Going to Curacao is definitely on every traveler’s list of ‘’next’’ destinations to visit (and if it’s not on yours then it should be!), but did you know that there is more to do in Curacao than scuba diving, snorkeling or any other water-related sports?
Curacao is known for its beaches, but there is so much more! So, here are my picks for activities in Curacao. If you go to this island and do some of this, I would love it if you leave me a comment and let me know what you thought about it.
Go to the Christoffel National Park
If you are tired of sunbathing (as if that could ever happen, but it is possible!) you can always go to the Christoffel Mountain National Park. There you will be able to see divi-divi trees.
Even though there are more than 4,500 acres of this National Park, it is definitely worth a visit as you will see beautiful sunrises and sunsets and you will also have a breath-taking view all throughout your hike.
And the best part about it is that you don’t have to be a professional hiker to enjoy these views, as reaching the summit only takes about two hours. You can do it slowly, just make sure your camera is all set and ready to go as you will not stop taking photographs, that’s for sure!
Go to the Curacao Carnival
If you are looking at doing something completely different, then I will recommend you to book your trip to Curacao during its famous carnival. Granted, you will have to invest more in your accommodation and other fees, but this time on the island will never be forgotten.
Are you getting ready to witness the greatness of the Caribbean? Curacao will fill you with all its colors, music, creativity and of course, dance moves! This island is definitely the best destination to go to during this time.
Walk through the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge
This bridge has nothing to envy to other more well-known bridges around the world. The Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge connects two halves of the Willemstad city, that is the Punda side (where most locals live) and the Otrobanda side (which is very touristy).
The boardwalk of this bridge is very famous indeed, and you can see it in postcards from the island, photographs and even movies. It was originally built back in 1888 so it has seen a lot of individuals go back and forth!
One of the favorite activities when you are in Curacao is to watch how the ships pass from one side to the other. It doesn’t matter whether you are a tourist or a local, people from all over the world are always coming to this place as it is something fascinating to watch.
Go to Klein Curacao
If you are going to Curacao then you must go to Klein Curacao as well. Even though this tiny island is in Curacao, you will still need to get on a boat in order to reach your destination as it is a satellite island.
If you are lucky enough you will also be able to spot some dolphins and rays that will continuously swim underneath your boat. It’s like going on a safari, but on a boat! How amazing is that?
Get lost in Willemstad
Well, I don’t mean to actually get lost and forget about where you are staying at, but you should definitely consider exploring the city of Willemstad, as I can assure you it is something you have never seen before.
Willemstad is one of the prettiest cities on earth, as it combines the Caribbean vibe alongside with beautiful colors and, yet again, there is a strong Dutch influence that still lingers around. It’s also a relatively safe place to travel to.
You can also wander through the Otrobanda district in this city, and you will be able to immerse yourself in a distinct and rich history of these landas. Also, and in case you didn’t know, this capital has been tagged by the UNESCO and it is one of the sites that is protected due to its culture.
Otrobanda (literally means other side) is the newer district of Willemstad. In there you will be able to see the cruise pier, the fort (which is now a mall) and lastly, you will be able to see the other side of Willemstad which is called Punda (where all the nightclubs and bars are).
Now Punda should be on your list too
You cannot leave Curacao unless you visited the Punda side of the town. There you will realize how the Kingdom of the Netherlands have influenced (in a good way) the way people live in Curacao.
From colored houses that look as if they belong to a street in Amsterdam, to the architecture in all buildings, Punda offers you a perfect combination of the town. On one hand you have this historical site that is not to be missed, and, on the other hand you have this cool and hip part of town where all tourists gather.
You should also have your camera ready at all times as this area is filled with famous people who visit the island. Also, there are always moments that are worth a photograph, with the colorful backgrounds of the area and the street art you will no doubt find.
More culture, more adventures
If you are looking forward to doing some other activities that don’t involve a trip to the beach, getting wet or getting sand all over your body, then may I suggest you visit the Savonet Museum? There you will delve into Curacao’s history.
What’s more, (and to me what is truly fascinating about this place) is that the Museum is found in the Christoffel National Park, so if you want to know more about the island’s history, then you will have to climb to the summit and in there you will discover how the jungle looks like from that part of the world, while also learning history.
Would you like to know another interesting fact about this Museum? It has been located in a restored plantation building, and I think this is the only Museum in the world where the background history of its buildings goes back to a land of plantation.
Whether you are wondering about how the Arawak Indians lived a long time ago, or if you are looking forward to visiting this high side of the Caribbean island, Curacao’s Museum will definitely steal your heart!
See the sea turtles
Who doesn’t love sea turtles? It is fair to say that they are beautiful sea creatures that you will be able to find in the Shete Boka National Park. And even though this park is not as famous as the Christoffel reserve, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity of visiting this place either.
This part of Curacao’s island is most famous for the turtle nesting hotspot. This is why I kindly ask you to be very careful when you go, as you need to follow the instructions of those who guard this park in order to avoid hurting the turtles or the eggs.
Want to swim with wildlife? Go snorkeling! You can find out if activities are expensive in Curacao by reading this article.
And lastly
There are, of course, many more things to do on this island. So if you discover any other options and would like to share them, leave a message on this thread or send me an email. I’m happy to discover new places as well, but I’m happier when I share those areas for everybody to enjoy!
Have a great trip!
