Salt Pier

Salt Pier: Bonaire's Underwater Paradise

Salt Pier is a shore diving gem in Bonaire, renowned for its easy access, abundant marine life, and the unique experience of diving amongst the pier's support pillars. It's a vibrant ecosystem teeming with colorful fish, making it a photographer's dream and a delightful dive for all skill levels.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

• Typical Depth Range: 15-50 feet (5-15 meters)
• Average Visibility: 60-100+ feet (18-30+ meters)
• Water Temperature (Seasonal): 78-86°F (25-30°C) - Relatively consistent year-round. Slight variations occur with summer months being warmer.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate. The entry is easy, the currents are usually mild, and the depth is manageable. However, divers should be aware of boat traffic and exercise caution near the pier pilings.

Marine Life

Salt Pier is a haven for diverse marine life. Divers can expect to see a wide array of fish, including:

• Angelfish (French, Queen, Gray)
• Parrotfish
• Trumpetfish
• Butterflyfish
• Schools of grunts and snapper
• Octopus and eels (often hiding in the reef structure)
• Seahorses (patient searching may be required)
• Various types of sponges and corals encrusting the pier pilings

Best Time to Visit

Bonaire enjoys a tropical climate year-round, making Salt Pier diveable at any time. However, the most ideal months are generally considered to be April through November. During these months, you can typically expect calm seas, excellent visibility, and pleasant water temperatures. The rainy season is generally from October to December, but rainfall is usually short-lived and doesn't significantly impact diving conditions.

What Makes It Special

Salt Pier offers a truly unique dive experience. The pier's support pilings have become artificial reefs, attracting a wealth of marine life. The pilings themselves are encrusted with sponges, corals, and other invertebrates, creating a kaleidoscope of color. The chance to see the conveyor belt in operation is a rare treat (be mindful of the boats and operations).

Practical Tips

Before diving Salt Pier, keep these tips in mind:

• Boat Traffic: Be extremely aware of boat traffic, especially when the salt ships are docking. Stay close to the pilings and listen for boat engines. Always display a dive flag.
• Entry/Exit: The entry is a sandy beach, making it easy to enter and exit the water. However, avoid walking on the salt piles.
• Currents: While currents are usually mild, it's always a good idea to check the current conditions before diving.
• Respect the Environment: Do not touch or damage the corals, sponges, or any other marine life. Avoid kicking up silt, as this can reduce visibility.
• Photography: Salt Pier is a photographer's paradise. Bring your underwater camera to capture the vibrant colors and abundant marine life.
• Permission: Ensure you have permission from Cargill Salt to dive the pier. While usually open access, this ensures you are diving legally.