Curacao
Country: Curacao · Region: Southern Caribbean · Currency: Netherlands Antillean Guilder
Curaçao is a Caribbean cruise port featuring colorful Dutch colonial architecture, warm year-round weather, and excellent diving and snorkeling in clear waters. Cruise ships dock at Curaçao Mega Pier or Cruise Terminal with short walks to popular tourist destinations.
Top sights
Willemstad waterfront (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Christoffel National Park, Shete Boka National Park, Hato Caves, Curaçao Sea Aquarium, Playa Lagun
Things to do
- Christoffel National Park
- National park featuring Mount Christoffel (the island's highest point at 1,292 ft), Boca Grandi, and Indian caves with Arawak paintings.
- Shete Boka National Park
- National park home to seven bocas (coves) including Boca Tabla and Boca Pistol, with seasonal sea turtle breeding grounds.
- Curaçao Sea Aquarium
- Popular attraction home to the Dolphin Academy where visitors can participate in dolphin activities with aquarium entry included.
- Hato Caves
- Coral and limestone caves with stalactite and stalagmite formations, water pools, a waterfall, and a colony of long-nosed fruit bats.
Beaches
- Playa Lagun
- Small sandy beach in a rectangular-shaped bay with tall cliffs and excellent snorkeling in waters teaming with marine life and corals.
- Playa Kleine Kenapa (Little Knip)
- Secluded beach past the town of Lagun with plenty of shade trees and a bar/restaurant with sporadic hours.
Where to eat
- Waterfront Dining
- Waterfront restaurants in Willemstad serving local cuisine blending European, West Indian, and Indonesian flavors.
Bars and nightlife
- Mambo Beach
- Beach destination next to Kontiki Beach popular with locals and tourists for nightlife and partying.
Getting around
Rent a car for the day (about USD45) to explore the island, or use taxis, the local Click ride-sharing app, or buses from stations in Willemstad.
What to eat
Local cuisine blends European, West Indian, and Indonesian flavors; try satay and seafood at waterfront restaurants in Willemstad.
Tips
Bring cash for buses and gas; agree on taxi fares before departing; note that 50 and 100 guilder bills are not accepted on buses.
Best for
Diving, snorkeling, beaches