Director's Bay (Directeursbaai)

Director's Bay, or Directeursbaai, is a compact, sheltered cove on the Caracas Bay peninsula that once served as a private beach for an oil-company director, hence the name. A set of steps leads down from the parking area to a tidy crescent of sand and calm, clear water that shelves gently into an easy swimming and snorkeling spot.

The bay is well protected, so the water stays calm and the snorkeling along the rocky edges is good for all levels. Its biggest draw, though, is its proximity to the Tugboat, one of Curacao's most photographed shallow shipwrecks, which lies just around the point and is a short swim or a quick entry from the neighbouring bay. Many visitors combine an easy swim here with a snorkel out to the wreck.

Visiting Director's Bay

• Access is down a flight of steps; wear sandals and watch your footing.
• Bring your own snorkel gear; facilities are limited, though a snack spot sometimes operates.
• The Tugboat wreck is nearby, so pack a camera for the shallow snorkel.
• No lifeguards, but the cove is sheltered and calm.

Director's Bay sits on the Spanish Water side of the island next to Caracas Bay, where the Tugboat actually lies. The two are easy to pair, and the beach clubs of Jan Thiel Beach are a short drive back toward town for lunch or sunset.