We are a family of four: pa&ma plus two daughters of 12 and 8 (almost 9) This is our plan: In the morning, the kids go to a snorkeling class (The Ocean Class of Sand$ seems to be nice). Pa & Ma go diving with a guide.(long time since we had our resort course)
But the kids want to do other things, too. Not going down all the time, you know.... Does anyone have advise? Thanks!

Toos,

I would contact Bonaire Tours for a Washington-Slaagbai National Park trip....it's about 6 hours, but that includes a wonderful lunch and snorkeling. I know it sounds long, but I have found that young chidren have a great time during the tour.....you will find that the time goes really fast and you will also want to go back on your own.

The tour stops at several Boca's (inlet, bay), each different upon itself, a lighthouse (maybe), a spring where iguanas roam around waiting to be fed, blue tail lizards (also waiting to be fed)flamingoes, cara-cara and Lora's (if lucky) and many other things with nature. Take some bread or fruits for the critters (hmmm, that's slang for the wildlife).

If you are luckier still, after you get out of the park, the guide may take you to Prisca's Ice Cream....the best on the island.

They do it in English or Dutch and have reasonable rates. Book it early. Ask for Corine and mention my name. It's a wonderful trip. They also have a 3-hour island tour (either language) that is excellent, too.

Barry

We went with our boys 12 and 14, 12 yearold only snorkels.
Trip to national park was quite long, if they are very interested in birds it is very good, also some iguanas. ours did not include snorkelling, most of the sites were destroyed by the hurricane.
I'd suggest sea kayaking in mangroves if they are so inclined, especially if they have never done it before.
Prisca's ice crean was a very big disappointment, soso flavour in prescooped containers. Not worth the drive.
Night snorkel is very good with a guide, drift snorkel from boat at Plaza was also very good.
Beaches are not great, but snorkelling superb!
E mail me if you want more.

Thank you, Ross and Barry!
Toos

I would think a trip to the donkey reserve and the Road to Rincon (old one) to see Gotomeer and the many beautiful flamingos would be great for kids. They could look out for wild goats, donkeys, iguanas and such on the ride! Also FYI, just got back and read that the Plaza has a great kids program!