Playa Shon Mosa: A Secluded Paradise
Discover Playa Shon Mosa, Curaçao's hidden beach paradise: tranquil shores, clear waters, and unspoiled beauty await your escape.
Playa Shon Mosa, nestled within the private San Juan Plantation on Curaçao's rugged northwest coast, is a haven of tranquility and natural beauty. This secluded beach offers an escape from the island's more bustling tourist spots, providing a serene environment for relaxation and exploration. The beach itself is characterized by soft, white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, inviting visitors to swim, snorkel, or simply bask in the sun. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, with diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs to discover just a short swim from the shore. The gradual slope of the seabed makes it an easy dive site, suitable for beginners. Divers can explore the underwater landscape, with moderate coral density and sandy patches. Playa Shon Mosa's remote location contributes to its unspoiled charm. The beach is part of the San Juan Plantation, a historical area with roots in the island's colonial past. To reach the beach, visitors must navigate a series of dirt roads, adding to the sense of adventure. The entrance fee to the plantation is typically around $6 USD per car. While Playa Shon Mosa lacks formal facilities, this adds to its appeal for those seeking a natural and undisturbed beach experience. Visitors are advised to bring their own supplies, including food, water, sunscreen, and beach towels. The beach is open from 6 AM to 6 PM daily.
Local tips
- Bring your own supplies, as there are no facilities available at the beach.
- A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended to navigate the dirt roads leading to the beach, especially during the rainy season.
- Pay attention to the signs and landmarks on the dirt roads to avoid getting lost.
- The entrance fee to the San Juan Plantation is approximately $6 USD per car.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds.
A brief summary to Playa Shon Mosa
- 6VVW+H78, CW
Getting There
-
Driving
From Willemstad, take the 'road to Westpunt,' passing Landhuis Daniel and the village of Terra Kora. Turn left at the sign for 'Soto,' then follow the road past Cas Abou. A few kilometers further, look for the 'San Juan' sign and turn left. Slow down and turn left at the red rock marked with numbers 20-23 (dive site numbers). Follow the dirt road until you reach the San Juan Plantation house. Enter through the gate, pay the entrance fee (approximately $6 USD or 5 ANG per car), and drive to the right of the plantation house. Continue on the winding dirt road, which may be in poor condition, especially during the rainy season. At the first split in the road, follow the sign pointing to Shon Mosa. Cost: Entrance fee to San Juan Plantation: $6 USD or 5 ANG per car.
-
Public Transport
Take a bus from either Punda or Otrobanda in Willemstad towards Westpunt. These buses typically leave on the hour. Ask the driver to let you off near the turnoff to San Juan Plantation. From there, it is a long walk (approximately 45 minutes to an hour) along the main road and then the dirt roads to reach Playa Shon Mosa. Consider arranging a taxi from the main road to the beach, as the walk can be challenging, especially in the heat. Cost: Bus fare: 2-5 ANG. Taxi from the main road to Playa Shon Mosa (estimated): 30-50 ANG.
