Salt Pier

Overview

Salt Pier is one of Bonaire’s most unique and photographed shore dives. The site consists of a series of massive pillars that support the conveyor belt used to load salt from the nearby flats onto cargo ships. When ships aren’t docked, it is a spectacular artificial reef.

What you’ll see

The true magic of Salt Pier lies in the pillars themselves, which are densely carpeted in bright orange elephant ear sponges, purple tube sponges, and soft corals.

• Massive schools of fish seeking shelter in the shadows of the pier.
• Large Tarpon that hang in the water column between the pillars.
• Frequent turtle sightings grazing on the rubble at the base.
• Excellent macro photography opportunities (seahorses and frogfish are often spotted here).

The Dive Experience

This is an incredibly easy and relaxing shore dive. The maximum depth is only about 18 meters, with the best life and light found around 8-12 meters. The pillars provide a stunning framing for wide-angle underwater photography, especially in the late afternoon when the sun angle creates dramatic light rays.

Getting There

Located in the south of Bonaire, you park directly opposite the salt pans, gear up, and walk down the sandy beach. Important: Diving is strictly prohibited when a ship is docked at the pier.