Denise-

It sounds like Bonaire will be perfect for you, if you also enjoy desert scenery next to crystal blue water. I've been 11 times and love the laid-back vibe and gorgeous scenery so much.

Bellefonte looks very nice from the outside (we rent a house down the road). You will need a car from there to get to town, but it isn't far.

I would suggest three things:

First, if you have any urge at all to move from snorkeling to scuba diving, Bonaire is the ideal place to do your open water certification. The water is so clear, the level of instruction is so good, and the currents are usually so calm that it is a marvelous place to learn (and get hooked) on diving. The snorkeling is definitely great, too, but the diving is so wonderful and relaxing. We went as snorkellers our first trip and went back 6 months later to get certified.

Second, check out http://www.bonairetalk.com/ This community is full of Bonaire obsessed travellers. Keep in mind that they all have their own "way" to do Bonaire and can be opinionated, but beyond that- it is an excellent source of up to the minute information on accomodations, dining, snorkelling spots, etc. from people who really love the island.

Third, you might want to get a copy of the book Bonaire Shore Diving Made Easy. The great thing about Bonaire is that you can drive around and dive or snorkel right off the side of the road. This book tells you which spots are easy entries, where the good snorkeling spots are (with interesting stuff closer to shore and to the surface). We find it invaluable. http://www.infobonaire.com/bsdme/

Okay- I just thought of a fourth thing. If you usually snorkel in full foot fins, you will be REALLY happy if you invest in pocket fins and a pair of booties with a decent sole.

You have to walk over hardscrabble dead coral and urchins to get into the water in most spots (Bonaire isn't known for sandy beaches) and booties will make your trip so much better by giving you freedom to walk into the water safely then float out and put on your fins. It's hard to walk in full foot fins because the shoreline is uneven and I've seen people get really frustrated by feeling shaky on entry and exit. With my booties, I just stroll in with no worries.

Have a great trip!

I agree that you chose a n excellent destination based upon your specs. But, I do think the snorkeling is good based upon 3 visits in the past 11 years(last in 2006) but it is not"mecca". I do think it is better than GC is now but St. John, Belize,Tobago Caye (Grenadines) and the WEST END of Curacao are quite good for future consideration. Though I dive sometimes, don't get pushed into it if you have ANY hesitation. In most cases I have seen 90% as much in 15 ft. of water as in 35 ft. and novice divers are likely not going to go deeper than that for many dives if they are smart, in my opinion.
I would not hang late at a bar after 10PM though in Bonaire or elsewhere you are not familar with going solo.ENJOY.