Director's Bay
Curacao

Overview

Director’s Bay Curaçao is a hidden gem on the Caracas Bay peninsula, just minutes from Willemstad and Jan Thiel but far from the crowds. This small, rocky cove sits between Tugboat Beach and the old Quarantine House, framed by steep cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise water perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Directeurs Baai is a quiet, no-frills spot with no facilities, bars, or restrooms — just raw coastal beauty and calm water filled with fish and coral. Entry is rocky, but once you’re in, the underwater wall and coral gardens are incredible.

If you’re looking for comfort and cocktails, this isn’t your beach. But if you love peace, nature, and great snorkeling, Director’s Bay is one of the best hidden beaches in Curaçao.

Best time to visit Director’s Bay

• Time of day: Morning for calm water and visibility
• Season: December–June (dry season)
• Weekdays: Quieter and more relaxed
• Weather-wise: Trade winds pick up after noon

Tips for visiting Director’s Bay

• Wear water shoes for the rocky shore
• Bring everything you need — no vendors or restrooms
• Arrive early for shade and calm seas
• Combine with nearby Tugboat Beach for a drift snorkel
• Best for experienced swimmers and divers

What to bring to Director’s Bay

• Snorkel or dive gear
• Water shoes
• Water, snacks, and sunscreen
• Towel and dry bag
• Underwater camera

Though small and unspoiled, Director’s Bay Curaçao offers some of the best snorkeling, diving, and coastal hikes on the island. Set on the Caracas Bay peninsula, it’s a quiet spot where history, nature, and turquoise water meet — ideal for travelers who prefer adventure over amenities.

Snorkel the coral gardens right off the shore

Slip into the bay and you’re immediately surrounded by vibrant coral and tropical fish. The reef starts just a few meters from the beach, making it one of the most accessible snorkeling spots in Curaçao. The right side of the cove has the clearest water and the best coral formations — perfect for underwater photos and beginners confident in open water.

Shore dive or drift dive along the wall toward Tugboat wreck

Director’s Bay connects directly to the famous Tugboat dive site, one of the top shore dives in Curaçao. The underwater wall drops steeply from the bay, covered in sponges, sea fans, and schooling fish. Divers can follow the reef for about 5–10 minutes to reach the tugboat wreck — a route known for excellent visibility and colorful marine life.

Hike up to the old Quarantine House for panoramic views

Above the beach, a short uphill trail leads to the historic Quarantine House, an abandoned 19th-century building overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The hike takes about 15 minutes and rewards you with sweeping views of Director’s Bay, Spanish Water, and the Tugboat reef — a perfect photo stop or sunset spot.

Relax and picnic in the secluded cove

There are no beach chairs or bars here, just calm water and the sound of waves echoing against the cliffs. Bring a towel, drinks, and snacks, and enjoy the quiet, private feel that makes Director’s Bay one of Curaçao’s best-kept secrets.

Walk the coastal trails of the Caracas Bay peninsula

Light hiking trails connect Director’s Bay with Tugboat Beach, Fort Beekenburg, and the Quarantine House, making it easy to explore the peninsula on foot. The paths offer spectacular sea views and great photo opportunities, especially in the late afternoon.

Director’s Bay Curaçao is one of the island’s top hidden snorkeling spots — a small, rocky cove where the reef begins right off the beach and drops into a dramatic underwater wall. The bay is part of the Curaçao Marine Park, known for its clear visibility, healthy coral, and colorful fish. It’s less busy than Tugboat Beach but just as beautiful, making it ideal for travelers who prefer quiet water and nature over crowds.

Where to snorkel – the best snorkeling spots at Director’s Bay

The best snorkeling area starts on the right side of the bay, where the coral wall begins to slope down. You can drift along the wall toward Tugboat Beach if the current is mild, or stay within the bay’s sheltered section for calmer conditions. Entry is rocky — water shoes are essential — but once you’re in, the reef is only a few meters from shore.

What you will see underwater

Expect bright coral gardens, parrotfish, angelfish, trumpetfish, and curious sergeant majors. The wall is lined with purple tube sponges and sea fans, and divers often spot turtles and moray eels a bit deeper. It’s easily one of the most vibrant reefs near Willemstad.

Best time to snorkel at Director’s Bay

• Morning (8–11 AM): Calm water and best light for photos
• Season: December–June offers the clearest visibility
• Wind: Avoid afternoons when trade winds make surface waves stronger
• Weekdays: Fewer snorkelers and more space to explore

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Enter slowly — the rocks and coral are slippery
• Bring fins if you plan to drift toward Tugboat Beach
• Stay close to shore if you’re not a strong swimmer
• Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life
• Avoid standing on or touching coral

Snorkel gear rental at Director’s Bay

There are no rentals on-site, but you can rent snorkel sets at Tugboat Beach, just a few minutes away, or from dive shops in Jan Thiel and Willemstad. If you plan to explore multiple snorkeling beaches in Curaçao, bringing your own gear will save time and money.

My personal honest opinion

As someone who’s snorkeled all around Curaçao, Director’s Bay is easily in my top three. It’s quiet, scenic, and has that raw, wild feeling you rarely find at more developed beaches.

There are no restaurants or bars directly on Director’s Bay, which is part of its charm — the beach remains quiet and natural, untouched by development. The closest option is just a few minutes away at Tugboat Beach, where you’ll find the laid-back Tugboat Beach Bar.

It’s a favorite among locals and divers for its cold drinks, grilled snacks, and oceanfront hammocks. After snorkeling or hiking around the Caracas Bay peninsula, I usually stop there for a fresh juice or a Polar beer before heading back to Willemstad.

There are no hotels or villas directly at Director’s Bay, which helps keep the area peaceful and undeveloped. The nearest accommodations are found around Caracas Bay Beach and Jan Thiel, both just a few minutes’ drive away.

Palapa Beach Resort & Marina

Located in Caracas Bay, the Palapa Beach Resort & Marina offers modern suites with sea views, a private dock, and direct water access. It’s a convenient option for travelers who want to stay close to Director’s Bay and Tugboat Beach while still enjoying comfort and amenities.

Jan Thiel villas and resorts

The Jan Thiel area has a wide range of stays — from luxury villas with pools and sea views to budget-friendly apartments within walking distance of shops and restaurants. It’s a great base for exploring Director’s Bay, Caracas Bay, and Spanish Water, all within a 10-minute drive.

Director’s Bay is located on the Caracas Bay peninsula, on Curaçao’s southeastern coast, about 15 minutes from Willemstad. The drive is scenic, passing the Spanish Water lagoon and several historic landmarks before reaching the coast. You can get here easily by rental car, taxi, or guided snorkeling tour. The road becomes a little rough near the end, but it’s accessible for most vehicles. There’s free parking directly by the beach gate.

From the cruise port (Curaçao Cruise Terminal / Mega Pier, Willemstad)

The quickest route is via Weg Naar Caracasbaai toward the Caracas Bay peninsula. Taxis are available right outside the cruise terminal, or you can rent a car for more flexibility if you plan to explore Tugboat Beach and Fort Beekenburg nearby.

How far is Director’s Bay from the cruise port?

• Distance: ≈ 10 km (6 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–30 USD

From the airport (Curaçao International Airport – Hato)

Follow Weg Naar Hato and continue south toward Caracasbaaiweg, passing through the Schottegat ring road before turning toward Jan Thiel. The route is well marked and offers nice views of Spanish Water as you approach the coast.

How far is Director’s Bay from the airport?

• Distance: ≈ 22 km (14 miles)
• Driving time: 30–35 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD

From Willemstad

Take Weg Naar Caracasbaai, heading southeast through the neighborhoods of Marie Pompoen and Jan Sofat. Follow the signs toward Fort Beekenburg and Tugboat Beach; Director’s Bay is just beyond the fort’s parking area.

How far is Director’s Bay from Willemstad?

• Distance: ≈ 10 km (6 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $30 USD

From Westpunt

It’s a long but scenic drive along Curaçao’s western coastline, passing through several national parks and beaches before looping south toward Willemstad and Caracas Bay.

How far is Director’s Bay from Westpunt?

• Distance: ≈ 50 km (31 miles)
• Driving time: 1 hour–1 hour 15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $100 USD

From Sint Michiel

Drive east along the coastal road toward Willemstad, then follow the ring road (Schottegatweg) to the Caracasbaai exit. The road is straightforward and well maintained.

How far is Director’s Bay from Sint Michiel?

• Distance: ≈ 20 km (12 miles)
• Driving time: 25–30 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $60-70 USD

From Jan Thiel

Director’s Bay is just around the peninsula from Jan Thiel Beach. Follow Caracasbaaiweg, passing Spanish Water on your right, then continue toward Fort Beekenburg.

How far is Director’s Bay from Jan Thiel?

• Distance: ≈ 4 km (2.5 miles)
• Driving time: 8–10 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $10–15 USD

Taxi to Director’s Bay

Taxis are easy to find at major hotels, cruise terminals, and Jan Thiel. Since Director’s Bay is remote, it’s best to prearrange your return pickup or agree on a pick-up time with your driver.

Approximate taxi fare to Director’s Bay

• From Willemstad to Director's Bay: $25–30 USD
• From Jan Thiel to Director's Bay: $10–15 USD
• From Hato Airport to Director's Bay: $40–45 USD
• From Westpunt to Director's Bay: Around $100
• From Sint Michiel to Director!s Bay: Around $70 USD

Public transport to Director’s Bay

There’s no direct bus route to Director’s Bay. The closest public transport stop is in Caracasbaaiweg, from where you’d need to walk or arrange a short taxi ride. For most visitors, renting a car or joining a snorkeling tour is the most practical option.

Driving to Director’s Bay by rental car

Driving is straightforward, and the route is well signposted from the Jan Thiel and Willemstad areas. The last stretch is a bit bumpy and narrow, but any standard car can make it. Google Maps and Waze both show accurate directions to the beach gate.

Parking

There’s free parking at Director's Bay beach, just before the entrance gate. Spaces can fill up on weekends, so it’s best to visit early.

Director’s Bay Curaçao is a quiet, undeveloped cove known for its clear water, coral walls, and top-notch snorkeling. It’s best for independent travelers and nature lovers who don’t mind the lack of facilities. Not a place for comfort — but perfect for peace, underwater life, and that raw Curaçao vibe.