Curaçao - Adventure Guide to Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao - page 244

TIP: For notable Landhuizen north and east of the
capital, see Landhuis Brakkeput and Landhuis
Brievengat, pages 275 and 239.

Adventures on Water

C uraçao has more than three dozen beaches, but those on

the windward coast have strong currents and rough
waves, making them dangerous for swimmers. Many on the
leeward coast charge an entrance fee (between $3 and $6),
but the sand is well groomed, and the beach bars, restrooms,
showers, lockers, and rental equipment are well maintained. This guaran-
tees a pleasant experience, and people usually stay most of the day.

Best Beaches
Most of the popular beaches are small coves with either sand or sand
mixed with coral. Some of the resort and pay-per-visit beaches have been
supplemented with powdery white sand. There are many spots to choose
from, and you can usually find a secluded area with few or no other visi-
tors, especially during the week. Most are accessible by regular car from
the coastal road that runs along the leeward shore.
Mambo Beach at the Seaquarium features a man-made stretch of
sand, with lounge chairs, shade umbrellas, restaurants, bars, locker
rooms, and a watersports center. Sea walls shelter the water and provide
excellent conditions for snorkeling. Topless sunbathing is allowed. Sunday
afternoons are known as party time, with beach volleyball, watersports,
and happy-hour prices at the Mambo Beach Bar. Admission is $3 and the
beach is open daily, 8:30 am-5:30 pm.

461-8999.

TIP: For more information about the Curaçao
Seaquarium, see page 234.

Jan Thiel , located near resorts east of Willemstad, has plenty of ameni-
ties, including a trendy restaurant, a dive center, and changing/restroom
facilities. The snorkeling is especially good here. Beach hours are daily,
8 am-6 pm, and the charge is $3.50 per car on weekdays; $5 per car on
weekends.
Barbara , at the southeast end of Spanish Waters Bay at Porta Blanku, is
popular with families because of the placid water, which is ideal for young
swimmers. Yachts often anchor offshore so that passengers can swim in to
enjoy the beach and dine at the restaurant. Facilities include showers, toi-
lets, and a bar; the beach is long enough for a leisurely stroll or an ener-