Curaçao is truly a special place, with so much to explore. It felt like stepping into a different world. The waters are an incredible blue, and the island culture is so welcoming. I found myself completely charmed by everything this Caribbean island offers, from its unique beaches to its lively culinary scene. It’s the kind of destination that stays with you long after you leave, making you eager to plan your next visit.
Beautiful Blue Waters and Hidden Beaches
You won’t find endless stretches of white sand everywhere in Curaçao, but what it lacks in that department, it makes up for with stunning, secluded coves. Driving through the western part of the island, known as Westpunt, is an adventure in itself. Signs will point you down winding paths to these tucked-away spots.
One place that really grabbed my attention was Shete Boka National Park. Here, the ocean puts on a show. You can stand and watch massive waves crash dramatically against rugged cliffs. It’s a powerful sight and sound. After experiencing that wild beauty, I headed to Kenepa Grandi beach. It’s a much more gentle experience, with the sea lapping at a small strip of sand before meeting the green hillsides.
For a truly magical experience, you have to visit the Blue Room Cave, just off Santa Cruz Beach. Getting there involves a short swim underwater, and while your ears might feel a bit strange from the air pressure changes, the sight inside is breathtaking. The water glows with an otherworldly, iridescent blue light. It’s unforgettable.
Exploring these beaches is best done with some fun on the water. A jet ski tour is a fantastic way to cover a lot of ground and see the coastline from a different perspective. Some tours even include treats like champagne and local beers, making the experience even more festive.
Underwater Exploration Made Easy
If you’re fascinated by what lies beneath the waves but don’t want to suit up for scuba diving or snorkeling, there’s an amazing option: a Seabob tour. I booked one at Playa Kalki and it was unlike anything I’d ever tried. The Seabob is like a personal underwater scooter. You hold onto it, and it pulls you effortlessly through the water, allowing you to dive several feet deep.
It was incredible to glide alongside eels peering out from their rocky homes, spot camouflaged octopuses, and see sea turtles swimming gracefully nearby. Our guide was fantastic, a true expert at finding the most active marine life. He would dive even deeper, showing us the best spots and even snapping photos for us to keep.
Sunset and Celebration on the Water
After a day filled with sun and sea, a sunset cruise is the perfect way to wind down. We took a tour with Irie Tours, and while you can’t control the weather, the atmosphere was wonderful. It’s a great chance to meet other travelers and enjoy the evening. We shared delicious meatballs and chicken skewers while sipping on a sweet, orange-flavored Blue Curaçao cocktail. It felt like a celebration as the sun dipped below the horizon.
A Taste of Curaçao’s Unique Flavors
Curaçao’s food scene is as diverse and interesting as its landscapes. One dish you might encounter is lionfish. It’s an invasive species, meaning it doesn’t have many natural predators, so eating it actually helps the local ecosystem. Chefs are getting creative with it, serving it in fresh ceviche, crispy tacos, or even on unique pizzas.
For a different kind of dining experience, Bario Urban Street Food is a trendy spot that prepares lionfish in various delicious ways. They also use every part of the fish, from bones to flesh, for different culinary creations and even crafts.
If you’re looking for something non-seafood, BKYLN offers New York-inspired dishes, like hot dogs with sauerkraut and steak with a flavorful chimichurri butter. They also make some truly remarkable cocktails. I tried one called Hanging Grapes, a mix of gin, lemongrass, passionfruit, and ginger beer. It was so refreshing.
Ochenta is another great spot for drinks, located right by the water. They put a creative spin on tropical cocktails. Their menu is written on a chalkboard, making it easy to read. If you like whiskey and have a sweet tooth, try their Serio cocktail, which uses bourbon infused with beeswax and bacon fat.
For a truly authentic Curaçaoan meal, you must visit Jaanchies in Westpunt. It’s a family-run seafood restaurant in a breezy, open-air setting. Here, you can try iguana soup, which is a unique local delicacy. It’s definitely an adventure for your taste buds!
Local Market Delights
To get a real feel for the local food, head to the Plasa Bieu indoor market. The air is filled with the aroma of spices and seafood cooking. You’ll see locals enjoying platters of whole fried fish, beef curry, and stewed chicken. Yvonne’s stall is a popular choice among the many offerings.
It’s also the perfect place to cool down with a batido, a refreshing icy drink made from tropical fruit, milk, and sugar. My kids loved trying different fruit combinations here.
Another culinary highlight was a fried chicken sandwich with coleslaw at De Broeders. And don’t miss the sampler platter at Tabooshh!, which includes local favorites like beef stew, coconut mango chicken, and delicious polenta fries. For an authentic taste of local cuisine, try the keshi yena (cheese stuffed with spiced meat) at Restaurant Gouverneur de Rouville.
For breakfast, The Eatery at Hofi Cas Cora is exceptional. They use ingredients from their own farm, offering amazing baked goods, lattes, and their famous pumpkin pancakes dusted with cinnamon sugar. It’s only open on weekends, so plan accordingly.
What is Keshi Yena
Keshi yena is a traditional Curaçaoan dish. It’s a large ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat, often including raisins or plums, and root vegetables.
It’s baked until the cheese is melted and gooey, creating a rich and flavorful meal. The combination of savory meat and creamy cheese is truly delicious.
Exploring Natural Wonders and Scenic Hikes
Curaçao’s landscape is surprisingly varied. Because of its dry climate, it often looks like a Mediterranean summer, with dry forests and rolling brown hills that turn lush green after the rain.
Shete Boka National Park offers more than just dramatic shorelines. The Boka Pistol trail is named for the sound the waves make as they crash against the limestone cliffs, like the boom of a gunshot. The water can shoot skyward with incredible force. You can also explore lava hills and a natural bridge on the Boka Wandomi trail, a pleasant walk along the limestone bluffs.
For a more challenging hike, head to Mt. Christoffel, the highest point on the island. The climb from the base to the summit takes about an hour and offers amazing views. The trail winds through boulders and canyons, showcasing the island’s rugged natural beauty. My husband, Michael, and I enjoyed conquering this hike together, while the kids waited at the base with a sitter, enjoying some beach time.
How long is the hike up Mt Christoffel
The hike up Mt. Christoffel is about an hour long from the base to the top. It’s a moderately challenging hike with varied terrain.
The trail takes you through different landscapes, including boulders and canyons, offering beautiful views of the island along the way.
Refreshing Drinks and Vibrant Nightlife
When it comes to drinks, Curaçao offers a fantastic experience, whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach bar or a lively spot for cocktails.
Mood Beach provides a beautiful setting right on the water. It has a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or a gin and tonic while listening to chill music. You can even rent a private daybed cabana for a more secluded experience.
The cocktail scene is particularly exciting in the courtyard of Cana. Their sister restaurant, Mosa, serves up excellent ceviches and tacos, perfect for pairing with your drinks. I highly recommend trying the Calle cocktail – a spicy mix of tequila, mezcal, mango, and chili. It’s got a kick that makes you want another!
For an unforgettable seaside party, the Wet & Wild Beach Club on Sunday evenings is the place to be. Imagine dancing on the sand with the ocean waves as your soundtrack!
Artistic and Cultural Experiences
If you need a break from the sun, Curaçao offers plenty of engaging indoor activities.
You can take a painting class with Francis Sling, a local artist known for his vibrant murals that often feature nature. His work is truly inspiring.
Another unique experience is a bread-making course at Kas di Pal’i Maishi. This place is also a living museum and outdoor workshop space, offering a glimpse into traditional life.
For those interested in plants, Den Paradera Herb Garden is a must-visit. You can also explore Curaloe’s Aloe Vera Plantation, where thousands of aloe plants are grown and used to create high-quality beauty products.
Where to find Francis Sling art
You can find Francis Sling’s art on many local buildings throughout Curaçao. He is known for his large murals.
Walking around Willemstad and other parts of the island, you’ll likely see his colorful and nature-inspired creations adorning walls.
Exploring Willemstad’s Colorful Streets
A simple stroll through Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad, is an experience in itself. It’s easy to get lost in its charm, popping into shops and cafes under the awnings.
Cross the Queen Emma Bridge to Otrobanda, an area rich with art. Murals and colorful buildings lead you up winding streets. This is where you’ll find the famous rainbow-colored buildings that line the waterfront. The streets are filled with bright artwork, often sold directly by the artists themselves.
Don’t miss the colorful stairs at Van Lennepstraat, a very popular spot for photos. Keep exploring, and you’ll discover residential areas where almost every house is covered in murals, creating a unique, artistic neighborhood.
Accommodations for Every Traveler
Curaçao offers a range of places to stay, catering to different preferences for your 2026 visit.
For an upscale beachside retreat, the Marriott Beach Resort is an excellent choice. After a recent renovation, it boasts a private oceanfront, two pools, and multiple dining options. The suites are modern and comfortable, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
If you prefer to be in the heart of the city and surrounded by history, the is ideal. Its rooms have a unique, historic feel with wooden beams and kitchenettes. This area is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a deep connection to the island’s past.
The Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino downtown is another great option in the historic district. It’s built around the old Rif Fort, giving you a good dose of history, along with a casino and a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
For a complete resort experience with lots of activities, the Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort is close to the cruise port. It features a waterpark, a private beach, and a swim-up bar, making it a fun choice for families.
Curaçao truly offers something for everyone, from adventure seekers to those looking for a relaxing getaway. I can’t wait to return.