Curator’s statement
Curaçao is part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao) near the coast of Venezuela. The island boasts an incredible food scene and nature activities. Being outside the hurricane belt, you can visit the island year round, though the best times are January through March when the trade winds are in full swing. I highly recommend a visit to this island if you enjoy off-the-beaten-path travel.
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Things to do in Curaçao
Shete Boka National Park: This expansive National Park on the northern part of the island is home to sweeping sea views and rugged mountain terrain.
Landhuis Chobolobo: See where and how the iconic blue Curaçao liqueur is made at this local distillery with hands-on workshops and a tour.
Hofi Mango: This large mango plantation in the north part of the island was started by accident! Formerly a sugarcane plantation, the park now boasts hundreds of naturally growing mango trees.
Curaçao Aloe Farm: Did you know that Curaçao is an arid island? Despite the palm trees and crystal blue waters, you'll mind many cacti and thorny bushes inhabiting the island. Check out the aloe farm to see the largest concentration of cultivated aloe on the island. They make homemade aloe products too!
Scuba Diving: Curaçao is well-known as one of the best islands in the Caribbean for diving. Check out the Dive Bus to start shore diving and become an expert in no time.
Visit the floating pontoon bridge: In downtown Willemstad you'll see the iconic swinging Queen Emma Bridge. This bridge swings open regularly to let small fishing boats and large cruise ships through its narrow channel.
Climb Mt. Cristoffel: Curaçao has primarily hilly terrain, and it's a right of passage for visitors to climb Mt. Cristoffel and really "see" the island. This highest point of the island offers an amazing vantage and cool breezes, but you need to go in the morning!
Beach Hopping: This island is known to over 30+ beaches, and locals all have their favorites. I recommend Grote Knip and Cas Abou for the biggest "wow" factors. Soft sand and clear azure waters make these beaches feel like out of a post card. Pro tip: Go early!
Day trips
I recommend a day trip to Klein Curaçao at least once. You can go with a group or in a private boat. Klein Curaçao is an uninhabited island about 40 minutes away from Curaçao. The iconic abandoned lighthouse sits in the center of this tiny island. Snorkeling, water sports and tanning are a must-do on this day trip.
Places to eat & drink in Curaçao
Iguana Cafè: A little touristy but great drinks and right on the waters in downtown Willemstad. They always have live music on the weekends.
Restaurant & Café ‘Gouverneur de Rouville: Located in Otrobanda facing the swinging bridge, this restaurant has fantastic local cuisine in an elevated atmosphere.
Pancake Sensation: Did you know the Dutch love pancakes? Get your Dutch pancake fix while exploring Rif Fort in Otrobanda.
Cascada Rooftop Bar: Located in Punda is one of the only rooftop restaurants on the island. This is a chic spot to meet up with friends for great cocktails and snacks while enjoying the sunset.
BijBlauw: Perfect for a date night. This restaurant in Pietermaai is right on the water and right out of a boho chic catalog. Food is incredible but the views even more so.
Karakter: On the northern part of the island within the Coral Estates property lies Karakter, a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy fresh Caribbean cuisine in a romanic beachy setting with unobstructed views of the sunset.
Bonita Beach Club: Bonita Beach Club is a great upbeat and lively place to enjoy the sunset with a drink in hand. Located at busy Mambo Beach, you'll find shopping and socializing aplenty here.
Soi95: Best Asian food on the island, hands down! Asian tapas with a creative twist, plus they have rooftop seating!
Need to know
See more Curaçao guides from a local expat (me!) at farahilde.com
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Kat Galoski
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Curacao.