Background

Tugboat Beach: Curaçao's Underwater Gem

Discover Curaçao's best snorkeling at Tugboat Beach, where a sunken tugboat teems with vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters.

4.5

Tugboat Beach is a renowned snorkeling and diving destination on Curaçao, famous for a small tugboat wreck lying just offshore. The shallow, clear waters teem with vibrant marine life, making it an accessible and captivating underwater experience for all skill levels.

A brief summary to Tugboat Beach

Local tips

  • Bring water shoes, as the beach is rocky and the entrance to the water can be challenging.
  • Arrive early in the morning for calmer waters and better visibility for snorkeling.
  • Consider renting snorkeling gear on-site if you don't have your own.
  • Be aware of boat traffic when snorkeling near the tugboat.
  • Bring your underwater camera to capture the colorful marine life around the wreck.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    From Willemstad, take Caracasbaaiweg east. Follow the road and signs for Tugboat Beach. A small parking lot is available near the beach. Parking may have a minimal fee.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Willemstad. A taxi from Willemstad to Tugboat Beach costs approximately $40 each way. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad's Otrobanda bus terminal, take a bus towards Westpunt or Klein Curacao. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Tugboat Beach. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the beach. Bus fare is around $1-$2.

Unlock the Best of Tugboat Beach

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Tugboat Beach

Tugboat Beach, nestled in Caracas Bay on Curaçao's southeastern coast, is a must-visit for snorkelers and divers. The main attraction is the small tugboat that sank just a few meters from the shore, now an artificial reef teeming with marine life. Deliberately sunk in the 1980s to enhance tourism, the wreck has become a haven for colorful coral and fish. Snorkelers can easily explore the site, with the top of the wreck just 5 meters (16 feet) below the surface. Expect to see parrotfish, trumpetfish, angelfish, and perhaps even sea turtles. The clear waters offer excellent visibility, often exceeding 30 meters. Beyond the tugboat, the surrounding area offers diverse underwater scenery. To the right of the beach, you can explore wreck remains and marine life near a large dock. Swimming past the tugboat around the rocky point reveals a stunning reef drop-off with healthy corals and abundant fish. While the beach itself is small and rocky, the underwater wonders more than compensate. Tugboat Beach offers a unique blend of history, marine life, and accessibility, making it a memorable Curaçao experience.

Popular Experiences near Tugboat Beach

Popular Hotels near Tugboat Beach

Select Currency