Curaçao is all about sun, sea, and sand. With more than 30 beaches to discover, from the famous Playa Grote Knip to the hidden coves near Westpunt, you will likely spend much of your trip by the water. However, this also raises an important question: what should you actually pack for a Caribbean beach vacation?
To make planning easier and your holiday more relaxing, we have put together the top 10 beach essentials for Curaçao. In addition, each item is compact, practical, and light enough to fit in your suitcase.
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1. UV Protection Shirt
The Caribbean sun is strong, even on cloudy days. Therefore, a lightweight UV protection shirt, also called a rash guard, is essential for keeping your skin safe during snorkeling or long hours on the sand. Unlike sunscreen, it stays on in the water and provides consistent protection.
For added convenience, choose a quick-dry rash guard that you can wear straight from the sea to a beach bar.
.Shop UV protection shirts on Amazon
2. Quick-Dry Beach Towel
Instead of bulky cotton towels, consider a microfiber beach towel. Not only is it thin and sand-resistant, but it also dries within minutes. In addition, it rolls up compactly, so it won’t take up valuable luggage space—making it perfect for moving from Playa Lagun to Cas Abao.
See quick-dry towels on Amazon
Tip: Book here your Rental Car
3. Compact Soft Cooler Bag
Cold drinks are essential under the Curaçao sun. Rather than carrying a heavy cooler, bring a foldable soft cooler bag instead. Not only does it keep snacks and drinks cool for hours, but it also folds flat in your suitcase when empty.
Additionally, you can use it later as a convenient grocery bag when shopping at Vreugdenhil Supermarket or in the Centrum.
Find soft cooler bags on Amazon
4. Inflatable Floaties
Floating in Curaçao’s turquoise bays is pure relaxation. Inflatable floaties or loungers are not only fun but also practical, and they pack down to take up very little space in your luggage. From simple tubes to flamingos, they can even create Instagram-worthy moments at Kleine Knip.
For added convenience, bring a small USB or battery-powered pump so you can inflate them quickly without getting out of breath before swimming.
5. Lightweight Beach Chair Alternative
Renting beach chairs every day can become expensive, and not every beach offers facilities. Therefore, consider packing portable sand mats with backrests or foldable loungers. Not only are they easy to carry, but they also provide comfort on quieter beaches such as Playa Jeremi.
6. Waterproof Phone Pouch
With snorkeling, boat tours, and sudden tropical showers, protecting your phone is essential. A waterproof phone pouch not only allows you to take underwater photos but also keeps sand and saltwater out. In addition, many designs can double as mini dry bags for storing keys and cash.
Tip: Read here the blog The Best Snorkeling Spots on Curaçao
7. Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for any beach day, but not all formulas are reef-friendly. Therefore, choose reef-safe sunscreen, which protects your skin while also helping to preserve Curaçao’s coral reefs. In addition, because you will need to reapply frequently, it’s a good idea to pack more than one travel-size bottle.
Tip: Book here the Best Tours on Curaçao
8. Snorkeling Set
Snorkeling in Curaçao is unforgettable:
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Playa Grandi → swim with sea turtles
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Tugboat Beach → explore a sunken wreck
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Blue Room Cave → discover glowing waters
Instead of renting, bring your own compact snorkel set. Many come with mesh travel bags that fit neatly into your suitcase.
9. Portable Beach Safe
Peace of mind is priceless when enjoying a day at the beach. A small lockable beach safe not only keeps your valuables secure but also allows you to swim freely. Additionally, it can be attached to a chair, lounger, or umbrella, so you can relax and enjoy Curaçao’s bays without worry.
10. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated in Curaçao’s warm climate is essential. Therefore, bring a reusable insulated water bottle, which keeps drinks cold for hours and helps reduce plastic waste. In addition, many lightweight models fit easily into the side pockets of beach bags, making them convenient to carry throughout the day.
Browse insulated water bottles
Why These Essentials Matter
It’s tempting to overpack, but these Curaçao beach essentials keep your suitcase light and your vacation stress-free. They help you:
✔ Stay safe from the sun (UV shirts, reef-safe sunscreen)
✔ Stay comfortable (quick-dry towel, portable lounger)
✔ Stay cool (soft cooler bag, insulated water bottle)
✔ Stay worry-free (waterproof pouch, beach safe)
✔ Have fun (snorkel set, inflatable floaties)
Conclusion
From UV protection shirts to portable beach safes, these 10 essentials make every beach day in Curaçao easier. Whether you’re lounging on Mambo Beach, snorkeling at Playa Grandi, or discovering hidden coves near Westpunt, you’ll be prepared for sun, sand, and sea.
Ready to plan your trip?
Pack smart, travel light, and enjoy every moment of your Caribbean escape.
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