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Planning your Curaçao itinerary and looking for some unforgettable activities? Look no further!
With colorful colonial architecture, turquoise waters, and vibrant wildlife, Curaçao is a Caribbean paradise like no other. As someone who’s explored the island many times, I’ve experienced the best activities firsthand. From swimming with sea turtles at Playa Piskado to crafting cocktails at a local distillery, I’ve done it all!
Now I’m sharing the absolute must-do experiences to help you plan the ultimate trip. Whether you’re into beach-hopping or ATV off-roading, there’s something on this list for everyone. These 10 experiences highlight the very best of Curaçao, offering adventure, relaxation, and memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we love the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Curacao was this catamaran cruise to Klein Curaçao. It was so fun exploring this pristine island, snorkeling with turtles, and feasting on a beachside BBQ lunch. This day was pure paradise!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Curacao
- 1. Take a catamaran cruise to Klein Curacao (Curacao’s best beach!)
- 2. Visit Shete Boca National Park and Cas Abao Beach
- 3. Dip your toes into scuba diving on a discovery dive
- 4. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
- 5. See the entire island on a private customizable tour
- 6. Explore the Hato Caves and snorkel with turtles
- 7. Go beneath the surface on an Aquafari Adventure
- 8. Taste authentic Caribbean food
- 9. Wander the colorful streets of Willemstad with a local
- 10. Tour the Curacao Distillery and learn how to make cocktails
- Where to Stay in Curacao
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Curacao
1. Take a catamaran cruise to Klein Curacao (Curacao’s best beach!)
- Price: $120 USD
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Sail to the stunning uninhabited island Klein Curaçao on a luxury catamaran, snorkel around the reef, enjoy BBQ lunch on the beach and unlimited included alcoholic beverages
- Inclusions: BBQ lunch, open bar/alcoholic beverages, breakfast, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Curacao itself is gorgeous, but did you know that just off its coast lies another pristine island? That’s right, this uninhabited slice of paradise is called Klein Curaçao (aka “Little Curaçao”), and the best way to visit is on this full-day sailing adventure!
The excursion begins with a catamaran cruise across the turquoise sea. If you’re prone to seasickness, I highly recommend packing some motion sickness meds because the ride can get a bit choppy.
Once you’re on the island, it’s pure paradise. The sand is so white it’s almost blinding, and the water is every shade of blue you can imagine. Snorkeling here is a must, I even saw a sea turtle! If you’re up for a walk, you can check out the old lighthouse and a shipwreck that makes for epic photo ops.
Just when you think it can’t get any better, you’ll be served a delicious BBQ lunch right on the beach complete with open-bar beverages. The crew was top-notch and made sure I had a drink in my hand the whole day.
What I love most about this tour is that you get to decide how active or relaxing you want it to be. You can spend your whole day on the beach, or swimming in the water – the choice is up to you! But whichever type of traveler you are, believe me when I say, this is an island experience you won’t want to miss – just look at the hundreds of 5-star reviews here!
Book this tour with over 600 5-star reviews here, before spots fill up!
2. Visit Shete Boca National Park and Cas Abao Beach
- Price: $109 USD
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Explore Shete Boca National Park in a 4×4 open-air safari vehicle, stop to snorkel at 3 different locations, have the chance to swim with sea turtles at Playa Piskado
- Inclusions: Hotel/port pickup/drop off, professional driver/guide, snorkel equipment
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Looking for a day filled with adventure, wildlife, and beach time? Then this beach safari tour is a must! We did it on our last trip to Curacao and can’t recommend it enough. It’s packed with off-road thrills, epic views, and the chance to swim with sea turtles – how cool is that!
The adventure starts with a 4×4 ride in an open-air safari jeep across Curaçao’s rugged terrain to Shete Boca National Park. Here, we visited many off-the-beaten-path spots including a stunning cave and a powerful blowhole.
Then it’s off to Playa Piskado to snorkel with sea turtles (yep, you heard that right!). I swam right next to one for a few minutes – it was unforgettable!
After that, we stopped by Knip Beach for photos before heading to Cas Abao Beach. Here you can soak up the sun on a beach bed, have a bite to eat, or swim in the crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring!
But what truly made our experience so special was our guide, George. He was full of stories and knew all the best-hidden spots. Plus, he made sure everyone was comfortable and having a blast the entire time.
We think this tour is perfect for those who want a mix of off-road thrills, underwater magic, and a beach break all in one day. It’s the perfect combination that really gives you a feel for Curacao’s natural beauty!
Reserve this tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
3. Dip your toes into scuba diving on a discovery dive
- Price: $125 USD
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Learn the basics of scuba with a certified guide, dive in the ocean up to 40 feet (12 meters), see a shipwreck and a variety of marine life
- Inclusions: Local certified guide, scuba equipment, pick up for cruise passengers only
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the 800+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’ve ever been curious about trying scuba diving, this discovery dive is your chance!
Unlike many other discovery dives I’ve come across in my travels, this is one of the best because it includes a few hours of theory before you take to the water. This ensures you are well prepared and know all the safety measures before diving into the deep end (literally!).
The certified instructors are fantastic – knowledgeable, patient, and fun. They ensure you’re comfortable every step of the way, making it ideal for beginners or those needing a refresher. The small group sizes mean you get personalized attention, enhancing both safety and enjoyment.
After practicing in the shallow water, you’ll head out into the ocean to explore at depths up to 40 feet (12 meters). Swimming alongside schools of colorful fish is such a surreal experience, but the highlight has to be seeing the infamous tugboat shipwreck! This wreck is teeming with vibrant marine life, and the clear waters offer excellent visibility of the coral-covered boat.
All equipment is provided, so you only need to bring your sense of adventure. Whether you’re a newbie or brushing up on your skills, this course offers a safe, exciting introduction to the underwater world of Curaçao. It’s a must-do for anyone looking to “dive” into something new – I mean, just look at all of these amazing reviews!
Secure your spot on this popular discovery dive here before it sells out!
4. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
- Price: $118 USD
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 8 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore Curacao on an ATV, visit an Aloe Vera Farm and Ostrich Farm, visit local hidden gems that cars can’t reach
- Inclusions: Professional guide, ATV, helmet, light refreshments
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 360+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Attention adventure lovers! If you’re looking for an adrenaline-packed way to explore the island, you have to go on this half-day ATV tour. We did it the first time we were in Curacao and it was the highlight of our trip!
This experience takes you off-road to discover Curaçao’s hidden gems and is perfect for both first-timers and experienced riders. The adventure starts with a 15-minute practice session to get comfortable with the ATV before taking off. Helmets are provided, but we recommend bringing your own goggles and face coverings if you can, if not there are some available for purchase on-site.
Once the ride begins, it’s nonstop fun! Our guide was friendly, patient, and packed with local knowledge, sharing fun facts about Curaçao’s culture and history. We zipped through desert landscapes, past caves, and up mountains with jaw-dropping ocean views – I could even see Bonaire from the top!
Along the way, we stopped at an Ostrich Farm and Aloe Farm, two unique experiences that added a fun twist to the ride. We also cruised through local communities, each with its own unique charm.
The best part? We accessed spots cars can’t reach! We were the only ones at many of the stops we made, which made the experience even more special. If you’re visiting Curaçao, You have to make sure this tour is at the top of your to-do list! If you need any more convincing, have a look at the 300+ 5-star reviews here!
Check availability and book your spot on this popular ATV adventure here!
5. See the entire island on a private customizable tour
- Price: $250 USD
- Duration: 4 to 8 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Explore the island with a private driver and guide, customize the schedule to your liking, choose to visit national parks, go shopping, or go beach hopping
- Inclusions: Private local guide, private transportation, bottled water, snorkeling equipment, pick up and drop off from your hotel or cruise port
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re looking to explore Curaçao on your own terms, this private island tour is the way to do it! We booked this tour the last time we were in Curaçao and it was a game-changer, allowing us to tailor the day to our interests and pace (and skip the crowds of other tourists!)
The beauty of this tour is its flexibility. Whether you’re into beach hopping, snorkeling, exploring national parks like Shete Boca and Christoffel, shopping for souvenirs, or even tasting the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, you get to decide the itinerary.
Our guide, Anita, was fantastic – knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. She provided insights into the island’s history and culture, making each stop more meaningful. Plus, with hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off included, the day was hassle-free.
Our guide even provided snorkel equipment for us, so we didn’t have to worry about bringing any along. We just got to sit back and enjoy the ride (and gorgeous scenery!).
This tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to see more of the island. It’s a day tailored just for you, making your time in Curaçao truly unforgettable!
Reserve your private tour here and receive FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Explore the Hato Caves and snorkel with turtles
- Price: $85 USD
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Explore the Hato Caves and learn about their history from your guide, go snorkeling with sea turtles, relax at Playa Kalki Beach, witness flamingos in their natural habitat
- Inclusions: Pick up and drop off from your hotel or cruise port, local guide, bottled water & snack, entrance fees, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check out the great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re a nature lover like me, you’ve got to add this island nature tour to your Curaçao itinerary! It’s a full day of natural wonders, stunning beaches, and wildlife encounters (did somebody say turtles and flamingos?!).
The adventure kicks off with a visit to the Hato Caves. Our guide led us through a maze of limestone formations, stalactites, and stalagmites, sharing fascinating stories about the caves’ history. Plus, the cool air inside was a welcome break from the island’s heat!
Next, we made our way to Playa Piskado, also known as Turtle Beach. With snorkel gear provided, we dove right in, watching these gentle creatures glide gracefully through the water – it was definitely a bucket-list moment!
From there, it was off to Playa Kalki, one of Curaçao’s most stunning beaches. The clear turquoise water and soft white sand made it the perfect spot to kick back and relax. And just when we thought the day was over, we spotted wild flamingos from the bus – it was the perfect end to an already amazing day!
Throughout the journey, our guide was informative and attentive, sharing fascinating insights about Curaçao’s history and ecology. Ad with hotel pickup and drop-off included, the whole day was seamless and stress-free.
If you’re looking for a tour that combines caves, wildlife, beaches, and unbeatable views, this one’s got it all. We had a blast exploring Curaçao’s most treasured natural spots, and we’re sure you will too!
Check availability and reserve your spot here!
7. Go beneath the surface on an Aquafari Adventure
- Price: $159 USD
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm
- Highlights: Explore Curaçao’s underwater world using an underwater breathable helmet, and ride on a jet-propelled scooter to observe a variety of marine life species
- Inclusions: Professional guide, necessary equipment, lockers
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 700+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Ever dreamed of exploring Curaçao’s underwater world without the hassle of scuba gear? This Aquafari underwater scooter tour makes it possible!
The adventure begins at Boca Sami Beach, where the friendly Aquafari team provides a 30-minute briefing on operating the underwater scooters and essential safety tips. Don’t worry if you have no prior diving experience either, these self-propelled submersible scooters are designed for easy use by everyone – you’ll be breathing underwater in no time!
Once briefed, we geared up and descended into the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Guided by professional divers, we effortlessly glided alongside vibrant marine life, including tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles. The sensation of breathing underwater in a full-face oxygen helmet while riding the scooter was both surreal and exhilarating.
The tour lasts about 45 minutes, giving ample time to marvel at Curaçao’s stunning underwater landscapes. Lockers are available for personal belongings, and while wetsuits aren’t required, it’s recommended to bring a swimsuit and towel.
This unique experience is perfect for those seeking underwater adventure without the complexities of traditional diving. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a complete novice, the Aquafari tour offers a memorable and accessible way to explore Curaçao’s marine beauty. We aren’t the only ones who enjoyed it either – have a look at all of these incredible 5-star reviews!
Reserve this popular tour now and pay later when you book in advance here!
8. Taste authentic Caribbean food
- Price: $150 USD
- Duration: 3.5 hours
- Time: 6:30 – 11 pm (confirm start time with tour provider)
- Highlights: Indulge in a delicious 3-course meal using French cooking techniques to combine Caribbean flavors, and take in the sights of Willemstad on a night tour
- Inclusions: 3-course meal, bread and butter, a tour of Willemstad at night
- Rating: 5 stars (check out the great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re a foodie, or simply enjoy fine dining, you can’t miss out on this gourmet 3-course dining experience and night tour! To this day, it’s one of the most memorable nights we’ve had on the island.
The evening begins at the elegant ZOH Restaurant in the heart of Willemstad. The atmosphere is chic and welcoming, so dress to impress! The culinary journey kicks off with an amuse-bouche (bite-sized appetizer) and warm bread served with delicious butter.
Then, the main event: a 3-course menu that blends classic French cooking techniques with bold Caribbean flavors. Each dish was amazing – the taste and presentation were like masterpieces!
After dinner, the night continues with a guided tour of Willemstad’s illuminated streets. The city’s colorful colonial architecture takes on a magical glow after dark, making for incredible photo ops. Your guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s history and culture as you stroll.
With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a stress-free night from start to finish. If you’re after a blend of fine dining and cultural discovery, this tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Curaçao’s culinary and architectural beauty in one!
Book this tour here and access FREE cancellation before you go!
9. Wander the colorful streets of Willemstad with a local
- Price: $60 USD
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Explore Curaçao’s historic city center, visit beautiful vistas, enjoy a short beach break, spot flamingos in the wild, go liqueur tasting at Landhuis Chobolobo
- Inclusions: Guide, bottled water, entrance fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check out the 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
If you’re short on time but still want to see the highlights of Curaçao, this 4-hour Curaçao sightseeing tour is the experience for you!
The tour kicks off with a scenic drive through Willemstad’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our guide led us through the colorful Otrobanda alleys, showcasing artistic murals and iconic colonial architecture.
We also visited Landhuis Chobolobo, the home of the famous Blue Curaçao Liqueur. Here, we learned about the distillation process and got to taste the world-famous liqueur ourselves – it’s absolutely delicious!
The adventure continued with a drive to a viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the city and harbor. Our guide’s insights into Curaçao’s history made the experience even more memorable!
My favorite part of the day was a surprise stop at a flamingo habitat where we spotted wild flamingos in their natural setting before wrapping up the day at a beautiful beach to relax.
This tour is perfect for cruise passengers as it picks you up right from the pier and allows you to see Curaçao’s top landmarks in just a few hours. Plus, it’s only $60 USD per person, making it one of the most affordable options on this list!
Don’t miss out on this fantastic tour – book your spot here.
10. Tour the Curacao Distillery and learn how to make cocktails
- Price: $48 USD
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 2 pm
- Highlights: Tour the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery and learn about Blue Curaçao, enjoy a tasting, and learn how to make delicious tropical cocktails
- Inclusions: Guide, Liqueur tastings, 1 welcome cocktail, 2 cocktails during cocktail workshop
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check out the 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
Mix, shake, and sip your way through one of the most flavorful experiences in Curaçao! This distillery tour and cocktail workshop is the perfect way to spend happy hour – in fact, we still make these cocktails to this day!
The experience begins at the famous Curaçao Liqueur Distillery in Willemstad. Here, you’ll dive into the fascinating backstory of the iconic Blue Curaçao liqueur. Spoiler alert: it’s all thanks to the local laraha orange, a fruit that’s native only to Curaçao. Walking through the distillery, you’ll get an up-close look at the traditional distillation process that’s been used since 1896.
Once you’ve soaked up some knowledge, it’s time to put your bartending skills to the test! The cocktail workshop is hands-on, fun, and surprisingly easy to follow. With guidance from a local pro, you’ll mix and shake two tropical cocktails using the world-famous Blue Curaçao (and then drink them of course!).
Along the way, you’ll sample other liqueurs and enjoy a welcome cocktail to kick things off. It’s a small-group setting, so there’s plenty of one-on-one attention. If you’re a cocktail lover or just want a unique island experience, this workshop is a guaranteed hit!
Check availability and book this fun cocktail workshop here before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Curacao
Now that you have a list of the top things to do in Curacao, you need somewhere comfortable to stay! The best area to stay in is in the heart of Willemstad as it’s easy to access the best activities. Here are three hotel recommendations for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay:
Luxury – $$$
Nothing says luxury quite like an all inclusive resort, so the Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao is my top choice for a premium stay! The rooms are as classy as you’d expect, offering a range of king rooms, some with ocean views. The amenities are the real cherry on top with a private beach, water park, four swimming pools, eight restaurants, and so much more.
Prices vary by room choice and season, but start at $300 USD per night. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Courtyard by Marriott Curacao is a lovely stay for a moderate price point. Located in the heart of Willemstad, you can reach the best beaches and attractions quickly. The rooms are modern and upscale, just as you could expect from a Marriott hotel, and you can get poolside rooms, those with a sea view, or something more budget friendly.
Rooms start around $160 USD and can be booked on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Bed & Bike Curacao is a fun and comfortable stay for budget conscious travelers. This one is also located in Willemstad, and as the name would suggest, they offer bike rentals to easily access the city. You can book a shared dorm room or a private room, some even have private balconies. Private rooms start at $40 USD and dorms start at $24 USD per night.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Curacao is truly a bucket list destination and everything I’d hoped it’d be for an island getaway! We had so much fun snorkeling in the blue water, riding ATVs, exploring the colorful city, and eating amazing food. Even if you only check off a few items on this list, I know you’ll have a fantastic time!
Thanks for reading our blog! If you found this guide helpful, be sure to check out our other travel guides. We’ve been all over the world and love sharing our favorite places and experiences. Here are a few related blogs to help you plan your next adventure.