WILLEMSTAD – The government of Curaçao has initiated a stakeholder consultation process for the redevelopment of Playa Santa Cruz, as part of efforts to improve public beach infrastructure and ease overcrowding at the island’s most popular coastal areas.
Several public beaches in Banda Bou—such as Playa Piskadó, Kenepa Grandi, Kenepa Chikí and Daaibooi—have seen a sharp increase in visitors in recent years. This has created a growing need to upgrade facilities at less frequently used beaches in order to better distribute tourism and local recreation.
One of the beaches identified with strong potential is Playa Santa Cruz. However, current facilities at the site, including palapas, the fishermen’s area, pier, snack bar and restrooms, are in poor condition and require significant improvement.
Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas, who is overseeing the beach development initiative, has instructed the Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN) to move forward with a redevelopment plan. As part of this process, architect Lyongo Juliana has been engaged to gather input from stakeholders and develop a new design for the beach.
The approach reflects the government’s intention to involve all relevant parties in the planning process. A wide range of stakeholders were invited to participate in the consultation, including local fishermen, Plataforma Banda Bou, Vishon Banda Abou (VIBA), Sentro di Bario Soto, Hòfi Mango, jet ski operators, CARMABI, the local snack operator, police, ROP and the Curaçao Tourist Board.
During the meeting, stakeholders shared a range of proposals and concerns. Suggestions included the construction of a new pier for fishermen that takes into account strong southwest winds and heavy rainwater flows, the addition of a small bridge to improve access across the inner waterway, designated facilities for jet ski operators, increased vegetation, and continued stakeholder involvement throughout the process.
All input has now been compiled, and the architect will begin working on a preliminary design. The design phase is expected to take approximately two months, after which the plan will be presented again to stakeholders for further review.
Through this participatory approach, the government aims to develop a redevelopment plan that is broadly supported by both stakeholders and the wider community, while improving the functionality and sustainability of Playa Santa Cruz.