Snorkeling in Willemstad: Swim with Turtles at Kenepa Beach

Swim alongside sea turtles in water clear enough to see the reef floor.

Snorkel three beaches near Willemstad (Playa Grandi, Playa Daaibooi and Kenepa Beach) spotting sea turtles, coral and tropical fish in shallow, clear water. A guide in English or Spanish leads the group. Snorkel gear, bottled water and soft drinks are included. The outing runs about four and a half hours with pickup from your hotel.

Step-by-step itinerary

Beach hopping and snorkeling with turtles

• Swim with turtles at Playa Grandi
• Snorkel and relax at Playa Daaibooi
• Visit and snorkel at Kenepa Beach
• See flamingos and take photos

The experience

The turtles here live right at the pier. Playa Grandi, also called Playa Piskado, is where they congregate in the clearest water on the island. You'll see them without searching. The guide takes you to Playa Daaibooi next, a beach built around a vibrant underwater world where the marine life density makes even a short snorkel feel like a full dive site. Both spots are shallow enough that you control your time in the water and your pace entirely.

Kenepa Beach, also known as Grote Knip, is the third stop. UNESCO named it the most beautiful beach in the Caribbean a few years ago, and it's the most photographed spot on the island: the panorama alone justifies the stop, but the snorkeling is excellent too. The water stays clear and the reef structure keeps the fish close to shore. You'll have time to swim, photograph and rest between sites.

Snorkel equipment is provided and fits most body types. Bring a rash guard or wear what you own if the sun exposure matters to you. The guide speaks English or Spanish and stays with the group throughout. Pickup from your hotel is included, and the outing wraps in time for an early lunch back in town.

What’s included

• Snorkel equipment and fins.
• bottled water and soft drinks.
• entrance fees to all three beaches.
• a live guide in English or Spanish.
• hotel pickup and return.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Infant (under 5): free

GroupUp to 45

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 24 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomeNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Sinusta Tours and Transfers

Is this one for you?This works best for small groups and families with at least a moderate fitness level who want to see turtles without a boat ride or deep water. All three beaches are shore snorkeling in shallow, clear water where you set your own pace.

Traveler reviews

4.62★★★★★★★★★★

21 verified traveler reviews

5 ★17

4 ★2

3 ★1

2 ★0

1 ★1

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years); Infant (under 5): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Where exactly do the sea turtles hang out in Curaçao?

Playa Grandi, also known as Playa Piskado, is where they gather in the clearest water on the island. The turtles live right at the pier, so you'll see them as soon as you enter the water without having to swim far.

What's included in the snorkeling activity?

Snorkel equipment, bottled water and soft drinks are provided. Entrance fees to the beaches are covered. You bring your own swimsuit and towel, and sunscreen is essential.

How long does the whole outing take?

The activity runs about four and a half hours from pickup to return, with time split between three beaches and the snorkeling at each one.

Do I need to be an experienced snorkeler?

No. The water at all three beaches is shallow and clear, and the guide stays with the group. You control how long you spend in the water and how deep you go.

What is Kenepa Beach actually like?

Kenepa Beach, also called Grote Knip, is the most photographed beach on the island with a stunning panorama and excellent snorkeling close to shore. The reef structure keeps fish near the surface, making it ideal for viewing marine life without deep diving.