Curaçao’s coastline is a Caribbean mosaic of secluded coves, limestone cliffs and calm, aquamarine waters. Tucked just off the coast of South America, this Dutch-Caribbean island is home to some of the region’s best beaches for snorkeling, swimming and sun-soaked serenity. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly shores, dramatic reef dives or romantic sunset views, Curaçao’s beaches deliver picture-perfect experiences in every corner of the island.
Some of the best beaches in Curaçao include Playa Kenepa Grandi, Cas Abao Beach, Playa Porto Mari and Mambo Beach. From the rugged cliffs of Westpunt to the lively beaches near Willemstad, here’s where to find the best beaches in Curaçao by region and traveler type.
Best Beaches in West Curaçao
1. Playa Kenepa Grandi: Best For Scenic Views And Clear Water Swimming
Playa Kenepa Grandi, also known as Grote Knip, is one of the most photographed beaches in Curaçao. Perched between cliffs and backed by vibrant blue water, it’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling and soaking up the sun. There’s minimal development here, which adds to the natural beauty. Bring your snorkel gear and float into one of the island’s clearest bays.
2. Playa Lagun: Best For Sea Turtle Sightings And Local Charm
This small, tucked-away beach is popular with locals and nature lovers. Playa Lagun sits in a narrow cove surrounded by cliffs and offers easy access to coral reefs and marine life. It’s one of the best places in Curaçao to swim alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat. The relaxed vibe and casual beachfront café make it a peaceful stop off the tourist path.
3. Playa Piskado: Best For Snorkeling With Sea Turtles Near Shore
Located just north of Playa Lagun, Playa Piskado (also called Playa Grandi) is a working fisherman’s beach where turtles gather near the pier. It’s one of the best beaches in Curaçao for seeing sea turtles up close while snorkeling. The water is calm and shallow and the presence of local fishermen adds a unique cultural element to your visit.
Best Beaches in Central Curaçao
1. Cas Abao Beach: Best For Families And Calm Caribbean Snorkeling
Cas Abao is a dreamy white-sand beach with clear turquoise water, great amenities and excellent snorkeling conditions. It’s one of the most family-friendly beaches in Curaçao, offering calm water, shaded palapas, a floating platform for kids and a reef just offshore. Lifeguards, restrooms and a beach bar make it a perfect day-long escape.
2. Playa Porto Mari: Best For Beginner Divers And Wildlife Spotting
Porto Mari combines convenience with natural beauty. The twin reef system just offshore makes it ideal for snorkeling and shore diving, especially for beginners. Wildlife lovers may spot iguanas along the walkway or the famous beach pigs wandering the sand. The beach also offers gear rentals, a dive shop and a great restaurant.
Best Beaches in Eastern Curaçao
1. Mambo Beach: Best For Cruise Visitors And Beach Club Vibes
Located just outside Willemstad, Mambo Beach is a lively, resort-style stretch of sand lined with shops, restaurants and beach clubs. It’s the best beach in Curaçao for travelers who want a lively scene with full amenities. The water is calm, protected by a rock breakwater and ideal for swimming or relaxing with a drink in hand.
2. Tugboat Beach: Best For Underwater Photography And Shore Snorkeling
Tugboat Beach is famous for its shallow dive site where a sunken tugboat rests just offshore. It’s one of the best snorkeling beaches in Curaçao, especially for underwater photographers. The entry is easy, the water is clear and coral surrounds the tugboat. A small beach shack offers snacks, gear rentals and lounge chairs.
3. Jan Thiel Beach: Best For Resorts And Active Travelers
If you’re staying on the east side of the island, Jan Thiel Beach is a great place to swim, kayak or relax with upscale amenities. It’s a man-made beach but offers great access to bars, restaurants and watersports. The vibe here is polished and popular with both locals and tourists.
Excursions to Curaçao’s Beaches
Curaçao beach excursions often combine scenic drives, snorkeling tours or wildlife spotting with beach relaxation. Some popular options include:
- Playa Kenepa and West Coast Tour: Visit multiple beaches and scenic overlooks in Westpunt
- Cas Abao Snorkel Trip: Swim along shallow reefs and enjoy calm water
- Klein Curaçao Catamaran Day Trip: Sail to a remote island with powdery sand and a historic lighthouse
- Mambo Beach Break: Spend a few hours at the most convenient beach near Willemstad with shopping and dining included
Quick List of Curaçao’s Top Beaches by Traveler Type
- Playa Kenepa Grandi – Best for postcard-perfect views and swimming
- Cas Abao Beach – Best for families and calm snorkeling reefs
- Playa Porto Mari – Best for beginner divers and wildlife encounters
- Mambo Beach – Best for beach clubs, shopping and cruise travelers
- Playa Lagun – Best for local vibes and turtle spotting
- Klein Curaçao – Best for a full-day island escape and soft sand
- Tugboat Beach – Best for underwater photography and snorkelers
- Playa Piskado – Best for seeing sea turtles right off the shore
FAQs about Curaçao’s Beaches:
1. What is the best beach in Curaçao for families?
Cas Abao is the best family beach in Curaçao. It has soft sand, calm waters, restrooms and shaded seating—ideal for kids and parents.
2. Which beach in Curaçao is best for snorkeling?
Tugboat Beach is one of the best beaches in Curaçao for snorkeling. The shallow wreck and surrounding reef are easily accessible from shore.
3. Where can you see sea turtles in Curaçao?
Playa Piskado is the best beach in Curaçao to see sea turtles. They’re often spotted near the fishing pier, especially in the morning.
4. What is the most beautiful beach in Curaçao?
Playa Kenepa Grandi is often called the most beautiful beach in Curaçao, thanks to its cliffside views, turquoise water and natural setting.
5. Which beach is best near the cruise port in Curaçao?
Mambo Beach is the best beach near the cruise port. It’s about 15 minutes from Willemstad and offers food, shops, beach clubs and calm swimming.
6. Are there quiet beaches in Curaçao without crowds?
Yes, Playa Lagun and Playa Jeremi are quieter beaches in Curaçao. They offer local charm, snorkeling and fewer tourists.
