Visiting the idyllic islands of Aruba, Bonaire, or Curaçao on a cruise is an exciting adventure. At first glance, the three southern Caribbean islands—also called the ABC Islands—may appear similar. However, each island offers cruise passengers unique experiences in terms of history, landscape, attractions, and shore excursions. But with limited time in port on each island, how can you avoid missing out on the best experiences?
In this guide, I’ve reviewed the best ways to spend your time on each of the magnificent ABC Islands. You’ll learn about the best beaches, cultural attractions, and excursions in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Additionally, I’ll provide helpful tips on the pros and cons of each island if you need to choose between one or the other during a southern Caribbean cruise.
So, put your worries aside as I’ll guide you through the top things to do on each island. From the pristine white sands of Aruba’s Eagle Beach to the vibrant underwater world of Bonaire’s Marine Park and the colorful architecture of Curaçao’s capital, Willemstad, this article has you covered.
Map of the ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao
Getting to Know the ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao
The ABC Islands are a group of three islands off the coast of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. They are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, located in the Dutch Caribbean and the Lesser Antilles or the Leeward Antilles. All three islands enjoy a semi-arid tropical climate, which is less humid than other Caribbean islands.
Here are some facts about the ABC islands.
Overview of Aruba
The stunning south Caribbean island of Aruba is the smallest of the ABC Islands, just 18 miles (30 km) long. The island’s south side has spectacular white sand beaches in contrast to the rugged coastline with natural bridges, cliffs, and caves on the north. Its landscape is arid, with cacti and thorny shrubs growing.
The capital of Aruba is Oranjestad, and the island is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Cruise ships dock at the cruise terminal in the center of Oranjestad. Due to the island’s size, reaching most shore excursion destinations on a cruise day is possible.
Overview of Bonaire
Bonaire is a small Caribbean island located east of Curaçao and 50 miles (80 km) north of Venezuela. It is famous for its stunning coral reef surrounding the shoreline and its UNESCO-protected marine environment. The island’s southern end is flat and renowned for its salt pans, while the northern side is hilly and rugged.
Bonaire’s capital is Kralendijk, which has two cruise ship terminals. Opposite the capital city is the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire, which is also part of the Bonaire National Marine Park. Bonaire is roughly 24 miles (38 km) long from north to south and up to 5 miles (8 km) wide.
Overview of Curaçao
Curaçao is the largest of the ABC Islands in the Dutch Caribbean. This vibrant island has small beaches and stunning coral reefs on the southern side. In contrast, the northern side has a rugged, arid coastline with limestone cliffs and desert-like terrain. It has a hot, semi-arid climate and two seasons—wet and dry.
The capital city of Curaçao is Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s famous for its colorful colonial architecture and narrow, cobblestone streets. The city has three cruise ship ports, only two of which—the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal and the Mathey Wharf—are regularly used.
Best Time to Visit the ABC Islands
The best time to visit the ABC Islands is during the dry season, typically from late January through May. This period has sunny weather and low chances of rain, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the islands. The wet season is from September to December, with occasional showers, especially in November.
The ABC Islands lie outside the Caribbean Hurricane Belt, resulting in fewer seasonal storms from June to November. Brief, refreshing showers that quickly pass are expected in November. However, with average yearly temperatures between 80°F and 84°F (26.7°C to 29°C), there is never a wrong time to visit the ABC Islands.
Planning Shore Excursions on Your Cruise Day
The ABC Islands offer a wide range of excursions for cruise ship passengers. These range from snorkeling, diving, and swimming to city tours, cultural experiences, hiking, or wildlife parks. The most crucial consideration is the travel time from the port.
Therefore, always ensure you leave enough time to enjoy the excursion rather than spend most of your cruise day traveling. You can book shore excursions through your cruise line or with an independent tour operator. Many taxi drivers are willing to show cruise guests around the island.
Must-See Attractions on the ABC Islands
Let’s look in detail at some of the must-see attractions on the ABC Islands.
Aruba
Aruba, known as ‘One Happy Island,’ offers a perfect mix of lush beaches, rich culture, warm hospitality, and Dutch charm. This island is often considered the most expensive of the ABC Islands, partly due to its popularity with North American tourists and the high standards of service that cater to their expectations.
While Aruba has a strong influence from the US, which affects prices, it’s important to note that tipping practices can vary. Generally, a service charge of 15% is included in restaurant bills, and while additional tipping for exceptional service is appreciated, it is not mandatory.
Here are some of the best things to do in Aruba while spending a day in port.
Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island
Renaissance Island is a private island famous for its pristine sandy shores and beautiful pink flamingos. You can get to Flamingo Beach by water taxi from the Renaissance Marina in Oranjestad. After swimming or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, you can relax in a private cabana, enjoy a cocktail, or take a nature walk through lush vegetation.
It’s one of the few places in the world where you can get close to flamingos in their native habitat.
Dive or snorkel at the Antilla Shipwreck
The Antilla Shipwreck is one of the best dive or snorkel locations off the coast of Aruba. While diving or snorkeling at the largest shipwreck in the Caribbean, you’ll see a wide variety of marine life and corals. Shore excursions may include snorkeling at other beautiful reefs, lunch, and an open bar.
Kitesurfing at Hadicurari Beach
Hadicurari Beach in Malmok Bay is the top destination in Aruba for active water sports like kitesurfing. Its crystal clear waters and constant trade winds make it the perfect spot for gliding high over the Caribbean Sea. Beginners can book lessons from experienced instructors, while experienced kitesurfers can enjoy the challenging waves and winds.
Explore Arikok National Park
Embark on a day excursion in Arikok National Park to explore Aruba’s stunning landscapes. A 4×4 jeep tour takes you past geological formations, natural bridges, cultural sites, and historical landmarks. On land, you can also visit the Quadirikiri and Fontein caves, ride horseback, and hike at Cunucu Arikok.
Tour operators and cruise lines offer various shore excursion packages, including various activities, lunch, and refreshment breaks.
Wine-tasting excursion at the Alto Vista Winery
Wine tasting at the Alto Vista Winery, 7 miles (11 km) from the cruise port in Aruba, is a beautiful way to spend a cruise day. At the winery, you get to walk through the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of the finest wines in the Caribbean in a picturesque vineyard setting.
Watersports and marine adventures
The crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs close to shore make the ABC islands a top destination for snorkeling, diving, and other watersports. In Aruba, you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing at many beaches. One of the most unique experiences is exploring reefs on an underwater sea trek, where you wear a special helmet that allows you to walk underwater.
Here are some of the top spots in Aruba for snorkeling and other water activities:
- Eagle Beach: Popular for snorkeling, swimming, and jet skiing in the calm turquoise waters.
- Arashi Beach: The long stretch of coastline has a reef close to shore, making it a snorkeler’s underwater paradise.
- Spaans Lagoen: If you want to try paddleboarding or kayaking, head to the Spanish Lagoon just south of Oranjestad.
- Malmok beaches: Travel north to Malmok for the best windsurfing on the island.
What is Aruba Famous for?
Aruba is famous for its stunning white sandy, palm-fringed beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of water activities. It’s also the best maintained of the three islands with the most outstanding beaches in the Dutch Caribbean. Most travelers agree that it’s the most relaxing of the three.
For more information on spending a cruise day in Aruba, please check out my cruiser’s guide to Aruba.
Pros and Cons of Spending a Cruise Day in Aruba
Pros
- Numerous pristine sandy beaches and beachfront resorts
- Arubans are known for their friendliness and warm hospitality
- One of the best diving sites in the southern Caribbean
- A safe destination for travelers
- Suited for cruise passengers who enjoy luxury during a day in port
- The best public transport system of the three islands
Cons
- The most expensive of the ABC Islands
- It can feel crowded during peak season when several ships are in dock
Introducing Bonaire
Bonaire—the smallest of the ABC islands in terms of population but not size—offers a laid-back atmosphere and a tranquil escape for cruise travelers. The island’s appeal is its natural beauty and diverse marine life, with some of the best coral reefs in the Caribbean. In the capital city, Kralendijk, the influence of the Dutch is evident, with its colorful architecture and colonial buildings.
Bonaire’s unique feature is its protected waters around the island and the smaller island of Klein Bonaire. The Bonaire Marine Park is home to 350 species of reef fish and 2,700 hectares of stunning coral reefs, which, according to UNESCO, are the “least degraded in the entire Caribbean Sea.”
Because it’s the least “touristy” of the ABC Islands, Bonaire is also the cheapest. Therefore, you get more bang for your buck, as the US dollar is the official currency on the island.
What is the best way to spend a cruise day on the island of Bonaire? Here are a few ideas.
Explore the Bonaire National Marine Park
The Bonaire National Marine Park is the island’s main attraction. It includes coral reefs, mangroves, and a diverse array of tropical fish and marine life. Its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs make it a dream location for snorkeling and diving. You can often encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, and stingrays in their natural habitat.
Here are the main features of Bonaire National Marine Park:
- The best coral reefs in the Caribbean
- Diverse marine life with over 350 species of fish
- More than 50 species of coral around the island
- Over 86 dive sites
- Large lagoon with seagrass meadows and mangroves that are feeding ground for sea turtles
You don’t have to pay the STINAPA fee to use the waters if you are a cruise passenger. However, if you are on the island on a vacation, you must pay a nature fee of $40 for all water activities.
Salt pans and the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary
Travel south from the Cruise Terminal in Kralendijk to the salt pans and the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary. This unique visitor experience has large pink lakes created by microorganisms that feed in the salt lakes. From the edge of the lakes, you can see the graceful pink birds in one of the four flamingo breeding grounds in the world.
On your way to the salt pans, stop at the white slave huts just past Pink Beach and the red slave huts on the island’s southern tip. These provide a fascinating insight into the Bonaire’s cultural heritage. The slave huts were used during the salt mining era to house enslaved individuals who worked in the nearby salt pans.
Mangrove kayak excursions at Lac Bay
One of the most relaxing excursions on Bonaire is kayaking through mangroves at Lac Bay. Here, you can paddle through the winding waterways of the mangrove forest, surrounded by a unique ecosystem. Snorkeling is also possible to explore the seagrass meadows.
Look for diverse bird species and marine life, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this natural wonder. Lac Bay is also a feeding ground for juvenile green sea turtles. Also, see if you can spot stingrays, lobsters, and seahorses.
Explore the Washington Slagbaai National Park
Washington Slagbaai National Park is a nature sanctuary covering most of the island’s north side and 25 percent of the island. Due to the rugged terrain, travel through the park is only possible with a 4×4. Some landmarks in the park include white sand beaches, blowholes, wetlands, limestone cliffs, and natural bridges.
The nature park also lets you see the island’s natural beauty and wildlife. Look for the following wildlife on your shore excursion:
- Flamingos
- Iguanas
- Parrots
- Parakeets
- Donkeys
- Lizards
- Goats
- Cows
Water sports and marine adventures
Bonaire is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. From diving and snorkeling along the coral reefs to windsurfing and kiteboarding at Atlantis Beach, there’s no shortage of marine adventures on this idyllic island.
Here are places on Bonaire for watersport adventures:
Snorkeling at Klein Bonaire: For the best snorkeling in the Caribbean, spend the day on the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire. The water taxi docks at No Name Beach, where you wade to the shore. The island’s waters have a gentle current running south to north, which is ideal for drift snorkeling.
Kitesurfing at Atlantis Beach: If kiteboarding is your thing or you want to learn, Atlantis Beach is the only location in Bonaire where you can do this. The southwest corner of the island has beautiful sandy beaches and constant trade winds.
Windsurfing at Luc Bay: Head to the lagoon at Lac Bay for windsurfing. The protected, calm waters and strong trade winds make it the ideal spot for windsurfers to glide across the bay, enjoying the beauty of the Caribbean.
What Bonaire is Famous for?
Bonaire is famous for its stunning natural beauty, untouched beaches, and commitment to conservation. Its beautiful coral reefs are a magnet for divers and snorkelers from around the world.
Do you want to learn more about spending a cruise day in Bonaire? If so, please read my guide on the best things to do in Bonaire.
Pros and Cons of Spending a Day in Bonaire
Pros
- Large resorts and mass tourism haven’t taken over the island
- It has the most diverse and well-protect marine environment in the Caribbean
- Relatively cheap compared to the other ABC Islands
- Two towns—Kralendijk and Rincón—have colorful buildings and historical landmarks
- It is tranquil without the crowds of tourists like in Curaçao
Cons
- There is no public bus service, and the roads are worse than in Aruba
- Most beaches are pebble or rocky and are not as well kept as in Aruba or Curaçao.
Discovering Curaçao: The Largest of the ABC Islands
Curaçao is the largest ABC Island in the Dutch Caribbean and sits between Aruba and Bonaire. The island offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, vibrant city life, and rich cultural heritage.
The capital city of Willemstad is a beautifully preserved Dutch colonial city with colorful buildings and stunning architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 17th-century architecture, historical buildings, lively markets, and artisan stands. The island also played a significant role in the Atlantic slave trade and has a strong Jewish heritage.
Curacao boasts a hot, semi-arid climate with desert terrain and limestone cliffs. The island features vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life for snorkeling and diving.
Curaçao Sea Aquarium
The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions near the cruise terminal. A unique feature of the aquarium is its seawater pools in the sea. These habitats offer a more authentic environment for the park’s dolphins. The Ocean Lens lets you see marine life 17 feet (5 m) below the surface.
A highlight of the Sea Aquarium is the Dolphin Academy. Here, you can get up close with the playful mammals. Depending on the package, you can swim, pet, or snorkel with the dolphins. It’s the only dolphinarium in the world with open-sea training.
Attractions at the aquarium include:
- Working with dolphin trainers
- Sea lion shows
- Shark, stingray, and flamingo feeding
- Turtle encounters
- Touch tanks with various marine creatures
Hato Caves Tour
A trip to the fascinating Hato Caves is a popular shore excursion for cruise ship guests in Curaçao. You can marvel at the 53,000-square-foot network of limestone caves formed over thousands of years. Deep in the well-lit caves, you can see ancient petroglyphs left by Amerindian Arawaks and Caiquetio Indians. The caves have impressive stalagmites and stalactites and underground pools.
Explore the one of Curaçao National Parks
Curaçao is home to stunning national parks that showcase the island’s diverse landscape. The parks offer various hiking trails, jeep safari adventures, and birdwatching. You can also visit former plantations and museums. Excursions in the park provide fantastic views of the Caribbean Sea, secluded rugged coves, blowholes, and limestone cliffs.
Here are some descriptions of the three parks in Cruaçao:
Christoffel National Park: This park is home to the island’s highest peak, Mount Christoffel. Several hiking trails take you through diverse landscapes, where you can observe native flora, fauna, and wildlife. You can book a safari tour to experience the park in comfort.
Shete Boka National Park: At the island’s north end, Shete Boka Park lets you experience the raw power of nature. Here, you can view dramatic cliffs with waves crashing on them from the Caribbean Sea. You can also explore hiking trails leading to several “bokas” or inlets.
Rif Mangrove Park: This park is a unique city park in Willemstad. The mangrove forest is a serene sanctuary teeming with life. Boardwalks take you above the waterways, or you can kayak on the winding waterways. Along the way, look for native wildlife, like iguanas, tropical birds, and various fish species.
Curaçao Ostrich Farm
Located near St. Joris Bay and the Aloe Vera Farm is the Curaçao Ostrich Farm—a family-friendly attraction. With over 400 birds, the farm is the largest outside of Africa. The safari tour takes you through the extensive farm, letting you interact with the huge birds. You will also see crocodiles, emus, and pot-bellied pigs.
Water sports and marine adventures
Like the other ABC Islands, Curaçao is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and marine adventurers. The coastline has crystal-clear waters, stunning coral reefs, sea turtles, and colorful fish. Tour operators offer half-day snorkeling or diving excursions from the cruise terminal.
Here is a list of the best spots in Curaçao for water-based activities:
- Diving: Porto Marie Beach has a double reef, making it the island’s most famous and best diving location.
- Snorkeling: Tugboat Beach is the go-to location for snorkeling as the water is shallow and the coral reef is close to the shore.
- Surfing: If you want to surf in the Caribbean, head for Playa Kanoa on the island’s north side. Here, you’ll find excellent surf and large waves.
- Kiteboarding and windsurfing: The calm waters and relatively strong winds in St. Joris Bay make it the ideal location for gliding across the water.
Paddleboarding or kayaking: The natural harbor and lagoon at Spaanse Water create the perfect calm conditions for kayaking or paddleboarding. The lagoon is surrounded by mangroves, making the activity more relaxing and memorable.
What is Curaçao Famous for?
Curaçao is famous for its vibrant and colorful capital city, Willemstad, featuring beautifully preserved Dutch colonial architecture. Compared to Aruba and Bonaire, the island has a better blend of pristine beaches, secluded bays, historical landmarks, and a rugged interior.
To learn more about the largest ABC Island, check out my guide on how to spend a cruise day in Curaçao.
Pros and Cons of Spending a Day in Curaçao
Pros
- A more diverse range of beaches than the other ABC Islands
- Excellent choice of restaurants and cafes in Willemstad
- Wide range of cultural activities and shore excursions
- Great snorkeling locations with natural reefs, shipwrecks, and plane wrecks
- Reasonable prices
Cons
- Some areas may be less safe in the evenings.
- Customer service is not as good as in Aruba or Bonaire
Cultural and Historical Attractions in the ABC Islands
The ABC Islands in the southern Caribbean are not all about coral reefs, snorkeling, and water activities. The islands’ capitals have rich histories from their colonial pasts, albeit with strong links to the slave trade. Let’s look at some cultural and historical attractions you can explore on a cruise day.
Cultural experiences in Oranjestad, Aruba
Oranjestad is known for its vibrant culture and colorful architecture, reflecting a blend of Caribbean and Dutch colonial styles. The best way to explore the capital of Aruba is by the hop-on-hop-off trolley that goes past the city’s notable landmarks. Oranjestad is home to a diverse array of galleries, museums, and local shops.
Here are the notable buildings in Oranjestad, Aruba:
- Fort Zoutman
- National Archaeological Museum Aruba
- City Hall
- Willem III Tower
Cultural experiences in Kralendijk, Bonaire
The center of Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, is within walking distance of the cruise terminal. The oldest and most important building is Fort Oranje. To learn about the island’s rich history, visit the Terramar Museum. Strolling along Kaya Grandi lets you see excellent examples of colorful buildings and colonial architecture.
Here is a list of the historic buildings and landmarks in Kralendijk, Bonaire:
- Fort Oranje
- Terramar Museum
- Wilhelmina Park
- Commander’s Residence
- St. Bernardus Church
Cultural experiences in Willemstad UNESCO World Heritage Site, Curaçao
Willemstad has a rich history and vibrant culture reflected in its pastel-hued Dutch colonial buildings and historic neighborhoods. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many museums, art galleries, and forts. You can also sample local cuisine at the famous Old Market Food Court (Marsche Bieuw).
Don’t miss these notable landmarks in Willemstad:
- Queen Emma Bridge (floating pontoon bridge)
- Fort Amsterdam
- Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
- Kura Hulanda Museum
- Rif Fort
- The Curaçao Museum
Culinary Delights: How to Eat Like a Local in the ABC Islands
One of the great things about island hopping in the South Caribbean is trying different cuisines. Despite all three ABC Islands belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, there are differences in the types of foods popular with islanders.
You’ll find that cuisine in all of the islands of the ABC region is influenced by a mix of Caribbean, Dutch, and Latin American flavors. As expected in the Caribbean, seafood is popular and usually grilled with aromatic spices. Also, goat meat is widely used in cooking spicy stews, and Pan Bati, a sweet pancake-like cornbread, is a common side dish, perfect for soaking up flavorsome sauces.
The national dish in Aruba and Curaçao is keshi yena, a baked or steamed large cheese ball stuffed with spiced meat. In Bonaire, the national dish is stoba kabritu, or a hearty goat meat stew. Also, guiambo—a soup made from okra and seafood—is popular among locals.
When visiting Aruba, you’ll notice a greater Dutch and American influence in the cuisine. Therefore, it’s not unusual to find familiar fast-food chains like KFC, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell. Compared to Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao dishes have more Spanish and Portuguese influence.
The Best Shopping Experiences on the ABC Islands
Like most Caribbean cruise destinations, the ABC Islands have a plethora of market stalls and duty-free shops in or close to the terminal area. Therefore, you’ll find markets selling unique souvenirs, jewelry, and crafts when you disembark from the ship. However, you can usually get the best bargains when shopping further from the port.
Here are some of the best shopping experiences in the ABC Islands.
Aruba
Aruba has some of the fanciest shopping outlets in the ABC Islands. Close to the port area is the Renaissance Mall Marketplace, with high-end fashion and jewelry stores. You’ll also find gourmet restaurants serving some of the finest food on the island. Along from the Mall on L.G. Smith Blvd. is the Renaissance Marketplace. This open-air plaza includes luxury shopping, a casino, and a cinema.
The colorful Royal Plaza Mall is a large shopping center in downtown Oranjestad, near the cruise ship terminal. The stunning pink and white building features luxury brands and designer stores, jewelry and souvenir shops, bars, and restaurants.
Local markets are the best place to find unique souvenirs and local crafts in Aruba. The most popular market is the Flea Market, which is beside the Renaissance Marina. You can find authentic souvenirs, handmade goods, jewelry, pottery, and textiles here.
The best street in Aruba for shopping is Main Street (Caya G. F. Betico Croes). This lively strip, with its Dutch colonial buildings, is home to duty-free stores, fashion boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir stalls. The good news is that the free trolley streetcar travels along Main Street.
What souvenirs should I buy in Aruba?
When shopping for souvenirs in Aruba, be sure to pick up items that reflect the island’s diverse culture. Some popular items include aloe vera products, Delft blue pottery, Dutch cheeses, and Mopa Mopa art.
Bonaire
Bonaire lacks many of the luxury designer stores that are common in Aruba. However, you can find unique souvenirs and gifts in small independent boutiques and stalls throughout Kralendijk.
For the best shopping in Bonaire, walk to Kaya Grandi, which runs parallel to the seafront boulevard. Here, you can find a variety of unique shops selling everything from locally made crafts and artwork to clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. Also, don’t forget to check the side streets off Kaya Grandi to discover some hidden gems.
For authentic souvenirs, head to the Bonaire Arts and Crafts Market near the North Pier. The market has many stalls with local artists and craftspeople selling authentic handmade crafts, artwork, pottery, paintings, and sculptures. These unique items make great gifts or souvenirs of your time in Bonaire.
What souvenirs should I buy in Bonaire?
What are the best things to bring back from Bonaire? Unique to the island is Cactus Liqueur Cadushy—you’ll not find this anywhere else in the Caribbean. Other souvenir ideas include Bonaire salt products from the famous salt pans, local art, handmade jewelry, and aloe products.
Curaçao
Being the largest of the ABC Islands with the richest cultural history, it’s no surprise that Curaçao is a shoppers’ paradise. In stalls throughout Willemstad, you’ll find crafts and souvenirs highlighting Dutch, Spanish, and African influences.
Exiting the main cruise terminal in Curaçao takes you to the famous Renaissance Mall and the adjacent Rif Fort. The open-air plaza has everything from international branded stores to souvenir stalls. However, the most authentic shopping experiences are across St. Anna Bay in the Punda district.
Cross the floating bridge from the terminal, where you’ll find quaint streets, colorful buildings, and a plethora of stores and stalls. If you are in port on a Thursday, you may get the chance to enjoy Punda Vibes when an open-air market operates. For unique shopping, head to the Waalgat inlet and the floating market, where vendors from Venezuela sell their goods.
However, if you want to combine a beach break, watersports, and fun shopping, travel 10 minutes by taxi to Mambo Beach. The Mambo Beach BLVD strip has over 50 stores, including fabulous boutiques, beach shops, and souvenirs.
Another place worth visiting in Willemstad is Kura Hulanda Village in Marshe Nobo (New Market), near the floating market. You’ll find restaurants, bars, stores, and souvenir stalls here.
What souvenirs should I buy in Curaçao?
What are the best gifts and souvenirs to bring back from Curaçao? The island is famous for its Curaçao orange liqueur, made from the peels of Laraha oranges. Other souvenirs unique to the island are Chichi dolls. However, you can also buy locally produced aloe products, Dutch cheese, and Dutch Delft blue ceramics.
The Best Beaches on the ABC Islands
The ABC Islands, consisting of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao, are known for their stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can find everything on the islands, from secluded coves with limestone cliffs to palm-lined white sand beaches. Let’s dive in and discover the beauty of the beaches on the ABC Islands.
Aruba
“One Happy Island” Aruba has superb beaches, especially on the western side of the island. For its natural beauty, silky-soft white sand, a flock of flamingos, and nature trails, it’s hard to beat Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island.
Which are the best public beaches in Aruba? Here are three top picks:
- Eagle Beach: This beach is ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean. It offers a peaceful, less crowded atmosphere, white sand, a gentle slope to the water, and shade from its iconic divi-divi trees. Most turtle nests are found on Eagle Beach.
- Palm Beach: Palm Beach is just 10 minutes from the cruise terminal. This vibrant, lively beach is just over 1 mile long. It’s famous for many water sports activities, crystal-clear waters, and soft sands. Here, you can swim, snorkel, try parasailing, or relax at one of the beach bars.
- Baby Beach: One of the most stunning beaches on Aruba with calm, shallow waters is Baby Beach. Located at the southern tip of the island, the beach is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, or relaxing under a palapa.
Bonaire
Bonaire has some of the most unspoiled beaches in the ABC Islands. Its pristine coral reefs and marine life make it a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise. The quietest beach is No Name Beach on the uninhabited Klein Bonaire.
But what are the best beaches within driving distance of Kralendijk? Here are three top picks:
- Sorobon Beach: Described as one of the best beaches in Bonaire, Sorobon Beach is popular with snorkelers, paddleboarders, and windsurfers. Located in Lac Bay, its shallow, turquoise waters and constant trade winds provide the perfect conditions for water sports. It’s also ideal for relaxing on the soft sand and soaking up the breathtaking views.
- Pink Beach: Known for its pink sand and clear turquoise waters, Pink Beach is a picturesque location on the island’s southwestern side. It’s also close to the flamingo sanctuary.
- Te Amo Beach: This beach is nestled in a cove and closest to Kralendijk. It’s known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, pristine white sand, and shade from trees along the fringe. The shallow water is perfect for families with children or wading.
Curaçao
Curaçao has some of the most beautiful beaches in the ABC Islands because they are not as rocky as the ones on Aruba and Bonaire. The best beach on the island for swimming is Playa Piskado (Playa Grandi), as turtles often swim near the coast. However, it’s a 50-minute drive from the cruise terminal in Willemstad.
What are some of the best beaches in Curaçao near the cruise terminal? Here are a few.
- Blue Bay Beach: Located just a 20-minute drive from Willemstad, Blue Bay Beach is a popular destination for cruise ship visitors. The shady beach features calm, turquoise waters and a soft sandy shoreline. Amenities at the beach include beach chairs, umbrellas, a restaurant, and a watersports center.
- Mambo Beach: Head south to Mambo Beach for a fun-filled beach break in Curaçao. This trendy beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with music, lively beach clubs, and a variety of restaurants and shops. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, and there are also opportunities for snorkeling and other water sports.
- Playa PortoMari (Playa Porto Marie): Playa PortoMari is one of the best beaches for snorkeling in Curaçao. A double reef teeming with colorful fish and marine life is near the shoreline. The beach has beach chairs, umbrellas, a beach bar, and a restaurant, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoyment.
How to Decide Between Visiting Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao
Deciding which ABC Island to spend a cruise day in port can be challenging. After comparing the three islands—Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire—it’s clear they all have something unique to offer. So, your choice depends on what you want to experience on the island. Let’s delve into what makes each island unique.
Price
Bonaire and Curaçao are the most budget-friendly options if price is a factor. It’s generally cheaper to arrange shore excursions with independent tour operators at less cost than in Aruba. Also, eating out is more affordable. Trying to enjoy Aruba on a tight budget isn’t recommended.
Watersports
Aruba and Bonaire are the best ABC Islands for watersports. Both islands have areas with strong winds and shallow waters, ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Many secluded bays are also perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Beaches
Without a doubt, Aruba is in the top spot when it comes to beaches, with Curaçao a close second. Aruba’s beaches are expansive, with soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and shade from palm trees. In contrast, Curaçao beaches are smaller, more protected, and less crowded.
Diving and snorkeling
Bonaire beats the competition hands down regarding snorkeling, as it’s a top diving destination in the world. Its coral reefs and marine life are part of the Bonaire National Marine Park and are the best in the entire Caribbean.
Off the beaten track
Bonaire is known for its rugged terrain, hiking trails, and national parks. It’s a tropical paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore off the beaten track. Usually, you require a 4WD to drive through the countryside to explore rocky coastlines, limestone caves, and wind-swept cliffs.
Nature
Many cruise passengers rate Curaçao as the island in the south Caribbean with the most diverse nature. Most parts of the countryside are accessible by car. You can find hidden bays, beautiful beaches for snorkeling, and climb a tall mountain.
Safety
All islands are relatively safe if you stick to tourist spots. Of the three islands, Aruba is sometimes considered as the safest destination. The island is more developed, with a strong focus on tourism safety. Bonaire is also safe and has a reputation as a peaceful location.
Shopping
Shopping in Curaçao offers the best experience for cruise passengers and general tourists. You’ll find an excellent range of shopping malls, markets, and boutiques in Willemstad. Aruba is a close second behind Cruaçao for shopping. But prices tend to be more expensive. Bonaire cannot come close to the other two islands regarding the shopping experience.
Visiting the ABC Islands: FAQs
Is there a ferry between Curaçao and Aruba?
No ferries run between Curaçao and Aruba. The best way to travel between the islands of Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire is by airplane. Short, frequent flights provide the ideal way to island hop in the South Caribbean.
What currency can I use in the ABC Islands?
Generally, you can use US dollars in all three islands, especially the tourist areas. However, it’s good to know that Aruba uses the Aruban Florin (AWG, ƒ), and Curaçao uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG, ƒ). Only Bonaire has the US dollar as its official currency.
What languages are spoken in the ABC Islands?
Dutch and Papiamentu are the official languages of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. Papiamentu is a local Creole language based on Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English, German, Italian, and French. However, English is widely spoken throughout the three islands.
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