Curacao West Beaches: Shete Boka, Kenepa & Cas Abao Tour

Summary

Curacao’s wild coastlines, sea turtles and local laughter in one day

You’ll feel Curacao’s wild side at Shete Boka’s crashing cliffs before snorkeling with sea turtles at Playa Piskado and relaxing on Kenepa’s turquoise shore. Swim or snack at Cas Abao beach before spotting flamingos near St. Willibrordus—all with stories from your local guide along the way.

What’s the experience like?

We’d already been bouncing along Curacao’s west side for a while when our guide—Jorge, who grew up nearby—pulled over at Shete Boka. The wind hit first, kind of salty and sharp, and then you hear the waves thundering against those black rocks. I wandered off to one of the caves (I think it was Boka Tabla?), and honestly, the spray on my face woke me up better than coffee. Jorge kept telling stories about storms he remembered as a kid—he pointed out a spot where fishermen used to hide out. I didn’t expect to feel so small standing there.

After that we wound down to Playa Piskado. There were a couple of local kids laughing at us tourists fumbling with our snorkels. The water was clear but cold when you first get in—then suddenly there’s a turtle gliding right past your knee. Not sure who looked more surprised, me or the turtle. Our guide handed out bottled water while someone tried (and failed) to pronounce “Piskado” properly—got a good laugh from the boat guys nearby.

Kenepa Beach came next, all that blue you see in postcards but real. It was busy but not crowded—just families chatting under faded umbrellas and people floating quietly in the shallows. I sat on the sand for a bit just watching light flicker on the water. Never thought I’d want to take so many photos of just…water? Anyway, Cas Abao was softer somehow; powdery sand, pelicans diving way off in the distance, and a snack bar where I finally caved and got fries (not very local but whatever). Somewhere between swimming and drying off in the sun, I realized how tired my legs felt—in that good way.

On the drive back toward Willemstad we slowed by St. Willibrordus salt lake—the flamingos were there, standing around like they owned the place. Jorge said something about their pink color coming from shrimp; someone else said it was from too much sunbathing. Not sure who was right but everyone laughed anyway. Sometimes you don’t need facts to remember a moment—you just do.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — West side beach and nature tour

• Visit Shete Boka National Park
• Snorkel with sea turtles at Playa Piskado
• Relax and swim at Kenepa Beach
• Enjoy swimming and snorkeling at Cas Abao Beach
• Drive by Salt Lake to see flamingos

Top questions

How long is the Curacao west beach tour?

The tour includes several stops and lasts most of one day.

Is snorkeling gear provided at Playa Piskado?

The description doesn’t specify gear is included; bring your own if needed.

Are entrance fees included for Shete Boka?

Yes, entrance fees are included in your booking.

Can children join this west beach hopping tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed.

Is pickup included for this Curacao beach tour?

The tour includes pickup options; check details when booking.

Will we see flamingos during this trip?

You’ll drive by St. Willibrordus salt lake to spot flamingos on your way back.

Are snacks or lunch included during the tour?

No full meal is included but you can buy snacks at Cas Abao beach bar.

What should I bring for this west beaches day trip?

You should bring water shoes, sunscreen, towel, hat, and sunglasses.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup options from town or nearby hotels, bottled water throughout the journey, entrance fees for Shete Boka National Park covered by your guide, plus plenty of time to swim or snorkel at each stop before returning in comfort later that afternoon.