4 Best Sights in Bonaire

Built around the second-oldest stone structure on Bonaire, this cultural park a few miles before Rincón provides a fascinating insight into the island's history. The museum commands an excellent view of the surrounding countryside and contains artifacts tracing the often hard lives of the early settlers. Numerous structures built around the museum illustrate how living conditions have changed over the years. The park is usually filled with island schoolkids learning how to use traditional musical instruments and how to cook local foods. The last Saturday of each month features a cultural market. Enjoy local food and purchase crafts while listening to island music. Arrive early for the best selection of treats.

Owner Ellen Herrera restored her family's homestead north of Lac Bay, in the Bonairean kadushi (cactus) wilderness, to educate tourists and residents about the history and tradition of authentic kunuku living and to show unspoiled terrain in two daily tours. You must make an appointment in advance and expect to spend a couple of hours.

Bonaire is one of the few places in the world where pink flamingos nest and this saltwater lagoon near the island's northern end is one of their favorite places to hang out; there are about 15,000 of them in Bonaire (almost as many as the number of human residents). January to June is the best time to see these shy, spindly-leg creatures as they stick around to tend to their gray-plumed babies. Take the paved road along the lagoon to the parking and observation area for great views of the lagoon and Washington Slagbaai National Park.