The most beautiful coastal route of Curacao

The Most Beautiful Coastal Route of Curaçao: An Unforgettable Journey In this blog post, I will take you along a route you shouldn't miss during your visit to Curaçao. We start in Willemstad and take a round trip of about 70 kilometers along the western coast of the island, where the most impressive beaches can be found.

The Route: From Willemstad to Westpunt Willemstad to Jan Thiel (10 km) We begin our journey in the colorful capital Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage city. Drive east along the Caracasbaai and make your first stop at Jan Thiel Beach. This well-developed beach offers all the facilities you need, from restaurants to sunbeds, and the crystal-clear water is perfect for a first dip.

Tip: Leave early to catch the morning sun that beautifully illuminates the characteristic colored buildings of Willemstad.

Jan Thiel to Caracasbaai (5 km) Continue your route to Caracasbaai, where you can snorkel at the sunken German cargo ship from the Second World War, the Tugboat. The underwater life here is stunning and suitable for both beginner and experienced snorkelers.

Caracasbaai to Mambo Beach (8 km) Drive further along the south coast to Mambo Beach, a popular beach with trendy beach clubs and good swimming opportunities. This is a perfect location for lunch with a view of the sea.

Mambo Beach to Porto Mari (20 km) Now the adventurous part of the route begins. Drive to the west coast and follow the coastal road towards Porto Mari. This road winds past impressive limestone formations and offers spectacular views over the Caribbean Sea. Porto Mari Beach itself is a gem with its double reef that is perfect for snorkeling.

Sights along the way:

Spanish Water, a large sheltered bay

Sint Willibrordus with its historic church

The Jan Kok salt pans with flamingos (if you're lucky)

Porto Mari to Grote Knip (15 km) The route from Porto Mari to Grote Knip is perhaps the most beautiful part of the entire trip. The road climbs and descends along the coastline, offering dramatic vistas. Along the way you will pass:

Playa Lagun, a picturesque bay surrounded by cliffs

Playa Jeremi, a small but beautiful pebble beach

Playa Kenepa (Grote Knip), often named the most beautiful beach on Curaçao

Grote Knip to Westpunt (12 km) The last leg of our route leads to Westpunt, the westernmost tip of the island. Here you will find Playa Kalki and the famous Blue Room, an underwater cave bathed in a magical blue light. At Watamula, you can admire the rugged north coast, where the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.

The Most Beautiful Beaches Along the Way During this route, you will pass some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Here are five you shouldn't miss:

Playa Kenepa (Grote Knip) - With its clear blue water and white sandy beach, this is a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling.

Porto Mari - A wide beach with good facilities and a double reef within swimming distance from the shore.

Playa Lagun - An intimate bay surrounded by steep cliffs, ideal for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles.

Playa Jeremi - Less crowded and more natural, with impressive rock formations and crystal-clear water.

Playa Kalki - A quiet beach near Westpunt, perfect for diving and snorkeling due to its rich underwater life.

Practical Tips Best time to travel: The route can be driven all year round, but the period from December to April offers the most pleasant temperatures and least rain.

Essentials: Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, snorkeling gear, and cash (not all places accept credit cards).

Navigation: Download offline maps of Curaçao, as mobile coverage can be limited in remote areas.

Entrance fees: Some beaches charge a small entrance fee (usually between 5-10 NAf), keep this in mind.

Where to Eat Along the way, you will come across several restaurants worth visiting:

Karakter at Coral Estate - For a culinary experience with a sea view

Landhuis Daniel - Authentic local cuisine in a historic setting

Sol Food at Westpunt - Simple but delicious food with an unparalleled view

Conclusion The coastal route of Curaçao is more than just a road by the sea – it is a journey past hidden bays and cultural treasures. Whether you come for the beaches, the snorkeling, nature, or just to enjoy the tranquility, this route has it all to offer.

Take your time for this trip and plan at least a full day, but ideally, divide the route over several days to truly enjoy everything this magical coastline has to offer. Dushi Curaçao will surprise and enchant you, and this coastal route shows the island at its absolute best.