Curacao is famous for its beautiful beaches, each with unique charm and features. This guide will help you discover the best beaches on the island, organized by the type of experience you’re looking for. Whether you want family-friendly fun, vibrant snorkeling or a quiet spot to relax, Curacao has something for everyone.
1. Best Beaches for Families
Mambo Beach
Mambo Beach, also known as Sea Aquarium Beach, is one of the most popular beaches in Curacao. With calm, shallow waters and plenty of amenities, it’s ideal for families. You’ll find restaurants, shops and beach clubs here, along with facilities like showers and shaded areas. Kids can enjoy the calm water, while parents can relax on sunbeds or grab a meal at nearby restaurants. Mambo Beach is lively, with a fun, welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Cas Abao Beach
Cas Abao Beach offers a mix of white sand, calm water and great facilities, making it perfect for families. Located on the northwest coast, this beach has clear, shallow water for kids to play in and shaded palapas for picnics. Facilities include a snack bar, showers and equipment rentals. Cas Abao is known for its clean, comfortable environment and provides a peaceful, scenic setting for family beach days.
2. Best Beaches for Snorkeling
Playa Lagun
Playa Lagun is a narrow cove beach surrounded by rocky cliffs. This spot is ideal for snorkeling because of its abundant marine life and calm waters. You’ll find colorful fish, turtles, and coral just a few meters from the shore. Snorkeling gear can be rented nearby, and there are small restaurants on the beach for refreshments. Playa Lagun offers a peaceful snorkeling experience in a natural, beautiful setting.
Kleine Knip (Kenepa Chiki)
Kleine Knip, also called Kenepa Chiki, is a small, remote beach popular with snorkelers. The water is clear, with gentle waves that are perfect for snorkeling. You’ll find vibrant fish, sea fans, and coral formations just off the shore. Although there are no facilities on the beach, its natural beauty and underwater life make it one of the best snorkeling beaches on the island.
3. Best Beaches for Scenery and Photography
Grote Knip (Kenepa Grandi)
Grote Knip, also known as Kenepa Grandi, is famous for its stunning scenery. The bright turquoise water and soft white sand make it one of the most photogenic beaches in Curacao. Located on the island’s northwest coast, Grote Knip offers wide ocean views with rugged cliffs in the background. While it lacks amenities, it’s a great spot for scenic photos and peaceful relaxation.
Playa Porto Mari
Playa Porto Mari is a picturesque beach with crystal-clear water and a double coral reef, providing excellent views above and below water. The unique pier extending into the sea is a popular photo spot, and the beach’s clean sand and calm waters make it inviting for a swim. Facilities include a beach bar, dive shop, and sunbeds. Playa Porto Mari’s natural beauty and convenient amenities make it a favorite for photographers and beach lovers.
4. Best Beaches for Relaxing
Playa Grandi
Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piskado, is a small, quiet beach perfect for relaxing. Local fishermen often bring their boats here, and it’s common to see sea turtles in the water near the shore. Playa Grandi has a laid-back, local vibe, with fewer visitors and simple amenities. It’s ideal for those seeking a calm, peaceful spot with a touch of local life.
Playa Kalki
Playa Kalki is a remote beach on the northwest coast, known for its quiet, serene atmosphere. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, Playa Kalki is shaded and private, providing a perfect spot to relax. The beach is small and rarely crowded, making it easy to unwind and enjoy the scenery. There’s a dive shop nearby and a small snack bar for light refreshments.
5. Best Beaches for Adventure
Playa Forti
Playa Forti is known for cliff-jumping, making it a great choice for adventure seekers. The beach sits below a cliff, from which visitors can jump into the deep blue sea. The jump is around 10 meters high and provides a thrilling experience. Playa Forti also has a restaurant with stunning views, ideal for relaxing after an adventurous day. This beach offers a mix of excitement and beautiful views.
Blue Room Cave (Accessible from Santa Cruz Beach)
The Blue Room is a sea cave located near Santa Cruz Beach. Adventurous swimmers can access the cave by diving under a small opening, where they’ll find an underwater world filled with blue light. Once inside, the sunlight reflects off the water, creating a glowing blue effect. Tours are available to help guide visitors safely, as the entrance can be tricky. It’s a magical, adventurous experience that’s worth the effort.
6. Best All-Inclusive Beaches
Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach, part of the Blue Bay Golf and Beach Resort, is one of Curacao’s top all-inclusive beaches. It has soft white sand, turquoise water, and plenty of amenities, including restaurants, bars, sunbeds, and showers. Blue Bay is ideal for those seeking a comfortable, all-in-one beach experience. The resort also offers activities like diving and snorkeling, making it a great spot for a full beach day.
Jan Thiel Beach
Jan Thiel Beach is a popular resort beach with excellent facilities. It has several beach clubs, restaurants, and bars, along with shops and water sports rentals. The beach is lively, with a mix of tourists and locals enjoying the music, food, and drinks. Jan Thiel Beach offers a well-rounded experience for those who want more than just sunbathing.
Final Thoughts
Curacao’s beaches each offer a unique experience, whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or family fun. With this guide, you’ll be able to find the beach that best matches your interests. Enjoy exploring Curacao’s stunning coastline and the endless beauty of its beaches!