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Playa Grandi: Curaçao's Turtle Paradise

Swim with sea turtles at Playa Grandi, a unique Curaçao beach where local fishing traditions meet vibrant Caribbean marine life.

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Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piskadó (Fisherman's Beach), is a unique and bustling beach located near Westpunt, Curaçao, offering an authentic Caribbean experience. It's renowned for its tranquil waters and the opportunity to swim with sea turtles that gather due to the local fishermen cleaning their daily catch.

A brief summary to Playa Grandi

  • Sabana Westpunt, CW

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot, as parking is limited.
  • 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 their environment; observe them from a safe distance and do not touch them.
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Getting There

  • Car

    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. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    Take the local bus heading towards Westpunt. Ask the driver to drop you off at the nearest stop to Playa Grandi. From there, walk towards the beach following the signs or asking locals for directions. Bus fares are typically around 2-3 ANG.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Curaçao, but can be relatively expensive. A taxi from Willemstad to Playa Grandi can cost around 80-100 ANG. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Playa Grandi

Playa Grandi, also called Playa Piskadó, isn't your typical pristine, white-sand Caribbean beach, but a vibrant and engaging experience centered around the local fishing community and incredible marine life. Located near the village of Westpunt, it offers a glimpse into the island's history and culture. Historically a working fisherman's beach, local fishermen return daily to clean their catch, attracting a significant population of sea turtles accustomed to feeding on discarded fish scraps. This has transformed Playa Grandi into a haven for snorkelers and divers eager to swim alongside these magnificent creatures. You're almost guaranteed to see turtles here. With luck, you might spot green sea turtles, hawksbill turtles, and false hawksbill turtles. The beach itself is a small, pebbly cove rather than a wide expanse of sand. The shoreline is a mix of sand and coral rubble, so water shoes are recommended. Manchineel trees provide shade, but be cautious as their sap can be irritating to the skin. Despite its less-than-perfect sand, the allure of Playa Grandi lies beneath the surface. Parrotfish, angelfish, and blue tangs are common sightings, adding to the vibrant underwater landscape. Divers can explore deeper sections of the reef, discovering intricate coral formations and an underwater statue of Neptune, placed in 1997 as a symbol of protection for the local fishermen. While enjoying the turtles, remember that it is illegal to touch or harass the turtles, so observe them from a safe distance.

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