You may have never heard of Curacao before, but now since you are here, you will find out what is so special about it and why it is a must-visit if you are looking to indulge in a vacation you will not forget for a long time. Curacao is a Dutch Carribean island. Although this island may not be big in size, it is renowned for its stunning beaches and rich marine life. You can spend all day long on one beach before moving on to another the next day. But actually, there are more than just beaches on this island. Keep reading to learn more about the things to do in Curacao. If possible, do everything mentioned so you will not have regret once your vacation is over.
1. Tour the exceptional Kurá Hulanda Museum (from USD 12.0)
There is only one word to describe Kura Hulanda museum and that word is exceptional. Situated in the harbor of Willemstad, the museum displays an impressive collection of artifacts from the African continent. Through observing and learning about the artifacts, you will gain insights into how millions of Africans were sold and relocated to the island and how their culture played an important role that shaped Curacao into the island it is today.
Skip the Line: Museum Kurá Hulanda Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 day
2. Unwind at Playa Porto Mari
From Mambo Beach, you may want to drive to a private estate of Plantages PortoMari to reach your next destination, Playa Porto Mari. What is not to love about this beach? From the pristine white sand and the crystal clear water to the surrounding hills and nature trails that are excellent for hiking or mountain biking, there are certainly many reasons. But a couple of things you must be sure to try are snorkeling and diving in the calm water.
Playa Porto Mari
Address: Plantages PortoMari, Curacao
Website: Playa Porto Mari
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
3. Snorkel at Playa Cas Abou
If you love snorkeling so much and want to do it in beautiful Curacao beaches, then it is a must to drive to the northwest coast of Curacao and find yourself in another paradise. Cas Abou Beach is popular for its turquoise water and white sands. The calm water supports the snorkeling activities because as soon as you snorkel, you can admire the reefs, corals, and fish swimming towards you to say hello. If you do not want to snorkel, that is perfectly fine. You can simply unwind and lie down on the sand or make a sand castle if you are traveling with little ones.
Playa Cas Abou
Address: Cas Abou, Willemstad, Curacao
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Admire the turtles at Shete Boka National Park
Who does not love turtles? Everybody loves this animal and that is why it is a must to make a stop at Shete Boka National Park. Meet with sea turtles at their nestling grounds in the small inlets. In case you do not know, Boka means inlet in English. Thus, when you come to this national park you are going to see a lot of inlets. The smaller inlets are the ones loved by the turtles. Other than the turtles, a series of coves carved out of the limestone at this park will also leave you speechless.
Shete Boka National Park
Address: Boka Tabla, Willemstad, Curacao
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: 10 ANG (5.5 USD)
5. Visit the remarkable Fort Amsterdam
Back then during the 17th century, Curacao was still defending its territory against enemies who wanted to invade the island. During that time, Fort Amsterdam was constructed to serve as a military fort. Currently, however, it is no longer a military fort. Today, its purpose is serving the community of Curacao by being the seat of government of the island. Enjoy the Dutch colonial architecture and take a stroll in the spacious courtyard.
Fort Amsterdam
Address: Willemstad, Curacao
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
6. Have a drink at Sauc'é Curaçao Bar
???■Thursday April 18th, 2019■Party Animals Night!■Bring your friends and dance on the best Urban Music with the best shots on the Island! ●Shot of the Week FL. 5.00???
Posted by Sauc'é Shots & Cocktail Bar Curacao on Thursday, 18 April 2019
Make no mistake–Curacao should also be enjoyed at night. One way to do it is by having fun and enjoy a party night at this trendy bar. As the name says, you will have the privilege to add some sauce your drink at this bar–not literally with sauce but with some flavors to make it even more delicious. It is a perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals and at the same time dance to the Latin or urban beats.
Sauc'é Curaçao Bar
Address: Caracasbaaiweg 16A, Salinja, Curaçao, Curaçao
Website: Sauc'é Curaçao Bar
Opening hours: Thu: 9pm - 2am; Fri - Sat: 9pm - 3am; Sun: 6pm - 12am (closed on Mon, Tue & Wed)
7. Marvel at the views from Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge
You can enjoy the beaches, you also have the nature retreats in the park but when in Curaçao, don’t forget one thing: Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. The iconic pontoon bridge, in other words, the floating bridge, is a must-visit attraction. You need to pass this bridge to reach either Punda or Otrobanda. While standing on the bridge, you get the best views of both quarters and a bonus: St. Anna Bay that is located across the bridge.
Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge
Address: Kon. Emmabrug, Willemstad, Curaçao
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Relax at Klein Curaçao
Set in the southeastern part of Curacao, Klein Curacao is an uninhabited island that boasts its corals, white sand beaches, and crystal clear water. To get to this paradise, you need to take a boat trip. During your trip, you should look around and marvel at a shipwreck and a lighthouse from a distance. What is more, if you are fortunate enough, some dolphins will swim along. Later when you arrive at Klein Curacao, you are free to do your favorite water activity, be it diving or snorkeling. You may also be interested in exploring the underwater caves. Or, you can just enjoy sunbathing until it is time to go back to the main island.
Klein Curaçao
Address: Curaçao
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. Visit Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
This iconic synagogue is among the most impressive buildings you can find on the island. As such, you cannot leave the island without first making a stop at this synagogue. As soon as you step inside, you will be amazed at how adorable the azure-stained windows throughout the synagogue are. When you look up you will see stunning brass chandeliers. And, the large ornate menorahs as well as the carved woodwork are also things that will certainly please your eyes.
Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
Address: Hanchi Snoa, Willemstad, Curaçao
Website: Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4:30pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 19 ANG (10 USD)
10. Buy art souvenirs at Serena's Art Factory
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
HAND for CURACAO I-Animal and all hands of Curacao with Serena's Art Factory
Posted by Serena's Art Factory on Friday, March 14, 2014
If you cannot find the souvenirs you are looking for in Otrabanda, you may find something you like at Serena’s Art Factory. The art gallery features unique art pieces that will make wonderful gifts. From sculptures and paintings to handmade souvenirs and fashion items, so much can be found here. The most famous souvenirs include the Chichi sculpture, tropical fish, geckos, and donkeys that come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Another interesting point about this art gallery is that it regularly hosts workshops. You can create your own souvenir or sculpture and bring it home. Have fun being an artist for a day at Serena’s Art Factory.
Serena's Art Factory
Address: Juan Louis 87 a, on the road to Sint Joris Baai, Willemstad, Curaçao
Website: Serena’s Art Factory
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
Price: from 48 ANG (28 USD)
11. Relish delicious food at Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei
Feeling hungry and crave for something tasty to fill your upset stomach? Head to this restaurant that is nestled on the front terrace of a charming plantation house. Displaying tropical, laid-back, and warm atmosphere through its open-air concept, the restaurant serves a delectable selection of Caribbean specialties along with fresh fish, chicken, and beef. If you are a fan of lobsters, you should come on Thursday because it is lobster night every Thursday. But, if you want to learn how to salsa dance, you should come on Monday because the restaurant hosts a free salsa lesson every Monday.
Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei
Address: Brakkeput Mei Mei, z/n/, Willemstad, Curaçao
Website: Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei
Opening hours: 6pm - 11pm (daily)
Price: from 7 ANG (4 USD)
12. Try green rum at Netto Bar
What is green rum? How does it taste? Beat your curiosity by visiting Netto Bar, the one and only bar that serves the famous green rum. Find out what makes this much-talked about and well-loved specialty a must-try in Curaçao. The locals love to drink it with coconut water but some people also love to drink it with a cocktail.
Netto Bar
Address: 143 Breedestraat, Willemstad, Curaçao
Website: Netto Bar
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 1am; Sun: 8am - 6pm
13. Tour the hidden Hato Caves (from USD 65.0)
What is so interesting about these Hato Caves? Well, what do you think of stepping into limestone caves that are created over thousands of years. And no, they are not handmade–they are naturally created. In addition to the limestone architecture, you will also be witnessing clear pools as you walk along the caves. The pools are surely going to give you that romantic feel. After a satisfying trip to Hato Caves, you will also be taken to an ostrich farm. This is your opportunity to encounter the giant birds from a very close range. You will gain insights into their biology and behavior through this guided tour. But remember not to try to touch the birds because they are not very friendly creatures.
Hato Caves, Ostrich Farm Tour
Duration: 4 hours
14. Sunbathe at Blue Bay
Blue Bay is paradise and once you get to the beach, you will find it hard to leave to go back to your hotel room. The clear blue water along with the vibrant blue sky, not to mention the breezes and pristine sands, are going to make you want to stay forever. While on this beach, it is best, of course, to sunbathe. Enjoy the perfect sunlight and your skin will be tanned in no time. When you think you have had enough sunbathing, you may want to treat yourself with a delicious cocktail available in the bars or restaurants surrounding the beach.
Blue Bay
Address: Blue Bay Beach, Curacao
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
15. Enjoy serenity at Playa Lagun
Another excellent beach to cater to your needs of having the ultimate beach escape is Playa Lagun. In addition to boasting breathtaking views, Playa Lagun is also known as a perfect spot for snorkeling and other water activities, such as diving and swimming. The very first thing you want to do is just enjoy the serenity offered by the beach. And, it is then time to snorkel. Admire the fish and the coral reefs that are just so colorful and bountiful.
Playa Lagun
Address: Lagun, 208 Lagun, Curacao
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
16. Be in awe of nature at Christoffel National Park
Forget the beaches for a while and find your way to another paradise in the form of a park called Christoffel National Park. It may be interesting to know that this national park is the largest on the island, thus it is a must-visit. But it is not just about the size that allures visitors. As you are entering the park, you will be presented a variety of rocks along with bushes, seahills, and local flora and fauna species. If you are more into outdoor activities, you should try hiking to the top. Honestly, the hike is not going to be easy so be prepared to work up a sweat. There are eight hiking trails available.
Christoffel National Park
Address: Plantation House Savonet, Weg Naar Westpunt, Curaçao
Website: Christoffel National Park
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: ANG 17.5 (10 USD)
17. Enjoy luxury dining at Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant
Indulge in a high-end dining experience at this remarkable restaurant that is located in a five-star hotel called Baoase Luxury Resort. It is up to you whether you want to come for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Our suggestion, if you already fall in love with the food when you are having breakfast, it is a good idea to come back for lunch or dinner. Highly popular lunch dishes include royal class salmon, spicy yellow curry, and Baoase burger.
Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant
Address: 2 Winterswijkstraat, Willemstad, Curaçao
Website: Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
18. Wander in Otrobanda and Punda
While on a vacation, you may want to spend some time to do some shopping, whether to buy something lovely for yourself or for your loved ones back home. If you are looking for great shopping places, you need to drive to downtown Willemstad, where both Punda and Otrabanda can be found. What make the two different are the kinds of items sold. If you prefer to buy something fashionable or pretty like jewelries, then you should head to Punda. On the other hand, Otrabanda is the place if you are looking for affordable souvenirs and street markets. In addition to shopping, you can soak up the numerous historical buildings that are all around you. Pay close attention and you will realize that most of the buildings are greatly influenced by the Dutch.
Otrobanda and Punda
Address: Downtown Willemstad, Curacao
Website: Otrobanda and Punda
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
19. Admire the stunning Mambo Beach
Yes, another fantastic beach on this list–this time one named Mambo Beach. This beach, with its clear water and pure white sand, is something to admire indeed. When you are done admiring, why don’t you try some water sports? What is more, the beach features a myriad of restaurants, shops, and entertainment.
Mambo Beach
Address: Mambo Beach Blvd, Curacao
Website: Mambo Beach
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
A wonderful vacation in Curacao awaits you
Really, there is nothing stopping you from having a wonderful vacation in Curacao. The island awaits your embrace. All you need to do is book a flight and plan your itineraries. Make sure that all the mentioned-above activities are included. Enjoy Curacao!
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