A Perfect Day Trip To Curacao | Cruise Ship Stops & Island Hopping

Planning to take a day trip to Curacao? While it’s true that you won’t be able to see all of these amazing places on a singular day trip; you’ll still get a great idea of what this beautiful island paradise has to offer. You’ll definitely want to plan a return visit, just like my family does – again and again!

Having explored the island extensively over the last few years myself, I have some great suggestions on what I’d personally do if I wanted to spend the perfect day out in Curacao.

If you’re in a time crunch, I’ve made a short list of my favorites below. Keep reading for more details on these fantastic activities in Curacao.

Bon Bini (Welcome) to Curacao

How to Get To Curacao

Since Curacao is an island nation there are only two ways to arrive; that is by boat, or by airplane. Where you will be in relation to the other amazing attractions on the island once you arrive? It depends where you start!

You’ll either begin at the Mega Pier (Cruise Ship Terminal) or the Curacao International Airport.

Arrive via the Cruise Ship Terminal

The Mega Pier in Curaçao is located near downtown Willemstad, specifically in the Otrobanda neighborhood, just a short walk from the famous Queen Emma Bridge. It’s a prime spot for cruise ships, offering easy access to the city’s attractions.

The Mega Pier serves as a central point for visitors, offering convenient access to easily walk between the downtown neighborhoods and it’s famous attractions.

It’s also possible to arrange transport to other key areas around the island that are worth visiting.

Key locations relative to the Mega Pier:

• Hato International Airport: Approximately 15-20 minutes (11 km) northwest.
• Curaçao Sea Aquarium: About a 15-minute drive (6 km) east of the pier, near the popular Mambo Beach area.
• Tugboat Beach: A 25-minute drive (15 km) southeast, a popular snorkeling spot.
• Westpunt: A more remote area, about 50-60 minutes (40 km) west of the pier, known for its beautiful beaches.

---

Mathey Wharf is another docking location in Curacao. It is located in the heart of Willemstad, along the St. Anna Bay in the Punda district. It’s a historic dock area primarily used by smaller cruise ships, as larger ships typically dock at the nearby Mega Pier. It is however getting more popular in recent months!

How to Island Hop from Aruba or Bonaire

‘Puddle Jumping’ via Airplane is the easiest way to Island Hop to Curacao. Flying is the quickest and most common option. Divi Divi Air, EZAir, and Aruba Airlines offer frequent flights between the islands, with flight times ranging from 20-45 minutes.

Flights between Bonaire and Aruba often connect via the Curaçao International Airport (Hato).

Deciding to stay on the island for longer than a day? Find out the very best areas to stay at on Curacao.

Pro Tip: Booking in advance is recommended, especially since some flights use small planes with limited seating.

Best Guided Tours for a Day Trip in Curacao

---

---

---

---

---

Other Day Trip Activity Ideas for Exploring Curacao

I’ve created a map and over-view of the neighborhoods within walking distance of the Cruise Ship Terminal in downtown Willemstad.

To explore all of this on your own by foot plan to take several hours, or the entire day. It’s important to dress appropriately with loose, light fitting clothing to beat the heat.

Explore Historic Downtown Willemstad

There are several ways to discover beautiful downtown Willemstad, which is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can easily walk around and discover the beauty of this historic area for yourself. Below I’ve detailed each iconic neighborhood or key attraction, starting with the Rif Fort and Renaissance Mall which is the first area you’ll discover should you be disembarking from a cruise ship.

• Explore downtown and Book a 1 hour Tuk Tuk Tour with a local guide. This is the perfect way to see Willemstad if you’re finding the weather extra hot.
• Download the Self-Directed Walking Tour with Audio Guide. Costing only $12, this English speaking guide lasts about 2 hours. Helpful GPS coordinates available on your smartphone, with instant confirmation.
• Take the Tourist Train to ease tired, achy feet. The darling little pink train is an open air tour that passes several points of interest including Fort Amsterdam, the Scharloo neighborhood, and the Pietermaai Cathedral.

To better explore on your own, here’s a detailed overview of 5 key areas in Willemstad that should not be missed:

1. Rif Fort and Renaissance Mall

2. Otrobanda

Otrobanda, meaning “the other side,” is a historic neighborhood located across the St. Anna Bay from Punda. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful buildings, and rich cultural heritage, Otrobanda is home to local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Notable sites include:

• The Kura Hulanda Museum: Showcasing African heritage and the history of slavery.
• Handelskade: A scenic waterfront area with beautiful views of Punda and the harbor.
• Street Art: Otrobanda is known for its murals and street art that reflect the island’s culture.

3. Queen Emma Bridge

4. Punda

Punda is the bustling, historic center of Willemstad, characterized by its colorful colonial buildings and lively atmosphere. It is the commercial hub, featuring:

• Floating Market: Vendors sell fresh produce and local goods from boats, offering a unique shopping experience.
• Shopping: Numerous boutiques, souvenir shops, and local crafts.
• Historic Sites: Landmarks such as the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere, and Fort Amsterdam.

5. Pietermaai

Pietermaai is a charming and trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, dining options, and boutique hotels. Highlights include:

• Historic Architecture: Beautifully restored colonial buildings with a lively atmosphere.
• Dining and Bars: A variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, many with outdoor seating and live music.
• Cultural Hub: Home to art galleries, local shops, and cultural events, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
• Beaches Nearby: Close to several small beaches, ideal for relaxing after exploring the area.

These areas together make Willemstad a rich tapestry of culture, history, and modern amenities, providing a diverse experience for visitors.

Pro Tip: Try Bij Bluw Restaurant as seen in the photo for some amazing water-front eats. It’s my favorite places to grab a bite in Pietermaai.

---

Rent a Car to Explore the Island Yourself

There is so much to do on the beautiful island of Curacao. Renting a car is easily the best way to see everything you want on a one day trip. I’ve compiled a list of the very best activities to do in Curacao; so you are absolutely spoiled for choice.

Take a peek at my suggestions, pick a couple of favorites, and save the rest for next time!

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that it takes about an hour or more to get from one side of the island to other. The car rental offices can be notoriously slow as well (you are on island time now!), so prepare to wait about 45 minutes to an hour at the pickup desk. Drop off is much faster!

Rental Car Office for Cruise Ship Passengers:

1. Choose the “Willemstad South City Office” for rental car pickup near Mambo Beach.
2. To get there, grab a taxi at the cruise ship terminal for a 15 minute ride to one of three car rental companies (Avis, National, Alamo).

Rental Car Office for Passengers from Aruba/Bonaire at the Airport:

1. Choose “Willemstad Curacao Airport” for pickup at the aiport.
2. There are car rental stands to your right as you walk out of arrivals and through the airport lounge.

Check out my personal recommendation for car rentals above – it’s the affiliate site my family has been using for years to save a bundle of money on cars.

---

Get a Day Pass to a Local Hotel or Resort

If you only had one day in Curacao, maybe you just want to kick back and hang out at a local beach or hotel. There are several hotels around the island that offer day passes for visitors. Book a taxi to take you straight to the hotel!

Please read through the terms and conditions fully, as some of the resorts offer access to the property only and are not all inclusive of food and drink.

Day Pass Hotels:

• ($$$) Sandals Curacao Day Pass
• ($$) Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort Day Pass
• ($$) Sunscape Curacao Resort Day Pass
• ($) Avila Beach Hotel Day Pass
• ($) Acoya Curacao Day Pass
• ($) Kunuku Aqua Resort Day Pass

---

Swim with the Dolphins at the Curacao Sea Aquarium

One of my family’s favorite activities to do in Curacao is swim with dolphins! I have an entire blog post dedicated to this activity in Curacao if you’re curious what to expect.

Timing wise, plan to spend 2-4 hours at the Sea Aquarium including the Dolphin Encounter. There are several package options to choose from. Located only 15 minutes away from downtown Willemstad, this is the perfect activity to do if you only had 1 day in Curacao.

If you’re ready to book, The Dolphin Academy website is your friend.

FAQ

Let’s dive into some of the most commonly asked questions about a day trip to visit Curacao.

What are The Most Unique Activities to Do in Curacao

I compiled a list after several travelers have reached out and requested curated, unique activities to do on the island. You’ll find 9 Totally Unique & Memorable Things to Do in Curacao here. I hope you enjoy these neat activities while visiting!

What is the Weather Like in Curacao

The weather is always quite hot in Curacao. The average daytime temperature hovers around 28C or 82F, and it can be quite humid although there are normally trade winds.

It can rain a little more than usual from the months of Oct to December, but the bursts of precipitation will be intense and short lived – worry not.

I personally find it quite hot to walk around downtown Willemstad in the middle of the day, so I would suggest early morning or later in the afternoon/evening if you can swing it.

Pro Tip: If you’re heat-adverse, book a swimming or snorkeling tour for the day to beat the sun’s strong rays.

---

FREE SELF-GUIDED WALKING TOUR: THE BEST ART SPOTS ON THE ISLAND

Immediately grab this handy guide on the best spots to see AMAZING street art in downtown Willemstad PLUS FREE Printable Guide to Take with You.

SEND ME THE FREE GUIDE

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Built with Kit

---

What to Wear in Curacao for a Day Trip

Trying to decide what to wear for your day trip to Curacao? As I mentioned above, Curacao is normally quite hot.

Ideally you’d want to wear loose fitting cotton fabrics that allow your skin to breathe, especially if you’re going to be walking downtown. Loose dresses paired with a hat would be perfect for women; cotton shorts and t-shirt ideal for men.

What to Bring on a Tour in Curacao

What should you bring for a day trip in Curacao? Firstly, you want to make sure that you stay hydrated in the heat, so plenty of water. You’ll also want to pack a good sunscreen; preferably a reef-friendly brand if you’re going to be enjoying the water.

Some of the tours do not provide towels, so that would be something to consider if you’re swimming in Curacao. You also might want a change of dry clothes. Finally, I’d also suggest some water shoes, as some of the beaches can be quite rocky.

Is Curacao Safe

Is Curacao a safe place to visit? Absolutely. It’s ranked one of the safest places to visit in the Caribbean. There are however some minor crimes of opportunity happening on the island, such as petty theft. Read more about safety in Curacao here.

Is Curacao Expensive

Many people wonder if it is expensive to visit Curacao. As a Canadian traveler who has visited multiple times, I wouldn’t say that the prices are extortionate. I believe they are what is to be expected from an island nation importing most of their goods and food.

There are some is some high quality shopping opportunities available located in the Renaissance Mall and Rif Fort as you exit the Cruise Ship terminal. If you’re looking for a specific brand check out the mall’s floor plan there is something for everyone here!

What to Eat in Curacao

Wondering what you should eat in Curacao while on your day trip? There are some foods that are totally unique to the island and take their influence from Dutch and Caribbean cultures.

If you’re looking to try something new and unique, find out exactly what to eat in Curacao and where to eat it!

Unique Food to try in Curacao:

• Keshi Yena: a ball of cheese stuffed with meat
• Bitterballen: deep fried gravy balls
• Stoba: a hearty stew
• Lionfish: an invasive species of local fish
• Tamarind juice: sweet and sour at the same time!
• Blue Curacao Liquor

Conclusion

In conclusion, a day trip to Curaçao promises an unforgettable adventure filled with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and countless activities.

Whether you’re visiting from neighboring Bonaire or Aruba or arriving as a cruise ship passenger, this beautiful island offers something for everyone.

Explore the historic streets of Willemstad, including the bustling Punda and charming Otrobanda, where you can soak in the colorful architecture and indulge in local cuisine.

Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll across the iconic Queen Emma Bridge or unwind at the picturesque Rif Fort and Renaissance Mall.

With beautiful beaches, snorkeling spots like Tugboat Beach, and cultural treasures such as the Kura Hulanda Museum, your day in Curaçao will be packed with fun and memorable experiences.

So, grab your camera and get ready to make the most of your day trip to Curaçao—an island paradise waiting to be explored!

Bon Bini (Welcome!)

Tanya

You might also be interested in reading more about Curacao here:

If you loved this, please share it online!