Curacao / Beach Life

Most of Curaçao’s beaches are small and secluded, often cut into the cliffs of the island coastline and hidden away from the developed areas of the island. They usually do not have the crowds associated with many other islands in the Caribbean (except on the weekends and holidays). Note that on the north coast the sea is too rough for swimming. 

Below is a selection of the best Curacao beaches.

Westpunt - The most westerly tip of Curaçao. Nice sand set beneath the cliffs, it has fantastic clear water.

Lagun Beach - Picturesque cove with calm water where small fishing boats stand at anchor. Excellent snorkelling in the shallow water near the shore. Manchioneel trees provide shade, but you should beware of their poisonous, apple-like fruits. A small snack bar is open on the weekend.

Daai Booi Bay - On the west coast, not far from St Wilibrordus. A small bay close to town with good snorkelling. Snack bar available all week. A small trail leads into the countryside on the west of the beach.

Vaarsen Bay - Scant sand, rocky entry and a lack of shade but a picturesque cove, west of Willemstad. Entrance to the water difficult for children but there is a play area, pier and a diving platform for strong swimmers. The beach is sometimes closed for private parties and occasionally there are public events with music. Seaside bar with a large covered terrace.

Seaquarium Beach - Right next door to the sea aquarium, east of Willemstad. Perfect place for children to play in the shallow water during the day but can get busy. Shops, several bars and facilities for all watersports. At night it becomes a crowded hotspot with the odd concert and even films on the beach.

Barbara Beach - Sandy expanse, very popular with Curaçaoans at the weekends. Bar and changing room facilities and a charge for car parking. Topless bathing is common.

Caracasbaai - Coarse sand and pebble beach popular amongst the locals. Good snorkelling in the calm waters. There are several small restaurants nearby.

Klein Curaçao - Curaçao's longest and whitest beach is actually on Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island eight miles off the southeast coast. Dive operators and charter boats take passengers out to the island which offers superb diving. Klien Curaçao has no permanent inhabitants and the only things on the island are an old lighthouse, beach house, and several huts.