The Beaches of Curaçao

Marion van Zijl
07 juni 2025

One of the best things about Curaçao is its coastline. The island is dotted with over 30 beaches — each with its own personality. Some are wild and natural, others are lively and developed. Whether you're into snorkeling, sunbathing, beach bars, or quiet coves, there’s something for everyone.

Here’s our guide to the most popular (and a few secret) beaches of Curaçao — including entrance fees, facilities, and what to expect.


Private Beach at Casa Palapa 19

Let’s start with our favorite: the private beach just steps from Casa Palapa 19. This small and peaceful stretch of sand is exclusive to the neighborhood, which means no crowds. Bring your towel, a cold drink, and enjoy the ocean just outside your front door. It’s perfect for an early morning swim or sunset dip — and yes, it's free!


Jan Thiel Beach

  • Entry Fee: 6–7 ANG p.p. (~$3.50 USD)

  • Amenities: Sunbeds (extra fee), restaurants, bars, toilets, showers, live music on weekends

  • Vibe: Lively, trendy, family-friendly

Jan Thiel is one of the most popular beaches near Casa Palapa 19. With plenty of bars and restaurants (Zest, Zanzibar), live DJ sets, and sunbeds lined up under palm trees, it’s great for a full beach day with all the comforts.


Mambo Beach (Seaquarium Beach)

  • Entry Fee: 6–7 ANG p.p.

  • Amenities: Full facilities, shops, beach clubs, restaurants, paid sunbeds

  • Vibe: Stylish, bustling, great for people-watching

This is Curaçao's most commercial beach, but also one of the most fun if you enjoy a full-service experience. Perfect for cocktails, shopping, and beach lounging — especially popular in the afternoons and evenings.


Playa Grandi (Playa Piskado)

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Amenities: Parking, snack bars, rustic seating, no luxury facilities

  • Vibe: Local, raw, unforgettable for turtle spotting

This beach in Westpunt is famous for the sea turtles that swim among the fishermen. Bring snorkel gear and dive right in! It’s not the most comfortable for sunbathing, but a must-visit for wildlife lovers.


Tugboat Beach

  • Entry Fee: Free (parking 1–2 ANG)

  • Amenities: Small beach bar, snorkel rental, rustic seating

  • Vibe: Adventurous, great for snorkeling

Located near Directorsbaai, this spot is known for its underwater wreck — the famous tugboat — and vibrant reef life. It’s a bit rugged but very special. Snorkeling is a must here.


Playa PortoMari

  • Entry Fee: 6–7 ANG

  • Amenities: Sunbeds, full-service restaurant, restrooms, showers

  • Vibe: Beautiful, balanced, ideal for families and couples

This twin-bay beach has calm water, plenty of space, and even a hiking trail behind it. The bar/restaurant serves great drinks and food, and snorkeling here is excellent.


Cas Abao Beach

  • Entry Fee: 10 ANG per car (weekdays), 12.50 ANG (weekends/holidays)

  • Amenities: Sunbeds, showers, restaurant, dive shop

  • Vibe: Pristine, postcard-worthy, ideal for a day trip

Cas Abao is consistently ranked among the Caribbean’s best beaches — and it shows. Clear turquoise water, soft white sand, and good facilities make it a favorite.


Kleine Knip (Playa Kenepa Chiki)

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Amenities: Limited, occasional vendors, simple toilets

  • Vibe: Quiet, local, natural beauty

Smaller and less crowded than its big brother (Grote Knip), this beach is perfect for a peaceful swim or relaxing with a picnic. No rentals or luxuries — bring your own!


Grote Knip (Playa Kenepa Grandi)

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Amenities: Food stalls, sunbeds (for rent), restrooms

  • Vibe: Iconic, photogenic, essential stop

This beach is on almost every Curaçao postcard. Turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, and incredible snorkeling. Weekends can get busy, so we love coming early on a weekday.


Daaibooi Beach

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Amenities: Small restaurant, palapas, snorkel-friendly

  • Vibe: Local favorite, easygoing

Ideal for a quick swim and lunch with your feet in the sand. It’s low-key and charming, and the sunsets here are incredible.


Kokomo Beach

  • Entry Fee: Free

  • Amenities: Full-service restaurant/bar, toilets, loungers

  • Vibe: Chill with a splash of trendy

Great for relaxing, eating, or sipping cocktails to music. The Instagram-famous "Kokomo" sign in the water is a fun photo stop!


Tips for Visiting Curaçao’s Beaches

  • Bring cash: Especially for parking or beach entry at smaller spots.

  • Sunbeds: Usually cost 5–7 ANG per bed. Some include a cushion.

  • Food & Drinks: Most paid beaches have restaurants or beach bars.

  • Restrooms & Showers: Available at most developed beaches.

  • Best time to go: Mornings for peace, afternoons for social vibes.

  • Don't forget: Snorkel gear, sunscreen, water shoes, and plenty of water.


Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer comfort and cocktails or quiet coves with just the sound of waves, Curaçao’s beaches deliver. And the best part? You’ve got one right in front of your door at Casa Palapa 19. Just grab your towel and start your beach adventure!