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Playa Grandi: Curaçao's Turtle Hotspot

Swim with sea turtles at this lively Curaçao beach where local fishermen create a unique and unforgettable Caribbean experience.

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Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piscado, is a unique beach on Curaçao's western coast, near Westpunt. This isn't a pristine white-sand beach, but a lively fishing beach where you're almost guaranteed to swim with sea turtles, drawn by the local fishermen cleaning their daily catch.

A brief summary to Playa Grandi

  • Sabana Westpunt, CW

Local tips

  • Arrive in the early afternoon when fishermen return with their catch, increasing your chances of seeing turtles.
  • Bring your own snorkeling gear for a more comfortable and personalized experience.
  • Wear water shoes to protect your feet from the rocky seabed.
  • Be respectful of the sea turtles and maintain a safe distance; it's illegal to touch or harass them.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Willemstad, take bus 9A towards Westpunt. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs $2. Ask the driver to drop you off at Westpunt. From there, walk south towards Playa Grandi, following the signs or asking locals for directions. The beach is located near the All West Apartments and the Misa di San Pedro.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available from Willemstad. A taxi ride from Willemstad to Playa Grandi typically costs between 80-100 ANG and takes around 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    From Westpunt, head south on Weg naar Westpunt. The beach is located at the end of a small road just off the main road. Limited free parking is available near the beach, but it can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. Consider arriving early or parking along the shoulder of the road if the parking lot is full. Be mindful of local traffic and pedestrians when parking.

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Discover more about Playa Grandi

Playa Grandi, or Playa Piskadó (Fisherman's Beach), offers an authentic Caribbean experience unlike typical tourist beaches. Located near Westpunt, on Curaçao's western coast, it's a bustling hub where local fishermen bring in their catch, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The main draw is the opportunity to swim and snorkel with sea turtles that frequent the area, attracted by the fish scraps discarded by fishermen. The beach itself is a small, pebbly cove with a mix of sand and coral rubble, so water shoes are recommended. Manchineel trees offer shade, but beware of their poisonous sap. Despite the less-than-perfect sand, the chance to observe sea turtles up close is a major attraction. You'll likely see green sea turtles, and occasionally hawksbill turtles. Remember not to touch or interfere with the turtles, as they are protected by law. Beyond the turtles, observe local fishermen casting nets or cleaning fish, offering a glimpse into Curaçao's culture. An underwater statue of King Neptune, placed in 1997, adds a whimsical touch for divers. While there aren't extensive facilities, you'll find essential amenities like showers, toilets, and small eateries serving local food and drinks. Snorkeling gear is available for rent. Historically, Playa Grandi was identified as a weak spot in the island's defenses in the 1770s. Today, Sabana Westpunt, the region where Playa Grandi is located, is seeing a rise in tourism.

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