Top beaches on Curacao

Here’s a list of 13 favorites.

As Nature’s playground for sea turtles and dolphins, Curacao is also known for its turquoise seas, tropical reefs, secluded outlets, and spectacular vistas. Sunbathe on one of the “Best Beaches on Earth,” swim and kayak in calm, crystal waters, or unleash your inner beachcomber as you sink your feet in soft white sand. Start with our favorites below – then discover your own.

Playa Kalki

White sands set against beautiful hills, limestone cliffs, and a green uncrowded environment have earned Playa Kalki a place on Travel + Leisure’s list of the “Best Beaches on Earth.” For the diving enthusiast, the waters are full of natural life and there’s even an old airplane wreck to explore. The beach is often featured on postcards, so bring your camera.

West Coast

Ideal for: Snorkelers, divers, sunbathers

Facilities: Parking, shade, beach rentals,

toilets, restaurant, dive shop, massage

Accessible by: Car, taxi

Grote Knip (Playa Kenepa)

Take the scenic road to one of Curacao’s best-known beaches with its stunningly beautiful vistas and spectacular sunsets. Surrounded by high rocks, Playa Kenepa is a favorite with both locals and tourists, yet rarely feels overcrowded because it’s so long. Families love the beach because the kids can play safely in the turquoise blue waters. Playa Kenepa is also a great place for snorkelers, sunbathers, and beach walkers.

West Coast

Ideal for: Divers, families, sunbathers

Facilities: Parking, snack bar, beach rentals

Accessible by: Car, taxi, bus

Playa Lagun

One of the most photogenic beaches in Curacao can be found in a hidden bay. The pristine beach with fantastic views is surrounded by high rock formations. With fishing boats lying on the beach, it makes Playa Lagun a true and charming beauty. The beautiful underwater world will also not be disappointing with its crystal-clear water. Grab your gear and snorkel along the rocks in the water. If you’re lucky you can also spot some sea turtles.

Northwest Coast

Ideal for: Snorkeling, divers, sunbathing and families

Facilities: Parking, beach rentals, toilets,

showers, shade, and nearby restaurant

Accessible by: Car, taxi, bus

Klein Curacao

Snorkeling and diving are real treats on this small island, about 15 miles southeast of mainland Curacao. Spot sea turtles, dolphins, and other exciting marine creatures in crystal-clear waters. Or walk the beach of powdery, fine sand that encircles Klein Curacao. Day tours and charter boats are available for the trip, which takes about two hours each way.

Southeast of the mainland

Ideal for: Diving, walking, getting away from it all

Facilities: Limited – check when booking

Accessible by: Boat

 

Playa Piskado/Grandi

This coveted beach is known by the locals for its perfect fishing setting and by the tourists for the presence of turtles. This tiny, distinguished beach is an exciting place to snorkel with turtles in their natural habitat in between the colorful wooden fishing boats. While you can also enjoy the spectacle of the natural beauty of this seashore from a pier, you shall witness the fisherman gathering to clean their catch of the day right at the seaside.

West Coast

Ideal for: Swimming, snorkeling, fishing

Facilities: Parking, nearby restaurants, beach rentals

Accessible by: Car, taxi, bus

Blue Bay

Curacao’s largest beach is popular with local families and visitors for its soft white sands, shady palms, shallow waters, and many facilities. Lying near the fishing village of St. Michiel, Blue Bay is also well set up for diving, sea kayaking, or just relaxing with a tropical drink. Children in particular enjoy the playground and pool.

Southwest Coast

Ideal for: Families, swimming, watersports,

Facilities: Parking, bar, restaurant, beach rentals, showers, toilets, nearby golf

Accessible by: Car, taxi, bus

 

Playa Porto Mari

A busy tourist beach for relaxing, snorkeling and having fun in the sun with family or friends. The blue sea has a smooth sandy bottom, perfect for the kids. Playa Porto Mari also features a covered picnic area, beach parasols, chair rentals, and a great seaside restaurant with a spectacular view. If you are lucky, you might even encounter some wild pigs sunbathing on the beach or playing in the water. Everything needed to make a day of it awaits you.

Southwest Coast

Ideal for: Swimming, snorkeling, families, sunbathing

Facilities: Parking, bar and restaurant, showers, toilets, beach rentals

Accessible by: Car, taxi

Kokomo Beach

Kokomo is home to a beautiful seacoast where there are always new things happening. Its restaurant will also blow away your mind with its fresh and delicious menu items after hiking one of the trails surrounding the beach. As the sun sets in the ocean, take a swing over the crystal-clear water to take in the magnificence of this picturesque beach.

South Coast

Ideal for: Snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing,

entertainments, scuba diving, and families

Facilities: Parking, beach rentals, restaurant, toilets

Accessible by: Car, taxi, bus