Tugboat Beach is nothing like a postcard beach. It's a stretch of pebbles and coarse sand, tucked into Caracasbaai a few kilometers southeast of Willemstad, in a setting that mixes industrial docks with untouched nature. But what the sea hides here is well worth the detour. About thirty meters from shore, a sunken tugboat rests on the bottom, entirely covered in sponges and coral, surrounded by reef fish. The shallow depth, around five meters, means you can reach it with simple snorkeling gear straight from the beach, no diving equipment needed.
The spot sits right next to Fort Beekenburg, the island's oldest fortress, built in the early 18th century to defend the entrance to the Spaanse Water. Many visitors combine both stops in the same outing, mixing a swim with a bit of colonial history.
Shade is scarce here, so bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to settle in on the beach before or after your swim. A small beach bar rents snorkeling gear and sells drinks, so you can put together an outing without bringing anything of your own.
What stands out most is the contrast: a peaceful wreck, taken over by marine life, resting just steps from a former oil terminal. A quiet reminder that nature always finds a way back in, even under the hull of an old, forgotten tugboat.
You'll need a car
Most of the best beaches are at least 45 minutes from Willemstad. Renting a car is not optional.
