Located in the small town of Westpunt in Curaçao, you’ll find the small fishing beach Playa Grandi, also known as “Playa Playa Piskado.” Playa Piskado is particularly known for the large number of turtles that inhabit the surrounding waters. Thus, you have a good chance of observing some of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat while snorkeling.
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Amenities at Playa Grandi in Curaçao
The small beach is somewhat hidden in the northwest of the island. Since Playa Grandi is a bit remote, it may be advisable to combine a trip there with a stop at the equally beautiful and much more famous Grote Knip. The two beaches are only about a 10-minute drive apart.
You are particularly flexible on your trip to Curaçao if you book a rental car in advance.
There are some small parking spots on site, but they can fill up quickly when visitor numbers increase. For this reason, many visitors often use the shoulder along the road to the beach as an alternative. If you want to secure a parking spot, it is therefore advisable to be there as early as possible.
Playa Grandi is less a classic Caribbean beach with white sand and more a small, pebbly cove. However, this does not deter visitors, as most of them come not for the beach but for the excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
If you still want to relax on the beach and enjoy the sea view, you have the option to rent a lounger on site. You can also buy refreshing drinks there, which is extremely practical given the Caribbean temperatures.
Discover the Fascinating Underwater World of Playa Grandi
Every day, fishermen dock several times in the bay of the beach after returning from their trips. The fish scraps they throw directly into the sea attract numerous turtles. Therefore, the waters around the beach today are home to a significant number of sea turtles, and you can almost be sure that you will see several of the adorable creatures during your snorkeling trip in the water.
With a bit of luck, you can even admire all three different turtle species that live in Curaçao: the green sea turtle, the real hawksbill turtle, and the false hawksbill turtle.
In addition to the turtles, there are many other fascinating sea creatures in the Caribbean Sea. Therefore, you have a good chance of seeing other animals such as surgeonfish, lionfish, trumpetfish, parrotfish, pufferfish, or seahorses.
Note: The way into the water is somewhat rocky, so be careful when entering the sea. If you have particularly sensitive feet, consider getting yourself a pair of swim shoes*. They are not only ultra-light and flexible but also equipped with a non-slip sole.
Turtles at Playa Piskado: How to Behave Correctly
When entering the water at Playa Grandi, you are entering the natural habitat of sea turtles, please remember that. Be careful not to disturb the turtles and try not to touch or pet them. They may seem approachable at first glance but can bite you if they feel threatened.
Excessive stress can trigger a feeling of threat in turtles. Therefore, avoid chasing them and disturbing resting turtles. Please also refrain from feeding the turtles. They can find their own food and might accidentally bite you while feeding.
Therefore, during your visit to Playa Piskado in Curaçao, please be considerate of the turtles – not only for your own protection but also for the welfare of the animals.
Essentials for Your Beach Bag:
To enjoy several days at one of the beautiful beaches on your trip, you will find a list of our tips for your beach bag below.
➤ Skin-friendly, non-greasy sunscreen*
The Caribbean sun is deceitful – it’s best to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 50+.
➤ Compact microfiber towel*
It not only dries super fast but also folds up tiny to take up as little space as possible in your suitcase.
➤ Durable underwater camera* for memorable vacation photos
With a bit of luck and photographic skill, you’ll soon have great photos of turtles and clownfish.
➤ Sand toys* for your kids
To keep boredom at bay during long beach days.
➤ Frisbee* for sports enthusiasts
If you’re one who doesn’t want to just lie on the beach all day, a space-saving frisbee might be just the thing for you!
➤ Snorkel set*
So you can calmly observe the colorful fish and cute sea turtles.
➤ A waterproof phone case*,
to protect your smartphone from moisture: especially cool for boat tours or jet-ski excursions!
A Must-Visit for Animal Lovers: Trip to Playa Grandi
In Curaçao, there is no other place where you will almost certainly have the opportunity to observe turtles up close. Additionally, the reef around the beach is inhabited by a variety of other marine life, including various fish species. This unparalleled underwater spectacle will surely remain in your memory, and you will fondly recall your vacation time.
