Curacao is a small island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, and a popular destination for travelers looking for a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture.
Ever since my first Curacao all-inclusive stay I’ve been hooked by this vibrant and colorful island.
The best part is it offers a wide range of activities for everyone to enjoy, from exploring the historic capital city of Willemstad to diving in crystal-clear waters.
Whether you’re a history buff or a beach bum Curacao will fulfill your dreams.
In this guide, I highlight the top 10 things to do in Curacao , providing you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful island paradise.
1. Explore Willemstad’s Historic Center
Color us excited at the thought of hanging in Willemstad's historic city center — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. #CruiseNorwegian pic.twitter.com/Yk5dHV4EAc
— Norwegian Cruise Line (@CruiseNorwegian) January 15, 2021
Willemstad’s historic center is a vibrant and colorful area with beautiful colonial buildings that reflect Dutch and Spanish architectural influences.
The Handelskade is a must-visit attraction, and it is a row of colorful buildings that date back to the 18th century.
In my opinion, the best way to experience any city’s historic center is by foot.
As you stroll along the waterfront, take in the beautiful views of the harbor as well as the famous Queen Emma Bridge.
Nearby visit the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, which is the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas, and you can learn about the Jewish history of Curacao.
2. Go Around the Curacao Sea Aquarium
The Curacao Sea Aquarium is a popular attraction that offers a unique opportunity to see and learn about marine life in the Caribbean.
The aquarium features a variety of exhibits, including a touch tank where you can touch and hold starfish and sea cucumbers.
On my last trip, I stopped into one of their daily shows where sea lions and dolphins perform tricks. It was so much fun!
Another popular activity I unfortunately missed at the aquarium is the dolphin encounter, where you can swim and interact with the dolphins. What an unforgettable experience.
3. Go Diving or Snorkeling
Curacao is a diver’s paradise, with clear turquoise waters, and a diverse marine life.
The Mushroom Forest is one of the most popular dive sites on the island, featuring an underwater forest of mushroom-shaped coral formations.
I was unprepared for how abundant it would be; it was like stumbling into an underwater garden.
You can also explore the wreck of the Superior Producer, a cargo ship that sank off the coast of Curacao in 1978.
Some of my other favorite dive spots:
- Tugboat: Visit the home to an old tugboat that was sunk deliberately to create an artificial reef.
- Playa Kalki: This beach is a popular spot for both diving and snorkeling, and it’s known for its clear waters and abundant marine life.
- Blue Bay: This dive site is located near a popular resort, and it’s known for its underwater cliffs and canyons.
- Playa Porto Mari: An excellent snorkeling spot with a beautiful beach and a rich coral reef ecosystem.
4. Hike in Christoffel National Park
Christoffel National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, with rugged terrain and stunning landscapes.
The park offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that takes you through rolling hills, lush vegetation, and scenic viewpoints.
The most challenging hike is the climb to the top of Mount Christoffel, which offers panoramic views of the island and the sea.
Along the way, you can also see several species of plants and animals, sometimes including the rare Curacao white-tailed deer.
5. Tour the Curacao Ostrich Farm
The Curacao Ostrich Farm is a unique and entertaining attraction that offers a hands-on experience with ostriches.
During the guided tour, you can learn about ostrich behavior, feed them, and even stand on their eggs.
The farm also has a restaurant that serves ostrich meat dishes, such as ostrich burgers and steaks.
I thought the taste was delicious, and it tasted similar to grass-fed beef. Though, it was slightly more gamey.
Additionally, in the gift shop I was able to purchase souvenirs and items made from ostrich leather.
The farm is an excellent place to visit with family and friends, and it is sure to be a memorable experience.
6. Explore the Hato Caves
The Hato Caves are a natural wonder that is estimated to be over 200,000 years old.
These caves are home to a variety of limestone formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, which have been formed over thousands of years by the slow dripping of water.
On a guided tour I learned about the caves’ history and geology, as well as their cultural significance to the island’s indigenous people.
7. Set Sail During Sunset
Taking a sunset sail is a popular activity in Curacao, and for a good reason.
The island’s breathtaking sunsets create a romantic and serene atmosphere that is perfect for couples or anyone looking for a relaxing experience.
You can choose from a variety of sailboats, catamaran, or yacht tours, which typically include drinks and snacks.
My husband and I enjoyed a fairytale moment with Project Expedition on their catamaran. We enjoyed crips champagne with salty finger food as the sunset.
Taking a sunset sail in Curacao is the perfect way to reconnect with your partner.
8. Take a Day Trip to Klein Curacao
Klein Curacao is a small, uninhabited island that is located about 15 miles off the southeast coast of Curacao.
This island is only accessible by boat, and visitors can take a day trip to explore its secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. The trip takes about 2 hours, and is well worth it.
Klein is also best known for being home to sea turtles. The island is a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles, and I was lucky to spot them swimming in the shallow waters near the beach. Others were swimming right there with them.
The island is also home to a historic lighthouse and shipwrecks that can be explored by experienced divers.
9. Go Shopping in Punda
For any die-hard shoppers, Punda is a must visit destination.
It is a vibrant neighborhood in Willemstad that is known for its colorful buildings and great shopping.
The area is home to numerous boutiques, souvenir shops, and local markets where you can find unique gifts, clothing, and jewelry.
Punda is also a great place to sample local cuisine, including the famous Dutch cheese and fresh seafood.
10. Tour the Island’s Distilleries
Curacao’s unique blue liqueur is a must-try for visitors to the island, and a tour of the distilleries is the perfect way to learn about its production and history.
Landhuis Chobolobo, located just outside of Willemstad, is the most popular distillery and offers a comprehensive tour of its facilities.
During the tour, I witnessed the making process, sampled the different flavors, and even tasted other local spirits like rum and gin.
A tour of the distilleries is a fun and educational way to learn about one of Curacao’s most famous exports.
Final Thought
Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a thrill-seeker, Curacao has something to offer. This beautiful island is sure to captivate and inspire.
So why wait? Book your trip to Curacao today and experience all the island has to offer!
