Cas Abao Beach

The basics

This laid-back spot has everything you need for a day at the beach—the small beach bar serves quick comfort food, and B Diving & Watersports is right on the beach for easy access. Rent a kayak or snorkeling equipment to explore the sea. Then, head to Sensi Spa beach massage for a relaxing treatment. You can rent a beach lounge chair for a small fee and clean up after the day at the on-site showers.

Things to know before you go

• Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water.

• While the beach bar serves simple food, it’s a good idea to bring snacks.

• Bring an umbrella to ensure you get shade—palapas are available, but they fill up quickly.

How to get there

From Willemstad, it’s a 40-minute drive north via Weg Naar Westpunt. You’ll turn off onto an unpaved access road that leads to the parking lot. If you don’t have your own vehicle, opt for one of the many beach-hopping tours that explore the island, but check to ensure it'll stop at Cas Abao before boarding.

When to get there

Visit between February and March to take advantage of Curacao’s dry season and make the most of your time at Cas Abao beach. The beach opens at 8am and you should arrive early to claim a shady spot. January and February are also when you can experience the 6-week Curacao Carnival, a lively explosion of dance, costumes, and revelry.

Dive into adventure

Head down the beach to B Diving & Watersports, which offers everything from introductory scuba diving courses to PADI Divemaster certification. It’s the perfect chance to explore the beautiful Caribbean—visitors to the beach often spot eagle rays, manta rays, and stingrays, as well as the occasional dolphin. The cliffs that border the beach also have hidden depths, with a vertical coral reef that descends about 100 feet (30 meters).