Playa Grandi, St Joris Bay Travel Guide

4.4 (1721)

Swim with sea turtles at this unique Curaçao beach where local fishermen create a haven for marine life. A must-see for snorkelers!

Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piskadó (Fisherman's Beach), is a unique beach on Curaçao's west coast near Westpunt, offering an authentic local experience. It's famous for its sea turtles that gather to feed on fish scraps from the local fishermen, providing incredible snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear waters.

A brief summary to Playa Grandi

Sabana Westpunt, CW

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Playa Grandi.

Arrive in the early afternoon to see the most sea turtles, as this is when fishermen return with their catch.
Bring or rent snorkeling gear to fully experience the underwater wonders.
Wear water shoes due to the coral and rocky areas.
Respect the sea turtles by maintaining a safe distance and not touching them.
Watch out for Manchineel trees, which are poisonous. Do not seek shelter under them during rain.

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Getting There

Driving

From Westpunt, head south on Weg naar Westpunt. Look for signs directing you to Playa Grandi. 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 parking along the shoulder of the road if the parking lot is full.
Public Transport

From Willemstad, take bus 9A towards Westpunt. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and costs $2. Alternatively, take the bus towards Westpunt; the ride is approximately 45 minutes. Once you arrive in Westpunt, walk south towards the coast, following the signs for Playa Grandi. The walk is about 15 minutes. A single bus fare from Willemstad to Westpunt is approximately 2.50 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.

Discover more about Playa Grandi

Playa Grandi, or Playa Piskadó, is located near the village of Westpunt on Curaçao's western coast. Unlike typical Caribbean beaches with white sand, Playa Grandi is a small, pebbly cove that offers an authentic and lively atmosphere due to the local fishermen who bring in their daily catch. Historically, this location was recognized as a weak spot in the island's defenses in the 1770s.What truly sets Playa Grandi apart is the opportunity to swim and snorkel alongside sea turtles in their natural habitat. The turtles, mostly juvenile green sea turtles, have become accustomed to humans and gather near the pier where fishermen clean their fish. This practice has unintentionally created a haven for the turtles, making it almost certain that visitors will encounter these creatures. Remember that the turtles are protected by law and should not be touched or interfered with.Beyond the turtles, Playa Grandi provides a glimpse into Curaçao's local culture. Visitors can observe fishermen casting nets, unloading boats, and selling fresh catch. The beach offers essential amenities such as showers, toilets, and eateries where you can sample local delicacies. Snorkeling gear is available for rent to explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. For divers, there are several dive spots with diverse reef structures.Playa Grandi is easily accessible by car with free parking available. Though it can get crowded, especially during peak season, the beach maintains a relaxed vibe.