Kayaking in Spanish Water (Spaanse Water)

About

Kayaking in Spanish Water (Spaanse Water) is one of the most peaceful and scenic outdoor activities in Curaçao, offering visitors the chance to paddle through a calm, vast lagoon past mangroves, moored sailboats, and uninhabited islands. Spanish Water is a large sheltered bay on Curaçao's southeastern coast, about 20 minutes east of Willemstad, known for its calm conditions that make it ideal for kayakers of all skill levels, including complete beginners. Daytime tours explore the lagoon's mangrove channels, hidden coves, and coastline, with opportunities to spot marine life, seabirds, and the luxurious yachts and sailboats moored in the bay. Night kayaking tours are a magical experience not to be missed — as visitors paddle through the warm water, bioluminescent organisms light up with every stroke, creating a glowing, otherworldly effect. Various rental and tour operators are located around Spanish Water, offering single and tandem kayaks, guided tours, and equipment rental. The calm, sheltered water makes this activity suitable for families and groups. Kayaking in Spanish Water can be combined with a visit to nearby Santa Barbara Beach, the Tafelberg hiking area, or the historic Landhuis Sta. Barbara for a full day of exploration on Curaçao's southeastern coast.

Spanish Water, Willemstad

Tips

• Night bioluminescence tours are magical and not to be missed
• Calm sheltered water makes it ideal for beginners
• Combine with a visit to Santa Barbara Beach

How to get there

Various rental and tour operators around Spanish Water. About 20 min east of Willemstad.