On Bonaire, drinking tap water is not recommended—it may contain contaminants.
Tap water in Bonaire is desalinated, but aging local distribution systems can affect water quality by introducing bacteria or sediment.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Verified through CDC and WHO data, along with reports from municipal water services.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We get a lot of questions from travelers wondering if a filter bottle is worth it—and the answer is almost always yes. It’s one of the simplest ways to avoid waterborne illness, stay hydrated without contributing to plastic pollution, and avoid the daily cost of buying bottled water. We’ve reviewed the most effective options based on trusted travel brands, and you’ll find them just below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even if the tap water is safe for residents, foreign travelers often face higher health risks due to exposure to unfamiliar organisms and differing hygiene standards.
You may be exposed to:
- Bacteria like E. coli, causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, from untreated or contaminated water sources
- Viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A, spread through unclean water systems
- In some countries, chemical toxins from old pipes or agricultural runoff
Contamination is most common in:
- Regions without consistent municipal treatment
- Areas impacted by seasonal flooding or unreliable sanitation
- Buildings with aging infrastructure or poorly maintained tanks
Remember: clear water isn’t always safe water. Invisible contaminants can still cause serious issues, from mild digestive discomfort to prolonged illness.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling on Bonaire, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water on Bonaire
Most of the drinking water on Bonaire comes from seawater that’s turned into freshwater through reverse osmosis. It’s an energy-heavy process, which drives up the price of water. A good chunk of that water gets lost on the way to homes and businesses—probably due to old or leaky pipes. To tackle this, the island is looking into more sustainable options, like using solar or wind power for water production.
FAQs About Tap Water on Bonaire
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Using tap water to brush your teeth could expose you to local bacteria your body isn’t used to—better to be cautious.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Yes, you can generally wash your face with tap water—but avoid getting it in your mouth or eyes.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
If the tap water isn’t safe to drink, the ice probably isn’t either—so skip it unless you know it’s filtered.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Many travelers shower without concern, as long as they avoid ingesting any of the water.
Even clean-looking water can be harsh on your skin when you’re abroad. A travel shower filter screws on in seconds and can help. Just check that the showerhead isn’t recessed or built into the wall—you’ll need access to connect it. This one’s a traveler favorite for a reason. Click here to check it out.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Contaminated tap water can linger on produce, so use safe water to avoid getting sick.
Is bottled water expensive on Bonaire?
It’s typically not expensive and is easy to find in most shops, hotels, or street vendors.
Travelers heading to Bonaire often include nearby islands like Curaçao, Aruba, or even the mainland coast of Venezuela—it’s helpful to compare water safety if you’re visiting multiple stops in the region.