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There are an array of things to do in Caribbeans, with Curacao sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the vibrant island of Curacao is a tropical paradise that boasts a colorful tapestry of cultural diversity, scenic beauty, and thrilling adventures that are sure to enchant any traveler’s soul.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Curacao:
1. Willemstad Waterfront
The Willemstad Waterfront in Curacao is a vibrant and colorful area that is home to many historic buildings and monuments, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Handelskade.
What to see or do: Explore the floating market where vendors sell fresh fish, vegetables, and fruits from Venezuela.
Take a stroll or a tour along the waterfront and admire the restored 18th and 19th-century buildings with Dutch colonial architecture.
Visit historic sites like Fort Amsterdam, the Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, and the Queen Emma Bridge.
Don’t miss: Walking across the Queen Emma Bridge – a pontoon bridge that opens frequently to allow ships to enter the harbor.
Insider travel tips: Visit the waterfront during the Carnival season (February/March) for a colorful and festive celebration of local music, dance, and culture. For a stunning view of the city and the ocean, head to the Rif Fort, a historic fortress-turned-shopping mall.
2. Hato Caves
A series of limestone caves located on the northern shore of the island of Curacao in the Caribbean.
What to see or do: Explore the unique formations of limestone stalactites and stalagmites in the cool darkness of the caves. Learn about the history of the caves and their uses by the indigenous Arawak people and early European settlers.
Don’t miss: The natural pool at the end of the cave system, known as “The Lake of Curacao,” which is believed to be bottomless.
Look out for the bats and other cave-dwelling creatures.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes with good grip as the floors can be slippery. Bring a light jacket or sweater as temperatures can be cooler inside the caves.
The caves tend to be less crowded in the morning, so visit early for a more intimate experience.
3. Curacao Sea Aquarium
Curacao Sea Aquarium is a popular marine park in Willemstad, Curacao, featuring a wide variety of sea creatures and marine life.
What to see or do: Visitors to the Curacao Sea Aquarium can enjoy a range of activities, from watching sea lion and dolphin shows to snorkeling in a beautiful lagoon filled with colorful fish and coral.
The aquarium also has a touch tank where visitors can get up close and personal with starfish and other small sea creatures.
Don’t miss: Be sure to catch the daily feeding shows, where you can watch divers hand-feed sharks, sea turtles, and other large marine creatures.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in getting even closer to the marine life, consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium, where you can see how the animals are cared for and learn more about their habits and behaviors.
Additionally, plan your visit around one of the many special events held at the aquarium, such as the annual Seafood Festival or the Halloween-themed Spooky Sea event.
4. Jan Thiel Beach
A stunning beach located on the southeastern coast of Curacao.
What to see or do: Jan Thiel offers a wide range of activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and water sports. The clear turquoise waters are perfect for underwater exploration.
The beach also has several restaurants, bars, and shops where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
Don’t miss: The Sunset Lounge at Jan Thiel Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy the beautiful sunset while sipping on a cocktail.
Insider travel tips: Get to the beach early to snag a good spot, especially on weekends.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, head to the far end of the beach away from the restaurants and bars.
Keep an eye out for iguanas that roam the beach and surrounding areas.
5. Museum Kurá Hulanda
Museum Kurá Hulanda is a privately-owned anthropological museum located in Willemstad, the capital city of Curacao.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history and culture of the African diaspora, with a particular focus on the transatlantic slave trade.
There are several exhibitions and displays with artifacts, sculptures, and artwork from various regions of Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.
You can learn about the origins of African civilizations, the Middle Passage, and the impact of the African diaspora on modern-day societies.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the outdoor sculpture garden, which features life-sized bronze statues depicting various African figures.
Insider travel tips: The museum can get crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to visit in the morning or early afternoon.
There is a small café on-site where you can grab a drink or snack, but there are also many restaurants in the nearby area.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and sculpture garden.
6. Kenepa Beach
Kenepa Beach is a stunning tropical beach located on the northwest coast of Curacao, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise water and powdery white sand.
What to see or do: Visitors can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on the beach.
The calm and clear waters make it a popular spot for snorkeling, where you can see beautiful coral reefs and exotic marine life.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take in the panoramic view of the beach and surrounding scenery from the top of the nearby Kenepa Hill.
Insider travel tips: – It’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends.
7. Klein Curaçao
Klein Curaçao is a small uninhabited island located southeast of the main island of Curaçao.
What to see or do: Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also explore the island’s ghostly shipwrecks, abandoned lighthouse, and magnificent seabird colonies.
Don’t miss: A visit to the abandoned lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the island and the surrounding sea. Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to discover the colorful sea life and coral reefs.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of sunscreen, as the island is completely exposed to the sun. It’s also recommended to book a guided tour with a reputable company to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
And finally, don’t forget to bring cash, as there are no ATMs or credit card facilities available on the island.
8. Mambo Beach
Mambo Beach is a popular tourist spot in Curacao with crystal clear waters, white sand, and a lively atmosphere.
What to see or do: Swimming, sunbathing and soaking in the Caribbean sun are popular here. There are also many water activities such as kayaking, parasailing, and jet skiing available.
On the beach, there are restaurants, bars, shops, and beach clubs to explore.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the delicious seafood at the restaurants. Make sure to also catch the sunset for amazing views.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to get a good spot on the beach and avoid crowds. You can also rent chairs and umbrellas for a comfortable day.
Parking can be limited, so consider taking a taxi or public transportation.
9. Shete Boka National Park
Shete Boka National Park is a protected natural reserve located on the north coast of Curacao.
What to see or do: The park offers stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and numerous natural attractions such as sea caves, blowholes, and a natural bridge.
Hiking through the rocky landscape is a great way to explore the park, but be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Don’t miss: Visiting Boka Tabla, a large sea cave that offers a unique vantage point from which to view the ocean’s powerful waves.
Witnessing the phenomenon of the Boka Pistol, where seawater is forced up through a narrow opening in the rocks, is also a must-see.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning or later in the day to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.
Take some time to explore the nearby plantation house, Landhuis Santa Martha, which has been beautifully restored and now houses a restaurant and art gallery.
10. Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal clear water located on the southwest side of Curacao.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, paddle-boarding, and kayaking in the calm and shallow waters of Blue Bay Beach. The beach also has great facilities including lounge chairs, umbrellas, showers, and restrooms.
Don’t miss: Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear as Blue Bay Beach has a beautiful coral reef just a short distance from the shore.
It’s also worth taking a stroll along the beach to admire the surrounding natural beauty.
Insider travel tips: Bring your own water and snacks as there are limited options for food and drinks on the beach.
It’s also recommended to arrive early in the morning to secure a good spot on the beach, especially during peak tourist season.
11. Punda
A historic district in the heart of Willemstad, Curacao’s capital city.
What to see or do: Walk along the colorful Handelskade, admire the Dutch colonial architecture, visit the floating market, and shop for souvenirs at the many boutiques and gift shops.
Don’t miss: The Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pedestrian bridge that separates Punda from Otrobanda, and opens up to let boats pass through.
Insider travel tips: Visit Punda during the day to explore the shops and soak up the architecture, but return at night to experience the district’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Also, make sure to try some of the local street food, including empanadas and fried plantains.
12. Rif Fort
A historic fort turned entertainment center located in the capital city of Willemstad, Curacao.
What to see or do: Enjoy dining, shopping, and nightlife in a unique setting with original 19th-century architecture. Catch a live music performance or watch a movie at the on-site cinema.
Explore the shops for local souvenirs, jewelry, or fashion.
Don’t miss: The nightly laser shows that illuminate the fort’s walls and highlight the island’s history and culture. Also, check out the stunning views of the ocean and Willemstad’s colorful buildings from the rooftop terrace.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the evening to experience the lively atmosphere and for the best photo ops of the illuminations.
Some of the restaurants offer happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers, so be sure to ask about specials before ordering.
13. Grote Knip Beach
Grote Knip Beach is a stunning beach located in Curacao, known for its turquoise-blue waters and pristine white sands.
What to see or do: Relax in the sun and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Grote Knip Beach.
The beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling and diving, so don’t forget your gear!
Don’t miss: Be sure to take in the breathtaking view of the beach from the top of the cliff before making your way down to the water.
The stunning scenery is not to be missed!
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water as there are limited food and beverage options available at the beach.
Arrive early in the day to secure your spot on the sand, as the beach tends to get crowded later in the day.
14. The Floating Market
The Floating Market is a unique marketplace in Curacao where vendors sell fresh produce and seafood from their boats.
What to see or do: Take a stroll along the pier and admire the colorful boats and bustling atmosphere. Sample some of the local fruits and vegetables, or try some fresh fish cooked on the spot.
You can also purchase souvenirs and handmade crafts from the vendors.
Don’t miss: The chance to bargain with the vendors for the best price on your purchases.
It’s also worth sampling some of the delicious local snacks, such as fried plantains or pastechi (a type of fried turnover filled with meat or cheese).
Insider travel tips: – The Floating Market is typically open in the mornings and early afternoons, so plan to visit during this time.