18th Palm
A vibrant underwater paradise known for abundant marine life and healthy coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Optimal visibility for marine life
18th Palm
Best Time
Optimal visibility for marine life
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant underwater paradise known for abundant marine life and healthy coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
"Absolutely beautiful spot for snorkeling! Clear, calm waters. So many fish! Saw sea turtles and even an octopus!"
Check Access Beforehand
Resort development may affect entry. Confirm access or book a boat tour for the best experience.
Dive with Toucan Dive
Park at Toucan Dive Shop within Plaza Resort for a shorter walk to the entry point with gear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abundant Marine Life
Underwater
Encounter sea turtles, eels, pufferfish, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.
Coral Reefs
Underwater
Explore healthy and vibrant coral formations teeming with aquatic biodiversity.
Diving and Snorkeling
Water entry points
Experience easy water access for unforgettable diving and snorkeling adventures.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing 18th Palm
Underwater Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Access Beforehand
Resort development may affect entry. Confirm access or book a boat tour for the best experience.
Dive with Toucan Dive
Park at Toucan Dive Shop within Plaza Resort for a shorter walk to the entry point with gear.
Day Ticket Option
A day ticket can be purchased from the guard at the gate for entry.
Spot Sea Turtles
Keep an eye out for majestic sea turtles gliding through the water.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Access Beforehand
Resort development may affect entry. Confirm access or book a boat tour for the best experience.
Dive with Toucan Dive
Park at Toucan Dive Shop within Plaza Resort for a shorter walk to the entry point with gear.
Day Ticket Option
A day ticket can be purchased from the guard at the gate for entry.
Spot Sea Turtles
Keep an eye out for majestic sea turtles gliding through the water.
Discover Hidden Gems
Beyond turtles, look for pufferfish, moray eels, and other fascinating marine creatures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning underwater scenery and abundant marine life at 18th Palm, highlighting sightings of sea turtles and diverse fish. While the snorkeling and diving are exceptional, recent concerns about restricted access due to resort development have been noted, with some suggesting boat tours as a reliable alternative.
"Absolutely beautiful spot for snorkeling! Clear, calm waters. So many fish! Saw sea turtles and even an octopus! We stayed The Plaza in an ocean view and really had a wonderful trip!"
J. Allison
"1 of the most beautyfull places in the world."
DJ ThaMan
"We came here because one of us booked a diving course. Absolute fun to go here! Easy access to the water, beautiful coral reefs and even saw a huge pufferfish, murane eel and other eels!
How to entet; you can get a day ticket at the guard who opens and closes the gates. Or you can book a wonderful divers lesson 😀"
E Terpstra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to 18th Palm has become more complex due to resort development. Previously, visitors could enter via the Plaza Resort. It's recommended to confirm current access policies or consider booking a boat tour that includes this dive site.
While it was previously accessible by car through the Plaza Resort, access may now be restricted. Parking is available at Toucan Dive Shop within the resort, followed by a short walk to the entry point.
Renting a car or scooter is a popular way to explore Bonaire and reach various dive and snorkel sites. Taxis are also available, but can be more expensive for frequent travel.
If your cruise stops in Bonaire, you can arrange transportation to 18th Palm. Taxis or pre-booked tours are common options for cruise passengers.
Yes, many dive operators and tour companies offer boat trips that include 18th Palm as a snorkeling or diving destination, which can simplify access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Previously, a day ticket could be purchased from the guard at the gate. However, with resort enclosures, it's best to verify current entry requirements and fees.
As 18th Palm is a natural dive and snorkel site, it doesn't have official opening hours. Access is typically during daylight hours, but may be subject to resort access policies.
Entry fees can vary, especially if access is managed by the resort. Previously, a day ticket was available. Boat tours will have their own pricing.
Yes, diving lessons are available and can be booked, often through dive shops located within or near the Plaza Resort.
Recent developments suggest resort enclosures may restrict direct land access. Boat access is often a reliable alternative.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The best way to experience 18th Palm is through snorkeling or diving to witness its abundant marine life and coral reefs.
You can see a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, moray eels, pufferfish, and numerous colorful tropical fish species.
Yes, 18th Palm is known for its calm, clear waters and easy entry, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced snorkelers and divers.
Bring your snorkeling or diving gear, reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, and plenty of water. A waterproof camera is also recommended to capture the underwater beauty.
Facilities may be limited and dependent on resort access. It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire reef system at 18th Palm offers excellent opportunities for underwater photography, with diverse coral formations and abundant marine life.
A waterproof camera or a camera with a waterproof housing is essential. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the reef and marine life.
Look for opportunities to photograph sea turtles, eels, and schools of colorful fish interacting with the coral.
Mid-morning to early afternoon generally offers the best natural light for underwater photography, providing good visibility and vibrant colors.
Photography of resort areas may be subject to their policies. Focus on capturing the natural beauty of the marine environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly boat tour that visits 18th Palm. These tours often provide gear and guidance, making the experience more manageable and enjoyable for everyone. Remember to pack reef-safe sunscreen and plenty of water for a comfortable day exploring the underwater world.
🐠 Divers and Snorkelers
While shore access can be tricky, the underwater rewards are significant. If direct entry is an issue, boat dives are readily available and provide excellent access to the reef. The site's reputation for marine biodiversity makes it a top choice for those seeking an immersive ocean experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Access to 18th Palm
Travelers have shared that parking at Toucan Dive Shop within the Plaza Resort is a viable option, followed by a short walk to the entry point, though carrying gear can make it feel longer. Alternatively, purchasing a day ticket from the gate guard was a previous method, but its current availability should be confirmed. For a guaranteed and often more convenient experience, booking a boat tour that includes 18th Palm is highly recommended, bypassing any land access issues.
It's crucial for visitors to research the most current access situation before their trip. Social media and travel forums are good places to find recent visitor experiences. Understanding these access nuances will help ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this renowned Bonaire dive site.
The Underwater Spectacle of 18th Palm
Visitors frequently report sightings of majestic sea turtles gracefully swimming through the water, a highlight for many. Beyond turtles, the reef is home to a variety of other fascinating creatures, including moray eels, pufferfish, and a multitude of colorful tropical fish. The ease of entry from shore, when accessible, makes it a convenient spot for both casual snorkelers and dedicated divers to explore this underwater paradise.
The experience at 18th Palm is often described as breathtaking, offering a glimpse into a thriving marine ecosystem. Whether you're a seasoned diver or trying snorkeling for the first time, the abundance of life and the beauty of the coral gardens are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit