Curaçao
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Curaçao - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
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1. Aquafari
Tour–SightYou don't have to snorkel or dive to discover Curaçao's spectacular underwater world of coral reefs and tropical fish if you ride with Aquafari...
You don't have to snorkel or dive to discover Curaçao's spectacular underwater world of coral reefs and tropical fish if you ride with Aquafari. Go 30 feet deep on Aquafari's unique eco-friendly, one-piece underwater scooter with an air-supplied helmet from which you breathe just as normally as you would on land. The instructors are also divers, and after a safety briefing, they accompany you down to one of the coolest underwater adventures on the island. Your underwater guide also takes photos of your journey for purchase. The journey including topside briefing takes approximately 1½ hours with 45 minutes underwater. There's full facilities—food, drink, and changing rooms right next door at Pirate's Bay Beach.
Piscaderaweg, Pirate Bay Beach, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-513–2625Sight Details
Rate Includes: $125, Minimum age 10, minimun height 4 feet, maximum weight 275 pounds -
2. Christoffel National Park
Museum/GalleryThe 1,239-foot Mt. Christoffel, Curaçao's highest peak, is at the center of this 4,450-acre garden and wildlife preserve now under the protection...
The 1,239-foot Mt. Christoffel, Curaçao's highest peak, is at the center of this 4,450-acre garden and wildlife preserve now under the protection of CARMABI (Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity). They offer many forms of touring the natural preserve, including guided hikes, jeep safaris, mountain biking, deer-watching (the island's elusive white-tailed deer are very shy), animal presentations, cave explorations, and special activities like full-moon nature walks. Visitors can also hike the mountain on their own. The exhilarating climb takes about two hours for a reasonably fit person. On a clear day, the panoramic view from the peak stretches to the mountain ranges of Venezuela. CARMABI recommends an early start as it gets very hot later in the day. Throughout the park are eight hiking trails and a 20-mile (32-km) network of driving trails (use heavy-treaded tires if you wish to explore the unpaved stretches). The old Savonet plantation house there (one of the island's first plantations) has been restored and now serves as a modern museum with exhibits retracing the region's history as far back as the original Indian inhabitants. There's a separate entrance fee to the museum but you can also get a combo-entrance pass that includes the park and museum for less.
Christoffel Park, Savonet, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-462–4242-for information and tour reservationsSight Details
Rate Includes: $12 -
3. Curaçao Sea Aquarium
Zoo/AquariumThe Sea Aquarium is an original installation that became the island's largest marine life attraction. Though it's in the same physical location...
The Sea Aquarium is an original installation that became the island's largest marine life attraction. Though it's in the same physical location as the Dolphin Academy and Animal Encounters—all part of the Sea Aquarium Park—it operates independently. Admission allows visitors to view dolphin shows and sea lion shows, and to view marine life in the Animal Encounter lagoon from an underwater observatory. A new Sea Lion Encounter program enables visitors to get up close under the supervision of a trainer as well (additional cost). The aquarium hall has over 40 saltwater tanks full of marine life and offers visitors the opportunity to feed sharks, interact with stingrays, sea turtles, flamingos—and lots more. Extremely educational for all ages. Snack bar and souvenir shop also on-site.
Seaquarium Beach, Bapor Kibra, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-461–6666Sight Details
Rate Includes: $20 adults -
4. Dolphin Academy
Educational InstitutionThe Dolphin Academy—run independently from the sea aquarium—specializes in up-close interactions with these friendly, ever-smiling mammals....
The Dolphin Academy—run independently from the sea aquarium—specializes in up-close interactions with these friendly, ever-smiling mammals. There are many different kinds of encounters available, including swimming, free diving, snorkeling, scuba, and simple interactions in shallow water. There are also open-water dive opportunities. You can also become an assistant trainer for a day, or do an extremely in-depth dolphin course that takes two or three half-days. The trainers are extremely professional and knowledgeable and the dolphins are very well cared for and thrive in a spacious, natural saltwater lagoon. (The scuba and dive encounters are offered in conjunction with Ocean Encounters dive operators.)
Seaquarium Beach, Bapor Kibra, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-465–8900Sight Details
Rate Includes: From $99 depending on program -
5. Kura Hulanda Museum
Otrobanda | Museum/GalleryPet project of Dutch billionaire philanthropist Jacob Gelt-Dekker, who brought the Otrabanda neighborhood back to life in the '90s, this fascinating...
Pet project of Dutch billionaire philanthropist Jacob Gelt-Dekker, who brought the Otrabanda neighborhood back to life in the '90s, this fascinating anthropological museum reveals the island's diverse roots. Housed in a restored 18th-century village, the museum is built around a former mercantile square (Kura Hulanda means "Holland courtyard"), where the Dutch once housed slaves mostly before they were sold and exported. Somber exhibits of the transatlantic slave trade are tempered by sections that highlight the origins of the diaspora, including relics from West African empires, examples of pre-Columbian gold, and Antillean art. Call ahead for guided tours or rent an audio guide.
Klipstraat 9, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-434–7765Sight Details
Rate Includes: $10 -
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6. Landhuis Chobolobo
Saliña | Historic District/SiteThis is the distillery where the famed Curaçao liqueur, which is made from the peels of the bitter Laraha oranges, is made. The family-run distillery...
This is the distillery where the famed Curaçao liqueur, which is made from the peels of the bitter Laraha oranges, is made. The family-run distillery is in a heritage mansion that dates to the 1800s. Self-guided factory tours include samples, and they also have a new terrace café that serves all kinds of delights including dishes and cocktails using the liqueurs. Though best known for its neon blue–colored spirit, the original liqueur was clear; it was colored later and also comes in green, red, and orange, and in different flavors including rum raisin, coffee, and chocolate.
Landhuis Chobolobo, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-461–3526Sight Details
Rate Includes: Free -
7. Mambo Beach Boulevard
Zoo/AquariumThis is the liveliest, most full-service beach and entertainment spot on the island. There is something for all ages at the Mambo Beach Boulevard...
This is the liveliest, most full-service beach and entertainment spot on the island. There is something for all ages at the Mambo Beach Boulevard complex beside the Sea Aquarium Beach and Park. Shoppers, sunbathers, swimmers, families, teens, couples, partiers, and even foodies will find their groove with upscale eateries like Fuoco Italian Chophouse sandwiched beside dozens of bars and cool boutiques like the Flip Flop Shop. And there are dive and activity operators, beauty salons, spa, a children's playground, small casino, and even an amusement park–style ride. There is a small fee to use the beach for just swimming and sunbathing, and the water is calm due to a man-made breakwater. There is always some kind of special event going on here, and there's also a special tourism police force to keep it safe and secure.
Bapor Kibra, n/a Curaçao, CuraçaoSight Details
Rate Includes: $3.50 for beach use -
8. Museo Tula
Museum/GalleryLandhouse Kenepa was an ancient plantation house that became the site of the slavery revolt led by Tula in 1795. (In 2013, an English feature...
Landhouse Kenepa was an ancient plantation house that became the site of the slavery revolt led by Tula in 1795. (In 2013, an English feature movie was made about Tula and the revolt.) Today the house has been restored to become the Tula Museum, dedicated to the life and times of Dutch colonial days before and leading up to the revolt. It rotates many cultural exhibits. They also have nature-walking tours of the area, a restaurant in a restored cottage offering local dishes, and a souvenir shop with local crafts.
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9. Pietermaai District
Historic District/SiteAn incredible transformation has taken place in this historic district over the past few years; it has morphed from a decrepit neighborhood...
An incredible transformation has taken place in this historic district over the past few years; it has morphed from a decrepit neighborhood to a colorful seat of culture and happenings. New boutique hotels, fine dining, and trendy cafés have taken hold in restored mansions and new enclaves. It has its own security force and designated community organization, which hosts many special events and artistic projects. Hosted photo walks are also offered with a side of history.
District Pietermaai, Pietermaai, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao -
10. Playa PortoMari
BeachSet beneath an historic plantation site, you'll find calm, clear water and a long stretch of white sand and full facilities on this beach. A...
Set beneath an historic plantation site, you'll find calm, clear water and a long stretch of white sand and full facilities on this beach. A decent bar and restaurant, well-kept showers, changing facilities, and restrooms are all on-site; a nature trail is nearby. The double coral reef—explore one, swim past it, explore another—is a special feature that makes this spot popular with snorkelers and divers. The entrance fee is $3, children under 12 free. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; swimming; walking.
Off Willibrordus Rd., , Curaçao -
11. Queen Emma Bridge
Bridge/TunnelAffectionately called the "Swinging Old Lady" by locals, this bridge connects the two sides of Willemstad—Punda and Otrobanda—across the Santa...
Affectionately called the "Swinging Old Lady" by locals, this bridge connects the two sides of Willemstad—Punda and Otrobanda—across the Santa Anna Bay. The bridge swings open at least 30 times a day to allow passage of ships to and from the sea. The original bridge, built in 1888, was the brainchild of the American consul Leonard Burlington Smith, who made a mint off the tolls he charged for using it: 2¢ per person for those wearing shoes, free to those crossing barefoot. But though that toll distinction was meant to help the poor, the rich often saved money by crossing barefoot, and the poor would often borrow shoes to cross because they were too proud to admit they could not afford the toll! Today it's free to everyone. The bridge was dismantled and completely repaired and restored in 2005 and also restored further in 2015.
Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao -
12. Substation Curaçao
Sports–SightSubstation Curaçao takes you on an incredible undersea odyssey 1,000 feet below the waves. The four-person submarine is the same kind used by...
Substation Curaçao takes you on an incredible undersea odyssey 1,000 feet below the waves. The four-person submarine is the same kind used by director James Cameron to film many of the underwater scenes in Titanic. It’s called Curasub, and it dives from 500 to 1,000 feet to view colorful fish, coral walls, and shipwrecks. Souvenir photos are taken by professionals. There is no change of pressure, so anyone can enjoy going to depths that even divers cannot imagine. They also offer fascinating night dives where different species of fish come out to glow in the dark. The sub is also used for very important marine life research with major world ocean organizations. A truly unique experience, and only on Curaçao.
Curacao Sea Aquarium, Bapor Kibra, Bapor Kibra, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-465–2051 -
13. Cas Abao
BeachThis white-sand gem has the brightest blue water in Curaçao, a treat for swimmers, snorkelers, and sunbathers alike. Full services include a...
This white-sand gem has the brightest blue water in Curaçao, a treat for swimmers, snorkelers, and sunbathers alike. Full services include a beach bar and restaurant, lockers, changing rooms on-site, and even full massages surf-side are available. It can become crowded on weekends, especially Sunday, when local families descend in droves. You can rent beach chairs, paddle boats, and snorkeling and diving gear. The entry fee is $5–$6 per car, more on weekends, and the beach is open from 8 am to 6 pm. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; swimming.
West of St. Willibrordus, about 3 miles (5 km) off Weg Naar Santa Cruz, , Curaçao -
14. CurAloe Plantation & Factory
Tour–SightVisit the home of the island's thriving aloe product sold in shops and stores all over Curaçao where you'll see the 100,000 specimens of plants...
Visit the home of the island's thriving aloe product sold in shops and stores all over Curaçao where you'll see the 100,000 specimens of plants used in CurAloe's hundreds of cosmetic and medicinal applications. No reservations required and no admission fee. Information is provided by video, and staff are happy to answer questions. You can sample and purchase many products.
Kaminda Mitologia, Groot St. Joris, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-767–5577 -
15. Den Paradera
GardenDazzle your senses at this organic herb garden, where traditional folk medicines used to treat everything from stomach ulcers to diabetes are...
Dazzle your senses at this organic herb garden, where traditional folk medicines used to treat everything from stomach ulcers to diabetes are grown. Owner Dinah Veeris is a renowned expert and author in the field of herbs and plants. The kitchen is a factory of sorts used to turn homegrown plants like cactus, aloe vera, and calabash into homemade body- and skin-care products like shampoos, ointments, and oils—all for sale at the gift shop. Reservations are essential for guided tours in English, Monday through Friday at 9:30 and 10:30 am, but you can take a self-guided tour with a brochure any time of day. (Santa Barbara Resort's spa uses ingredients made at Den Paradera.)
Seru Grandi 105A, Morgenster, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-767–5608Sight Details
Rate Includes: $8 self-guided tour; $9 guided -
16. Floating Market
Punda | Market/BazaarCuraçao is such an arid island that most of the fruit and vegetables need to be imported. The floating market consists of dozens of Venezuelan...
Curaçao is such an arid island that most of the fruit and vegetables need to be imported. The floating market consists of dozens of Venezuelan schooners laden with tropical fruits and vegetables that dock to sell their wares on the Punda side of the city. Mangoes, papayas, and exotic vegetables vie for space with freshly caught fish and herbs and spices. The buying is best at 6:30 am—too early for many people on vacation—but there's plenty of action throughout the afternoon. Vendors will stay on island for months away from their families—forming their own little community—awaiting fresh supplies each day.
Sha Caprileskade, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao -
17. Hato Caves
CaveStalactites and stalagmites form striking shapes in these 200,000-year-old caves. Hidden lighting adds to the dramatic effect. Indians who used...
Stalactites and stalagmites form striking shapes in these 200,000-year-old caves. Hidden lighting adds to the dramatic effect. Indians who used the caves for shelter left petroglyphs about 1,500 years ago. More recently, slaves who escaped from nearby plantations used the caves as a hideaway. Hour-long guided tours wind down to the pools in various chambers. Keep in mind that there are 49 steps to climb up to the entrance and the occasional bat might not be to everyone's taste. A new Indian Trail walking path and cactus garden enlighten visitors about local vegetation. The space is also available for special events. Located just two minutes from Hato International Airport.
Rooseveltweg z/n, Hato, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-868–0379Sight Details
Rate Includes: $8 -
18. Kokomo Beach
BeachThe beach at Vaersenbaai, now better known as "Kokomo" after the restaurant/bar by the same name there, is famous for massive full-moon-party...
The beach at Vaersenbaai, now better known as "Kokomo" after the restaurant/bar by the same name there, is famous for massive full-moon-party blowouts with live music and thousands of partiers. Daytime it's a quiet, family-friendly public with lots of free lounges, shade, and full facilities. At night it kicks it up a notch with a young-adult party scene. Sunday happy hours are famous for DJ dance parties, and it's the only night Kokomo serves dinner. There is also a dive center on-site. Amenities: food and drink; parking (free); toilets. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; swimming.
Vaersenbaai, , Curaçao -
19. Maritime Museum
Scharloo | Museum/GalleryThe museum—designed to resemble the interior of a ship—gives you a sense of Curaçao's maritime history that spans some 500 years, using model...
The museum—designed to resemble the interior of a ship—gives you a sense of Curaçao's maritime history that spans some 500 years, using model ships, historic maps, nautical charts, navigational equipment, and audiovisual displays. Topics explored in the exhibits include the development of Willemstad as a trading city, Curaçao's role as a contraband hub, the remains of De Alphen (a Dutch marine freighter that exploded and sank in St. Anna Bay in 1778 and was excavated in 1984), the slave trade, the development of steam navigation, and the role of the Dutch navy on the island. The museum also offers a two-hour guided tour (Wednesday and Saturday, 1 pm) on its "water bus" through Curaçao's harbor—a route familiar to traders, smugglers, and pirates. The museum is wheelchair accessible. Bar/restaurant Sails on-site is open for lunch.
Van der Brandhofstraat 7, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-65–2327Sight Details
Rate Includes: Museum $6.50 -
20. Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
Punda | Religious Building/Site/ShrineThe temple—the oldest in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere—is one of Curaçao's most important sights and draws thousands of visitors...
The temple—the oldest in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere—is one of Curaçao's most important sights and draws thousands of visitors per year. The synagogue was dedicated in 1732 by the Jewish community, which had already grown from the original 12 families who came from Amsterdam in 1651. They were later joined by Jews from Portugal and Spain fleeing persecution from the Inquisition. White sand covers the synagogue floor for two symbolic reasons: a remembrance of the 40 years Jews spent wandering the desert, and a re-creation of the sand used by secret Jews, or conversos, to muffle sounds from their houses of worship during the Inquisition. The Jewish Cultural Museum, in back of the synagogue, displays antiques and artifacts from around the world. Many of the objects are used in the synagogue, making it a "living" museum.
Hanchi Snoa 29, Willemstad, n/a Curaçao, Curaçao5999-461–1067Sight Details
Rate Includes: $10; donations also accepted
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