Curaçao is a paradise for anyone who loves clear blue waters, colorful coral and an abundance of marine life. From hidden coves to world-famous dive spots – the island has something for everyone. The best news? With a rental car, you can explore these places at your own pace, from the lively coves in the east to the quiet, pristine beaches in the west.
We take you on an itinerary of the 10 most beautiful snorkeling and diving spots, including tips on how to get there, what it costs and what to look out for.
Your trip often begins in Willemstad, but if you want to discover a special place right away, drive east of the island, toward Jan Thiel. There you will find Tugboat Beach, named after the famous shipwreck that lies just a few meters below the surface. With your rental car, follow the road to Caracas Bay; you can park almost next to the beach. Admission is free, although you can rent a deck chair or snorkeling equipment for a few guilders. The water here is so calm that even novice snorkelers will feel right at home.
From Willemstad, you can then drive slowly along the southwest coast toward West Point. Along the way you’ll come to Porto Marie, known for its double reef and clear blue waters. Here you pay a small entrance fee, but you get guarded parking, toilets and a cozy beach café in return. Chances are you’ll encounter octopuses here in addition to tropical fish.
A short distance away is Cas Abao, a vast sandy bay with turquoise waters. The access road winds through beautiful scenery and the view as you drive onto the beach is priceless. There is an entrance fee and chairs and umbrellas for rent. Perfect for a full day of snorkeling and sunbathing.
If you go even further west, you will reach Playa Lagun. This narrow bay, surrounded by high cliffs, is the place to spot sea turtles. A short drive from the main road takes you to the small parking lot next to the beach. There is a small restaurant and a diving school, ideal for a lunch break or to arrange your equipment.
For a real day trip, opt for Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island about ten kilometers off the coast. You only get there by boat, but it’s more than worth the trip. Think pristine coral reefs, turtles and sometimes even dolphins. Many tours also allow you to rent diving and snorkeling equipment.
In the far west you will find Playa Kalki, affectionately called “Alice in Wonderland” by divers because of its mushroom-shaped coral structures. Entry is free, and there is a small dive center for those who want to go deeper into the water.
No visit to Curaçao is complete without Klein Knip and Grote Knip. These two beaches are close together and are loved by locals and tourists alike. They have free access and are ideal for a relaxing snorkeling session in shallow water.
At Playa Piskado, also called Playa Grandi, turtles often swim around the fishing boats. Admission is free, but come early to avoid crowds.
For the adventurous snorkelers, there is Watamula, at the very northwest tip of the island. Here two currents meet, creating an exceptionally rich underwater world. It is best visited with a guide or through a dive center.
Finally, there is The Blue Room, a mysterious cave where sunlight turns the water into a magical blue glow. You can swim to it from nearby Playa Santa Cruz or book a boat trip.
Practical tips for your snorkeling adventure
With a rental car, you have the freedom to decide where and when to go snorkeling. Many of these spots are far apart and not easily accessible by public transportation. Always bring plenty of drinking water, reef-safe sunscreen and your snorkeling equipment. Also check in advance for facilities such as restrooms and places to eat.
Curaçao has excellent snorkeling weather year-round, but in the early morning the water is often calmest and visibility clearest.
With this itinerary in your back pocket and a reliable rental car from Cura Explore under you, you’ll be ready to discover Curaçao’s most beautiful underwater pearls – at your own pace.
