Curaçao Itinerary Highlights: Must-See and Must-Do!

Part of the ABC islands, Curaçao continues to rise in popularity for vacationers looking for not just glorious days at the seaside, but unique island experiences. This island is in the Caribbean Sea, right off the coast of Venezuela. Curaçao is a multicultural society which is reflected in its languages, with Papiamentu, Dutch, English, and Spanish all widely spoken on the island.

Ahead of your visit, you might be trying to figure out how to craft a Curaçao 4, 5, 7 or even 10 day vacation itinerary. Or maybe you’re more focused on what to do in Curaçao for a week. And that’s precisely where we come in. The key is to keep things as simple as possible. Avoid filling your days with too many activities, and ensure that you’ve got the perfect launch pad, like one of the island’s beachside all-inclusive resorts, to take it all in.

To help you get your vacation planning together, let’s dive into our Curaçao Itinerary guide. We’ve included insight on the best time to visit, must-see attractions, unique restaurants, lively nightlife and more!

Picture: The views from the beachside Sandals Royal Curaçao are truly captivating!

Good to know: In 2023, Curaçao welcomed over 500,000 visitors, marking a significant increase from previous years.

Table of Contents

Crafting Your Curacao Itinerary
Ideal Duration and Best Time to Visit
Transportation and Accommodation
Must-Visit Attractions and Activities
Beaches and Water Activities
Cultural and Historical Sites
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
Culinary Experiences and Nightlife
Local Cuisine and Dining Options
Nightlife and Entertainment
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Learnings Recap

Crafting your Curacao Itinerary

Ahead of your Curaçao vacation, deciding where to stay, for how long, and the bet time to go are crucial. Give some thought to weather patterns (more on this later), travel seasons, and local events. While planning, keep in mind that the duration of your trip matters. A few days can be a good window to get a taste of the island, while a week-long stay can allow enough time to explore major highlights while still leaving room for relaxation. Below, we’ve included suggestions for 4, 5, 7 and 10 day Curaçao vacation itineraries to help get you started.

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4-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival + Resort Exploration

Afternoon: Check into your resort and explore the amenities.

Evening: Stroll along the beach and catch your first Caribbean sunset before settling in for dinner at one of the resort restaurants.

Day 2: Shete Boka National Park

Morning: Venture out to Shete Boka National Park to see Curaçao’s rugged coastline, including dramatic caves and blowholes.

Afternoon: Return to the resort for a relaxing poolside lunch and cocktails.

Evening: Enjoy a romantic evening with dining under the stars at the resort’s beachfront restaurant.

Day 3: Klein Curaçao Excursion

Morning: Take a catamaran tour to Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island with gorgeous beaches and opportunities for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Afternoon: Settle in for a relaxing spa treatment or sunset lounging poolside.

Evening: Unwind with a lively themed dinner night or live entertainment at the resort.

Day 4: Resort Downtime + Departure

Morning: Savor your last hours in the islands with a leisurely breakfast and one final dip in the pool.

Pack and prepare for departure.

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5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival + Resort Exploration

Afternoon: Settle into your suite and take in the ocean views.

Evening: Enjoy a welcome cocktail and dining at a resort restaurant of your choice.

Day 2: Willemstad Exploration

Morning: Head into Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage city, and explore the colorful Handelskade waterfront, Queen Emma Bridge, and local shops.

Afternoon: Return to the resort for lunch and a relaxing afternoon by the pool or private beach.

Evening: Experience Curaçao-inspired cuisine at the resort’s open-air restaurant.

Day 3: Shete Boka National Park + Playa Kenepa Grandi

Morning: Take a trip to Shete Boka National Park to marvel at its unique coastal landscapes.

Afternoon: Stop at Playa Kenepa Grandi, one of Curaçao’s most popular beaches, for snorkeling or sunbathing.

Evening: Return to your resort for a casual beachfront dinner and live music.

Day 4: Klein Curaçao Excursion

Morning: Embark on a Klein Curaçao catamaran tour to snorkel with sea turtles and relax on the pristine beach.

Afternoon: Return to the resort for downtime at the spa or pool.

Evening: Celebrate your last night with a special private dinner experience arranged by the resort.

Day 5: Resort Downtime + Departure

Morning: Take a final stroll along the resort’s private beach and enjoy breakfast on your terrace.

Pack and prepare for your flight home.

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7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival + Resort Exploration

Afternoon: Check into your all-inclusive resort and enjoy a welcome drink as you settle into your suite.

Evening: Begin your vacation with a dinner featuring Curaçao’s local flavors at one of the resort’s top restaurants.

Day 2: Relax at the Resort

Picture: Double infinity pool at Sandals Royal Curaçao.

Morning: Unwind with a leisurely breakfast and spend the day exploring the resort’s pools, beach, and water activities.

Evening: Watch the sunset while sipping cocktails poolside.

Day 3: Shete Boka National Park + Playa Kenepa Grandi

Morning: Explore the rugged beauty of **Shete Boka National **Park.

Afternoon: Stop by Playa Kenepa Grandi for snorkeling or relaxation before heading back to the resort.

Evening: Enjoy a casual Caribbean-inspired dinner at the resort.

Day 4: Willemstad Exploration + Local Dining

Morning: Spend the day exploring Willemstad’s vibrant streets, including a floating market, museums, and the iconic Punda district.

Afternoon: Try local Curaçao cuisine at a recommended restaurant.

Evening: Return to the resort for an evening of entertainment and cocktails.

Day 5: Klein Curaçao Excursion

Morning: Take a catamaran to Klein Curaçao for a day of swimming, snorkeling, and beachside relaxation.

Afternoon: Return to the resort for spa treatments or lounging by the pool.

Evening: Indulge in an elegant dining experience at the resort.

Day 6: Cas Abao Beach + Resort Fun

Morning: Visit Cas Abao Beach, known for its turquoise waters and vibrant marine life.

Afternoon: Spend your last full day relaxing at the resort, trying out water sports or enjoying a couples’ massage.

Evening: Celebrate your final night with a romantic private dinner arranged by the resort.

Day 7: Resort Downtime + Departure

Morning: Enjoy a final dip in the pool or ocean before breakfast.

Pack and prepare for your departure, taking the last moments to soak in the Curaçao sunshine.

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10-Day Curaçao Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival + Resort Exploration

Afternoon: Check into your resort, make your way to your suite and take in the stunning ocean views.

Evening: Enjoy your first evening with poolside cocktails then dinner.

Day 2: Resort Relaxation

Morning: Start your day with breakfast on your private balcony, followed by a swim at the resort pool.

Afternoon: Indulge in spa treatments or lounge by the beach with a good book.

Evening: Enjoy dinner out on the beachfront.

Day 3: Willemstad Exploration

Morning: Visit Willemstad’s historic Punda district to see the colorful Handelskade, Queen Emma Bridge, and floating market.

Afternoon: Stop at a local café for lunch and explore boutique shops and art galleries.

Evening: Return to your all-inclusive resort for a relaxed evening with live entertainment and dinner.

Day 4: Shete Boka National Park

Morning: Take a trip to Shete Boka National Park to witness dramatic coastal cliffs and blowholes.

Afternoon: Visit nearby Playa Kenepa Grandi for snorkeling and sunbathing.

Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at the resort with Caribbean-inspired flavors.

Day 5: Klein Curaçao Excursion

Morning to Afternoon: Embark on a boat trip to Klein Curaçao, where you can snorkel, swim, or explore the lighthouse on this pristine, uninhabited island.

Evening: Return to the resort and enjoy a private dining experience or a themed dinner night.

Day 6: Cas Abao Beach + Relaxation

Morning: Visit Cas Abao Beach, known for its turquoise waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Afternoon: Head back to the resort for poolside lounging or enjoy a couples' massage at the RedLane Spa.

Evening: Dine al fresco under the stars. Preferably, by candlelight.

Day 7: Blue Room Cave + Playa Lagun

Morning: Explore the Blue Room, a stunning underwater cave with mesmerizing blue hues.

Afternoon: Stop at Playa Lagun, a serene beach that’s great for spotting sea turtles and enjoying some downtime.

Evening: Return to the resort for a sunset dinner by the ocean.

Day 8: Black Bay or Flamingo Sanctuary

Morning: Take a guided hike to Black Bay to see unique black sand beaches and hidden caves. Or visit the Flamingo Sanctuary near Jan Kok to see vibrant flamingos in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: Get into a pool aerobics session at your resort.

Evening: Relax with cocktails and indulge in international cuisine for dinner.

Day 9: Resort Fun + Sunset Cruise

Morning: Spend your last full day enjoying the resort’s activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, or a cooking class.

Afternoon: Lounge by the infinity pool or take in the views from your suite.

Evening: End your day with a romantic sunset catamaran cruise arranged by the resort.

Day 10: Resort Downtime + Departure

Morning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the beach and take one last stroll along the shore.

Pack and prepare for departure, taking in the final moments of Curaçao’s beauty.

Good to know: Sometimes it’s better to plan watersports early on in your vacation, rather than leaving this for the last day. With many resorts, there’s a set schedule for things like dives, and with Sandals Resorts, the dive locations can vary based on the day.

Best Time to Visit Curacao

The best time to visit Curaçao is during peak season (December to mid-April). These months are best if you want to visit at a time when there’s lots going on, including Curaçao Carnival. This island’s annual carnival culminates in a big street parade in the month of March.

During peak season in Curaçao, you can explore popular attractions like the Ostrich Farm. This farm tour includes a thrilling safari ride and a chance to see baby ostriches. Plein Air Curaçao, a large-scale painting event open to the public, and Curaçao Culinair, one of the island’s largest food festivals, happen in April, during peak season. The allure of peak season has much to do with the incredible weather. And as you might expect, it’s a very busy time to fly to this island. We’ll explore more about peak season a little later on.

Weather Considerations

Weather considerations are important when it comes to booking an island getaway. It’s always best to travel with good weather in sight, but there are other things to consider too. Before confirming your vacation dates, let’s dive in a little deeper and explore what you can expect with Curaçao’s weather.

We’ll start with the temperatures. If there were one word to describe Curaçao’s temperatures, it would be consistent. This island is warm year-round. On average, you can expect things to be in the region of 78°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C). This island has a dry season from January to September and a rainy season from October to December. But, even in the rainy season, showers don’t usually last long. They’re typically localized as well. Overall, Curaçao just doesn’t have as much rainfall as other tropical destinations. This is much due to its arid climate. As for sea temperatures, these range from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F) throughout the year.

As for hurricanes, Curaçao is outside of the hurricane belt which makes it much less likely that these types of interruptions will affect your vacation. A very promising vacation forecast, if you ask us!

Peak vs. Off-Peak Seasons

Peak season is the most popular time to travel to Curaçao. This time of year is best for vacations with lots of beach time and diving. Tours, excursions and activities are readily available too. As peak season is such an incredible time to visit this island, especially for travelers who want to escape colder temperatures, it can be more costly to travel during this time. The good news? You can work around this if you book your vacation early.

The next best time to vacation in Curaçao is during the low season (September to early November). During this time, the island is quieter with less crowds at popular attractions. This can be a good time to visit Curaçao for a low-key tropical escape. Low season can come with accommodation and flight deals, so this is something that you can look out for ahead of your trip.

Then there’s shoulder season. This is another off-peak option for traveling to Curaçao. The shoulder season (May to November) offers the best of both worlds: pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better deals. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind the occasional rain shower, consider visiting during the off-peak months.

Getting Around Curacao

Ahead of touching down in Curaçao there’s a few things you’ll need to figure out. This includes transportation arrangements for getting around the island. As with trips to other destinations, this largely depends on your budget, travel style and where you’ll be staying. The good thing about this island is that the road network is well maintained, and most major attractions are accessible by car. This leaves many options open to get around, including by bus, taxi, or with a car rental.

Some visitors prefer to rely on public transportation to get around. If you choose to explore this route, this will involve making your way around the island on the public bus system known as “Konvoi”. This system connects major towns and visitor areas. Other travelers prefer the car rental option which can be convenient. If you don’t want to drive, taxis are also an option. It all depends on the attractions you plan on visiting during your vacation.

Rental Car vs. Public Transportation

The are a few important considerations when comparing the car rental option with public transportation in Curaçao. Rental cars are best for flexibility and convenience but can cost more. This can be a worthwhile option if you’ve got off-the-beaten-path excursions (remote beaches and visits to the countryside) on your Curaçao itinerary. With last-minute itinerary changes, this type of flexibility comes in handy. Most major car rental companies operate in Curaçao.

Public transportation can be convenient for short stops, particularly when exploring areas around the city (Willemstad). Buses are a more budget-friendly option for getting around. If you want a guided excursion as you make your way around the island, tour operators and taxis are the best option.

Good to know: If you plan on taking out a rental in Curaçao, keep in mind that driving is on the right side of the road.

Where to Stay in Curaçao

Picture: Sandals Royal Curaçao's Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows.

The possibilities are far reaching in Curaçao when it comes to accommodation. You can choose from boutique hotels and vacation rentals to hotels and all-inclusive resorts. It all depends on your budget and preferences. Many visitors choose to stay at all-inclusive resorts like Sandals Royal Curaçao, where most of your vacation essentials are included with your package. This includes accommodation, dining, entertainment, land and water sports, and more. With 8 restaurants, 13 bars, 3 diverse food trucks and several pools including a double infinity pool, the beachfront Sandals Royal Curaçao continues to skyrocket in popularity.

Expert Tip: Staying at an all-inclusive resort in Curaçao is a good option if you’re looking for convenience, lots of different amenities all in one place, and beachfront views. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the best attractions in Curaçao!

Must-Visit Attractions and Activities

Though Curaçao is just about 171 square miles, the list of offerings on this island is extensive. On these shores, you’ll find everything from radiant beaches to world-class dive sites and cultural and historical attractions. For an itinerary that embraces the island’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, here’s a few locations you can include on your itinerary:

Best Beaches in Curacao

There are over 35 beaches in Curaçao, and you might want to add a few of these to your Curaçao itinerary. The beaches on this island range from secluded coves to options with lively beach clubs. With clear water and diverse marine life, there’s lots you can get up to on your beach day. As the island is in the southern Caribbean, the water tends to be calmer on the leeward (western coast), which makes this area ideal for swimming and water sports.

The best beaches in Curaçao include Playa Kenepa (also known as Grote Knip), Cas Abao and Playa Lagun. Playa Kenepa is loved for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand, while Cas Abao offers amenities like beach chairs, water sports equipment rentals, and a restaurant. Playa Lagun is a peaceful cove that’s small, secluded and ideal for a peaceful few hours near the ocean.

Picture: Cas Abao Beach in Curaçao.

Good to know: Curaçao is a prime dive spot due to its thriving coral reefs that support a diverse marine ecosystem. There are over 500 species of fish and 65 species of coral in the waters around this island. Make a point of checking out some of the best dive spots in Curaçao or just snorkel near your resort!

Cultural and Historical Sites

Curaçao has a range of cultural and historical sites beginning with the UNESCO World Heritage city of Willemstad (the capital). Exploring this and other locations can provide insight into the island’s colonial past and cultural evolution. A multicultural society with a mix of Papiamentu, Dutch, English, and Spanish being the main languages, here’s where you can begin:

Willemstad’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Blending Dutch colonial style with Caribbean influences, Willemstad, the capital city of Curaçao speaks to the vibrancy of this island. Handelskade, the colorful buildings near the waterfront, are a source of intrigue for many. These and other historical buildings in the city provide a glimpse into Curaçao's colonial past. The architecture is one of the things that stands out about this city, and you can explore many local attractions in this area including museums.

While in Willemstad, venture to the Queen Emma Bridge for a stroll. This is a floating pontoon bridge that swings open to allow ships to pass and it’s a key fixture in the city with captivating views. To see even more colorful and unique Dutch colonial architecture, visit the Punda and Otrobanda districts. These areas are separated by St. Anna Bay and feature quaint Dutch colonial architecture.

Kura Hulanda Museum

The exhibits at the Kura Hulanda Museum are housed in restored 18th and 19th-century buildings. This museum is a must-visit if you want to learn about the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on Curaçao and Caribbean region at large. Located in Otrobanda, the collection within these walls includes artifacts, documents, and interactive displays. The complex history of the islands comes to life here and there are over 5,000 artifacts. Kura Hulanda has the largest African collection in the Caribbean. Guided tours are available.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

Trying to figure out what to do in Curaçao for a week? For a vacation that includes lots of time outdoors, there are some key spots you might want to include in your itinerary. This goes beyond just the beaches and extends to the diverse landscapes and other stand out natural attractions. Here’s a few of the most popular:

Christoffel National Park

Curaçao’s semi-arid climate has influenced the unique flora and fauna on the island. There are endemic species found nowhere else in the world on these shores, and one of the best places to see this for yourself is the Christoffel National Park. As conservation efforts on this island are in place to protect both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, parks like this continue to thrive.

Christoffel National Park is the largest on this island. You can find a variety of hiking trails here, with the most challenging being the hike to the top of Mount Christoffel, the island's highest point at 1,220 feet (372 meters). Apart from this trail, there are other trails in this park that are suitable for less experienced hikers. The best time to hike at this park is in the early morning to avoid the heat. It’s possible to explore Christoffel National Park on foot, by car, or with a guided tour. While here, look out for the Curaçao White-tailed Deer.

Good to know: Christoffel National Park is open every day between 9 am and 4 pm. Entrance costs around USD $10 per person.

Shete Boka National Park

Skete Boka translates to “seven inlets”, and this is a national park in northern Curaçao. There’s an underwater cavern here known as Boka Tabla that showcases the raw power of the ocean. This is one of the highlights of this park which also serves as a nesting ground for sea turtles. As such, it’s an important conservation zone and covers about 10 kilometers along the island’s coast. The Shete Boka National Park has notable limestone formations that are interesting to see up close. It’s worth adding this park to your Curaçao vacation itinerary if you want to spend some time in a serene environment with scenic vistas.

Local Markets

Supporting local markets is a good way to give back to the island of Curaçao. After all, the locals really are the ones that keep things moving. The Old Market (Marsche Bieuw) or Serena's Art Factory are two of the best options for this type of experience. At these locations, you’ll be able to purchase handmade craft items like the famous Chichi dolls, hand-painted and adorned in vibrant dresses. The name chichi means “older sister”, and this is one of the most popular souvenir items to take back home from Curaçao. If you visit Serena's Art Factory, you’ll be able to participate in workshops to paint your own Chichi doll.

Another option is the Floating Market in Willemstad. At this location, Venezuelan traders sell fresh produce and fish from their boats. Spices can sometimes be purchased at this bustling location. If you’re on a walking tour, getting to this location leads to other souvenir shops and outdoor market locations. The best part about supporting the local markets and buying souvenirs and local products is that you’re helping to support local artisans, vendors, and their families.

Good to know: Aside from the attractions mentioned, there are lots of other opportunities to go beyond the ordinary in Curaçao. During your vacation, you can experience Curaçao’s unique geological formations, including limestone terraces and volcanic rock, which contribute to its diverse landscape.

Culinary Experiences and Nightlife

Picture: The Latin-fusion Zuka restaurant & bar at the all-inclusive Sandals Royal Curaçao.

To see Curaçao in full color, take some time to experience the culinary scene and nightlife. This island has a vibrant entertainment scene that can range from laid-back beach bars to energetic nightclubs. Some of the spots worth visiting include Madero Ocean Club on Mambo Beach Boulevard, Wet & Wild Beach Club, Cabana Beach Club, Miles Jazz Café, Club Zen, and others. The weekly Punda vibes held every Thursday in the Punda district is also a well-attended event.

As for the local cuisine, you’ll notice from day one that this reflects the island’s multicultural heritage. The African, Dutch, and Caribbean flavors melded together with local touches really speak to the heart of the island. As you explore the traditional dishes and international fusion cuisine, you might want to adjust your Curaçao itinerary to fit in even more dining experiences!

Local Cuisine and Dining

Curaçao’s culinary landscape is filled with undeniably enticing options. This can be seen through the street food that you might come across while there and the best restaurants in Curaçao that won’t be hard to find. These restaurants serve up everything from the traditional keshi yená, the national dish of Curaçao, to funchi, a breakfast favorite. Here’s some of the must try local dishes on this island:

Keshi yená - This is Curaçao’s national dish, and it consists of spiced chicken and vegetables with cheese as the binding agent. This dish is sometimes filled with olives and prunes as well. With African and Dutch influences, you can find Keshi Yená at many local restaurants on the island.

Funchi - A foodie's day in Curaçao might start with a traditional breakfast of Funchi. This is essentially cornmeal porridge that resembles polenta. Funchi is sometimes served as a side with other island staples.

Stoba (stew) – A hearty stew that can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Stoba is made with chicken, beef, or goat, and these ingredients are slow cooked with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. This is one of those items that you should try at least once!

Pastechi – This dish falls in the street food category and it consists of fried pastries filled with cheese, meat or fish. These crescent shaped snacks have a flaky crust and are similar to empanadas.

Blue Curaçao liqueur – Blue Curaçao liqueur is made from the peels of the laraha citrus fruit native to Curaçao. This liqueur falls in the category of must-try drinks in Curaçao. It is a commonly seen ingredient for cocktail recipes!

Aside from these, there are many incredible Curaçao food and drinks you might want to try during your vacation. These really can add a cultural medley of flavors to your island escape!

Food Tours and Cooking Classes

Food tours are a wonderful way to get a little closer to island culture. And with cooking classes available in Curaçao, you’ll also be able to take a piece of the island home with you after your visit. Either of these are a good option to explore the island’s cuisine. Local food tours will take you to some of the most popular restaurants and street food locations on the island, often in and around Willemstad. Cooking classes on the other hand make it possible to learn how to make traditional food items. These activities are best for travelers who want to learn about the cultural heritage of Curaçao through the island’s diverse flavors.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Much like Curaçao’s cuisine, the nightlife and entertainment scene offer a unique perspective. Not just that but getting out and about on this island is a chance to let loose and make new connections. Whether you want to sip cocktails near the ocean or dance the night away, here’s some of the best places to go:

Good to know: At Sandals Royal Curaçao, you can get a taste of the local entertainment and nightlife in Curaçao without leaving your resort. Entertainment options include live shows, themed parties, beach events, cultural performances, and more!

Pietermaai District

Located in Willemstad, the Pietermaai District is a popular hub for bars and restaurants. This is a trendy neighborhood where restored mansions now serve as bars, restaurants, and live music spots. Let the music lead the way as you explore this area starting with Mundo Bizarro and its eclectic decor and live jazz performances. For a night of craft cocktail indulgence, visit 27 Curaçao, a speakeasy-style bar tucked away behind a cigar shop.

Curaçao Carnival

Held annually in February or March, Curaçao Carnival is a major highlight on the island’s event calendar. If you visit the island during this time, you’re in for a treat. There’s usually more activities happening on the island around carnival time as the event falls during peak season. Carnival is the biggest cultural event in Curaçao and typically features parades, music, and colorful costumes.

The main highlight of carnival celebrations in Curaçao is the Grand Carnival Parade in Willemstad. During this event, it’s common to see floats and dancers in the streets. There are both adult and children’s parades at Curaçao Carnival, and the event features local genres including tumba with its rhythmic African roots.

Good to know: Even if you don’t plan on visiting during carnival, you can learn about this tradition at the Curaçao Carnival Museum in Otrobanda.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While in Curaçao, make some time to visit off-the-beaten path beaches, coves and even venture to the countryside to see a different side of the island. With the latter, you’ll have a chance to visit small villages, farms, and other natural attractions. Plus, as you get away from the city, you’ll get to witness the diverse landscapes which range from arid cacti-filled plains to lush hills.

Kunuku Houses

In Curaçao, it doesn’t get more traditional than Kunuku houses which are essentially traditional Curaçaoan farmhouses. These houses are usually simple and colorful and are made with materials including coral stone and clay tiles. Back in the day, plantation workers and farmers were among the people who lived in kunuku houses. There’s still a handful of these houses around today which have been restored and are open to visitors. At some locations, you’ll be able to get into craft workshops and local cooking classes. With a visit to these historical gems, you can get a glimpse into Curaçao's agricultural past and the daily life of rural inhabitants.

Aloe Vera Plantation Tours

There are a limited number of islands where you can embark on organized aloe vera plantation tours and Curaçao is one of them. This island’s dry climate is ideal for growing aloe vera, and this crop has been cultivated here for as long as most people remember. During your vacation, you’ll have access to a number of aloe vera plantations that’ll give you a close up look at its cultivation. These tours are a good way to learn about the different uses of aloe vera and its importance in Curaçaoan culture and economy. If you want to see how aloe vera is harvested and processed, and even purchase locally made aloe products as souvenirs, you can visit places like the Curaçao Aloe Vera Plantation.

Good to know: As part of your aloe vera plantation tour, you can participate in hands-on workshops where you can learn how to extract the gel from aloe leaves and create your own natural skincare products. This makes it possible to gain a deeper appreciation for this versatile plant.

Unique Attractions

One of the things that sets Curaçao apart as a vacation destination is the unique activities that visitors can get into while there. This ranges from visiting ostrich farms to going flamingo spotting at Jan Kok Salt Flats. Ahead of your trip, let’s take a closer look at some of the activities you might want to try:

Flamingo Spotting at Jan Kok Salt Flats

There aren’t many islands where you can go flamingo spotting, but in Curaçao, you absolutely can. Head to the Jan Kok Salt Flats on the west coast of Curaçao for this adventure. Here, you’ll have a chance to see flamingos in their natural habitat. These vibrant, pink birds are a sight to witness, but it’s important to note that they aren’t naturally pink. Flamingos’ feathers are gray when they hatch. They become pink due to their diet which consists of algae, shrimp and other organisms that are rich in carotenoids.

At Jan Kok Salt Flats, you’ll be able to see these birds wading through the shallow waters of the salt pans. The best time to see them is in the early morning or late afternoon. For better views, walk with your binoculars. Conservation efforts are in place in this area to protect wildlife. In the Jan Kok area, you can also view the ruins of an old plantation house that can be an interesting photo backdrop.

Good to know: The Jan Kok Salt Flats are part of Curaçao’s historical salt production industry, which dates back to colonial times.

Landhuis Ascension

Visits to old plantation houses are possible in Curaçao. One of the most popular places for this is Landhuis Ascension in the Boca Sami area. This location was founded in 1672. Crops like maize, cotton, and beans were grown here. In the 19th century, cattle breeding became more popular, and eventually, activities began to slow down.

If you visit this hilltop restored plantation in Curaçao, you’ll be able to explore some of Curaçao’s colonial past. There’s a museum and a cultural center here, and tours are available. While at Landhuis Ascension, pause for a moment and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coastline.

Learnings Recap

And that’s Curaçao in a nutshell! As we wrap up our Curaçao itinerary guide, let’s review some of the key points ahead of your island getaway. Remember, flexibility is key. It’s always great to have a plan but leave room for spontaneous discoveries and unexpected finds! Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• The best time to visit Curaçao is during the peak season months of December to April.

• Shoulder season (May-June, November) is worth considering for good weather and fewer crowds.

• Curaçao is outside of the hurricane belt and therefore less susceptible to major storms.

• Explore beyond the beaches: While Curaçao’s coastline is stunning, don’t miss out on its rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes.

• Embrace local flavors: From keshi yená to Blue Curaçao liqueur, the island’s cuisine is a journey in itself.

• Including unique experiences like flamingo spotting or visiting a kunuku house can give you a deeper understanding of the island.

• Both historical and adventure-based tours are available on this island through places like the Kura Hulanda Museum and the Shete Boka National Park.

• Pace yourself: Curaçao operates on island time, so allow yourself to slow down and fully immerse in the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle.

• Stay safe: While Curaçao is generally safe for tourists, always exercise common sense and take standard precautions, especially when exploring remote areas or engaging in water activities.

Picture: Island vacations aren't just about getting away, they're about living. At Sandals Royal Curaçao, you can live completely in the moment with accommodation, dining, entertainment, land and water sports and more included with your vacation package!