SUP & Sunscreen: Making the Most of Avila’s Complimentary Water Gear

Dreaming of easy, eco-friendly fun right on the shoreline? At Avila Beach Hotel, you can step onto two calm private beaches and enjoy complimentary stand-up paddle boards (SUP) and reef-safe sunscreen—no extra planning, no extra fees. This guide shows you how to pair SUP & sunscreen for a breezy, responsible day on the water in Curaçao.

Why SUP & sunscreen belong together at Avila

Avila’s private beaches offer direct access to gentle Caribbean waters that are ideal for swimming and relaxing. That makes them a natural match for a mellow SUP session. And because reef-safe sunscreen is provided free of charge on the beach, you can protect your skin while choosing a product designed with the marine environment in mind. It’s a simple way to keep your day carefree and your impact light.

What you’ll find at Avila’s shoreline:

• Complimentary stand-up paddle boards (SUP) for guests
• Complimentary reef-safe sunscreen on the beaches
• Two private beaches with calm, sheltered swimming areas
• Excellent snorkeling just outside the protected zone (snorkeling equipment available for rent)

Getting started: A quick SUP & sunscreen game plan

A little preparation goes a long way. Use this simple flow to make the most of your time:

1) Protect your skin

• Apply reef-safe sunscreen generously on exposed skin (face, ears, neck, shoulders, arms, legs, tops of feet).
• Reapply after swimming, toweling off, or about every two hours per typical sunscreen guidance.
• Add a hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and a lightweight sun shirt for extra coverage.

2) Prep to paddle

• Choose calm conditions and flatter water for your first ride; many paddlers prefer mornings or late afternoons when winds can be lighter.
• Do a brief warm-up (hips, hamstrings, shoulders) to improve balance and reduce fatigue.
• Check local guidance on designated swim and paddle areas; always follow beach signage and staff instructions.

3) On the water

• Start from a kneeling position near the shoreline; stand up one foot at a time with knees slightly bent.
• Keep your gaze forward, core engaged, and hands well spaced on the paddle shaft.
• Take smooth, even strokes and switch sides regularly to track straight. Give swimmers, buoys, and reef structures ample space.

4) After your session

• Rinse off with fresh water if available and reapply sunscreen.
• Hydrate, then relax on your private beach lounger or at the nearby bars and restaurants.

Paddling the private beaches: What to expect

• Calm, protected water: Avila’s two private beaches border a sheltered swimming area that’s great for an easy introduction to SUP. Stay within approved zones and be mindful of swimmers.
• Snorkel-worthy reefs nearby: Guest feedback highlights excellent snorkeling just outside the protected area. If you want to combine a paddle with time in the water, you can rent snorkeling equipment on site. Always follow safety guidelines and local advice.

Eco-minded by design: Reef-safe habits that matter

Using reef-safe sunscreen is a small switch with big benefits for marine life. Combine it with a few widely recommended ocean-friendly habits:

• Avoid touching or standing on coral; even gentle contact can damage fragile structures.
• Give sea life space and never chase or feed animals.
• Keep a tidy beach set-up—secure hats, wrappers, and small items so nothing blows into the water.
• Rinse gear away from the waterline to keep soaps and residues out of the sea.

These everyday choices complement Avila Beach Hotel’s broader sustainability efforts, including participation in the Travelife eco-certification program.

Extend the day: Food, music, and relaxation nearby

When you’re ready to transition from board to table or lounger, you’re steps from Avila’s signature venues:

• The Pen Restaurant & Terrace for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Blues Restaurant with live jazz nights
• Schooner Bar and Pool Bar for casual drinks and bites by the water
• Cloud Nine Spa for massages, body treatments, and a hot tub

Prefer a late-afternoon paddle and a romantic evening? Ask about Dinner on the Beach to round out your shoreline experience.

Quick answers about SUP & sunscreen at Avila

• Does Avila Beach Hotel provide SUP?
  Yes. Stand-up paddle boards are complimentary for guests on the private beaches.

• Is sunscreen provided at the beach?
  Yes. Reef-safe sunscreen is complimentary on the beaches.

• Can I snorkel from the hotel?
  Yes. The calm private beaches border a sheltered area, and guests note that snorkeling just outside the protected zone is excellent.

• Is snorkel gear free?
  Snorkeling equipment is available for rent.

• Are the beaches suitable for beginners on SUP?
  The beaches are calm and well-suited to a relaxed first paddle. Always follow beach signage and staff guidance.

Safety and comfort: Simple best practices

• Follow beach flags, signs, and staff instructions at all times.
• Give right-of-way and a wide berth to swimmers and snorkelers.
• Mind wind and current; if conditions pick up, head back to shore early.
• Stay hydrated, use sun protection, and take breaks in the shade.
• Store valuables in your in-room laptop-compatible safe when heading to the beach.

Make it a full ocean day: Build your itinerary

• Morning: Apply reef-safe sunscreen, enjoy a mellow SUP session, and relax on a lounger under an umbrella.
• Midday: Refuel at Schooner Bar or Pool Bar with waterside bites and drinks.
• Afternoon: Rent snorkel gear for a look at nearby reefs; remember to keep distance from marine life.
• Evening: Savor dinner at The Pen Restaurant & Terrace or plan a jazz-filled evening at Blues Restaurant.

Complimentary and paid: What to know at a glance

• Complimentary for guests:

  • Stand-up paddle boards (SUP)
  • Reef-safe sunscreen on the beaches
  • High-speed Wi‑Fi
  • On-site parking
  • Sun loungers and pool umbrellas
  • Free shuttle to and from the city center

• Available for a fee:

  • Snorkeling equipment rental
  • Spa treatments at Cloud Nine Spa
  • Babysitting services
  • Extra beds (USD 30 per night; subject to availability)
  • Cribs (USD 10 per night; subject to availability)
  • Late check-out (USD 50; subject to availability)

Practical takeaways for a perfect SUP & sunscreen day

• Use the hotel’s complimentary reef-safe sunscreen early and often.
• Choose calmer water and stay within designated areas when paddling.
• Keep a relaxed stance and steady strokes for easy control on SUP.
• Rent snorkel gear if you’d like to split your time between paddling and underwater exploring.
• Respect reefs and wildlife; leave only footprints on the sand.
• Plan a seamless day with nearby dining, live music, and spa time.

Conclusion: Your easiest ocean adventure starts here

With SUP & sunscreen provided on two private beaches, Avila Beach Hotel makes it effortless to enjoy Curaçao’s clear waters responsibly. Add in live jazz at Blues Restaurant, rejuvenating treatments at Cloud Nine Spa, and a central location near downtown Willemstad, and you have everything you need for a day that flows from paddle to plate.

Ready to plan your shoreline escape? Book directly on our website to enjoy the best available rate, a complimentary US$50 resort credit, flexible cancellation, a free shared airport shuttle, and a tree planted for each night of your stay.

Call +5999 788 1949 or visit https://www.avilabeachhotel.com to reserve your stay.