I've never stayed there, but I know where it is, we drove past it when we stayed in Belnem. Seemed nice enough.
Another option might be
Golden Reef Inn owned by
dvrliz1 here. Their resort isn't on the water either and might in fact be slightly farther than Coco Palms. But they're walking distance to a strip mall with a small grocery store, ATM and Lover's Ice Cream. And they have free wireless Internet and a pool. Plus Wannadive has a satellite office there.
From Coco Palms you'll be driving into town to go to Cultimara (market) for food since you're trying to save money. Or any restaurant as there's no food in Belnem - except for one small place that's breakfast only. Belnem is on the "wrong" side of the lagoon/airport. I happen to like it that way as it's quieter at night.
For almost the same $$/night Liz includes AC that Coco Palms charges $10 extra for. Plus GRI was:
Bonaire's Hotel and Tourism Association's Property of the Year. recently. And I believe their properties are newer. Also Liz can hook you up with everything you need while there, they work with Wannadive and have car rental options. If I was looking to go to Bonaire on a budget, I think I'd definitely consider them.
If you are renting a car,
Lagoen Hill will be cheaper still than either of them. But you'll be driving everywhere as it's up in the "hills" and a 2 mile drive to town/the water.
None of these places are walking distance to Kralendijk though. For that you'd have to stay at the Divi. Or there's an affordable place in town, can't remember the name. But for diving, downtown isn't where you want to be, the only site there is Town Pier and it's only done at night. Plus there's more cruise ships in port daily than there was a couple years ago. I wouldn't want to be downtown when they are.
