Playa Porto Marie: double reef, beach pigs and a laid-back vibe

Playa Porto Marie (also Porto Mari) lies near Sint Willibrordus on Curaçao's west side, roughly a 40-minute drive from My Paradiso Curaçao. It's one of the island's most complete beaches: beautiful, well organized, and home to a few unusual residents.

The beach pigs

Porto Marie's most famous locals are the pigs Willy and Woody, who wandered in years ago and never left. They regularly stroll across the beach and the parking lot, or lie snoring in their mud pool. Kids love them; just let them be and don't feed them.

Snorkeling and diving

Off the shore lies a double reef. The outer reef breaks the waves, keeping the bay calm; between and on the reefs you'll see plenty of fish and, with a little luck, a sea turtle. There's a dive school on the beach for anyone who wants to go deeper.

Practical

• Entrance fee: ƒ5 per person at the time of writing. Check the current rate before you go.
• Open: daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, with a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Facilities: toilets, showers, lockers, a small shop, and beach beds and parasols for rent.

Combine with

Cas Abao is close by; together they make a perfect west-coast day. You'll need a car for the trip: see our car rental page for the discount at Palmera Car Rental.