Bonaire is consistently warm, typically ranging from 26.3°C in February to 29.3°C in October, making for comfortable diving conditions year-round. Visibility is often excellent, frequently reaching 25 to 30 meters, allowing for breathtaking views of the vibrant reef.

Our dive begins in a shallow coral garden, which gradually slopes to a dramatic drop-off. The reef starts almost immediately from shore, with a gentle descent from 1-3 meters. As we explore, we'll find dense stands of star coral, brain coral, and pillar coral rising like towers from the terrace. The reef also boasts healthy patches of staghorn coral, gorgonian, and sea fans. The average depth for exploring the vibrant reef life is around 20 meters, with the drop-off plunging to a maximum depth of 40 meters. While the main activity is often found in shallower areas, typically between 10-15 meters, the deeper sections offer further exploration for those with appropriate certification. Divers should be mindful of potential surge near the entry/exit and manage their depth, as these are listed as potential hazards.

Marine Life Encounters

1000 Steps is renowned for its abundant marine life, particularly its resident sea turtles. Divers will almost certainly encounter both Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) and Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) grazing gracefully on the reef, often found in the shallows. Keep an eye out for the majestic Spotted Eagle Ray (Aetobatus narinari) gliding through the blue, and the impressive Great Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) often patrolling the reef edge.

The reef teems with colorful fish, including the vibrant Stoplight Parrotfish (Sparisoma viride), schools of Sergeant Major (Abudefduf saxatilis), and the distinctive Atlantic Trumpetfish (Aulostomus maculatus). We might also spot large Atlantic Tarpon (Megalops atlanticus), especially during late afternoon dives. Beyond these highlights, the diverse coral formations provide habitat for moray eels, French angelfish, blue tangs, squirrelfish, butterflyfish, wrasse, and surgeonfish. Occasionally, Caribbean reef sharks have been sighted, typically in the late afternoon.