Curaçao has about 38 public and private beaches, ranging from intimate, rocky coves to long beaches with bustling activity. Almost all of the swimming beaches are scattered along the protected southwest coast, where the water is usually calm and crystal clear. The water on the north coast, with its powerful surf and strong undertow, is not suitable for swimming. Officially, topless bathing is prohibited on all public and on some private beaches, but in some places it is tolerated with an eye.
Curaçao's waters are home to an abundance of marine fauna: multicolored papengae fish, silvery barracudas, spotted French cliff fish, colorful butterfly fish... These are just a few species you will find here, while right along the coast you will find coral and sea anemone colonies. There are numerous beaches and something for everyone. For example, there are wide sandy beaches, small beaches, quiet beaches but also very crowded, festive beaches. For the ladies among us: officially you are not allowed to sunbathe topless! However, it is tolerated at most beaches. Especially on quiet beaches, this is not really a problem during your vacation on Curacao.
Underwater world Curacao
If you have never snorkeled or dived before, now might be the time to learn. In any case, put on a pair of goggles and try to catch a glimpse of the wonder world just below the water's surface. However, it is advisable to snorkel with a partner or buddy (this is standard procedure among divers). Curaçao's beaches are safe. To protect not only the fragile reef but also yourself, we recommend not touching anything: only take pictures and leave only bubbles. Make your own choice of the beaches you would most like to visit. Below are attractive beach locations.
Manzilla Tree
The Manzilla tree is also known as the "manchineel. Is often found on Curaçao beaches and are a welcome provider of shade there. However, the sap from these trees can irritate the skin. People who are allergic to it react violently to it. If you do not react to it too much, rinse the irritated area with cold water. Caution ! The small, round fruit (green or yellow) of these trees is very poisonous.
Private beaches curacao
These private beaches are equipped with all facilities such as snack bars, showers, toilets and much more, making your stay at the beach even more comfortable. On these beaches, you can relax lazily with all comforts at your fingertips. Attention ! The entrance fees are subject to change !
Curaçao's most beautiful beaches
Can't choose from the many beaches. Here are some suggestions:
Big Knip (aka: Playa Kenepa Grandi)
The Grote Knip is a popular beach among tourists and locals alike. You can swim here in the clear blue water. You can enjoy snorkeling and the experienced swimmer can even swim to the reef. There are no restaurants in the area, but there are regular vendors walking around offering you drinks and snacks. Of course you can also bring your own food and drinks.
Little Knip (aka: Playa Kenepa Chiki)
If there is a Big Knip, there is also a Little Knip! It is the small version of the above beach and is mostly frequented by locals. You can enjoy swimming and snorkeling here. It is slightly quieter and suitable for children.
Cas Abao
Cas Abao is a beautiful white beach with clear blue water. The beach also has everything: a bar, restaurant, shower and toilet building. You can visit daily from 08:00 to 18:00.
Playa Kalki
Playa Kalki is a beautiful resort that is especially popular with snorkelers and divers. It is relatively quiet here and the beach has already been refurbished. Near the beach there is a diving school where you can take diving lessons, but also just rent diving or snorkeling equipment. There is also a good restaurant near the beach.
Boca Santa Cruz
Boca Santa Cruz is especially alive at night. There are fun parties organized in the evening that are visited by both tourists and locals. During the week military personnel regularly practice on the beach. They then walk with full luggage for several kilometers on the island and walk along this beach, among others. There is a restaurant and a bar at the beach.
Westpunt Beach
Westpunt Beach is a beach where mainly fishermen are active. This also makes it not an ideal beach to sunbathe, but more to see the locals in action. There are also large pebbles that you can photograph nicely. The road to the beach is beautiful and also there you can make beautiful pictures.
Playa PortoMari
Playa PortoMari Is a white beach with clear blue water. The beach has many umbrellas that you can rent. You can also enjoy snorkeling and/or diving. On the weekends it is quite busy, but during the week it is often quiet.
Playa Jeremi
Playa Jeremi is a popular beach for people who like to really sunbathe. There is hardly any shade here, so you'll be lying in it full on. There are some umbrellas to catch the sun though, so if you want to get out of the sun every now and then you can. There are no restaurants or other facilities here, so it is advisable that you bring your own food.
Snorkeling and Diving
Small Children
- Barbara Beach
- Playa Abou (Kenepa)
- Lagun
- Seaquarium
Strolling & Lounging
- Barbara Beach
- Seaquarium
- Cas Abao
By bus to the beach
A number of beaches are easily accessible by public transportation. For the beaches Avila Beach, SuperClubs Breezes Curaçao, Marie Pompoen and Seaquarium take the small buses to Dominguito, or bus 6A (Dominguito) from the bus station just in front of the post office of Punda. Westbound buses leave from the bus station in Otrobanda, next to the viaduct. Bus 8A (Charo-Jandoret) goes to Boka Sami. For the beaches Jeremy, Kenepa, Lagun and Santa Cruz Take bus 3C (Lagun-Knip). Bus 9A (Westpunt) will take you to Playa Fòrti and Playa Piskadó.
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