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Home >> Travel >> Caribbean >> Curacao: See, Do, Stay & Eat

Curacao: See, Do, Stay & Eat

Published: Feb 4, 2015 · Modified: Dec 3, 2020 by Stefanie Fauquet · This post may contain affiliate links · 7 Comments

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I was chatting with a friend the other day about favorite beach destinations and one of my top picks was Curacao. The look on her face, which was of confusion, told me all that I needed to know.

Unless you frequent the Caribbean islands, have taken a cruise, or are an avid diver, you might not have even heard of the southern Caribbean island of Curacao.

guide to curacao see do stay eat

Curacao is part of the Dutch Caribbean, which means you’ll find a mix of European charm with a tropical island feel. Adding even more to the appeal, Curacao is located beneath the hurricane belt, so it’s bright & sunny all year long.

I've visited the island twice now and I’m still yearning to return. I think what makes Curacao different than other beach destinations is its unique terrain. On one side you have gorgeous beaches with crystal–clear water, and on the other, you have an almost desert-like landscape with cacti and rocky cliffs.

curacao cactus

It’s really an amazing place to explore with a wide range of activities for the whole family. Here are some of my recommendations on what to see, do and eat in Curacao, along with one of the best places to stay in Curacao.

What to See in Curacao

To really experience Curacao you need to see both the East and West sides of the island. Yellow Tours offers a complete island tour with multiple stops to see some of Curacao's most natural and beautiful landscapes.

curacaorainbow

curacao desert

If you can curate your own sightseeing tour, request stops at Shete Boka National Park (Boka Tabla) and Christoffelpark (you can even hike the mountain!).

For additional sightseeing, you really can't miss a historical walking tour in the Otrobanda district of Willemstad with architect Anko van der Woude. Anko was born on the island and has lived here all his life with the exception of attending university in the Netherlands. His knowledge of the area is unsurpassed, and his passion can be seen in each building he has helped restore as part of a restoration project which now lists the historic area as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

historic curacao

Otrobanda district

Best Beach in Curacao

Knip Beach is where the locals go, and it's no wonder after you take a look at this place. There aren't many facilities on-site, so you'll want to pack everything you need for your day at the beach. Even a half-day in this paradise is worth the trip to Curacao.

knip curacao

knip beach snorkeling

What to Do in Curacao

The water surrounding the island is simply gorgeous. Snorkeling and diving (if you're certified) are a must when visiting Curacao. I can recommend Caribbean Sea Sports for half- and full-day trips. I went on a 2 1/2 hour snorkel adventure with 2 stops and saw beautiful tropical fish, coral reefs, and even a small sunken ship.

snorkeling curacao

If you're traveling with children of any age, a visit to the Curacao Seaquarium with optional animal encounter is a must-do! I was able to experience the snorkel encounter (ages 8 and up) with a feeding of stingrays, sea turtles and sharks! The interactive session is completely safe, and with the exception, the stingrays, feeding sections are separated by glass walls with feeding holes.

curacao animal encounter

feeding sharks

Where to Stay in Curacao

For a relaxing retreat that's suitable for families, couples or even groups traveling to Curacao, the Curacao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino is an excellent option. The resort features its own private beach with easy access to an on-site dive shop for snorkeling & group dives. Additional amenities include an infinity-like pool with ocean views, activities for children, multiple restaurants, spa, and casino.

curacao marriott

Where to Eat in Curacao

For a good meal with a view, dine at Restaurant & Café Gouverneur de Rouville at the Otrabanda Waterfront. Besides serving delicious international cuisine, the bar offers one of the best mojitos I've ever had. At night, the waterfront district comes alive with colorful lights on the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge.

Gouverneur de Rouville

Gouverneur de Rouville mojito

For a taste of the local fare, make your way to Plasa Bieu (Old Market) in Punda, Willemstad for lunch. Multiple vendors offer their own variety of local dishes which are ordered, paid for, and then brought to a shared table. Only cash is accepted, so be prepared before you order. I enjoyed a local whole fried fish with plantains and it was one of, if not the best, meal I had on the island.

plasa bieu

plasa bieu curacao

What Not to Eat in Curacao

Cactus soup. Just trust me on this one ... Or maybe do try it if you're very adventurous — It's an experience!

cactus soup curacao

What activities would you like to do in Curacao?

Special thanks to Marriott for hosting my stay in Curacao. All opinions are my own.

« Life Hacks for Busy Moms
Activities for Kids in Curacao »
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. jbutler

    March 07, 2015 at 12:22 am

    Thank you for sharing! My husband and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary in Curacao this past October and fell in love with the island. We will be returning this fall! There really is no place like Curacao. Before we traveled, we had similar experiences with people not knowing or hearing of the island. (Kind of glad because it is a well kept secret, and less traveled) 🙂
    Did you ever eat at the restaurant inside the fort? I cannot remember its name, but the food was delicious. Infact, we ate there twice. So I am even more frustrated that I cannot remember the name of the restaurant.

    Reply
  2. AM

    September 02, 2015 at 6:53 pm

    Very helpful. Thanks

    Reply
  3. Ela

    June 02, 2016 at 5:33 am

    Hi! Thanks for the post. A question since it will be my first time travelling to curacao. Is it the marriot too far from malls and citylife? I know u posted long time ago bit hope to hear from u. Blessings!

    Reply
  4. Eric

    July 26, 2019 at 7:39 am

    Cactus soup is horrible! Never again. We tried it at the old market by the bus station.

    Reply
    • Stefanie Fauquet

      July 26, 2019 at 3:58 pm

      To this day it's still the worst thing I've ever ate!

      Reply
  5. Diana M Albano

    August 28, 2019 at 1:56 pm

    Hi! I am so glad I came across your blog. Loved the info. We will visiting this Sat. 8/31 and staying for 7 days! We are celebrating our 5 year Anniversary/Honeymoon we never took.
    I am planning to use all your handy advice! Thank you! Thank you!

    Diana M Albano

    Reply
  6. Danielle Provencher

    October 28, 2019 at 4:59 pm

    Hi there! Thank you so much for the wonderful comprehensive list on what to do. My boyfriend and I have planned a trip to go this December and we will definitely be taking on your recommendations. Thanks again!

    Reply

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