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Where are Sorobon and Lac Bay located?
Lac Bay is the large, shallow bay on the southeast side of Bonaire. On the sea side, the bay is enclosed by a reef, which means hardly any waves come in and the water remains calm and clear. Sorobon Beach is located on the south side of that bay and is the best-known beach in this area. It takes about half an hour to drive there from Kralendijk.
What makes Sorobon Beach on Bonaire so different from the west coast: the water remains shallow for a long way out, there’s almost always a breeze, and it feels open and airy. The bay is by far the largest shallow inland body of water on Bonaire and is internationally registered as a protected wetland. You can tell by the tranquility: there are no boardwalks, no jet skis, and no loud music echoing across the water.
The name Sorobon is often used on the island to refer to the entire area on the south side of the bay, including the beach clubs and the resort located there. If you ask for directions, everyone will lead you to the same place.
| Topic | Sorobon on Lac Bay | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Shallow, warm, and calm | You walk a while before it gets deep |
| Wind | Almost always present | Comfortable in the heat, troublesome for loose items |
| Windsurfing | Known place for beginners and advanced | Rent and rental are arranged at the surf schools on site |
| Children | One of the quietest spots on the island | No waves, plenty of sun |
| Nature | Seagrass, mangroves, and protected area | Stay away from the seagrass and the roots |
Swipe the table sideways to see all columns.
Why is the water so shallow here?
The reef in front of the bay breaks the waves, creating hardly any current or swell inside. What remains is a large lagoon with a sandy bottom and seagrass meadows. In many places, you can still stand waist-deep in the water dozens of yards from shore. This makes for calm swimming, even if you're not a very confident swimmer.
When it comes to snorkeling, it’s a bit different than on the west coast. Here, you’ll mainly see seagrass, small fish, and occasionally a turtle coming to graze, rather than the coral reef on the other side of the island. The seabed consists of alternating patches of sand and seagrass. Where the seagrass grows, the water is slightly darker in color, and it’s precisely those spots that are interesting for anyone taking a leisurely look around while snorkeling.
The difference with the west coast is huge. There, you walk onto the reef within a few meters and the bottom drops off into deep water, here you keep walking for a while before it reaches your shoulders.
Windsurfing on Lac Bay
Lac Bay is internationally known as a windsurfing spot. The combination of constant wind and shallow, flat water is exactly what beginners need, while advanced surfers find more space and wind further out. There are surf schools on the beach where you can take lessons and rent equipment. You can arrange this directly on-site, as Caribbean Tours does not offer windsurfing lessons on Bonaire itself.
Even if you don't surf, it's fun to watch. From the beach or from a terrace, you can see the sails moving back and forth all day long. On the beach, the sails of the schools are lined up, giving the whole scene a lively, sporty atmosphere. Those who prefer quiet can walk a bit further along the coast and will soon have more space.
If you'd rather watch the action with a drink in hand, go toward the end of the afternoon. That's when the wind is at its strongest and there's the most action on the water.
Sorobon with children
For families, this is one of the finest spots on the island. There are no waves, the water is warm, and children can walk quite a distance without it getting deep. There are beach clubs where you can rent a sunbed and get something to eat and drink, which makes a long day with children much easier. Facilities and opening hours vary, so check that on-site.
Shade is the focus. Take an umbrella or choose a spot under a canopy, as the sun is strong here. More tips can be found in our guide on Bonaire with children. Bring flotation devices or rent them on site. In shallow water with some wind, a bodyboard or a flotation shirt is just enough to keep children entertained for hours.
Allow for some walking time from the parking lot to the beach. It's manageable with strollers and a lot of stuff, but don't bring more than you can carry in one go.
The mangroves on the same bay
On the inside of Lac Bay lies the mangrove forest of Bonaire. With a kayak tour, you paddle through the narrow tunnels between the roots, where young fish grow up. This can be combined with an afternoon at Sorobon: first the tour, then the beach. More about that can be found in our guide to kayaking in the mangroves of Bonaire.
Book the kayak tour preferably in the morning. Later in the day, there is more wind on the open water of the bay, and you will paddle with more difficulty.
Snorkeling at Sorobon
Snorkeling is possible here, but don't expect the same experience as at the west coast reef. You'll mainly see seagrass, small fish, and occasionally a sea turtle grazing. There are no guarantees, as these are wild animals. Stay out of the seagrass itself and don't stand on it. It's vulnerable and it's the food for the turtles that visit here.
If you want to see coral, choose a spot on the west coast. An overview can be found in our guide to the best snorkeling spots on Bonaire. Take a snorkel with a well-fitting mask. The water here is shallow, so you'll be floating close to the bottom and see more than you would expect from a seagrass meadow.
Don't go swimming in spots where surfers ride. They come in with speed and only see a snorkeler in shallow water late.
Rules and nature in Lac Bay
Lac Bay is a protected area. The seagrass, mangroves, and reef in front of the bay form a system that many marine animals depend on. If you go into the water to snorkel or swim, the mandatory Nature Contribution of the Marine Park applies. Arrange this online in advance; more information can be found in our guide about snorkeling in Bonaire Marine Park.
Take your trash back with you, including the small stuff. With the wind blowing this way, a cap or wrapper can easily end up in the water. Do not sail or walk through cordoned-off areas. Some parts of the bay are important as breeding and nursery grounds and are intentionally left undisturbed.
When is the best time?
The morning is the quietest, both in terms of crowds and wind. As the day progresses, the trade winds pick up, which is pleasant for surfers. If you want a lazy beach day without much wind, the west coast is often more pleasant. If you're coming for the view, the shallow water, or the atmosphere, Sorobon is worth a visit at any time.
More about months, wind, and weather can be found in our guide about the best time to visit Bonaire. On days when a cruise ship is in port, the beach clubs may be busier than usual. If you're looking for peace and quiet, it's helpful to check this in advance.
The beach is busier in the weeks around Christmas and during the summer holidays. Outside of these periods, you will almost always find a quiet spot along the coast.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a well-fitting hat, and sunglasses are more important here than elsewhere because there's little shade and the wind deceives you about the sun. Bring water shoes if you want to walk further into the water, as the bottom isn't soft everywhere. Also, bring plenty of water and something to snack on.
A complete list is in our guide on what to pack for Bonaire. Secure loose items or put them away. The wind can easily pick up a towel or a beach bag here, and it will end up in the water.
How do you get there?
From Kralendijk, it’s just under half an hour by rental car on good roads. You can park at the beach. Without a car, it’s more difficult, because there’s no public transportation schedule like the one you’re used to in the Netherlands. A taxi or a tour that includes transportation is the practical solution; see our guide on Bonaire without a rental car.
Combine the ride with the salt pans in the south if possible, as you'll be on that side of the island anyway. Get gas before you leave if you're almost empty. On this side of the island, amenities are limited and you can't quickly drive back for them.
Sorobon on Klein Bonaire?
Sorobon is shallow, windy, and lively, with beach clubs and surfers. Klein Bonaire is quiet, uninhabited, and without amenities, with coral close to shore. If you want to swim with small children or just relax in the water, Sorobon is the logical choice. If you want to snorkel over coral, Klein Bonaire is better.
Many visitors do both. You can find more information about the island in our guide to visiting Klein Bonaire. If you only have one day and are still undecided, choose Klein Bonaire for snorkeling and save Sorobon for a day when you mainly want to swim and relax.
Combine them both in one week, then plan Sorobon for a very windy day. Klein Bonaire will be less pleasant then, while that wind is characteristic of the area.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sorobon Beach and Lac Bay
Is Sorobon Beach suitable for children?
Yes, it's one of the quietest spots on the island. There are no waves and the water stays shallow for a long time. Just watch out for the sun, as shade is limited.
Can you snorkel at Sorobon?
That's possible, but you'll mainly see seagrass and small fish there instead of coral. For the reef, you should go to the west coast of the island.
Can you see sea turtles at Sorobon?
You might have a chance, as turtles come to graze in the seagrass fields. They are wild animals, so it's never certain. Keep your distance and don't touch them.
Can you learn to windsurf at Lac Bay?
Yes, the bay is known as a good spot for beginners due to the shallow, flat water. You can arrange lessons and equipment at the surf schools on the beach.
How far is Sorobon from Kralendijk?
About a half-hour drive. The road there is easy to manage with a regular rental car.
Do you have to pay the Nature Fee at Sorobon?
If you go into the water within the Marine Park, the mandatory nature contribution applies. Arrange it online in advance and keep the proof handy.
Want to see more of Bonaire than just the beach? Then check out which activities and excursions fit your trip.
Salt pans and slave huts on Bonaire: what do you see there?
Gotomeer Bonaire: Flamingos, Nature, and Route
Donkey Sanctuary Bonaire: Is it nice to visit?
Klein Bonaire or Sorobon: Which suits you better?