Why Curaçao’s West Side Is the Caribbean’s Best-Kept Secret
Beaches that feel like your own
Curaçao’s western coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, yet they remain largely uncrowded. Playa Kenepa Grandi is often featured on “best beaches” lists, with turquoise water and soft white sand framed by dramatic cliffs. Nearby Playa Lagun is a narrow cove perfect for snorkeling, where sea turtles and tropical fish glide through crystal-clear water.
Other hidden gems like Playa Jeremi and Playa Forti offer peace, quiet, and unmatched views. Many of these beaches are tucked into coves, creating a sense of privacy and exclusivity without the luxury price tag.
Nature in its Purest Form
A Different Side of the Caribbean
When travelers dream of the Caribbean, they often picture familiar hotspots packed with crowds and beach umbrellas. But venture west on the island of Curaçao and you’ll find a completely different experience. Here, unspoiled beaches, local culture, and untouched natural beauty create something rare. Curaçao’s west side is quiet, colorful, and surprisingly under-the-radar, making it one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets.
The west side of Curaçao is where nature takes center stage. Christoffel National Park is the island’s largest protected area, offering hiking trails, mountain climbs, and panoramic views of the coastline. Whether you’re watching white-tailed deer at sunrise or climbing Mt. Christoffel for a view that stretches across the sea, the park is a haven for eco-adventurers.
Nearby Shete Boka National Park contrasts with crashing waves and volcanic rock. It’s a must-visit for travelers interested in geology, ocean views, and dramatic coastal photography. Between these two parks, the west side offers some of the best nature experiences in the Caribbean.
Local culture and island flavor
While Curaçao is known for its Dutch-Caribbean blend, the west side offers a more traditional, community-focused atmosphere. Small fishing villages like Westpunt and Barber still reflect the rhythm of daily island life. Visit a local eatery for authentic dishes like stoba (stew), funchi (cornmeal), and fresh seafood grilled to perfection.
Sundays in the west are especially vibrant, with food trucks, beachside barbecues, and live music drawing locals and travelers alike. It’s the perfect way to experience Curaçao’s culture firsthand.
Snorkeling and Diving just off the Shore
For underwater explorers, the west side is a dream. Many of the beaches here offer excellent snorkeling just steps from the sand. Playa Kalki and Playa Lagun are known for their reefs and calm waters, ideal for beginners and experienced divers alike.
Dive shops in the area make it easy to rent gear or book a guided excursion, and the coral formations, shipwrecks, and marine life are unforgettable. The lack of crowds means you’ll often have the reef all to yourself.
Easy to Explore, Hard to Leave
While it may feel remote, the west side is just an hour’s drive from Willemstad, Curaçao’s colorful capital. This makes it perfect for day trips or longer stays if you want a quieter base to relax after exploring the island.
New resorts like TUI BLUE Curaçao make it easier than ever to enjoy the best of the west. With modern amenities, all-inclusive options, and easy access to nature, travelers no longer have to choose between comfort and adventure.
Discover the undiscovered
Curaçao’s west side isn’t filled with high-rise hotels or crowded beaches—and that’s exactly the point. It’s a place where nature speaks louder than nightlife, and where every cove feels like a secret waiting to be found. For travelers looking to experience the Caribbean in its purest, most peaceful form, there’s no better place to start.
Ready to discover Curaçao’s best-kept secret? Plan your stay at TUI BLUE Curaçao and explore the west side’s unspoiled beauty, authentic culture, and unforgettable adventures.
