Avila Beach
Curacao

Overview

Avila Beach in Willemstad, Curaçao is one of the island’s most accessible and relaxing beach escapes. Tucked inside the Pietermaai district, this calm double-lagoon beach is part of the Avila Beach Hotel, just a few minutes from downtown and the cruise terminal. With soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and gentle waves protected by breakwaters, it’s ideal for swimming, paddle boarding, or an easy afternoon of snorkeling close to the city.

As a frequent solo traveler, I love that Avila combines the convenience of a city beach with the serenity of a private cove. The atmosphere is upscale yet unpretentious — you can grab a cocktail under the palms, float in the calm lagoon, or go for a relaxing swim either in the sea or the pool. Friends of mine who stayed at the hotel mentioned how uncrowded and peaceful it felt, even in high season, thanks to plenty of lounge chairs and shaded areas.

Non-guests can access the beach with an Avila Beach Hotel day pass for roughly $20 USD per person. The day pass includes beach chairs, pool access, stand-up paddle boards, and reef-safe sunscreen, but towels aren’t always included. There’s also a restaurant and bar on the pier, perfect for watching Curaçao’s famous sunset.

Because the beach is compact, it’s smart to arrive early or visit on non-cruise days if you want extra space and calm water. For travelers short on time or staying in Willemstad, Avila Beach is the perfect mix of comfort, location, and natural beauty — a great first stop on any Curaçao beach itinerary.

Best time to visit Avila Beach

• Time of day: Early morning (8–10 a.m.) for the calmest water, best visibility, and quiet atmosphere.
• Season: Visit during Curaçao’s dry season (January–September) for the clearest skies and turquoise water.
• Weekdays vs weekends: Weekdays are quieter, while weekends draw locals and hotel guests.
• Weather-wise: Avila’s breakwaters keep the water smooth even on windy afternoons — ideal for beginners or families.

Tips for visiting Avila Beach

• Reserve your Avila Beach Resort day pass in advance; spots are limited daily.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen — Avila Beach is close to coral nurseries.
• Check cruise schedules before planning your visit for fewer crowds.
• Head to the western cove if wind picks up; it’s more sheltered and calmer.
• Ask about day-pass inclusions — some packages include lunch or paddleboards.
• Carry cash or a card for food and drinks at the beachfront bar.

What to bring to Avila Beach

• Swimsuit and light coverup
• Rash guard or UV shirt for sun protection
• Water shoes for walking near rocks
• Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
• Snorkel set or mask if you prefer your own gear
• Hat, sunglasses, and refillable water bottle

Avila Beach offers far more than just a place to swim. Set in Willemstad’s colorful Pietermaai district, this calm double-lagoon beach blends relaxation, light adventure, and city culture — all within walking distance. Whether you’re here for a few hours or an entire day, there’s plenty to keep you busy without ever feeling rushed.

Stand-up paddleboarding and lagoon cruising

The calm, glassy water makes Avila Beach one of the best spots in Curaçao for stand-up paddleboarding for beginners. The protected lagoons are always calm, and paddleboard rental is included with day passes. If you’re new to SUP, this is a great place to learn.

Snorkeling and swimming

Avila Beach is ideal for a quick snorkel session thanks to its calm entry and clear turquoise water. You can explore both coves and, on calm days, swim just outside the breakwater where the coral begins to appear. It’s easy, accessible snorkeling right in the heart of Willemstad — great for beginners or anyone short on time.

Sunbathing, beach walks, and relaxation

One of the best things to do at Avila Beach is also the simplest — relax. The soft sand, comfortable loungers, and natural shade from palms create an easygoing setting to unwind. Even when the beach fills up, it still feels peaceful and well spaced.

Live music, beach events, and sunset vibes

Avila Beach comes alive in the evenings with live music and special events. Some nights feature acoustic bands or piano sessions right on the sand, while weekends often bring casual beach barbecues with sunset views. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a relaxed Curaçao nightlife experience without leaving the beach. It’s effortlessly stylish and local at the same time.

Explore Pietermaai and Willemstad on foot

Right outside the beach lies Pietermaai, Curaçao’s creative neighborhood filled with boutique hotels, murals, and pastel-colored buildings. A short walk brings you to Handelskade, the famous waterfront, and the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. Exploring the nearby streets is a great post-swim activity, especially if you enjoy photography, art, or local cafés. The area feels safe, vibrant, and full of character.

Wellness and spa time

If your idea of “things to do” leans more toward self-care, Avila Beach delivers that too. The on-site spa offers massages, facials, and wellness treatments overlooking the sea. Morning yoga and pilates sessions sometimes take place near the lagoon, and the hotel’s gym faces the ocean — a relaxing bonus for fitness-minded travelers.

Snorkeling at Avila Beach Curaçao is calm, beginner-friendly, and surprisingly colorful for being so close to the city. The twin lagoons are protected by rock breakwaters, keeping the water glassy and safe year-round. Even if you’re new to snorkeling, this is one of the easiest spots in Willemstad to slip on a mask and start exploring.

You don’t need a boat or a tour. From the sand, you can swim a few meters out and immediately find coral clusters, seagrass patches, and bright tropical fish darting around the rocks. It’s the kind of place where you can snorkel for twenty minutes before lunch, then come back for another short swim later in the day.

Where to snorkel: The best snorkeling spots at Avila Beach

Avila Beach has two main coves separated by a pier.

• The western cove (left side when facing the sea) is slightly deeper and clearer, making it the best area for snorkeling.
• The eastern cove is shallower and calmer, great for kids or anyone nervous about swimming in open water.

When the sea is calm, confident swimmers can venture just outside the breakwater, where the reef becomes more vivid. You’ll find small coral heads, purple sea fans, and plenty of reef fish weaving between the rocks. Always check conditions first — the current can be stronger past the barrier.

What you will see underwater

Snorkeling at Avila Beach rewards you with a surprisingly healthy mix of marine life. In the lagoons, you’ll often spot:

• Sergeant majors, blue tangs, and parrotfish
• Small wrasse and damselfish
• Sea urchins and an occasional octopus hiding among rocks
• Colorful coral patches and swaying sea fans near the outer edge

While it’s not a dramatic reef like the Tugboat Beach, it’s excellent for an easy, close-to-town snorkel with clear visibility and no waves.

Best time to snorkel at Avila Beach

• Morning (8–11 a.m.) offers the calmest water and best visibility.
• Dry season (January–September) brings clearer water and less surface chop.
• Avoid late afternoons when the trade winds pick up and visibility drops slightly.
• Windy days: stick to the eastern cove for protection.

The water temperature stays around 26–28°C (79–82°F) year-round, making it perfect for long, comfortable swims.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Stay inside the lagoon if waves pick up — it’s perfectly calm and ideal for beginners.
• Enter and exit only from sandy areas; avoid climbing over rocks or coral.
• If snorkeling outside the breakwater, wear bright gear or a small dive flag for visibility.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect Curaçao’s fragile reefs.
• Never touch coral or marine life, even in shallow areas.

Snorkel gear rental at Avila Beach

Day-pass guests usually have access to stand-up paddle boards and beach chairs, but not snorkel gear. Bring your own mask and fins if possible. If you don’t have any, you can easily rent snorkel sets in Willemstad or at nearby dive shops — several are within a 10-minute walk or taxi ride from Avila Beach.

My personal honest opinion

I’ve snorkeled all over Curaçao, and I can vouch for Avila Beach being a quick, easy swim close to town. It’s not the most spectacular reef, but the clarity, calmness, and accessibility make it perfect for beginners, families, or anyone staying in Willemstad.

If you have more time, it’s worth taking a day trip to deeper reefs like Tugboat Beach, but for a quick underwater fix with minimal effort, Avila Beach delivers exactly what you need — clear water, friendly fish, and total peace.

Dining around Avila Beach Curaçao blends ocean views, local flavor, and relaxed island charm. From fine dining to barefoot beach bars, the Pietermaai district offers some of the best restaurants in Willemstad — all just a short walk from the sand.

The Pen Restaurant & Terrace

The Pen Restaurant & Terrace at the Avila Beach Hotel is Curaçao’s top spot for elegant oceanfront dining. It serves refined Caribbean dishes made with local ingredients, paired with sea breezes and candlelight. The setting is intimate, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a romantic dinner by the beach.

Blues Restaurant

Set above the water on Avila’s pier, Blues Restaurant combines live jazz, seafood, and sunset views. The open-air terrace makes it one of Willemstad’s most atmospheric dining spots. Fresh fish and grilled specialties headline the menu, and the music creates an unforgettable Curaçao evening.

Schooner Bar

Located right on the sand, Schooner Bar is Avila’s laid-back beach bar serving cocktails, beers, and light bites. Its ship-shaped bar and sea view make it a favorite for sunset drinks. It’s casual, friendly, and pure Caribbean relaxation.

Rozendaels Original Cuisine

A few steps from the beach, Rozendaels Original Cuisine serves traditional Curaçao and Caribbean food in a cozy garden setting. Dishes like Keshi Yena and grilled fish are highlights, and the warm, family-run feel makes it one of the area’s most authentic spots.

Café George Curaçao

Café George Curaçao offers a stylish brunch and coffee stop near Avila Beach. It’s known for its fresh sandwiches, salads, and pastries, served in a bright, modern space. Ideal for a relaxed morning or light lunch before exploring Pietermaai.

Soi95 Restaurant

An Asian fusion restaurant near Avila Beach, Soi95 Restaurant serves sushi, Thai-inspired dishes, and tropical cocktails in a sleek setting. It’s perfect when you’re craving lighter flavors or a trendy dinner option close to Avila Beach.

BKLYN

Creative and social, BKLYN Curaçao is one of Pietermaai’s coolest restaurants, known for global comfort food, craft cocktails, and bold street-art décor. It’s lively but laid-back — a great pick for dinner or drinks after the beach.

Breeze Number 5

Facing the ocean, Breeze Number 5 pairs fresh seafood and Caribbean favorites with panoramic views and a breezy, open-air design. It’s casual yet romantic — one of the best places near Avila Beach for a sunset dinner by the sea.

One of the best things about Avila Beach Curaçao is how close it is to some of the island’s most charming places to stay. Whether you prefer a full-service resort or a boutique guesthouse in the Pietermaai district, everything is within a few minutes’ walk of the beach.

Avila Beach Hotel

The Avila Beach Hotel is Curaçao’s oldest and most iconic beachfront property — and the only one directly on Avila Beach itself. Guests get access to two private lagoons, paddleboards, and on-site snorkeling. The rooms are modern but the vibe stays local and timeless.

Villa Tokara

Villa Tokara sits just across the street from the beach in a beautifully restored colonial mansion surrounded by tropical gardens. It feels intimate, with warm hosts and artistic details everywhere.

Boho Bohemian Boutique Hotel

Boho Bohemian Boutique Hotel in Pietermaai brings a colorful, creative energy to the area with bright murals, lush plants, and airy rooms. It’s perfect for travelers who want style and personality at a smaller scale, plus it’s just a short stroll from the beach and the district’s best cafés and bars.

Bed & Bike Pietermaai

Bed & Bike Pietermaai is a smart choice for budget travelers and solo visitors who prefer a relaxed, social vibe. Rooms are simple but comfortable, and the free bikes make it easy to reach Avila Beach in minutes.

Where to stay near Avila Beach by travel type

• Families: Avila Beach Hotel – direct beach access, calm lagoon, and family-friendly amenities
• Couples & adults-only luxury: Villa Tokara – romantic, quiet, and steps from the sea
• Modern boutique style: Boho Bohemian Boutique Hotel – creative design close to cafés
• Mid-range comfort: Pietermaai guesthouses and private rooms near the beach
• Budget travelers: Bed & Bike Pietermaai – central, practical, and includes bicycles

From a personal point of view, this area is unbeatable — calm water by day, colorful streets by night, and everything within walking distance. Staying near Avila Beach means you can enjoy the best of Willemstad without ever needing a car.

Avila Beach is located on Penstraat 130 in the Pietermaai district of Willemstad, just minutes from the city center. Its central location makes it one of the easiest beaches in Curaçao to reach — close to the cruise terminal and popular neighborhoods like Jan Thiel and Sint Michiel. Whether you’re arriving by taxi, rental car, or on foot, getting to Avila Beach is quick and straightforward.

From the cruise port (Mega Cruise Terminal / Mathey Wharf)

Cruise visitors can reach Avila Beach Curaçao in just a few minutes by taxi or on foot. The scenic route passes through Willemstad’s colorful streets and across the Queen Emma Bridge.

How far is Avila Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: 2–2.5 km (1.2–1.6 miles)
• Driving time: 5–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–$20 USD one way
• Walking time: 25–30 minutes along the waterfront

From the airport (Curaçao International Airport – Hato)

From Curaçao International Airport (CUR), it’s a direct 20-minute drive to Avila Beach via Schottegatweg Oost. Taxis are available at the terminal, and rental cars are an excellent choice if you plan to explore the island.

How far is Avila Beach from the airport?

• Distance: 12.4 km (7.7 miles)
• Driving time: 20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $35–$45 USD (25% night surcharge after 11 p.m.)

From Willemstad

If you’re staying downtown, Avila Beach is just a short walk or a five-minute drive away. Most hotels in Punda and Otrobanda are within easy reach, and the beach is popular with locals during lunch breaks and after work.

How far is Avila Beach from Willemstad?

• Distance: 1–1.5 km (0.6–1 mile)
• Driving time: 3–5 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10 USD
• Walking time: 15–20 minutes

From Westpunt

From the island’s far west, Westpunt, the drive to Avila Beach takes you along Curaçao’s scenic coastal road, passing through national parks and small fishing villages.

How far is Avila Beach from Westpunt?

• Distance: 47 km (29 miles)
• Driving time: 55–65 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $80–$100 USD

It’s a long trip but worth it for a full-day visit, especially if you plan to explore Willemstad or enjoy dinner near Avila Beach before heading back west.

From Sint Michiel

Located on the coast between the airport and the city, Sint Michiel (Boca Sami) is about halfway to Avila Beach. The drive follows the main highway and takes less than 20 minutes.

How far is Avila Beach from Sint Michiel?

• Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–$35 USD

From Jan Thiel

From Jan Thiel Beach, the drive to Avila Beach follows the coastal road toward Willemstad, passing through residential neighborhoods and scenic viewpoints.

How far is Avila Beach from Jan Thiel?

• Distance: 9 km (5.6 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–$30 USD

Taxi to Avila Beach

Taxis are easy to find at the airport, cruise terminal, and major hotels in Willemstad. Fares are generally fixed, but it’s best to confirm the price before starting your trip. For return rides, you can ask the front desk or beach staff to call a taxi. After 11 p.m., rates increase slightly, and availability may be limited.

Approximate taxi fare to Avila Beach

• From Willemstad to Avila Beach: $10 USD
• From the cruise port to Avila Beach: $10–$20 USD
• From the airport to Avila Beach: $35–$45 USD
• From Jan Thiel to Avila Beach: $25–$30 USD
• From Sint Michiel to Avila Beach: $25–$35 USD
• From Westpunt to Avila Beach: $80–$100 USD

Public transport to Avila Beach

Public minibuses run throughout Curacao, stopping within a short walk of Avila Beach. Fares are around $2–$3 USD one way. Service is frequent during the day but limited on evenings and Sundays, so plan to return by taxi if staying late. Check the Curacao bus routes and schedules.

Driving to Avila Beach by rental car

Driving in Willemstad is easy, and parking is free at the Avila Beach Hotel for guests and day-pass visitors. Set your GPS to “Penstraat 130” and follow signs toward Pietermaai. Roads are well marked, but parking can fill up in the afternoon — arriving before 10 a.m. is ideal.

Parking

Free on-site parking is available at the hotel and along Penstraat. Spaces are limited during weekends and cruise days, so early arrival is recommended.

Avila Beach Curaçao is the perfect blend of city convenience and island calm — a sheltered double-lagoon beach in Willemstad with clear turquoise water, soft sand, and a relaxed, upscale vibe. It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or unwinding with a cocktail while staying close to the restaurants and nightlife of Pietermaai. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, Avila Beach delivers the best of Curaçao in one easy, walkable location.