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Welcome to Curaçao, a charming island paradise in the heart of the Caribbean! Known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and colorful colonial architecture, Curaçao offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience.
This southern Caribbean island is a favorite destination for major cruise lines. Along with Aruba and Bonaire, the island of Curaçao is part of the ABC Islands itinerary. There are many reasons why this island is so popular with cruise visitors!
As your cruise ship docks in the vibrant port of Willemstad, prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with rich cultural experiences, breathtaking scenery, and endless opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Only a 15-minute walk separates you from this beautiful Dutch city.
Now, without further ado, here are the best things to do in Curaçao during your port day!
Best Things to Do in Curaçao on Your Own
Explore Renaissance Mall
A short walk separates the port area from Renaissance Mall. This is the nearest area if you’re looking for eateries and souvenirs. You’ll also get a beautiful view of Willemstad.
Stroll Along Handelskade
Embark on a leisurely stroll along Handelskade, Willemstad’s iconic waterfront promenade. Lined with rows of charming Dutch colonial buildings painted in an array of vibrant colors, this picturesque street is just breathtaking!
As you wander along Handelskade, take a moment to immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings. Admire the intricate architecture and ornate facades of the historic buildings, each telling its own story of the island’s rich colonial history.
Don’t forget to take photos of the stunning scenery! The reflection of the colorful buildings in the calm waters of St. Anna Bay makes for the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.
Cross the Queen Emma Bridge
Make sure to snap a picture of the famous Queen Emma pontoon bridge, also known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” as it opens to allow smaller ships to pass through. This pedestrian bridge is the perfect selfie spot! The floating Queen Emma Bridge is the backdrop to many Curacao images for good reason!
Explore Punda and Otrobanda
Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Curaçao by visiting the charming neighborhoods of Punda and Otrobanda. These two districts, separated by the waters of St. Anna Bay, offer a delightful blend of bustling markets, quaint shops, and historic landmarks.
Start your adventure in the Punda district, the oldest part of Willemstad. Make sure to explore the floating market, this is where local vendors sell fresh produce, fish, and souvenirs from their boats—it’s a must!
As you continue your journey through Punda, take time to sample some of the island’s culinary delights. Try savory snacks like pastechi (filled pastries) and keshi yena (stuffed cheese) or sweet treats like bolo pretu (black cake) and tamarind balls.
But the charm of Punda doesn’t end there—keep an eye out for the vibrant street art that adorns the city’s walls. The street art in Punda adds an extra layer of beauty and fascination to your journey, with colorful murals representing scenes from local life and intriguing graffiti with a message.
After taking in the sights and flavors of Punda, cross the iconic Queen Emma Bridge to Otrobanda, the “other side” of Willemstad. The vibe here is more relaxed, with wide streets filled with shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the chance to visit some of Otrobanda’s most iconic landmarks, such as the colorful Penha building and the historic Rif Fort village.
PRO TIP: If you’re riding in a taxi, you’ll cross the beautiful Queen Juliana Bridge. You can walk back on the Queen Emma Bridge!
Visit the Floating Market
Immerse yourself in Willemstad’s cultural scene by visiting the iconic floating market. Nestled along the shores of St. Anna Bay, this lively market offers a unique glimpse into daily life in Curaçao.
Willemstad’s floating market has an interesting history that goes back over a century. In the late 19th century, during the economic boom in Curaçao’s oil industry, the demand for fresh produce and goods from neighboring Venezuela surged. However, at the time, there were no refrigeration facilities on the island, making it difficult to import perishable items.
To solve this problem, Venezuelan farmers began traveling by boat to Willemstad, where they would sell their fresh produce directly from their boats to eager locals. Over time, this informal trade evolved into the vibrant floating market that we know today.
As you approach the floating market, you’ll be greeted by a variety of colors and aromas. Vibrant boats, packed with fresh produce and seafood, bob gently in the water, creating a bustling scene. Take your time to wander through the market stalls, where vendors from neighboring Venezuela proudly display their goods from plump, ripe fruits to delicious seafood straight from the sea.
Discover Fort Amsterdam
Nestled atop a scenic vantage point overlooking the entrance to St. Anna Bay in Willemstad, Curaçao, Fort Amsterdam stands as a testament to the island’s rich colonial history. Built in the early 17th century by the Dutch West India Company, it served as a strategic stronghold for the defense of the island against potential invaders. Today, visitors have the opportunity to step back in time and explore the storied halls of Fort Amsterdam.
As you wander through the museum’s halls, you’ll discover artifacts from the fort’s storied history, such as cannons, weaponry, and documents dating back centuries. Learn about the everyday lives of the soldiers who formerly guarded the fort, as well as the stories of the settlers and merchants who helped shape the island’s future.
After exploring the museum, take a stroll up the fort’s ramparts for panoramic views of Willemstad and its bustling waterfront. Take in the panoramic views of the waterfront, with its iconic pastel-hued buildings and bustling activities. Keep an eye out for passing ships as they go through the narrow channel of St. Anna Bay!
Best Things to Do in Curaçao on a Tour
Snorkel at Playa Kenepa
Escape to a tropical paradise on Curaçao’s western coast! Playa Kenepa, also known as Kenepa Beach or Knip Beach, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Grab your snorkel gear and dive into the waters, where you’ll encounter vibrant coral reefs and an incredible variety of aquatic life. Swim along groups of tropical fish, admire brilliant coral formations, and keep an eye out for sea turtles gliding through the water.
For those who prefer to stay dry, the beach offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation. Spread out your towel on the soft, white sands and bask in the warm Caribbean sun, or find shade under the swaying palm trees that line the shore. Take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge, letting the gentle waves lull you into a state of serenity.
Hike Mount Christoffel
For those seeking an adrenaline-filled adventure and a chance to reconnect with nature, a hike to the summit of Mount Christoffel is a must! Located within Christoffel National Park, this towering peak offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to embark on an exhilarating journey through pristine wilderness and beautiful scenery.
Begin your climb at the base of Mount Christoffel, where well-marked trails wind their way through the rugged terrain of the national park. As you hike, keep an eye out for the park’s diverse flora and fauna, which include exotic orchids, cacti, and bird species.
As you climb higher and higher, the trail gets more difficult, with steep inclines and rocky terrain testing your endurance and determination. But with each step, the excitement of reaching the top grows, fueled by the promise of breathtaking panoramic views awaiting you at the top.
Finally, after hours of trekking through the wilderness, you’ll arrive victorious at the summit of Mount Christoffel. Take a moment to catch your breath and soak in the breathtaking views!
Relax at Mambo Beach
Mambo Beach, located on Curaçao’s southern coast, is a vibrant and inviting spot where visitors can rest, unwind, and soak up the sun.
As you arrive at Mambo Beach, you’ll be greeted by the sight of soft, powdery sands stretching as far as the eye can see, fringed by swaying palm trees and gently lapping waves. Find your perfect spot on the beach, whether it’s under the shade of a palm tree or right at the water’s edge, and settle in for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation.
For those looking for a little more adventure, Mambo Beach offers a variety of water sports and activities. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to see the beach from a different angle, or try your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing for an adrenaline rush.
Visit Shete Boka National Park
Visit Shete Boka Park to experience the raw beauty of Curaçao’s coastline. One of the park’s most iconic attractions is Boka Tabla Cave, a natural wonder formed by the relentless erosion of the limestone coastline.
Step inside this enchanting cave and marvel at the eerie beauty of its cavernous chambers, where the echoes of crashing waves reverberate off the walls. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of sea turtles seeking refuge in the cool, dark depths of the cave.
Boka Pistol is another must-see attraction in Shete Boka National Park, named after the thundering sound of waves breaking against the granite cliffs. Stand in wonder as you watch nature’s amazing force on full display as waves fly high into the air with a loud boom, creating a thrilling and breathtaking scene.
Tour the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery
A tour of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery is an absolute must-do for every visitor to the island! Located on the island’s stunning coastlines, this historic distillery provides visitors with an intriguing peek inside the production process of one of Curaçao’s most famous exports: Blue Curaçao liqueur.
Step inside the historic distillery and embark on a trip through time to learn about the island’s centuries-old liqueur-making heritage. Knowledgeable guides will walk you through every stage of the production process, from collecting the island’s native Laraha oranges to mixing and bottling the finished product.
Of course, no tour of the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery would be complete without a tasting experience. Sample various flavors and expressions of Curaçao liqueur, from the classic Blue Curaçao to exotic fruit-infused varieties. Savor each liqueur’s unique taste and texture as you discover your new favorite flavor.
Before you leave, stop by the distillery’s gift shop, where you can purchase bottles of Curaçao liqueur to take home as souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.
Experience the Hato Caves
Embark on a journey into the depths of Curaçao’s history and geology with an unforgettable visit to the Hato Caves.
As you enter the cold darkness of the caves, you’ll be met with a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites produced millions of years ago by the slow drip of mineral-rich water. Marvel at the unique formations that cover the cave walls and ceilings, with shapes and sizes ranging from delicate icicles to towering columns.
But the beauty of the Hato Caves isn’t just geological—it’s also cultural. Throughout the caves, you’ll find ancient cave drawings and petroglyphs left behind by the island’s indigenous Arawak people. Guided tours offer insight into the significance of these ancient artworks, shedding light on the beliefs and customs of the people who once called these caves home.
Getting to Willemstad From the Curaçao Cruise Port
If your cruise ship is docked in Willemstad at the Curaçao cruise terminal, you can easily walk into downtown Willemstad and explore independently.
For the beach, parks, and caves, you’ll need to book a tour or arrange for a taxi. You’ll find many taxi drivers waiting at the entry of the port to take you on your island exploration.
Nearby Beaches for Cruise Passengers
If you want to check out the most popular beaches in Curaçao, you may wonder which nearby beaches cruise passengers can visit. Yes, the island is peppered with beautiful beaches, but not many are located close to the port.
I’ve listed beaches that take about 15 minutes by taxi, though many visitors book excursions.
- Blue Bay Beach (private resort)
- Kokomo Beach
- Mambo Beach
- Cabana Beach (private resort)
Final Thoughts on Exploring Curaçao
Curaçao offers a vibrant tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all interests. This island paradise has something for everyone, from the colorful streets of Willemstad to the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters that beckon sun-seekers and water enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the rich history of the island through its museums, forts, and plantations provides a fascinating glimpse into Curaçao’s past. At the same time, the diverse dining scene and lively markets offer a taste of the local culture and flavors.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, dive into the vibrant underwater world, or immerse yourself in the island’s heritage, Curaçao promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a longing to return. So, set sail for Curaçao and discover the magic of this Caribbean gem for yourself.
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.