25 BEST Things To Do In Curacao (Picked By A Pro!) 2025
Are you thinking of visiting the Caribbean Island of Curacao for a family vacation this year? Great choice!
My family and I have been several times, and explored every inch of this beautiful Dutch Island that makes up part of the ABC (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) island chain. I’d like to tell you about the best things do in Curacao for your family!
Curacao is located off the coast of Venezuela in the Caribbean sea. It occupies an amazing spot just outside of the hurricane zone, making this an amazing destination to visit year round. The temperature hovers around 28C everyday.
Visiting this island you’ll discover a wide variety of activities such as hiking, biking, snorkeling and scuba diving. There are over 70 dedicated dive sites on the island, along with 35 amazing beaches.
Curacao is a colorful blend of Caribbean and European cultures mixed together to create a rich historical tapestry.
25 Best Things to do in Curacao
Let’s dive right into the very best things to do in Curacao starting with the beautiful downtown core. If you’re in a hurry, watch my short video on some of my favorite things to do on the island!
1. Downtown Willemstad
No visit to Curacao is complete without a visit to the main port city of Willemstad. This beautiful city offers up amazing architecture with colorful colonial houses, plenty of shopping and amazing dining opportunities.
There are two distinct sides to Willemstad separated by the water but connected by a bridge. The east side is named ‘Punda’, while the west side is named “Otrabanda”
The historical waterfront offers up a unique floating pontoon bridge named after Queen Emma and connects Punda and Otrabanda. Enjoy a beverage or have some snacks at the seaside cafes and restaurants, or bring a lock to place on the Punda Love Heart Monument.
There are plenty of locally owned businesses and shops, along with some high end boutiques in this area.
There are colorful murals all over Willemstad created by locals; they are perfect for family photos or terrific Instagram shots. In my opinion, the best way to explore and find these murals is with a local guide.
These guides are incredibly patient with families with young children and you’ll come away with a much better understand of the local culture.
—> Our favorite small group tour is this one: The Best Walking Tour Willemstad. It starts near the cruise ship terminal on the Otrabanda side. You’ll want to spend 3-4 hours exploring. <—-
Tip: Stop for some amazing gelato at: Cielo Gelato & Pizza located at Bloksteeg 6, on the Punda side
2. Floating Market
While visiting the UNESCO world heritage site that is Downtown Willemstad, I recommend making a stop at the Floating Market. Here you’ll find plenty of fresh fruit, fish, and souvenirs to buy for family at home. The locals are very friendly and eager to help.
The Floating Market is open every day from 6am – 7pm. It is located at 19 Sha Caprileskade on the Punda side. Explore this market in less than 45 minutes.
Tip: I recommend making a stop at the local bakery just past the floating market: Panaderia Anarisa. They have wonderful warm empanadas and tasty donuts. They are located on the corner of Hanchi Di Vi Coco and De Ruyterkade.
3. Curacao Maritime History Museum
Directly across the inlet from the Floating Market, you’ll find the Curacao Maritime History Museum. Curacao has a long and sometimes not-so-glamorous Maritime history.
I was incredibly happy to have found this small museum set upon 3 floors in downtown Willemstad, it gives you an amazing understanding of the history of the island. This is one of the best things do in Curacao!
This museum has many interactive displays perfect for keeping younger kids engaged and entertained, but also provides a solid background of life as it used to be.
The museum is closed on Friday, Sundays, and Monday but open from 10:30 – 3:30 every other day. It is located at 1 N. van Den Brandhofstraat, on the Punda side. Depending on how much reading you like to do, you’ll spend about an hour at this museum.
4. Christoffel National Park
This is one of the National Parks of Curacao and offers up the highest peak in all of the ABC islands. It boasts many different hikes, and along the way you’ll spot lots of different types of local flora and fauna.
The views at the top of the peak are exceptional, and well worth the effort! Hikes range from 1 hour to 8 hours in length.
These hikes however can be quite challenging because of the heat alone. Kids under 10 may not appreciate hiking in these warm conditions.
It is recommended that you bring sturdy walking shoes (no sandals!), sun protection, and plenty of water. Set out early in the morning for the best views, and to keep heat exhaustion at bay.
Christoffel Park is open from 6am – 2pm every day of the week. It is located at Plantation House Savonet, Weg Naar Westpunt.
5. Shete Boka National Park
This is one of the most popular stops on Curacao and for good reason! The Shete Boka National Park showcases the strength and power of the ocean.
There are 7 inlets here, where you can watch mesmerized; as the waves pound the shore and then listen to the power of the underwater caverns, making this one of the most amazing things to do while in Curacao.
Walk along the limestone bluffs above for a spectacular view of Curacaos rugged north coast. The inlets in the park are protected turtle breeding areas. Take a Private Guided Tour to see Shete Boka, Turtles and Flamingos.
The hike is not as long as the hikes at Christoffel Park, but you should bring sturdy footwear, sun protection and plenty of water in this exposed area.
Many of the inlets offer car parking nearby, perfect for families with younger children. There are also 1 hour hikes available.
It is $15USD for adults to enter the park, and $2USD for children. The park is open from 9am-5pm everyday. The last entrance is at 4pm. A map is available at the entrance. Plan to spend 1 – 3 hours at this park.
—-> Take a guided tour with a local who is known as the ‘Iguana Whisperer’. Private Guided Tour Beyond the Beaches of Curacao. This is a 6 hour tour in an air-conditioned van, with a stop to see the Flamingos in Williwood, Turtles at Playa Piskado and Pigs at Grote Knip along with a stop at Shete Boka <—–
6. Klein Curacao
Klein Curacao means “Little Curacao.” It is a small island about an hour from the main island of Curacao.
You need to hire a boat, or charter cruise to get you there. It is one of the most beautiful beaches that I have ever set my eyes on. Perfect white sand and turquoise water, making this one of the most beautiful places to see in Curacao.
Most of the boat charters include lunch and an open bar. They also have a designated spot on the sand on the island.
There are two shipwrecks to discover, an abandoned lighthouse and a turtle breeding ground. Although we didn’t find the snorkeling the best at Klein Curacao, my family thoroughly enjoyed our day out.
—-> My family paid a little more to arrive at the island in just under an hour, and skip the sea-sickness with Powerboat Caribbean. They were an amazing group of skilled boatmen, the BBQ lunch was excellent, and we enjoyed as many drinks as we liked. Book your tour with Powerboat Caribbean Curacao <—–
7. Hato Caves
Take a trip inside an above-ground cave at ‘Hato Caves.’ One of the best things do to in Curacao! Located on the north side of the island just near Hato International Airport.
To reach the caves, you must climb up 49 steps, but the view and breeze at the top is well worth the effort! This is a fun family activity in a well preserved natural area of Curacao. Rent a Tuk Tuk to Explore the Caves, and see the Turtles and Flamingos!
Experience the creative formations and stories surrounding them, stalactites and stalagmites, along with a natural pool and rare bat activity.
I recommend that you bring comfortable walking shoes, along with plenty of water as it can get quite hot in some areas. The tour inside the cave lasts about 45 minutes.
There are things to explore outside of the caves area on your own as well such as a cactus garden, animals, and an “Indian Trail”. Kids truly love this local gem! The caves are open from 7am-9pm everyday of the week.
It is located at 53J2+3Q3, Franklin D. Rooseveltweg.
—-> Rent a family friendly Tuk-Tuk to explore the caves on a self-guided or professionally guided tour of the west part of the island. Make a stop at the caves, see the Flamingos and head to the most beautiful beaches on the island on the Tuk Tuk Adventure Fun Tour. <—–
8. Curacao Sea Aquarium
One of the most fun things to do on the island of Curacao is to visit the Curacao Sea Aquarium! My family has done this activity multiple times because we love it so much.
The Aquarium itself is small, but the staff are so welcoming and friendly. There are hands-on displays every hour or so which teaches children and adults alike more about ocean life. See the Pink Flamingos up close, or see the Conch Nursery.
We also love to Swim with the Dolphins at the Curacao Sea Aquarium! There are many different packages available depending on your comfort level. We loved it so much I wrote an entire post on it!
The Sea Aquarium is open 8-5 everyday except Sunday and Monday.
I recommend booking ahead of time for a dolphin swim. It is located at Z/N Bapor Kibrá.
9. Landhuis Chobolobo
The Landhuis Chobolobo is a liquer distillery where you can find the famous “Blue Curacao” liquor being distilled (along with many other colors and flavors!).
You can take a guided tour of the 19th century mansion, along with enjoy tastings and a souvenir shop. This easily makes the top 10 list of the best things to do in Curacao!
Book your tour for the Landhuis Chobolobo – it’s open from 8am-5pm everyday except Saturday and Sunday (they sometimes open privately on the weekends for large tour groups from the cruise ships).
Stop by yourself or take a guided tour at Saliña Ariba, Willemstad, Elias R. A. Moreno Boulevard.
—–> Check if there is availability and Book Your Distillery Tour Here! <—–
10. Boat Tour
There are many ways to discover the stunning island of Curacao, and why not see it from the water? Get your adrenaline pumping while visiting the island! Below is a short clip of what you can expect to see when visiting Klein Curacao. More about the different tour options below.
There are plenty of boat tour options available from:
*We love Powerboat Caribbean for their amazing hosting skills, and fast adrenaline pumping boats. They were very family friendly! See the Turtles, Famous Pigs and Blue Room with lunch included on the tour here: Sea Turtles and Blue Room Adventures Tour. Book early, because this tour is only available once a week!
*Go Deep-Sea fishing off the coast of Curacao on a private chartered boat. We loved fishing with Niels and family and caught quite the catch! The starting point is down by Spanish Water. This boat charter offers several different types of charters every week. No Bananas allowed though!! Visit their website and give them a shout on Whatsapp to book your fishing trip! Fishing Charter Curacao.
10 Best Beach Recommendations in Curacao
The pristine blue waters of Curacao are calling for you! Never in my life have I seen such beautiful clear water, along with stunning white sandy beaches.
The snorkeling and scuba diving are some of the best in the world here. See the amazing coral reefs, or sip a Blue Curacao from your beach chair – you decide! Visiting the many beaches along the island is one of the best things you can do in Curacao.
Most of these beaches are open from 9am-5pm everyday.
When visiting these beaches please remember:
11. See the Pigs at Playa Kenepa (also known as Grote Knip)
–> Location
Grote Knip beach is located on the Western side of the Island between Westpunt and Lagun.
It is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It is a free beach with free parking. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent here, along with snorkel equipment if you didn’t bring your own. Toilets available.
Snorkel along side the west cliff for the best visibility. Lots of people cliff jump on the east side of the beach. There is a small snack bar, and sometimes an ice-cream truck that drives right up to the beach.
You might spot the beach pigs lounging about in the shade of the trees at the back of the beach. Don’t forget that wild animals are unpredictable!
Get to this beach early if you want a chair, it fills up quickly!
Tip: By the parking lot you’ll find a YUMMY smoothie bar. Lots of great flavor options and combinations!
12. Swim in Crystal Clear Water at Cas Abao Beach
–> Location
Cas Abao Beach is another beach that boasts stunning clear turquoise water and white sandy beaches. This beach is quite long, and has plenty of chairs (although at times, some are roped off and set aside for tour groups from cruise ships).
Tip: This is another beach that you’ll want to get to just after opening if you want a beach chair.
This beach costs money to enter, and the road down is full of pot holes so please take care while driving. The beach chairs also cost money to rent here. Clean toilets available.
Cas Abao has a wonderful snack bar with many Dutch options available to eat, and local alcoholic drinks to buy.
Tip: You can also book yourself a beach-side massage at the Sensi Spa Beach Massage. 10/10 recommend!
13. Climb the Lookout Tower at Playa Porto Mari
–> Location
This is a stunning beach with calm waters, and white sand. It is located close to the Coral Estates Complex, which is very handy!
There is small entrance fee and a fee to use the beach chairs and umbrellas.
At Playa Porto Mari, there are a few handy extras: there is a shop, a snack bar with live music (sometimes), wifi, two piers, and a floating dock. Climb the lookout tower for the best views in the area! There are also showers here, and clean toilets.
Tip: The snorkeling is excellent, but it is recommended to arrive early to secure a chair with some shade on the beach. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the resident pigs!
14. See the Sunken Ships at Tugboat Beach
–> Location
Tugboat beach is one of my favorite beaches on the island! It isn’t a white sand beach, but it does have clear turquoise water. But, what it lacks in the sand department makes up for in adventure!
Parking is free, but chairs cost a small amount to rent. Toilets available.
Tugboat beach offers a small snack bar with beer, wifi, a dive school, driftwood painting, underwater scooter rentals, and best of all a SHIPWRECK to snorkel!
The coral in this area is some of the best on the island, and the fish have made their home just a little ways out from the beach at the sunken tugboat.
15. Explore the Shipwrecks on Klein Curacao
Klein Curacao is a small island away from the main part of the island that requires you to hire a boat to get to. There are many all day charters that will take you there.
The beach at Klein Curacao offers up expansive white sand, and crystal clear waters. It’s like a dream to stand in the warm ocean and gaze at the catamarans and kite surfers.
Tip: Take lots of high SPF sunscreen. It does get very hot out there though, there is limited shade and you can easily get sunburned.
The charter boats bring their own food out for guests as there is no restaurant. There is no public toilet; they are available to guests traveling on the Miss Ann or Mermaid charter boats.
On Klein Curacao you can spot 2 shipwrecks and an abandoned lighthouse. The island is home to a turtle breeding ground as well. It’s a fun way to spend the day and one of the most popular things to do in Curacao.
We loved our trip out with Powerboat Caribbean – they are the fastest boat to reach the island and there is little chance of getting sea-sick with this company. The food and guides were amazing. Book your spot with them below – there is only room for 10 guests! Pick up is typically in Jan Thiel. Powerboat Caribbean Curacao
16. Cliff Dive at Playa Forti
–> Location
Playa Forti is in the Westpunt area, and is a smaller, quieter beach if you’re looking for privacy. It is reached by parking on the cliff above and walking down stairs to reach the beach.
It is more rocky than most beaches, but it is possible to spot dolphins swimming in this area.
Tip: If you swim west, you might also spot the wild turtles!
Up above on the cliff is a spot to do some cliff jumping. This cliff is quite high, so please take extra caution. There are no chairs to rent here, so bring a beach blanket. The parking is free.
Enjoy a great meal and a stunning view at the restaurant Playa Forti above. No toilets, but they are available at the restaurant.
17. Snorkel or Scuba Dive at Playa Jeremi
–> Location
Playa Jeremi is a great beach, and another quiet option. It is set within a small bay and features a mix of white sand and coral. The parking is free, and there are a handful of chairs to rent for a price.
The ocean is teeming with life here, with ample opportunities for snorkeling. There is unfortunately no food or drinks to purchase, so please bring your own. No toilets here.
Tip: If you love to hunt for sea glass, you’ll find it in abundance here.
18. Swim with Wild Turtles at Playa Piskado (Playa Grandi)
–> Location
Playa Piskado is one of the most popular beaches in Curacao! It is where you’ll find the wild turtles swimming around.
There is plenty of white sand, and turquoise water here. There is also a couple of shops to buy souvenirs.
Tip: Get here early to get a beach chair and umbrella for a small price. There is also toilets and showers available here, but those cost money to use as well.
The fishermen are cleaning their catch at the shack near the beach, and throw the scraps into the water for the turtles. Next to the shack is a long pier which kids and adults alike love to dive from.
This is a busy beach, but there is lots of wildlife from the pelicans to the turtles, you’ll never be bored sitting at Playa Piskado!
19. Grab an Instagram Photo at Kokomo Beach
–> Location
Kokomo beach is such a fun beach with a great vibe! Only 20 minutes from Willemstad, it has beautiful white sand, turquoise water, and several sea swings.
It is the perfect backdrop for that quintessential Caribbean photo for your Instagram profile.
Parking is free at Kokomo, but the beach chairs and umbrellas cost money. There are two clean restaurants with plenty of great options for food and drink.
You’ll also find a dive shop at this beach location. There are showers and clean toilets as well.
Tip: Water shoes are recommended for this area; once in the water, the ground is quite rocky and hard on the feet.
20. Shop at Mambo Beach
–> Location
Mambo Beach is the main beach in the city of Willemstad. The vibe is always hopping with a shopping boulevard, multiple restaurants and lots of seating. This is consistently rated one of the best things to see and do in Curacao.
Mambo beach offers white sand with beach beds and cabanas to relax on (for a cost). Parking is free at this beach. A protected bay makes this a really relaxing place to swim.
Pickup a taxi to this area from the cruise ship terminal; it is the closest beach being only 10 minutes drive. Take some time out of your day to browse all the really great shops.
Grab yourself a drink, settle down to listen to the great music playing (often from live bands), and check out the stunning views!
Food is served with attention to detail and international standards. Clean toilets and shower facilities are available.
The Best Free Things to do in Curacao
There are plenty of completely FREE activities to do in Curacao, and who doesn’t love free?! Read more below to find out how you can enjoy the island and experience some of the best things to do!
21. Tour the Landhuis
Take some time to learn the history of the island. Landhuis means “manor house” or “mansion house” in Dutch.
As you’re exploring the island, you’ll likely come across these impressive looking colonial mansions.
These used to be the properties of wealthy landowners in the 18th and 19th century.
There are many surviving ‘Landhuis’ locations across the island. A lot of them have been renovated and serve some different function now such as art gallery or even a distillery.
Most of them are free to enter. Learn more about the the Landhuizen on my Curacao, First Timers Guide. <——–
22. Snorkel with Turtles
How amazing is it that you can swim with wild turtles on Curacao for free? Check them out at Playa Piskado and Playa Forti (both beaches mentioned above).
Playa Piskado is busier and more commercialized now, so if you’re looking for a quieter more peaceful experience go snorkel with the turtles just down at Playa Forti instead.
23. Hang out with the Beach Pigs
Curacao has a penchant for attracting wild pigs! Most of them are quite docile, and the heat makes them sluggish; but be aware that they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable.
You can find the wild pigs at Playa Porto Marie and Grote Knip, as mentioned in the post above.
24. Punda Vibes on Thursday Night
Every Thursday, Punda, in downtown Willemstad gets the party started for the weekend! The restaurants are all hopping, so make sure you grab a reservation. It’s lovely to sit outside on the open air patios and grab a bite to eat.
Don’t miss out on this super fun night, it’s one of the best things to do in Curacao!
There are street performers, and live music all through the neighborhood. Fireworks displays are available for your viewing pleasure at 8pm.
Tip: Grab a mojito from the World’s Best Mojito Bar or a yummy smoothie from La Boheme. Both of these iconic locations are located on Columbusstraat.
25. See the Flamingos
Curacao used to a major hub for the Netherlands in salt production. It was such a valuable resource that they enslaved people to work the salt flats, and went to war for the rights to the land.
Today the salt beds are no longer in use, but they are a prized location for Pink Flamingos.
- Read more on the salt beds: The Deadly Business of the Dutch Quest for Salt
Pink Flamingos get their color from the salty food they eat. As a flamingo dines on algae and brine shrimp, its body metabolizes the pigments — turning its feathers pink.
Williwood on the west/central part of the island is home to the most beautiful pink flamingos in the world. They are living on a huge salt bed turned Flamingo Reserve which is home to over 400 birds.
FAQ
Lets dive into some commonly asked questions about the island of Curacao. For many people, they’ve never even heard of this tropical paradise before.
Are there any Hidden Gems in Curacao
One of the most fun experiences my family had while visiting Curacao was enjoying dinner and a show at Shelterrock Paradise.
Set on the side of a hill with stunning views is the restaurant of Shelterrock Paradise. A family run business that prides itself on yummy, traditionally made food.
I highly recommend trying “Coconut Night” on Fridays. You must book ahead of time and let them know what kind of meal you like (meat or vegetarian).
They place the coconuts with a special blend of herbs and spices under ground to cook for hours! They take them out for everyone to enjoy along with a buffet at 7pm.
Choose from: Chicken, Stewed meat, goat, Shrimp, Fish, Vegetarian or Seafood mix.
Best Tours to do in Curacao
There are plenty of amazing activities and tours to book in Curacao. Check out ATV tours, boat cruises, historical tours and amazing artwork.
Is Curacao Safe
Curacao is rated one of the safest places in the world to visit.
There are of course scams and tourist traps that you should be aware of however. Read more about if Curacao is a Safe Place to Visit.
What are the Downsides to Curacao
Curacao has only recently become a very popular destination with many new google searches every month! Lots of people are looking for that beautiful tropical destination, at a reasonable price.
Curacao certainly fits the bill, so it’s hard for me to come up with any downsides to this island. The only downside to Curacao is perhaps that you need a car to get around, and that there aren’t many ‘All Inclusive Resorts’.
Is it Easy to Get Around Curacao Without a Car
Why no, not it’s not. You need a car on the island! Make sure you book a couple of months in advance to avoid disappointment. This is an island after all, and there are a limited amount of vehicles to rent.
—>I’ve partnered with a fantastic company that offers all of the popular car rental options at the best prices. Check to see if a car rental is available for the your travel period. <—
Are the Beaches in Curacao Swimmable
The best snorkeling I’ve ever experienced in my life has been on the island. The white sand beaches are unparalleled in their beauty, and there are still lots of wild places on the island. The water is just breath-taking, and swimming in it feels like taking a warm bath.
I would recommend bringing water shoes with you, or purchasing some while on the island.
Most of the sand is comfortable enough to walk on, but you will encounter plenty of coral and rocks as you enter the ocean.
Are There Any Good Restaurants to Try in Curacao
There are almost too many great restaurants to name in Curacao! I’ve compiled a list of my favorites, along with the top rated restaurants by local people.
Should I visit Klein Curacao
This is one of the most googled questions on the internet! I mentioned Klein Curacao a couple of times above, and many have wondered if it’s worth the trip.
I made a handy guide up to help you decide whether the day-trip to Klein Curacao is worth it.
It breaks down what you can expect for the day and what essentials you’ll need to bring. Download the free guide below.
Conclusion
Curacao is an amazing location filled with beautiful wildlife, beaches and crystal clear water. It is one of the best destinations I’ve ever been to in the Caribbean. Check out my other post on some amazing Unique Things to do in Curacao if you want to keep reading!
I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun family vacation, couples trip, or to solo travelers. There is something for everyone!
‘Bon Bini’ (Welcome) to Curacao!
Until next time,
Tanya
Read more about how Willemstad in Curacao is part of a UNESCO world heritage site
Do you typically stay in Willemstad or elsewhere?
Hi Cameron, we have stayed both by Cas Abao beach and in the Jan Thiel area. We prefer the Jan Thiel area! Its only 15 minutes to Willemstad.