Playa Benge – Bonaire

About this beach

Playa Benge is on Bonaire’s northwest coast, in the northwest of Washington Slagbaai National Park, about 15 kilometres from Kralendijk. According to bonaire.com you leave the main road (Kaya Gobernador Nicolaas Debrot) heading north, follow the signs to Boka Kokolishi and turn left onto an unpaved road of about 2 kilometres. It is bumpy and can become muddy in rain; an SUV or pickup is more comfortable.

The name comes from a Papiamentu word for sandy coastline. It is a small sand beach with coral rocks along the water’s edge. Parking holds about 6 to 8 cars; from there it is about 40 metres along a sand path to the water. The loose coral stones make entering and exiting difficult, especially with waves. With waves over a metre it is dangerous.

The current is moderate to strong and can change direction; rip currents are a serious danger. Snorkelling is only for experienced, strong swimmers, in calm seas with little current, ideally with someone who knows the site. Swimming is discouraged. It is mainly a dive site for experienced divers (minimum Advanced Open Water). Sea turtles nest here, mainly from May to October.

There are no toilets, showers or restaurants, and no mobile coverage; only a car park and one shaded bench. Tanks must be filled in Kralendijk beforehand.

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