Curaçao West Coast: Turtle Snorkeling, Kenepa Beach & Flamingos

Turtle encounters blue coves and wild flamingos on Curaçao’s west coast

You’ll get salty air in your lungs at Shete Boka, swim alongside turtles at Playa Piskado with snorkel gear included, relax on Kenepa Beach’s unreal sand, and maybe spot wild flamingos at Jan Kok—all with a local guide who knows every curve of Curaçao’s west coast. It’s less about checking boxes and more about feeling each place as it comes.

What’s included

Your day covers all entry fees and taxes along Curaçao’s wild west coast plus use of snorkel gear at Turtle Beach (Playa Piskado), soft drinks or water to keep cool between stops, a picture with sea turtles if you want one, and even a small gift per adult as a surprise keepsake before heading back toward town.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore West Side Nature Highlights

• Visit Shete Boka National Park
• View blowhole and ocean waves
• Snorkel with white turtles at Fisherman Beach
• Relax and swim at Kenepa Beach
• Optional rock jumping at Kenepa Beach
• See flamingos at Williwood salt flats

The Experience

I’ll be honest—I’d never really pictured Curaçao beyond the pastel houses and city buzz. But heading out west for this nature lovers tour changed that fast. Our guide, Jairo, had this easy way of pointing things out—like how the wind always seems to sing through the cactus here. First stop was Shete Boka. The ocean just hammers the rocks there, loud enough you feel it in your chest. There’s this salty spray in the air and every so often you catch a whiff of something almost sweet from the low shrubs. We watched waves slam into a blowhole—somehow both violent and kind of hypnotic.

Then came Turtle Beach (I think locals call it Playa Piskado?). I’m not much of a swimmer but I couldn’t pass up snorkeling with sea turtles. They glide right past you—honestly closer than I expected—and there’s this hush underwater except for your own bubbles. Jairo handed me a mask and laughed when I asked if turtles ever bite (apparently not unless you’re a fish). Afterward, we dried off on the sand with cold sodas from the cooler—my hair still salty, sun already warming everything up.

Kenepa Beach was next and yeah, people say it’s one of the world’s best beaches but nothing really prepares you for that blue-green water. It almost looks fake until you wade in and feel how soft the sand is under your feet. Some teenagers were daring each other to jump off the rocks—I just watched, maybe next time I’ll work up to it. Last stop was Williwood for flamingo spotting at Jan Kok salt flats. Sometimes they’re just pink dots far away but we got lucky; a few strutted pretty close, all legs and attitude. I still think about that view—so much space and light out there.

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on the Curaçao Nature Lovers Tour?

Yes, use of snorkel equipment is included during the turtle beach stop.

Will I see flamingos on this tour?

You may see wild flamingos at Jan Kok salt flats, but sightings aren’t guaranteed since they’re free-roaming animals.

How long does it take to get from Willemstad to Kenepa Beach?

It usually takes about 45 minutes by car from Willemstad to Kenepa Beach on Curaçao’s west coast.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infants must sit on an adult's lap.

Is lunch provided during the Nature Lovers Tour?

No lunch is provided but water and soft drinks are included; bring snacks if you want more food options.

Can I bring my own snorkel gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkel equipment if you prefer.

What should I bring for swimming or snorkeling?

You should bring your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and optionally your own snorkel gear if desired.

Is pickup included in this day trip?

The reference content doesn’t specify hotel pickup; check with your provider before booking.