WILLEMSTAD – The MAN-PIN parliamentary faction is proposing a new system that would divide Curaçao’s beaches into five categories, arguing that clearer rules are needed to protect nature, regulate commercial activities and guarantee residents meaningful access to the island’s coastline.
The proposal follows an evaluation by the faction of the current situation at beaches and coastal areas. MAN-PIN says that while some beaches can be reached directly from public roads, significant stretches of coastline are surrounded by privately owned land, making access difficult, subject to payment or, in some cases, impossible.
Even at publicly accessible beaches, the faction argues that physical access does not necessarily mean residents have sufficient space to enjoy them. It points to the placement of beach chairs, umbrellas and commercial installations that can occupy substantial portions of a beach, leaving limited room for people who bring their own chairs, coolers and other belongings.
MAN-PIN says this situation creates barriers for residents and restricts their ability to enjoy Curaçao’s beaches and coastline as part of the island's natural heritage.
Under the faction's proposal, beaches would be classified into five categories according to their primary function.
Natural beaches would receive the highest level of environmental protection, with commercial activities prohibited except for traditional fishing. “Quiet beaches” would primarily serve peaceful public recreation, with commercial activity limited to basic facilities such as restrooms.
Recreational beaches would combine public recreation with opportunities for local entrepreneurs operating under clearly defined permits and conditions. Tourist beaches would permit more commercial activity, but only within the carrying capacity of each location and with a maximum number of visitors established where necessary.
The fifth category would consist of balanced multifunctional beaches, where activities such as fishing, recreation, tourism and local entrepreneurship could coexist.
MAN-PIN says responsibilities must also be clearly divided among government ministries. The Ministry of Health, Environment and Nature (GMN) should oversee environmental and nature policy, while the Ministry of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning (VVRP) should enforce planning and construction rules on land and in coastal waters.
The Ministry of Economic Development (MEO), meanwhile, should regulate commercial activities through what the faction describes as a balanced policy governing commercial stands and concessions.
MAN-PIN criticized the approach presented by Economic Development Minister Roderick Middelhof, arguing that it risks excessive commercialization of beaches without sufficiently considering nature, environmental protection, construction regulations and genuine public accessibility.
The faction is calling on residents, non-governmental organizations and the private sector to participate in discussions aimed at establishing a long-term policy for Curaçao’s beaches and coastline.