Curaçao is famous for its turquoise waters and powdery white sands, but some of its most magical beaches are not on the usual tourist map. With a rental car from SmartWheels, you can explore them all at your own pace. No crowds, no tour bus schedule, no rush.
- Klein Knip (Playa Kenepa Chiki)
A small, secluded bay with crystal-clear turquoise water, perfect for snorkeling and soaking up the sun away from the crowds. Klein Knip is about 40 minutes by car from Willemstad. The access road is paved. Parking is free along the road above the beach. Walk down a short sandy path to reach the water. Best visited on weekday mornings when you may have the entire beach to yourself. Bring your own food and drinks as there are no vendors. - Playa Jeremi
Quiet and rugged, this beach is loved by locals for its peaceful vibes and stunning sunsets. Located between Lagun and Knip on the west coast, about 45 minutes from Willemstad. The last stretch of road is unpaved so a compact SUV from SmartWheels is recommended. There are no facilities at all, which is exactly why it stays uncrowded. Bring water, snacks, and a shade umbrella - Playa Kalki
Nicknamed Alice in Wonderland for its incredible underwater life, this is a must-visit for divers and snorkelers. Located at the very northwest tip of the island, about 50 minutes from Willemstad. The road is fully paved. There is a small restaurant and dive shop at the beach. Parking costs a few guilders. The reef starts just meters from shore, making it perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike - Playa Lagun
A narrow cove surrounded by cliffs, great for spotting sea turtles and enjoying calm, sheltered waters. About 40 minutes from Willemstad with fully paved access. A small parking area is right at the beach (NAf 5). There is a restaurant overlooking the cove. This beach gets busy by midday, so arrive before 10 AM for the best turtle-spotting and the calmest water. - Director’s Bay
A historic and hidden gem, known for its coral reef, vibrant marine life, and the remains of an old directors’ house on the hillside. Located near the Oostpunt area, about 30 minutes southeast of Willemstad. The access road is unpaved and bumpy so an SUV is strongly recommended. Parking is free. Bring all your own supplies as there are no facilities. The snorkeling along the left side of the bay is outstanding. - Playa Hunku
One of Curaçao’s most untouched beaches, located inside Christoffel National Park on the northwest coast. You need to pay the park entrance fee (NAf 15–20 per person) and drive through the park to reach it. The road inside the park is rough so an SUV is essential. About 50 minutes from Willemstad. The reward is a wild, empty coastline with dramatic waves and complete solitude. Swimming can be rough here so this beach is best for walking and photography. - Playa Santa Cruz & the Blue Room
From here, you can take a short boat ride to the Blue Room, a stunning underwater cave glowing with blue light.
Why You Need a Car for These Beaches
Public transport does not reach any of these beaches. Taxis are expensive for round trips to the west coast and you would be stuck waiting for a pickup. With your own rental car from SmartWheels, you can carry snorkel gear, towels, a cooler with drinks, beach chairs, and everything you need for a full day. Drive to two or three beaches in a single day and leave whenever you are ready.
At SmartWheels, we make it easy with no deposit required, flexible pickup at five locations, and vehicles to suit every adventure. Our compact SUVs from $67 per day are the most popular choice for beach-hopping because they handle both paved highways and unpaved beach access roads comfortably.
Book your rental car and start your Curaçao beach adventure.
