Active Pursuits

Bonaire is most striking underwater, but the sailing and birding are great, too.

Bird-Watching -- Bonaire is home to about 200 species of birds, 80 of which are indigenous to the island. Most famous are its flamingos, which can number 15,000 during the mating season.

Fishing -- Bonaire's offshore fishing grounds has some of the best fishing in the Caribbean, and the Bonaire Marine Park allows line fishing. A good day's catch might include mackerel, tuna, wahoo, dolphin (mahimahi), blue marlin, amberjack, grouper, sailfish, or snapper. Bonaire is also one of the best-kept secrets of bonefishing enthusiasts.

Your best bet is Chris Morkos of Piscatur Fishing Supplies, Kaya Herman 4, Playa Pabao (tel. 599/717-8774; www.piscatur.com). A native Bonairean, he has been fishing all his life. A maximum of six people are taken out on a 13m (43-ft.) boat with a guide and captain, at a cost of US$400 (£208) for a half-day, US$475 (£247) for 3/4 day, or US$550 (£286) for a whole day, including all tackle and bait. Reef fishing is another popular sport, in boats averaging 5 to 6m (16-20 ft.). A maximum of two people can go out for a half-day at US$275 (£143). A maximum of two people can fish for bonefish and tarpon on the island's large salt flats for US$250 (£130) for a half-day.

Hiking -- Washington Slagbaai National Park has a varied terrain; those ambitious enough to climb some of its steep hills are rewarded with panoramic views. The hiking possibilities are seemingly endless. Small hidden beaches with crashing waters by the cliffs provide ideal spots for picnics.

Mountain Biking -- Biking is an ideal way to see Bonaire's hidden beauty; you can explore more than 300km (186 miles) of trails and dirt roads, venturing off the beaten path to enjoy the scenery. Ask at the tourist office for a trail map that outlines the most scenic routes. You can check with your hotel about arranging a trip, or call Cycle Bonaire, Kaya Gobernador N. Debrot 79 (tel. 599/717-2227), an outfit that maintains an inventory of 24-speed mountain bikes, each of which rents for a price of US$15 (£7.80) per day.

Sailing -- At Bonaire Boating, at Harbour Village (tel. 599/790-1228), you can rent small boats for between US$80 (£42) for a half-day and US$120 (£62) for a full day, without crew, but you'll first have to demonstrate that you're versed in sailing techniques.

Sea Kayaking -- Paddle the protected waters of Lac Bay, or head for the miles of flats and mangroves in the south (the island's nursery), where you can see baby fish and wildlife. Kayak rentals are available at Jibe City, Lac Bay (tel. 599/717-5233; www.jibecity.com), for US$25 (£13) per half-day or US$35 (£18) for a full day.

Tennis -- There are two courts, lit for night play, at the Sand Dollar Condominium Retreat, Kaya L.D. Gerjharts 11D (tel. 800/288-4773). If the courts aren't in use by residents, nonresidents pay a fee (subject to change) of US$13 (£6.75) per hour.

Windsurfing -- Lac Bay's consistent conditions and shallow, calm waters are suitable for windsurfers with a wide range of skill levels. Call Bonaire Windsurfing (tel. 599/717-2288) for details. A half-day costs US$40 (£21).