Curacao is home to a diverse mix of people from all over the Caribbean, Africa, and the Netherlands. Dotted with bright pastel architecture, wild foods, and poetry-worthy beaches, this place is a must-see travel destination for new and seasoned travelers.
To help you make the most of your stay, we’ve collected our picks for the best things to do in Curacao. Whether you’re an active soul or a foodie, we’ve got something for everyone.
Hato Caves
First on the list and our personal favorite is the Hato Caves. The coral limestone caves have formed over millions of years and have become a very popular local attraction.
The guided tours are extremely informative and trekking through the natural underground landscape is a great getaway from the sun and a super fun adventure. Make sure to bring sturdy shoes along and don’t let the bats scare you.
Handelskade
The Handelskade waterfront in Willemstad, the capital, is the perfect place for any architecture buffs or people looking for a great photo opportunity. The street is home to brightly painted 18th-century buildings which now house a multitude of shops.
After touring around and taking pictures, we recommend venturing into the stores. You’d be surprised at the awesome art and designs you’ll find in these hidden gems.
Scharloo
Another Willemstad area worth checking out is the Scharloo neighborhood. The area was originally a plantation, then a wealthy neighborhood. Now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While we’ve visited many neighborhoods, none stand out the way Scharloo does. The buildings, already made beautiful with their pastel colors and old-world architecture, are made even more impressive by the massive art displays all along the neighborhood corridors.
Queen Emma Bridge
If you’re ever in St. Anna Bay, you have to visit Queen Emma Bridge. The impressive bridge connects Punda and Otrobanda and frequently opens and closes for vessels to pass through.
The bridge is a grand sight during the day but we’d recommend visiting this spot at night. When the sun sets, the bridge lights up. The lights coupled with the sea breeze are an awesome experience.
Christoffel National Park
For hikers or wildlife enthusiasts, the Curacao national park is a must-see destination. Why? Because Christoffel National Park is the only park where you get to see breathtaking fauna and flora while also learning about a country's history.
The hike takes you through the beautiful park and three of Curacao’s old plantations. For us, it was a great opportunity to learn about the Curacao people and appreciate the beauty of the natural land space.
Cas Abao Beach
Take a break from exploring the land to explore the sea of Cas Abao beach. Located on the southwest coast, this stretch of beach is the textbook definition of paradise. The water is great, the beach bar has deliciously cool cocktails, and there are many ways to explore the water.
While here, we made a point of utilizing all the fun facilities. From kayaking to snorkeling to drifting on a banana boat, Cas Abao beach is nothing but pure fun.
Curacao Sea Aquarium
If you’re not a fan of exploring marine wildlife in the ocean, you can always see them at Curacao Sea Aquarium. But don’t let the name fool you. The aquarium offers a lot more than the chance to see marine life up close in tanks.
There are entertaining shows, educational exhibits, safe interactive zones, and so much more. This was one of the most fun activities on our trip and is a great day trip for families visiting the area.
Rift Fort Village
The best place to take a break and a few pics is Rift Fort Village. This picturesque town is filled with beautiful homes, scenic trails, and tons of shops to explore.
In our opinion, the best part of Rift Fort Village is the food. There were many little restaurants with delicious local cuisine and yummy drinks.
Begin Your Curacao Adventure!
Travel from the bright docks of Willemstad to the underwater cities off the coast of Cas Abao beach and begin your Curacao adventure.
With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder that this island has become a popular bucket list destination. So start packing your bags and planning your trip to this spectacular destination today.
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