Curacao

Hospitable and always sunny, Curacao bids you a warm welcome. The friendly inhabitants, first class hotels, wonderful climate, crystal clear seawater, fascinating architecture, floating market, pontoon bridge, secluded bays, rich fauna and flora, and the many possibilities for excursions and entertainment make Curacao the Caribbean tourist paradise.

Curacao has some thirty public and private beaches, ranging from intimate rocky coves to long strands bustling with activity. Almost all of the swimming beaches are scattered along the sheltered southwestern coast, where the waters are generally calm and crystal clear. The northern coast, with its powerful surf and strong undertow, is not suitable for swimming. Topless bathing is officially prohibited on all public beaches and some private ones, although tacitly accepted in some places.

Curacao’s waters are teeming with underwater life: multi-colored parrot fish, silvery barracuda, spotted French angelfish and colorful butterfly-fish are just some of the varieties you’re apt to see. Colonies of coral and sea anemones inhabit the waters just off the shore. If you’ve never snorkeled or dived, now may be good time to learn. At the very least put on a mask to get a glimpse of the wonders just below the surface. It is recommended that you snorkel with a buddy.

Playa Porto Marie:

Playa ‘PortoMari’ is the place to be for All nature lovers.This long, enchanting stretch of sparkling white sand, with ‘kid-friendly’ waves is also a paradise for swimmers, snorkelers (equipment is available) and divers. The clear and quiet water of this natural beach has a unique ‘double coral reef’, that allows you to explore one reef, swim over it and soon encounter another, which makes it a fascinating dive site. The Seru Mateo, a hill near the beach, has an adventurous nature trail to the top, about 60 meters, with magnificent panoramas.

The beach is open every day from 9.30 AM till 6.30 PM and the fun beachside bar and restaurant offers you a variety of delicious food.

Entrance fee is Naf. 3.50 (Naf. 4.—Sunday/Holliday) including one free soft drink. Children under 12 years free.

Seaquarium Beach:

A full facility beach, this beach has palm trees and white sand. Ideal for children. It has a good selection of shops, bars, restaurants, and facilities for every imaginable water sport. Very busy on weekends, and the place to see and be seen. Topless sunbathing allowed.

Playa Kenepa:

These two beautiful coves are among the islands most popular beaches. Intimate Playa Kenepa has several shade pergolas set back from the water and a large snack bar. Behind the beach is a small salt marsh. In weekends, this beach is very crowded. Entrance is free.

Cas Abao:

The Cas Abao Beach on Banda Abao has a white sandy beach, palm trees and parasols. It is ideal for swimmers, scuba divers and snorkelers. There is a restaurant and changing facilities, showers and toilets. A raft for sunbathing and playing is moored off the beach.

Barbara Beach:

Full facility beach on Banda Ariba. Very suitable for children. Various facilities include a restaurant, showers, toilets and a bar. The beach is long enough for a leisurely stroll. On weekends the "Beau Monde" from Curacao mores their yachts here to hang out and have a drink after taking their boats out to sea.