I happen to think Bonaire is plenty vacation-y and definitely where I’ve gotten the most bang for my diving buck. We averaged about 4 to 5 dives per day.
If you are planning to do that much diving, you should ask your instructor to include a nitrox class with your open water class. (Our shop gives a discount if you pay for nitrox and another cert.)
Also, you can rent old beat up pick-ups there for cheap but make sure you and your buddy are both comfortable driving stick.