Bari’s Reef (30) - Klein Bonaire

Bari’s Reef, just off Klein Bonaire, is one of those sites we keep coming back to. Forget grand canyons or dramatic drop-offs; this place is all about the little things, and it absolutely excels at them. We love a gentle drift along the shallows, maybe 10 to 12 metres, just letting the current guide us over the turtlegrass beds. It’s here, tucked into the seagrass, that you’ll spot those Yellowline Arrow Crabs, their spindly legs waving, and sometimes a Ruby Brittle Star camouflaged against the sand. The coral itself is a healthy mix of Great Star Coral and brainier formations, offering plenty of nooks. We’ve had incredible luck finding Chain Morays peeking out, and the Pearl Blennies are always a treat, bold little characters. While the data mentions sharks, we’ve found the real stars here are the smaller critters. Look closely around the Fire Coral patches for Apricot Bass, those tiny bursts of colour. It’s a very easy dive, maxing out at 19 metres, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Skip the big animal hunt; come here to slow down and truly observe.

Location
Klein Bonaire, Bonaire, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.167400, -68.287900
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Bonaire

Best Time to Dive in Klein Bonaire

The warmest water temperatures in Klein Bonaire occur in October, averaging 29.6°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C
  • February: 26.8°C
  • March: 26.9°C
  • April: 27.1°C
  • May: 27.7°C
  • June: 28.1°C
  • July: 28.2°C
  • August: 29.0°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 29.6°C
  • November: 28.9°C
  • December: 28.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Klein Bonaire

Nearest Dive Centres to Bari’s Reef (30)

Marine Life in Klein Bonaire

Home to 202 recorded species including 150 reef fish, 18 hard corals, 6 other, 6 seagrass & algae, 5 crabs & lobsters, 4 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Bari’s Reef (30)

Based on average water temperature of 28.1°C, currents 34 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Bari's Reef (30)?
The maximum diving depth at Bari's Reef (30) is 19 meters. This makes it a great site for divers of all experience levels to explore the vibrant marine life.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Bari's Reef (30)?
Divers at Bari's Reef (30) can expect to encounter a rich variety of Caribbean marine life. You'll often spot nurse and reef sharks, turtles, and stingrays, with possible sightings of eagle rays. The reef is also home to numerous fish species including snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrot fish, and grouper, while the jetty area provides shelter for octopus, crabs, and lobsters.
How difficult is diving at Bari's Reef (30) for different skill levels?
Bari's Reef (30) is an easily accessible shore dive suitable for all levels of divers, from beginners to advanced. While generally considered accessible for everyone, it is officially categorized with an intermediate difficulty rating, suggesting some basic diving skills are beneficial for fully enjoying the site.
What is the best time of year or day to dive Bari's Reef (30) for optimal conditions or specific marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day to dive Bari's Reef (30) for optimal conditions or specific marine life sightings. For general information on diving seasons in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What diving certifications are required to dive at Bari's Reef (30)?
Since Bari's Reef (30) is suitable for all levels of divers, a basic open water certification is generally sufficient to explore this site. As an easily accessible shore dive, it's a great location for both new and experienced divers.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at Bari's Reef (30)?
Divers at Bari's Reef (30) can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 21 meters. The provided information does not specify the typical current conditions for this particular dive site.