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Trip Reports: Sorobon Beach Resort 8/18 - 8/25
Bonaire Talk: Trip Reports: Archives: Archives 2000 to 2005: Archives - 2004-08-02 to 2005-05-08: Sorobon Beach Resort 8/18 - 8/25
Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Tom Whitney (BonaireTalker - Post #21) on Friday, August 27, 2004 - 11:16 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

PART 1 Sorobon and Snorkeling (Part 2 to follow soon - food,car rental,casino)
This was our first trip to Bonaire and am very grateful to all of you who have posted so much useful info on this board. We are 54 yrs old, snorkel some but basically amateur level, and love to relax on vacation. I don't keep a diary while traveling so I will just try to group the highlights of our trip by categories. Since this was our first trip to Bonaire many of you will find this repetitive and boring but it may help the person who is going on their first trip - also someone who is a beginner at snorkeling. Anyone who wishes to send me a personal email I will respond.
Tom

SOROBON BEACH RESORT - First of all the Sorobon Beach Resort was absolutely a wonderful experience. We really wanted to stay at a quiet place without any worry of crime and the Sorobon fit the bill. It is totally fenced in and has a night security guard constantly on patrol. We never had any problem with crime although the visiting donkey outside the fence poking around gave us a startling moment one night when we were returning from the casino. Yes, the Sorobon is clothing optional but with no gawkers and crowd it was a wonderful experience. Being the low-season there were not that many people at the resort and everyone there was very pleasant including the staff which was wonderful. We had Chalet No. 30 which is on the end of the complex and were about 12 feet from the water. Our large patio had half sun/half shade all day and we spent many quiet hours relaxing there. The sandy beach there was great and the bay is shallow for several hundred yards before getting to the reef. We enjoyed several trips snorkeling in the reef at the bay and saw lots of interesting fish and coral. The constant breeze kept away all bugs - never saw one mosquito,etc. We had wonderful neighbors from California and met other people from Florida and England.

My only concern before going to the Sorobon was the lack of A/C. As it turned out we never missed the A/C with a ceiling fan in the bedroom and gentle breeze constantly blowing we were always very comfortable.

We spent our 33rd anniversary at the Sorobon and the staff surprised us with a bottle of champaign and boquette of flowers. What a treat.

The accommodations were very nice and no TV for a week kept us focused on relaxing and enjoying our time together. We had dinner one night at the Sugarbird Restaurant at Sorobon and the meal was very good - I will definately eat there again. Now, it sounds like we layed around naked all week but this is not the case. We enjoyed many other snorkel sites on the island and several restaurants and of course - the DIVI casino. If you are going to Bonaire I suggest going to the Sorobon for a day visit - if not too crowded they allow day visitors in for a fee. Try it out and you will want to spend your next vacation there.

SNORKELING - As I said we are amateur snorkelers and were looking for places with easy access and very little current. Wife has had spinal fusion surgery and can not handle heavy surf or bumping into rocks unexpectedly. We found several wonderful snorkeling locations and I am sure there are so many we missed. Our goal was not to spend every waking hour in the water. My wife has used a snorkeling vest in the past. After reading different reports about dive skins and wet suits to protect us from coral and stingy things we invested in 1.5 mil wet suits. I thought this was overkill but didn't want to get there and have to go shopping for equipment. As it turned out it was a wise move. Although we never got close enough to coral or rocks to be concerned about bumping into them the flotation that the suit provided was comforting. My wife wore her snorkeling vest once and realized she didn't need it with the flotation the suit provided. The suits also protected us from the sun while in the water. We have simple water shoes but also invested in dive boots. This also was a good move as the rocks and coral rubble would be too hard on the feet and the boots going over the ankle kept the sand and small rocks out of our shoes.

We did three snorkel trips with Renee - just the three of us. She is a great guide and can find fish we would never see. She is a very pleasant lady and we will definately go with her again.

First we went to the DIVI and entered from the beach. Extremely easy entry and exit. Virtually no current and we spent about an hour at this site. I don't know my fish very well but we saw several barracuda, a few eels, parrot fish, trumpet fish, and so many others I don't know. I will try to study my coral reef fish guide before returning. Lots of fish around the piers by the DIVI and some coral.

Renee also took us north of town - I don't know if this site is officially identified. If you take the road along the water from the north towards Kralendijk about 1/2 mile before getting to the restaurants there are boats moored about 50 yards from shore and some public parking on the other side of the road. We walked towards town about 300 yards and went into the water. I don't remember if we walked over rocks or went down stairs but once again a very easy entrance for us klutzy ones. There is an ever so slight current and we zig-zagged from shore to the boats and went past the car about another 300 yards. What a relaxing easy snorkel and once again saw lots of fish and a few eels. Now that I think about it there were some engine blocks in the water if this helps identify the spot.

Next was our night snorkeling venture. After seeing some of the pictures posted on this site we had to give it a try. We went back to the DIVI and with Renee. She provided the underwater lights and the coral is just beautiful at night! Saw several lobsters and shrimp and lots of fish we didn't notice during the day. Also saw a sleeping parrot fish. We saw other people get in with extremely bright lights which seems logical but the light seemed to scare away many of the fish and lobster before they got close enough to see them. I'm not an expert, but this is a case where too much light is not the best thing. The black sea urchins are so beautiful at night.

We also went to the Lion's Dive Resort and asked permission to enter at their resort and they said it was OK. Renee said there was better snorkeling by the Sand Dollar and Habitat. Easy entry at the ladder by Buddy Dive next door to Lion's Dive and we went up to Captain Don's or a little further. Saw several tarpon (BIG fish) and schools of blue tang (?). Once again lots of fish by the piers. Current was very mild if at all. Wife is getting more daring and going out deeper. This has been a great way for her to get her level of confidence up by going to easy spots rather than trying more difficult locations and getting her spooked.

Since we were staying at the Sorobon we snorkeled several times there. Each time we would venture out further and drift through the reef and back towards shore. You do not have to enter through the Sorobon resort - just to the north (I think)is an old hut with parking and you can enter from that spot. Walk out into the water along the stone breakwater as far as the reef. On the stone breakwater there is a pile of rock or something which is a good spot to get serious and get underwater. There is a windsurfing place(Jibe City ?) next to Sorobon and the wind surfers like to go past the Sorobon fence but they never seem to get out near the reef so it is not a problem. There are two rafts out near the reef which you can use to get your fins on or relax. Also since the Sorobon is clothing optional, and there is usually no one at the reef you could take the opportunity to bring a mesh bag and put your suits in in, tie it up to the ladder on the raft, and enjoy some private skinny dipping at the reef - just watch the coral. You will drift towards shore and slightly toward the wind surfing place. Easy walk back to the raft just a little wave action.

We also saw a few other places that looked easy but did not get there. The Plaza resort has a small beach. While proceeding towards the Plaza from the DIVI the road makes a 90 degree turn to the left. Right at that corner is a gravel parking lot which (I think) belongs to the Plaza. We planned to park there and go out at the Plaza snorkeling. I think there is a fee to do this and I would gladly pay but we never got the opportunity.

Also I asked one of the staff at Sorobon and she said her sister snorkeled at the beach across from the airport - called it Donkey Beach, probably the local name. Lots of parking along the road. Not much of a beach but looked like a easy entry/exit and the beach is long so if you drift you can get out a little further and walk back to you car.

I'm sure there are several other wonderful sites to snorkel and the ones we chose may not the greatest, but it was a great way to get familiar with the island and especially for my wife to be comfortable while getting used to snorkeling.

BRING A CAMERA. Your family and friends will not even begin to understand what a beautiful place this is. I got a Sea Life Underwater Digital camera DC300 (about $360) and it took a lot of getting used to. Probably not the best investment I ever made but after trial and error I got the hang of it. After reading lots of info about other cameras on this board I would look for something different before going back. My wife just used the cheap disposable underwater cameras (4) and have not seem her pics yet. The digital is sooo nice because most of the pictures you take will be junk. I took about two hundred pics and have about 20 that are really nice. I have to research how to post them to this board and will do so.

So long for now. Time to walk the dogs, I'll enter Part 2 in the next day or two. Nice restaurants, info on our truck rental, and of course best slots at the DIVI...
Tom


 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Carole Baker (Supreme BonaireTalker - Post #3969) on Friday, August 27, 2004 - 11:38 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

Hi, Tom! What a wonderful report!! So glad to hear you had a terrific time at Sorobon and on Bonaire, in general. Renee' is fabulous...she really knows her fish and where to find them and is good at taking folks to "easy access" places when necessary. I fall into that category, too!

This board is the best for information and input from all of us who have been to Bonaire before. It is definitely a "must" place to research and participate prior to going on one's first trip to Bonaire...so glad BT was a big help to both of you.

Can't wait to read your next installment and hope to see some pics, too. Ayo. Carole

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By joe and dawn lievois (BonaireTalker - Post #14) on Saturday, August 28, 2004 - 9:45 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

Thanks Tom! Glad you had a great time. Not a lot of Sorobon posters, so yours is great for us.(October) Sorobon sounds quiet and relaxing. We'll get plenty of exercise snorkeling and diving-so Sorobon sounds like a nice way to finish the day. We were unable to reserve the best unit on the beach as you were able to do (ha) and we were wondering whether the breezes stopped once you went back in the line of units you were in(I think we're 25?). We'll save our other questions until after you're second part.

In terms of researching your fish pictures-check out "Rick and Susie's Bonaire Pictures" in the Trip Report section. They posted while you were gone. Then go to their web site. Trust me-you need to look at those pics-un-be-lievable. looks like your best issue of Nat Geograpic.

good info. thanks again. look forward to your next post. joedawn

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By C Poteet (Experienced BonaireTalker - Post #224) on Saturday, August 28, 2004 - 5:20 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

Tom -

Most interesting report and of value, even to those who have been to Bonaire more than once. There's always something to learn, i.e., the rafts near the reef at Sorobon.

We're looking forward to Part II.

Your taking time to write and post your trip report is a great way to repay all those from whom you learned so much on BT.

Masha danke.

Charles Poteet
Dallas

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Louise Rozario (New BonaireTalk Poster - Post #5) on Sunday, August 29, 2004 - 9:14 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

Thanks Tom, for a great report.
We're headed to Bonaire - first trip - in September, so your report is well timed for us. Will look forward to part 2 as well as the pictures.
Well done!
Louise

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By DARLENE ELLIS (Extraordinary BonaireTalker - Post #1152) on Sunday, August 29, 2004 - 12:31 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

I really enjoyed your snorkeling trip report! Thanks for taking the time to share!!!!

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Tom Whitney (BonaireTalker - Post #28) on Sunday, August 29, 2004 - 8:56 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

Thanks all for the positive feedback. I'll try to get back to it tonight if possible. Have been spending some time going through pictures and figuring out how to post them. I think I got the posting part down now I just wish I could take better pictures.

Joe & Dawn - Glad to hear of your trip plans to Sorobon. Unit 25 is just three buildings down from where we were and you should have a good breeze there.

I saw the pics from "Rick and Susie's" page and they are surely beautiful. They have great composing skills.

A couple of things I was concerned about that turned out to be no problem was the power differences operating battery chargers for our camera and number of outlets available. Battery chargers worked just fine and there were enough outlets everywhere. Also my wife wanted an iron and although they are not in each room they are available at the front desk - which we never actually used. No microwave in our room but again I think they are available from the front desk. Staff is very friendly and helpful. When I unloaded our luggage (4 huge suitcases and carry-on) I was a little embarrased when one of the staff smiled asking if I realized we were staying at a clothing optional resort. As it turned out we brought half of our stuff back unused. Next time we will pack lighter.

Later,
Tom

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By BEVERLY A FILLIO (BonaireTalker - Post #26) on Friday, January 7, 2005 - 2:54 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

Wonderful report and it is great to know Renee is still the best on finding the little juveniles and the special highlight fish of the moment and where they are
I enjoyed every minute of your snorkel as you described it
thank you for sharing it

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Ken Bowman (New BonaireTalk Poster - Post #2) on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 - 1:58 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

I enjoyed reading your post. Just a quick question. Does Renee work at the Sorobon resort, and how much does she charge to take you snorkling off the property? Thanks in advance.

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By joe and dawn lievois (BonaireTalker - Post #27) on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 - 9:56 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

My guess is that Renee will work anywhere on the island. Sorobon is often cited as the best snorkeling spot on the island. We were given the tour by a couple at the resort. It was what got us off our chaizes and got us going, 5 days into the trip. For a good ways around the shore of the resort, the water is shallow, with a few deeper spots. But walking out to the reef, there is plenty of life to see, either on the way out, or the way in, or both. We were pretty out of shape, so the reef at Sorobon was a little exercise for us, but you can touch down most places for a rest. The surge gives you a little workout. The other side of the island, which is just a few short minutes away, is totally calm; no recognizable surge or tide. We mostly dived on that side. The breezes on sorobon were irreplaceable, in October. Everywhere else was pretty hot. We really couldn't wait to get back to sorobon, once we got out of the water from diving. The food at sorobon was ordinary to good, but service was great and the convenience could not be beat. Again, we were pretty wiped out from diving a couple dives a day, staying up late, snorkeling, getting up early. We often did not want to go to the other side of the island to eat dinner. We left the resort to breakfast once or twice and dinner three or four times. Never cooked.

I'll bet you could get a message to Renee if you search bonairetalk board, or leave a message asking for contact info. I'll bet you can find some easier snorkeling, but none better than sorobon's reef(not that sorobon is difficult in the least). I'm sure the folks at sorobon will set you up with Renee also. The island is so small-everyone knows everyone; i'm sure they know Renee quite well. from reading the posts, it sounds like a drift snorkel out on klein bonaire(the little island on the smooth side of the island) would be very fun. Guides, in general, are quite affordable on bonaire, so you should be fine.

As you can see, I love to chat about bonaire. So, please, ask any questions that come to mind, and i will be glad to answer and, as you can see, go on forever.
joe lievois and dawn(looking over shoulder occasionally)

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Belinda Z (Experienced BonaireTalker - Post #235) on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 - 10:04 am:     Edit PostPrint Post

Ken,

Renee has a web page at http://www.infobonaire.com/reneesnorkeltrips/

We used her last February - she picked us up from the villa at which we were staying and took us to 3 different snorkel sites (we booked the unlimited snorkel package). We also did a night snorkel with her which was really cool. She is GREAT - we are going to plan a day with her when we head back to Bonaire next month (39 days but who's counting!)

Belinda

 

Top of pagePrevious messageNext messageBottom of page Link to this message  By Tom Whitney (BonaireTalker - Post #44) on Tuesday, February 15, 2005 - 9:40 pm:     Edit PostPrint Post

Ken
Renee doesn't work for Sorobon. She lives next to the DIVI and will take you snorkeling all over the island. While we were in Bonaire staying at Sorobon she picked us up and took us to several locations. She also took a couple snorkeling at Sorobon but she parked down the road a short way and walked along the bay out to the reef. You do not have to go through the Sorobon resort to snorkel their reef.

One of the highlights of our trip was the night snorkeling with Renee. We went to the shore at the DIVI and saw some awesome sights. We were never far from shore. Renee supplies the underwater lights. When she gave us the lights I was surprised with how small they were - I was wondering if we would see anything. So we got in the water and the lights were plenty powerful. We saw another group snorkeling past us with these huge mega-lites that would shine for a much greater distance than our lights. The interesting thing is that those powerful lights frightened much of the nocturnal creatures into hiding before these folks even saw them. We were able to get very close to the lobsters and shrimp without startling them while the other guys spooked everything.

Enjoy your trip. Any other questions I will try to help.
Tom

 


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