Playa Lagun Curaçao
A small hidden beach tucked between high cliffs on the northwest coast. Famous for its picturesque fishing boats, calm waters and the chance to meet sea turtles while snorkelling.
A hidden bay on the northwest coast
Playa Lagun is a small, intimate beach in the village of Lagun on the northwest coast of Curaçao. The beach hides inside a narrow bay between tall cliffs, with a row of colourful fishing boats moored in front. Many travellers call it one of the most photographed spots on the island, and that is not by accident, the turquoise water, white rocks and fishing boats form a quietly cinematic scene.
The water at Playa Lagun is usually calm because the bay is shielded by the cliffs, which makes it suitable for children and beginner snorkellers. At the same time, this is one of the better known snorkel and dive spots on Curaçao. Below the surface you will find parrotfish, trumpetfish and, occasionally, a sea turtle. From our villa at the Spanish Water it is a 50 minute drive to Playa Lagun.
Snorkel along the reef
Tropical fish, coral and small caves along the cliff walls.
Chance of sea turtles
Not guaranteed, but turtles regularly visit the bay.
Small and intimate
A bay only a few hundred meters wide, ideal for a quiet beach morning.
What makes Playa Lagun special?
Four things that set this small beach apart from the busier beaches of Curaçao.
Snorkel between cliffs
The bay is enclosed by tall rock walls, which keeps the water calm and clear most of the time. Along the rocks on both sides of the beach you will find tropical fish among coral, sponges and small caves. Suitable for beginner and experienced snorkellers alike.
Chance of sea turtles
Turtles often enter the bay to feed and rest. Not a guarantee like at Playa Grandi, but visitors with patience who arrive early or late in the day stand a fair chance. Keep your distance at all times.
Authentic fishing boats
Colourful wooden fishing boats are moored just off the beach. Local fishermen still clean their daily catch here. As a result Playa Lagun has a Caribbean atmosphere you will not find on the more touristy beaches.
Stairs to a viewpoint
A staircase on the east side of the bay leads up to Bahia Beach Bar, a small terrace on top of the cliff. From there you have a surprising view of the bay from above. Good stop for a lunch or a cold drink.
Playa Lagun practical info
Useful things to know before you visit the beach.
Snorkelling and diving at Playa Lagun
Playa Lagun is one of the most accessible snorkel and dive spots on Curaçao. You do not need to swim far, the reef starts almost immediately along the rocks on either side of the beach. Dive guides describe Playa Lagun as a great spot for both house reef snorkelling and boat dives. The dive shop on the beach offers daily boat dives to nearby top sites such as Mushroom Forest and Wattamula, just 15 minutes away by boat.
What you will see underwater
- Parrotfish and trumpetfish
- Angelfish and groupers
- Stingrays along the seabed
- Sponges and soft coral along the rocks
- Small caves with crabs and small fish
- With luck: sea turtles or a seahorse
Good to know
- Underwater visibility averages 20 to 25 meters
- Easy shore entry, no boat needed
- Snorkel gear available at the dive shop on site
- Boat trip to Mushroom Forest takes 15 minutes
- Sea turtles are not guaranteed
- For turtle certainty: visit Playa Grandi
Tips for visiting Playa Lagun
Reef-safe sunscreen
Regular sunscreen damages the coral in the bay. Apply biodegradable sunscreen before entering the water.
Bring your own snorkel set
Rentals are available on site, but your own mask always fits best. Also saves you about 5 guilders per person.
Bring drinking water
There is a restaurant on the cliff, but no shops on the beach itself. Bring enough water.
Limited phone signal
Mobile coverage in the bay is patchy. Plan your route in advance.
Combine with other beaches
On the way back you can stop by Grote Knip, Playa Kenepa Chiki or Playa Kalki.
Snorkel along the rocks
The middle of the bay is mostly sand. The reef starts left and right along the cliff walls.
A day to the northwest coast from the villa
Our villa 3 Palabrua sits right on the Spanish Water in Jan Sofat on the south coast. From here Playa Lagun is about 50 minutes by car. Many guests make a full day of it by combining Playa Lagun with the Grote Knip and Playa Kalki, or finishing the day with a sunset at Westpunt.
Frequently asked questions about Playa Lagun
The most common questions before your visit.
Where exactly is Playa Lagun?
Is there an entrance fee for Playa Lagun?
Can you swim with sea turtles at Playa Lagun?
Is Playa Lagun good for snorkelling?
Is Playa Lagun suitable for children?
What is the best time to visit Playa Lagun?
Are there restaurants at Playa Lagun?
How long is the drive from the Spanish Water to Playa Lagun?
What is the difference between Playa Lagun and Kenepa Grandi?
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