Playa Piskado-Grandi

This popular spot on the west coast of Curacao is known to locals as an excellent fishing location and to tourists as the place to snorkel with sea turtles. Playa Piskado, also called Playa Grandi, is a small but special beach where, among the colorful wooden fishing boats, you will have the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat. From the pier you can enjoy the view of the sea and the daily scene of fishermen cleaning their catch at the waterfront.

What to expect:


• Unique snorkeling experience with turtles.

• Colorful fishing boats and local atmosphere

• Perfect place to see fishermen at work

• View from the pier over the sea and beach

The turtles descend on local fishermen's leftovers and therefore often swim close to shore. Unfortunately, the crowds underwater and on the pier are causing increasing problems.

The sea turtles are increasingly disturbed. Visitors enter the water, swim after the animals, try to touch them or take selfies at very close range. This causes stress to the turtles and disturbs their natural behavior. According to conservationists, the situation has gotten so bad in recent years that some turtles now avoid Playa Grandi.

A notable and worrisome part of this problem is the actions of a local man who stands on the pier. He lets tourists come onto the pier for a fee to take pictures of the turtles in the water. Sometimes he even throws fish waste to lure the animals closer. This causes even more distress among the turtles. It also fuels wrong behavior: visitors think this is normal and do the same.

Despite warnings, petitions and temporary fences, no lasting solution has yet emerged. The situation remains worrisome, especially since contact with the animals is often deliberately sought out and even made commercial.

Want to see sea turtles on Curacao? Then leave them alone. Keep your distance, don't touch them, don't use a flash light and stay off the pier. And never pay for a photo from the pier - this supports behavior that is harmful to the animals.

Practical information:


• Parking

• Nearby restaurants

• Beach gear rental
• Accessible by: Car,cab and Bus