Rincon
Bonaire's oldest settlement, founded in a valley inland to hide it from raiders at sea.
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Rincon sits in a valley in northern Bonaire, placed inland by the Spanish so that passing pirates could not see it from the sea, which makes it the oldest settlement on the island and older than Kralendijk. Low houses in strong colours line the streets around the church, and the village keeps a character the coast does not have. Its Dia di Rincon festival at the end of April is the island's biggest.
What you actually see
- The valley position - a settlement placed inland to stay invisible from the sea.
- The painted houses - low buildings in strong colours along the streets.
- The church - the building the village is arranged around.
- Dia di Rincon - the late April festival, the largest on Bonaire.
When to go
Year round. The Dia di Rincon festival falls at the end of April. Mornings are cooler for walking the streets.
Honest expectations
There is little to do beyond walking and eating, and half a day is generous outside festival time. Most businesses close in the afternoon. The drive from Kralendijk is the main effort.
Nearby
Gotomeer is west, and Washington Slagbaai is northwest.
What to pack for Rincon
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.