A rough dirt road cuts through the wild midwest coast of Curaçao, where rolling green hills blend into dry forest and quiet stillness hangs over the landscape. No beach bars, no crowds, just untouched nature. At the end of this rugged path lies the San Juan Plantation, home to some of Curaçao’s least-visited beaches including Playa Manzaliña, Playa Largu, Playa Shon Mosa, and Playa Chiki.
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A Journey Through History: San Juan Plantation
The San Juan Plantation dates back to the 17th century and was once one of the most influential estates on the island. Its yellow landhouse still stands at the entrance, a reminder of Curaçao’s colonial past. Today the plantation is a protected natural area, and its beaches remain largely untouched. Visitors must pay an entrance fee of 10 XCG at Landhuis San Juan to access all four beaches. The beaches are accessible by car via the plantation. The dirt roads are bumpy and narrow, so a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended. After heavy rain, access can be difficult. Some divers prefer reaching the reefs by boat.
The Four Beaches of San Juan Plantation
Playa Manzaliña is a secluded coastline with coarse sand, coral fragments, and smooth stones. A small cave and scattered manzanilla trees add character to the landscape, though the trees are toxic and should be admired from a distance. The sheltered bay has a gently sloping seabed and a rich coral reef inhabited by lobsters, moray eels, lionfish, and other marine life, making it ideal for snorkeling, shore diving, and photography.
Playa Largu is the largest of the San Juan beaches. Its mix of sand, coral rubble, and rocky sections makes it appealing to snorkelers and underwater explorers. The water is clear and full of marine life, while the absence of facilities ensures privacy and tranquility.
Playa Shon Mosa is a narrow bay with fine sand and rock formations. The calm, clear water is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Shade is minimal, so visitors should bring their own cover. The beach is quiet most days, offering an intimate experience in nature.
Playa Chiki is a small, secluded cove accessible via the plantation’s dirt roads. Its fine sand and clear water make it perfect for a quiet swim or snorkel. The nearby rocky reef adds variety to the underwater landscape. Like the other beaches in San Juan, it is largely untouched and rarely crowded.
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The Story Behind the Name Manzaliña: A Beautiful but Dangerous Tree
Playa Manzaliña owes its name to the manzanilla tree, a tree as beautiful as it is dangerous. Its glossy green leaves and apple-like fruits look inviting, but every part of the tree is toxic. Break a twig or leaf and a milky white sap appears. Even sheltering under the tree during rain can be risky.
What Playa Manzaliña Looks Like
The shoreline is a mix of coarse sand, coral fragments, and smooth stones. A few manzanilla trees offer shade, and tucked into the rocks is a small cave that adds extra character. Most days, the beach is empty, giving visitors a rare sense of solitude on Curaçao.
Are The 4 Beaches Public?
Yes. After paying the entrance fee at Landhuis San Juan, visitors gain access to all four beaches within the plantation. Book your Rental Car to explore the west coast comfortably and reach the beaches at your own pace.
What You Can Do at These Beaches
Sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, shore diving, photography, and exploring nature in peace are all possible. The sheltered bay and vibrant reef make it ideal for quiet snorkeling or discovering underrated dive sites.
How to Reach These Beaches
The beaches are accessible by car via Landhuis San Juan. The dirt roads are bumpy and narrow, so a 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended. After heavy rain, access can be difficult. Some divers prefer reaching the reefs by boat. Check out our Curaçao Tours to plan your trip efficiently. To reach Playa Manzaliña, enter the destination in the Waze navigation app and you will arrive at Landhuis San Juan. Once there, follow the signs to the beaches after paying the entrance fee.
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A Hidden Treasure on Curaçao’s West Coast
The beaches of San Juan Plantation offer more than sand and sea. They are a journey into Curaçao’s untouched west coast, where history, nature, and solitude combine. Playa Manzaliña, Playa Largu, Playa Shon Mosa, and Playa Chiki together create one of the island’s most secluded coastal experiences. Plan your visit, book your rental, and make a full day of exploring this hidden paradise.
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Disclaimer
Information in this blog is for general purposes and may change. Details such as opening hours, prices, and access rules can vary. No rights can be derived from this content. This page contains affiliate links.
