Bonaire is a small island and the airport is just 4 km from Kralendijk, so transport costs are modest compared to most Caribbean destinations. The catch is that you have limited options — no public bus, no Uber, and only a handful of taxis.
Taxi rates from Flamingo Airport
Taxis on Bonaire have no meters. The government sets the rates, and every licensed driver (look for the TX on the plate) must carry the official rate card. Ask to see it and agree the fare before you set off — that card is the authoritative price, and it is the only one we will point you to, because the rates are revised and no online table is reliably current.
The card prices by destination, and the distances tell you the order:
| Destination | Distance |
|---|---|
| Belnem area (south coast) | 2 km |
| Harbour Village Beach Club | 3 km |
| Kralendijk center | 4 km |
| Lac Bay / Sorobon | 15 km |
| Rincon | 18 km |
| Washington Slagbaai entrance | 30 km |
A surcharge applies for rides late at night and on Sundays and public holidays, and each large bag beyond the standard allowance may carry a small extra charge. Both are on the card.
Pre-booked private transfer
A private transfer to central Kralendijk typically costs $18–$30 USD, depending on vehicle type. The price is fixed at booking, so there are no surprises. This is particularly useful if you arrive at night when fewer taxis are available.
For groups or families needing a larger vehicle, expect $30–$45 USD for an SUV or minivan transfer.
Rental car costs
Most visitors rent a car on Bonaire. Daily rates move with the season and are highest from December through April — check with the rental companies directly, and book early in high season. Whatever you pay for fuel, the island is only 40 km long, so you will not spend much on it.
The honest comparison
If you are staying in Kralendijk for a night or two, a taxi is the cheapest one-way option — the ride is only 4 km. If you are staying longer and want to explore, a rental car pays for itself quickly compared to multiple taxi rides. A pre-booked transfer is the safest choice for late arrivals when taxi availability is not guaranteed.