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The name comes from the limestone staircase carved into the cliff that leads down to the beach entry point. In reality there are only about 67 steps, but after climbing back up carrying dive gear, it feels like a thousand. The dramatic cliffside setting is one of Bonaire's most scenic entry points.

The site features a beautiful double reef system with a sand channel between the two reef formations. The inner reef is perfect for beginners at 5-12 metres, while the outer reef drops to 30 metres. Pillar corals, abundant turtles, and excellent macro life make every dive rewarding.

The entry itself is straightforward -- a calm beach with easy water access. The challenge is the 67 steps cut into the limestone cliff to reach the beach, which can be tiring with full dive gear. Most divers find the climb worthwhile for the excellent diving. Going early morning avoids the heat.

The Hilma Hooker was a 72-metre Dutch cargo vessel that arrived in Bonaire in 1984 with no paperwork and a mysterious crew that quickly disappeared. Authorities discovered 25,000 pounds of marijuana hidden in a false compartment. Unable to find the owners, the ship was left at anchor until it sank on its own on September 12, 1984.

Yes, the Hilma Hooker is one of the few Caribbean wrecks accessible as a shore dive. Enter from the beach near the Karel's Bar area and swim approximately 50 metres on the surface to reach the mooring. The wreck sits between 18 and 30 metres depth on a sandy bottom between two reef formations.