I am planning a trip to bonaire this summer and would like to know which one is better buddy dive or Plaza resort. Does one have better shore diving, dive shop, cleaner, etc..

I have read there has been hurricane damage to the reefs in 1999, how will this effect the diving?

I stay at both. I go with a group to The Plaza and do a trip with family to Buddy's. Both have great rooms, shore diving, dive operations, food, bars. The Plaza is much larger and still has a small island feel to it. Most Buddy's and Lions units have full kitchens and has a more compact grounds layout. I like both! You can't go wrong

I need to address your second question. There was significant damage to the shallows when hurricane Lenny formed in the south west caribbean and went the opposite way (west to east). The storm never hit the island and all damage was due to storm surge coming from the west. The reef has recovered nicely and Bonaire still has some of the best diving around. If you are a snorkeler you will love the shallows and as a diver the deeper reefs. Keep an open mind and you will fall in love with the island.

Cheryl, we've stayed at Buddy Dive 8 or 9 times now, and think it's quite good. The Plaza is much larger and spread out; Buddy's has a much more intimate feel, nice rooms, GREAT house reef, super dive operation, etc. As far as the damage from Lenny in 1999, we've been there both before and after. If you're a snorkeler, it means that you need to pick sites that have more coral in the shallows; if you're a diver it doesn't matter a heck of a lot since once the drop off begins (in 30 feet or so of water) there basically was not a lot of damage.

I've stayed at both. Buddy's shore diving is one awesome giant stride away from the tanks and gear storage. Plaza... Well suffice its highly unlikely I'll stay there again.