9 Totally Unique & Memorable Things to Do in Curacao
Unique Things to Do in Curacao that are Totally Worth it
What You’ll Discover on this Post:
Bon Bini—welcome to Curacao! If you’re looking for unique things to do in Curacao, you’re in the right place.
I remember my first trip here, filled with curiosity and excitement about what I’d discover. I’ve spent weeks scouring the island and enjoying the very best activities with my own family. Let me help you do the same, and start with a quick intro to this incredible island so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Curacao is a dream destination with something for everyone. Imagine yourself on beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters, exploring rugged landscapes that leave you in awe, and diving into underwater worlds like no other.
Whether you’re here to soak up the sun, snorkel among vibrant marine life, or just take in the natural beauty, Curacao will not disappoint.
Below, I’ll guide you through nine unforgettable experiences that will make your visit truly one of a kind!
1) Ride the waves on some Powerful Jet Skis
Explore the shores around the beautiful island of Curacao on a guided Jet-Ski Tour! Pilot this 2-person Jet-Ski to see the most amazing sites, with pickup available from the Cruise Ship Terminal.
The tour lasts just over 1 hour and includes a professional tour guide and life vest. Optional upgrade available; to snorkel the world class dive sites around Curacao.
Check Availability and Reserve Now to take a Guided Jet Ski Tour in Curacao right here.
2) Rent a Kayak to Explore the Pristine Caribbean Waters
Take a guided tour and Kayak to a Secluded Beach off Caracas Bay in Curacao where you can dive right in and snorkel some of the most amazing water. Snorkeling in Curacao is like swimming in a natural aquarium, you may see fish like the; Queen Angelfish, Stoplight Parrotfish, Sergeant Major, Blue Tang, & Parrotfish.
This tour lasts approx 2 hour and has an option for pickup at the Cruise Ship Terminal or nearby hotels.
Check Availability and Reserve Now to take an Amazing Kayak Tour in the Pristine Turquoise Waters around Curacao.
3) Go Wakeboarding in a Lagoon for some Amazing Memories
If you don’t already know how to wakeboard, get a Private Wakeboard Lesson from an expert in the Spanish Waters Lagoon of Curacao. Suitable for all skill levels.
This unique thing to do in Curacao is a small group excursion, and takes a maximum of 6 guests; with each guest getting 20 minutes on the water. Meeting spot is at the Kima Kalki Marina.
Check Availability and Reserve Now to go Wakeboarding in the Spanish Waters Lagoon in Curacao
4) Ride some Underwater Scooters for a Totally Unique Thing to Do in Curacao
Ride an Underwater Scooter! Experience the stunning real life aquarium that is the island of Curacao. No diving experience necessary; this activity is great for everyone 10 years +. See more marine life than you usually would by just snorkeling.
This tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes. Located only a 15 minute drive from the Cruise Ship Terminal in Sint Michiel. This is a totally unique thing to do in Curacao!
Check Availability and Reserve Now to take an Underwater Scooter Adventure in Curacao
5) Learn how to Kite Surf from the Pro’s
The local company: Nix Kiteboarding in Curacao has been teaching people the basics of this amazing sport since 2015. Enjoy high-quality equipment and world class instructors.
Located just a 25 minute drive from the Cruise Ship Terminal in Curacao on the North side of the island. This activity is perfect for ages 10-70. Plan to spend a couple of hours at this activity.
Check Availability and Reserve Now to Learn how to Kite Surf from the Pros in Curacao
6) Go Scuba Diving for a World-Class Experience
Consistently ranked one of the best tours to do in Curacao! CURious2Dive has over 800 Five Star Reviews. Spend a 4 hours learning about the art of Scuba, and experience 2 different dives ending with the Shipwreck at Tugboat Beach.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience is offered in several languages and pickup/dropoff is available from the Cruise Ship Terminal. You will LOVE this activity in Curacao!
Check Availability and Reserve Your Spot to Scuba Dive a Shipwreck in Curacao
7) Ride a Powerboat out to an Uninhabited Island for the Day
Take adventure to the next level with the crew at Powerboat Caribbean. They’ll pick you up from two designated mainland spots for a Full Day Speed Boat Trip Out to the Uninhabited Island of Klein Curacao (Little Curacao).
Powerboat Caribbean is unique thing to do in Curacao, and a great choice for people on a time-constraint. With their powerful zodiac boats, you’ll reach Klein Curacao in an hour instead of several hours like other charters. Lunch and drinks are included. Plan to spend 6 hours total for this tour.
Check Availability and Reserve Your Limited Spot to Spend a Day on the Uninhabited Island of Klein Curacao
8) Tame the Oceans Waves on a Hydrofoil Board
A Hydrofoil in Curaçao is a unique watercraft that offers a thrilling way to experience the island’s beautiful turquoise waters. Powered by underwater wings, or “foils,” these vessels lift above the water at high speeds, reducing drag and creating a smooth, ride.
In Curaçao, hydrofoil excursions are popular for their exhilarating speed, eco-friendliness, and the panoramic ocean views they provide, making them a memorable way to explore the Caribbean coastline.
Check Availability and Reserve Your Spot to try an adrenaline-pumping Hydrofoil in Curacao
9) Connect with Nature on a Stand-up Paddleboard Tour
Stand-up Paddleboarding from Adventure SUP in Curaçao offers a peaceful way to explore the island’s clear, turquoise waters. Glide over coral reefs, spot marine life, and enjoy stunning coastal views.
It’s an ideal adventure for all skill levels, combining relaxation with a bit of adventure in a Caribbean paradise. A unique thing to do and excellent for all skill levels, with availability at 3 different island locations. Spend a few hours soaking in the azure waters around Curacao.
Check Availability and Reserve a Spot to SUP in Curacao
Where to Stay in Curacao
There are some great options to stay at in Curacao. Most people recommend renting a VRBO + car so you can see and experience the beautiful island paradise fully. There are also some great hotel choices below.
Budget Option($): Bed and Bike Curacao
I love the Bed and Bike Hostel located in 3 different areas of Curacao. Shuttle pickup is available from the airport along free bicycle rentals. Private, individual rooms available along with dormitory-style. Typically under $100USD/night!
Mid Range Option($$): Courtyard by Marriott Curacao
The Courtyard by Marriott is highly rated hotel with pool in the heart of Willemstad. Only a few minutes walk to the best restaurants Curacao has to offer! Half-board options available with competitive pricing.
Luxury Option($$$): Curacao Avila Beach Hotel
Curacao’s Avila Beach Hotel is one of the most highly regarded hotels on the island with excellent 5 Star reviews. Directly on the beach, and still only minutes to downtown Willemstad. Swim with dolphins, or relax at the spa. Half-board options available.
Unique Thing to Do in Curacao – Art Lover’s Guide to The Island
Download my free PDF guide below on the best places to visit in Curacao for amazing art and culture.
FAQ
Let’s dive right into some of the most commonly asked questions about the island of Curacao!
What Country is Curacao Part of
Curacao is a vibrant gem in the southern Caribbean, part of the Dutch Caribbean and nestled just about 65 km (40 mi) north of Venezuela. This island nation is a proud member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, blending Caribbean beauty with Dutch charm.
Do They Speak English in Curacao
In Curacao, the locals are impressively multilingual, adding to the island’s rich, welcoming vibe. The primary languages are Papiamentu, Dutch, English, and Spanish.
Papiamentu, a unique Creole language blending Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and African influences, is widely spoken and reflects the island’s diverse heritage.
Dutch is the official language, thanks to Curacao’s ties to the Netherlands, while English and Spanish are commonly understood, especially in tourism.
This mix of languages means visitors from many backgrounds feel right at home, greeted with a warm “Bon Bini!”
Is Curacao a Safe Place to Visit
As with any travel destination, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, but Curacao is generally very safe for visitors. Crime rates are low here, making it a relaxed and enjoyable place to explore. There are a few minor touristy scams to watch out for.
Both Canada and the United States give Curacao a Level 1 or ‘Green’ advisory—the lowest and most reassuring level possible—so you can feel comfortable exploring all this beautiful island has to offer.
Is Curacao Expensive
Cost is all about perspective, but for us, staying in Curacao usually means opting for an Airbnb. There are tons of choices on the island, and we love the extra space and flexibility it gives us compared to a hotel.
Traveling to Curacao on a budget is a priority for our family, and we always find amazing food options without overspending. We’ve got plenty of favorite restaurants that deliver delicious meals without straining the budget.
On average, we pay around $250 per night for a 2-bedroom Airbnb with a pool, though you can expect closer to $320 per night if you want an ocean-view villa.
All-inclusive hotels are pretty rare in Curacao, but the Avila Beach Hotel stands out with a meal and drink plan that’s highly recommended. It’s a beachfront spot about 1 km from downtown and 12 km from the airport, giving it a prime location.
Basic rooms at Avila start around $250 per night, while their high-end, 3-bedroom suites can go up to nearly $1,000 per night.
What Currency do they use in Curacao
Curacao uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder, often abbreviated as ANG or NAFl. The guilder is the official currency on the island, and its value is generally fixed to the U.S. dollar at a stable rate of about 1.79 ANG to 1 USD.
U.S. Dollars are also widely accepted across Curacao, so many travelers find it easy to make purchases without needing to exchange currency.
ATMs are readily available in main tourist areas, allowing you to withdraw either guilders or U.S. dollars. Most places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major credit cards, though it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller businesses or local markets.
What is the Weather like in Curacao
Curacao’s climate is wonderfully warm, with temperatures rarely dipping below 25°C (77F) and daytime highs around 28-30°C (82F – 86F).
A steady breeze, mainly from the northeast, keeps things comfortable and makes the ocean perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Occasionally, if the winds shift from the ocean, water clarity might be slightly affected, though this is rare.
Nights stay warm, so sleeping with a thin sheet and an open window with a fan are usually all you need. And take it from me—leave the sweaters and warm clothes at home; it’s hot enough that you won’t miss them!
Where to See Flamingos in Curacao
There are a few areas around the island of Curacao to see Flamingos. The one I most recommend is the area around Jan Kok. It’s natural beauty and charm are unapparelled. Be sure to stop by the Art Gallery of Nena Sachez while in the area.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Curacao offers an abundance of unique things to do in Curacao that make it a must-visit Caribbean destination.
Whether you’re exploring its stunning beaches, vibrant marine life, or breathtaking landscapes, the island truly has something for everyone. From family-friendly activities to romantic getaways and solo adventures, Curacao is an unforgettable place to explore.
I can’t recommend this island enough—it’s a gem in the Caribbean that’s sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Bon Bini, and enjoy everything Curacao has to offer!
Safe travels,
Tanya
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Tanya, it sounds like you and your family are total water babies on holiday! You found soooo many fun things to do in that beautiful blue waters!! 😀
I would be really tempted to try scuba diving (I guess I’d need to take one of those expensive courses…) so trying one of those underwater scooters looks brilliant too!
When I get the chance, I’ll definitely immerse myself in these unique activities. I particularly would try and see the flamingos or go on a peaceful stand-up paddleboarding. Thanks for these suggestions!
Kayaking or paddleboarding sound pretty interesting. I would try it! Curacao is a paradise for those who love water sports.
Curacao looks like such a tremendous place to visit with so many things to do! I was especially impressed by the possibility to ride underwater scooters – have not heard of such a cool thing anywhere before.
Wow! So many great adventurous things to do at Curacao. Never been there before, but this is definitely on my list now.
So great to see so many things to do in Curaçao! I like the idea of the self-propelled craft, such as SUP boards and kayaks. Do you have to rent these as tours or can you take them and guide yourself?
There are several places on the island that you could rent SUP or kayaks yourself without a tour like the beach at Grote Knip!
I love how you’ve included something for everyone—from adrenaline-packed adventures like hydrofoiling and wakeboarding to serene experiences like paddleboarding and kayaking. The underwater scooter sounds absolutely mind-blowing—what a creative way to explore Curacao’s vibrant marine life! Your insights on accommodations and practical tips, like currency and safety, make this post so helpful for planning. Thanks for sharing such an inspiring and informative read—it’s clear you’ve put your heart into showcasing the best of Curacao. Can’t wait to visit! ??
Such an incredible underwater adventure! I am so inspired that I read your article about the incredible guided tours you suggested there. Great tips too and I have added it on my life list.
I love Curacao. I’ve been 3 times while on a cruise. I’d love to go and stay for a few days to have some fun on the water. I fell in love with Willamstad and the bright coloured buildings.