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Best Things to Do in Curaçao (2026 Guide)

  • Writer: Marko S.
    Marko S.
  • Dec 8
  • 2 min read

Best Things to Do in Curaçao

Discover beaches, wildlife, caves, boat trips, and the island’s hidden gems.


Why Curaçao Is One of the Caribbean’s Top Destinations

Curaçao is famous for its crystal-clear water, colorful capital, world-class snorkeling, and unique landscapes. From wild off-road adventures to private yacht cruises, the island offers something for every traveler.


This guide highlights the most-searched activities in Curaçao — what visitors look for the most before traveling.


1. Visit Klein Curaçao (Most Popular Day Trip)

Klein Curaçao is the island’s most famous attraction: a tiny uninhabited paradise with white sand, turquoise water, turtles, a lighthouse, and shipwrecks.


Why people love it:

  • Unreal shallow lagoon

  • Frequent sea turtle sightings

  • One of the best beaches in the Caribbean

  • Perfect for families and groups


Best way to go: Private yacht charter with shade, drinks, and snorkel gear.


2. Swim with Sea Turtles in Playa Grandi / Westpunt

One of Curaçao’s signature experiences. Turtles swim close to shore and are easy to see in shallow water.


Tips:

  • Visit early morning

  • Bring snorkel gear

  • Keep distance and don’t touch turtles



3. Take a Private Yacht Cruise

A private yacht gives you comfort, shade, drinks, and access to quiet bays, snorkel spots, and Fuik Bay.


Popular options:

  • Half-day charter

  • Sunset cruise

  • Snorkel trip

  • Fuik Bay day trip



4. Explore Curaçao’s Best Beaches

Curaçao’s west side has some of the Caribbean’s most beautiful beaches.

Top beaches:

  • Grote Knip

  • Klein Knip

  • Playa Piskado (turtles)

  • Cas Abao

  • Porto Mari



5. Go on a Buggy / UTV Off-Road Adventure

The north side of Curaçao is rugged and perfect for off-road exploration. A UTV or buggy tour is the best way to reach its hidden natural spots.

You’ll see:

  • St. Joris Bay

  • Natural Bridge

  • Hidden caves

  • North shore blowhole

  • Desert cactus plains



6. Visit Hato Caves

Curaçao’s oldest geological attraction — filled with stalactites, limestone chambers, and ancient drawings.



7. Explore Willemstad (UNESCO Capital)

Curaçao’s colorful capital is perfect for a half-day visit.

Highlights:

  • Handelskade

  • Floating Bridge

  • Pietermaai nightlife

  • Local markets



8. Snorkeling Around Curaçao

Curaçao is a snorkel paradise with clear, calm water.


Best spots:

  • Tugboat

  • Playa Lagun

  • Klein Curaçao

  • Director’s Bay

  • Playa Grandi (turtles)



9. Watch a Caribbean Sunset

Curaçao sunsets are unforgettable — especially from the water.


Best sunset spots:

  • Private yacht cruise

  • Jan Thiel Beach

  • Cas Abao

  • Westpunt cliffs



Frequently Asked Questions

What is Curaçao known for?

Beaches, snorkeling, Klein Curaçao, turtles, colorful architecture, and calm weather.


Is Curaçao family-friendly?

Yes — safe beaches, easy snorkeling, and plenty of excursions for all ages.


Do I need a rental car?

Highly recommended for beaches and Westpunt.


When is the best time to visit?

Year-round. Curaçao is outside the hurricane belt.


What’s the most popular activity?

Klein Curaçao and turtle snorkeling.


Ready for Your Curaçao Adventure?

Explore the island’s top tours — from private yacht charters to off-road buggy experiences.

 
 
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