Curacao is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a family vacationer, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Curacao has something for everyone. With nearly 40 beaches to choose from, you can spend your entire vacation soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters. Here are the top 10 beaches in Curacao that you must visit.
Key Takeaways
- Cas Abao Beach is perfect for families with its amenities and clear waters.
- Grote Knip offers breathtaking views and is a favourite for photography.
- Playa Porto Mari is known for its double reef, making it a great spot for snorkelling.
- Kleine Knip is a quieter beach, ideal for a relaxing day away from the crowds.
- Daaibooi Beach is popular among locals and offers great snorkelling opportunities.
1. Cas Abao Beach
Cas Abao Beach is a must-visit destination in Curacao. The beach is large for Curacao and offers plenty of shade trees, many chairs, and small shops to rent gear. You can also find a good restaurant with clean restrooms, making it a great family beach.
Admission and Amenities
- Admission: 10 Naf per car (12.50 Naf on weekends)
- Chair rental: 5 Naf (3.50 USD)
- Amenities: Dive Centre, Stand-up Paddle, restaurant, showers, toilets
Highlights
Cas Abao Beach is perfect for families and offers a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable visit. The beach is spacious, providing ample room for everyone to enjoy.
Activities
- Snorkelling and diving at the Dive Centre
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Relaxing under the shade trees
Tips
- Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
- Bring cash for admission and rentals.
- Don’t forget your snorkelling gear to explore the underwater beauty.
Cas Abao Beach is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Curacao.
2. Grote Knip
Grote Knip, also known as Kenepa Grandi, is one of the most stunning beaches in Curacao. This is one of our top 2 favourite beaches in the world! The beach is famous for its beautiful white sandy bottom and clear water, making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkelling.
Admission and Facilities
- Admission: Free
- Lying: 7.50 Naf (Also valid for Kleine Knip)
- Service: Restaurant, shower, toilet (key available at the snack bar for 1 Gulden)
Highlights
- Large beach with chairs and umbrellas available for rent
- Great snorkelling opportunities with vibrant marine life
- Perfect for a relaxing day under the sun
Grote Knip is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Curacao. The combination of its natural beauty and excellent facilities makes it a top choice for beach lovers.
3. Playa Porto Mari
Playa Porto Mari is a stunning beach located on the west coast of Curacao. This beach is perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
- Admission: 5 Naf ($3)
- Lying: 5 Naf ($3)
- Services: Restaurant, shower, toilet, dive centre
Highlights
- The beach is known for its clear waters and white sand, making it a favourite spot for both locals and tourists.
- There is a unique double reef, which is ideal for snorkelling and diving.
- The beach has a bar and restaurant where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Playa Porto Mari offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination in Curacao.
4. Kleine Knip
Kleine Knip is a hidden gem in Curacao, perfect for those looking for a quiet and relaxing beach day. Admission is free, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers. The beach is located north of Lagun and is known for its clear waters and beautiful surroundings.
Highlights
- Great for snorkelling: Head to the right when you enter the ocean for the best snorkelling spots.
- No facilities: There are no permanent facilities on the beach, but you might find a small mobile local food truck offering snacks and drinks.
- Lying fee: If you want to rent a beach chair, it will cost you 7.50 Naf, which is also valid for the big Knip.
Kleine Knip is one of the best beaches in Curacao, offering a serene and natural environment. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
5. Daaibooi Beach
Daaibooi Beach is a hidden gem in Curacao, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. The beach is absolutely stunning with its crystal-clear waters and soft sand. Towards the right side, there is a small pool that is ideal for children to play in.
Amenities
- Snack bar
- Toilets
- Showers
Admission
- Free entry
- Beach chair rental: 5 Naf ($3.50)
Activities
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Sunbathing
Daaibooi Beach offers a serene environment where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Curacao. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and soak up the sun.
6. Playa Lagun
Playa Lagun is a hidden gem on the island of Curacao. This small, secluded beach is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs, providing a sense of privacy and tranquillity.
Services and Amenities
- Admission: Free
- Lying: 5 Naf (3.50 USD)
- Services: Two restaurants, restrooms
Activities
Playa Lagun is a favourite spot for snorkelling and diving. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal location for underwater exploration. You might even spot some sea turtles swimming nearby!
If you’re looking for a quiet and beautiful beach to relax and enjoy nature, Playa Lagun is the place to be.
For those interested in staying nearby, there are several hotels close to Playa Lagun, including the LionsDive Beach Resort, which is known for its beautiful beachfront location.
7. Playa Grandi
Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piscado, is a must-visit beach in Curacao. This beach is famous for its clear waters and the chance to swim with sea turtles. Located in the charming village of Sabana Westpunt, it offers a unique experience for both snorkellers and divers.
Highlights
- Swim with Sea Turtles: One of the main attractions at Playa Grandi is the opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles. These gentle creatures are often seen near the shore, making it a memorable experience.
- Fishing Boats: The beach is also a working fishing spot, so you can see local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day.
- Local Vibe: Unlike some of the more commercial beaches, Playa Grandi has a laid-back, local atmosphere that makes it a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Curacao.
If you’re looking for a beach that combines natural beauty with a touch of local culture, Playa Grandi is the place to be. The beach’s unique charm and the chance to see sea turtles up close make it a standout destination in Curacao.
8. Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach is a beautiful place that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. This beach is known for its soft, white sand and clear blue waters, making it a highlight of any trip to Curacao.
Amenities
- Restaurants and Bars: Enjoy a variety of dining options right on the beach.
- Water Sports: From snorkelling to jet skiing, there’s something for everyone.
- Beach Chairs and Umbrellas: Available for rent to make your stay more comfortable.
Activities
- Snorkelling: Explore the vibrant underwater world just off the shore.
- Golfing: The nearby golf course offers stunning views and a challenging game.
- Diving: Take a diving excursion to see some of the best coral reefs in the area.
Blue Bay Beach was amazing and wonderful – a highlight of our cruise. We went there as an excursion from the Norwegian Prima.
Whether you’re looking to relax or seek adventure, Blue Bay Beach has something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this gem during your visit to Curacao.
9. Jan Thiel Beach
Jan Thiel Beach is a vibrant and popular spot in Curacao, perfect for both relaxation and adventure. This beach offers a mix of fun activities and beautiful scenery.
Amenities
- Restaurants and bars
- Shops
- Toilets and showers
Activities
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Beach volleyball
Perched atop of Curacao’s Jan Thiel Village, Papagayo Beach Resort’s recently restyled detached villas boast a modern feel with a dash of tropical elegance.
Admission and Fees
- Admission: 6 Naf
- Lying: 6 Naf (4 $)
- Beds: 25 Naf
Jan Thiel Beach is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Curacao’s coastal offerings.
10. Mambo Beach
Mambo Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Curaçao, known for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone travelling to the island.
Highlights
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Mambo Beach is always buzzing with energy, making it a great place to relax and have fun.
- Beautiful Surroundings: The beach is surrounded by stunning scenery, including clear blue waters and soft white sand.
- Convenient Location: There are many hotels near Mambo Beach, Willemstad, making it easy to find a place to stay.
Activities
- Swimming: The calm waters make it perfect for swimming.
- Snorkelling: Explore the underwater world with ease.
- Dining: Enjoy a variety of restaurants and bars right on the beach.
Tips
- Arrive Early: To get the best spot on the beach, it’s a good idea to arrive early.
- Bring Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, so make sure to protect your skin.
- Stay Nearby: With many hotels near Mambo Beach, Willemstad, you can easily find a place to stay close to the action.
Mambo Beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a top choice for beach lovers visiting Curaçao.
Conclusion
Curacao is a paradise for beach lovers, offering a wide range of hotels that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you’re looking for luxury, family-friendly fun, or a romantic getaway, the island has something for everyone. The beaches are stunning, with soft sand and clear blue waters, perfect for relaxing or enjoying water sports. Plus, with its location outside the hurricane belt, you can enjoy the beautiful weather year-round. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the top beaches and hotels in Curacao for an unforgettable vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Curacao?
The best time to visit Curacao is between December and April when the weather is warm and dry. However, Curacao is a year-round destination thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt.
Are the beaches in Curacao free to access?
Some beaches in Curacao are free to access, while others may charge a small fee for entry or amenities like sun loungers and umbrellas.
Can I find accommodations near the beaches in Curacao?
Yes, there are many hotels and resorts located near the beaches in Curacao, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious stays.
Is Curacao a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Curacao is very family-friendly with many beaches offering calm waters, and there are plenty of activities for kids and families to enjoy.
What activities can I do on Curacao beaches?
You can enjoy various activities such as snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding, and simply relaxing on the beach. Some beaches also offer water sports and beachside dining.
Do I need to rent a car to explore Curacao?
While not necessary, renting a car is recommended if you want to explore the island at your own pace and visit multiple beaches and attractions.