Salt Pier

Salt Pier (Bonaire South)

Prepare for an unforgettable underwater experience at Salt Pier, a truly iconic dive site in Bonaire South. Known for its unique blend of industrial architecture and vibrant marine life, this shore dive is a favorite among photographers and macro enthusiasts alike.

Dive Conditions and Features

As a beginner-friendly dive site, Salt Pier is accessible to divers holding an Open Water Diver certification. We typically find depths ranging from 5 to 21 meters, with most of the captivating action unfolding shallower than 15 meters. The water temperature is consistently warm, generally between 25°C and 30°C, often hovering around a comfortable 27-28°C year-round. While currents are typically mild, divers should always be aware of potential localized currents, especially near the boat launch where a rip current can sometimes be present during strong tidal exchanges.

The dive site itself is a fascinating combination of a shore entry, a vibrant reef, and the impressive pier structure. Divers will find easy sandy entries both north and south of the pier, leading to a sandy bottom that slopes gently beneath the pilings. These industrial pilings have been utterly transformed into living columns, adorned with a spectacular array of sponges, cup corals, and gorgonians, creating a breathtaking underwater forest.

Marine Life Encounters

Salt Pier is a haven for diverse marine life. As we navigate through the maze of pilings, divers can encounter impressive schools of Atlantic Tarpon and Great Barracuda, often found stacking in the shadows cast by the pier overhead. Keep an eye out for the graceful Spotted Eagle Ray gliding by, and both Green Sea Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles grazing peacefully on the surrounding reef. For those with a keen eye for macro life, the pilings are a treasure trove, hiding elusive creatures such as the Caribbean Reef Octopus, Longsnout Seahorse, and the wonderfully camouflaged Longlure Frogfish.

Important Considerations

It is crucial to remember that Salt Pier is an active industrial facility. Entry into the water is strictly prohibited whenever a salt ship is moored for loading or maintenance is underway. The operational status is always posted on-site and is well-known to all local dive shops, so we recommend checking with your dive operator before planning your visit. Divers should also be mindful of potential hazards, including boat traffic in the area and sharp metal structures associated with the pier. Awareness of the overhead structure is also important during your dive.

With its stunning photographic opportunities and abundant marine life, Salt Pier promises a truly memorable dive for all who visit.