Does your Caribbean cruise itinerary include spending a day on the beautiful island of Curaçao? This stunning Caribbean island is known for its beautiful beaches, snorkeling and diving opportunities in crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. The island’s capital city, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its exquisite colonial buildings and vibrant culture.
What is the best way to spend a cruise day in Curaçao? With a plethora of attractions and shore excursions to choose from and limited time in port, deciding on the best activities can be hard.
To help you decide, I’ve reviewed the must-see attractions and activities in Curaçao. From exploring its rich cultural heritage to stunning beaches, exploring caves, or hiking through a national park, this article has you covered.
Are you ready to spend a memorable day on this island paradise in the southern Caribbean Sea? If so, please read on to discover what you can do when your cruise ship docks at the Curaçao Cruise Port in Willemstad.
Where is Curaçao?
Curaçao is a stunning island and cruise destination in the southern Caribbean Sea between Aruba and Bonaire. It lies 40 miles (60 km) north of the coasts of Venezuela in the Dutch Caribbean region. The island country belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The territory includes Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island.
Together with Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao forms the ABC islands and is the largest of the group. These three islands are outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, making them ideal cruise destinations throughout the year. It has a hot, semi-arid climate with little rainfall during the year.
It is a thin island with a generally hilly topography; the highest point is Christoffelberg in the northwest, with a peak of 1,239 feet (378 m) above sea level. The coastline’s bays, inlets, and hot springs offer a source of natural minerals, thermal conditions, and seawater used in hydrotherapy. Off the southeast coast lies the small, flat island of Klein Curaçao.
Map of Curaçao
Discovering Curaçao
The port city of Willemstad, Curaçao, boasts stunning colonial architecture, including the iconic floating Queen Emma Bridge and Fort Amsterdam. Museums and forts allow cruise visitors to explore the city’s rich history. Its colorful buildings and unique blend of Dutch and Spanish architecture add to its UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
Curaçao offers pristine beaches, spectacular lagoons, coral reefs, and opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Most major tourist attractions are within easy driving distance of the Curaçao Cruise Terminal in the center of Willemstad.
Where is Willemstad Port, Curaçao?
Willemstad Port in Curaçao is conveniently located in the city center. Therefore, it’s easy for cruise visitors to walk from the pier to the city’s popular tourist attractions. The largest cruise terminal is at the mouth of St. Anna Bay, and the other pier is closer to Queen Juliana Bridge.
Where Do Cruise Ships Dock in Curaçao?
Cruise ships in Curacao dock at one of two piers—the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal or the Mathey Wharf. The third pier in Willemstad is Marichi Pier in the Punta district and is only used if the other two docking piers are busy.
Mega Pier Cruise Terminal
The Mega Pier in Otrobanda is the island’s primary cruise ship terminal, designed to accommodate larger cruise ships. Known as the Curaçao Cruise Terminal Mega Pier, this facility is well-equipped to handle the extensive requirements of major cruise lines.
Amenities at the cruise terminal include an information booth, duty-free shops, and tour operator stands. You will also find taxis, car rentals, electric wheelchair rentals (ECV), shuttle buses, restrooms, and free WiFi.
Close to the Curaçao Cruise Terminal are two famous shopping malls—the Renaissance Resort and Rif Fort. These connecting malls have high-end shops, ATMs, bars, and cafes. You can also catch the trolley train from here. To get to the city’s main attractions, exit the terminal to Brion Square and cross the Queen Emma Bridge to the Punda district.
Certainly! Here’s a refined version of the section about the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal, maintaining the original content with some adjustments for clarity and flow:
Mathey Wharf Dock
Mathey Wharf Bay, located in the Otrobanda district, caters to smaller cruise ships and offers a stunning view of the city’s famous Handelskade, known for its colorful buildings. The amenities at this cruise terminal include independent tour operators, souvenir shops, and a taxi stand.
Upon disembarking, passengers will find themselves in a neighborhood brimming with colorful murals. Before taking the short 5-minute walk to the famous Emma Bridge, visitors can enjoy a stroll through the arty streets, which sets the tone for the vibrant experiences ahead.
The Emma Bridge, a notable pontoon bridge, is conveniently close and leads directly to the Punda district. Here, in the heart of Punda, visitors can explore cozy restaurants, colorful boutiques, and various cultural sights. This area, with its blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, offers a rich urban experience just a few steps from the terminal.
How to Get Around Curaçao
You can easily explore Willemstad on foot from the cruise port. However, you must travel by taxi, car, or shuttle bus to the island’s top beaches and attractions. Of course, shuttle buses will wait at the terminal exit if you booked a shore excursion through your cruise line or independent operator.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the three Curaçao cruise terminals. They are the most convenient and effective way to explore the island. You can expect to pay around $40 per hour for up to four people.
Car rental
Renting a car for a day in Curacao is a great way to explore the island at your own pace. Many areas on the island are not accessible by foot. Therefore, having a car lets you easily visit various attractions, such as secret beaches, flamingo reserves, national parks, and historical sites.
Several multinational car rental companies have offices at Curaçao cruise terminals.
Bus
Using public buses in Curacao isn’t recommended for tourists looking to explore the island in a day. The limited routes and schedules may not align with your sightseeing plans. The best advice is to rent a car, book a tour, or arrange for a taxi to navigate around the island efficiently.
Walking
Walking is the best way to explore the historical landmarks on a cruise day in Curaçao.
It takes around 15 minutes from both piers to reach Fort Amsterdam on foot. Strolling through the vibrant streets of Willemstad’s city center lets you admire pastel-colored buildings, relax in charming cafes, and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this beautiful capital city.
Trolley train
The trolley train in Willemstad is the best option for seeing all the city’s major landmarks in one hour. Sit back and relax on the pink train and learn about the history and culture of Curaçao. The open-air trolley gives you uninterrupted views of colorful Dutch colonial buildings and stunning waterfront vistas.
Highlights of the trolley train excursion include:
- Fort Amsterdam (the starting point)
- Scharloo’s colorful streets, including the “wedding cake house.”
- The floating market
- Pietermaai Cathedral
- Waterfront arches
- The oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere
Spending a Cruise Day in Curaçao
Curaçao offers cruise ship passengers a range of activities to enjoy a day in a Caribbean port. Willemstad has popular beaches close to the cruise terminal, and you can experience the city’s rich culture. You can also drive to a popular snorkeling spot at Playa ProtoMari, visit an ostrich farm, or view flamingos.
Exploring Willemstad while in Port
The port city of Willemstad is famous for its vibrant, UNESCO-listed historic district, colorful waterfront buildings, Dutch colonial architecture, and narrow, cobblestone streets. Popular attractions in the city reflect the island’s cultural past.
Let’s examine in detail some of the most popular tourist attractions to include in a walking tour of Willemstad.
Otrobanda
Otrobanda—meaning the opposite side—is a vibrant district located west of Sint Anna Bay in Willemstad, the city’s cultural center. This area is known for its charming pastel-colored buildings and rich architectural history. You will be impressed by its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.
The main tourist attractions in Otrobanda include the following:
- The Riff Fort, which has been converted into a tourist area
- The Kura Hulanda Museum
- The Curaçao Museum
- Renaissance Shopping Mall
- Iconic street art
Queen Emma Bridge (Pontoon Bridge)
Also called the Swinging Old Lady, the pontoon bridge connects the districts of Otrobanda and Punda. Crossing the bridge from the cruise pier provides stunning views of the colorful buildings lining the waterfront and the Queen Juliana Bridge. This spot offers the perfect backdrop for memorable photos.
A stroll across the Queen Emma Bridge is a relaxing way to begin your walking tour of Willemstad. When ships enter St. Anna Bay, the bridge swings open, and small ferries are ready to take pedestrians to the other side.
Punda
Punda is a vibrant district rich in culture and history, located in the heart of Willemstad. It was built in 1634 as a walled city with over 200 houses. It was also one of the major centers of the Atlantic slave trade. The area has some of the best colonial architecture in the Caribbean and several beaches.
The main tourist attractions in Punda include the following:
- Fort Amsterdam
- Old Market (Plasa Bieu)
- Fort Church Museum
- Start and end of the trolley train
- Curaçao street art in Breedestraat and Boogjes Fort
- Punda Beach (Playa Marichi)
The district has duty-free stores offering the latest designer goods, fragrances, jewelry, and locally made art and handicrafts.
Fort Amsterdam
Built in 1634, Fort Amsterdam is an impressive fort designed to protect the island against Spanish invaders. The yellow-colored fort has walls 10 feet (3 m) thick and four bastions. Additionally, several sea cannons were located at the fort. The building features palatial rooms with unique architectural designs.
You can explore the beautiful courtyard at the fort, marvel at the old church, and see an embedded cannon in a wall. The fort continues to have some government offices. There is also a museum and church on site. The church is the oldest in Curaçao, dating from 1769.
Fort Amsterdam is one of the best tourist attractions in Willemstad for getting a glimpse into Curaçao’s colonial past.
Floating Market
One of Willemstad’s most unique tourist experiences is the Floating Market in Punda. Located near the inlet to Waaigat, the market is where small fishing boats from Venezuela dock to sell a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and even coconuts. Here, you can observe the hustle and bustle of daily Caribbean life.
It’s important to note that the market doesn’t float, and many vendors sell their goods on dry land. While you may be restricted from taking fresh produce back on board, the floating market is a cultural experience that is not to be missed.
The New Market is along the banks of the inland harbor from the Floating Market and past Queen Wilhelmina Bridge. Here, you can find all manner of goods, from clothing to souvenirs, toys, and fresh vegetables.
Scharloo
Scharloo is a historic neighborhood in Willemstad, Curaçao, known for its colorful architecture and rich history. Known locally as Skálo in Papiamento, this area has some of the island’s most attractive and beautifully preserved 19th-century mansions and buildings. You will marvel at a unique blend of Dutch colonial and Caribbean architectural styles.
Pietermaai
Pietermaai is a lively and colorful neighborhood in Willemstad, capturing the essence of Curaçao’s vibrant culture. The area’s streets have a mix of boutique hotels, bars, and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere. Many restaurants have seating areas on the shoreline with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.
Like many neighborhoods in Willemstad, the buildings are painted in vibrant pink, green, blue, and yellow hues. You’ll also find the National Archaeological Anthropological Memory Management Museum and the Saint Tropez Ocean Club in the area.
Queen Wilhelmina Park
Queen Wilhelmina Park, located in the historic Punda area of Willemstad, is 5 minutes from the Queen Emma Bridge. The beautiful park features a bandstand, a fountain, and plenty of palm trees. It’s also the location where you can get a picture beside the iconic “C-U-R-A-C-A-O” sign. You’ll also find a statue of Queen Wilhelmina, who ruled the Netherlands from 1890 to 1948.
Surrounded by quaint cobblestone streets, Queen Wilhelmina Park offers you a serene escape from the bustling city. You can enjoy a coffee in one of the shaded cafes and picturesque settings, making it the perfect place to relax on your cruise day.
Street Art
One of Curacao’s most captivating aspects is its vibrant street art scene. Walking through Willemstad’s colorful streets in Punda, Pietermaai, and Otrobanda, you see an array of stunning murals adding to the island’s unique charm. Otrobanda has the best examples of street art, and free walking tours are available.
You can find the best examples of Curaçao street art in the following streets:
- Willemstraat
- Frederikstraat
- Hoogstraat
- Ferdinandstraat
One of Willemstad’s most photographed pieces of street art is the Colorful Step Curaçao near Matheny Wharf on Val Lennepstraat.
Museums and Art Galleries in Willemstad, Curaçao
Curaçao has a rich history and vibrant culture, reflected in the many historic museums and art galleries in Willemstad. So, there is plenty to keep history buffs occupied in the island’s capital city.
Fort Church Museum
Fort Church Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in downtown Willemstad. The yellow colonial building in the Fort Amsterdam complex showcases Curaçao’s religious history. Its collection of artifacts includes antique silver chalices, silver baptismal fonts, and old maps.
The church’s interior is stunning, and many visitors say it is a peaceful place for contemplation. The museum also gives insights into Curaçao’s rich heritage and cultural influences. The entrance fee is $5.00.
Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue and Jewish Museum
The Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue is the oldest working synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to 1732. You can admire polished mahogany benches, a bema, stunning chandeliers, blue glass windows, and a unique sand floor. The synagogue is one of the outstanding historical buildings in Willemstad.
The Jewish Museum is adjacent to the synagogue. A tour of the museum tells about the history of Jews in Curaçao after they were expelled from Portugal. The museum houses artifacts such as a Torah scroll brought by the first Jewish settlers, centuries-old silver, and a mesmerizing plethora of religious artifacts.
The synagogue and museum are a 20-minute walk from the Curaçao Cruise Terminal across the floating bridge.
Kura Hulanda Museum
Located in the Otrobanda district, the Kura Hulanda Museum offers a sobering glimpse into the Trans-Atlantic slave trade from the 17th to 19th centuries. The museum has 15 buildings that display the capture and relocation of Africans to the Americas. It’s one of the most comprehensive museums in the Caribbean, highlighting the horrors of the slave trade.
The museum is in a former slave yard and merchant’s home. You can see slave pillars for public floggings, tools used to trap, band, and punish slaves, and many other items related to the darkest period of Curaçao’s history. It’s a 15-minute walk from the cruise terminal.
Curaçao Maritime History Museum
The Curaçao Maritime History Museum showcases over 500 years of maritime history on the island. While touring the museum, you can view ship models, nautical charts, deep-sea diving helmets, navigation equipment, and a model of the floating bridge. Interactive exhibits and displays also narrate stories of shipwrecks, naval battles, maritime traditions, trade routes, and the cultural significance of Curaçao’s harbor.
Apart from the many exhibits on the museum’s two floors, the building is worth seeing. It’s located in a restored 17th-century building on the Waaigat inlet opposite the floating market. The oldest maps in the museum date back to the 1500s.
The Curaçao Museum
The Curaçao Museum is a 20-minute walk from the cruise terminal and documents the island’s rich history and culture. Artifacts in the museum include pre-Columbian Indian items, a plantation kitchen, antique mahogany furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries, and maps of the Americas and Caribbean.
The museum is the best place to learn about Curaçao’s diverse past, culture, and rich history. In addition to antique artifacts, the museum features a carillon with 47 bells and the cockpit of the first KLM plane to fly from Amsterdam to Curaçao, along with shaded grounds to relax and enjoy Caribbean culture.
Gallery Alma Blou
Gallery Alma Blou is the largest and oldest art gallery in Curacao. Art displays let you experience a wide range of Caribbean art—from folk art to classic paintings. Some of the most fascinating displays are prints and pictures of old city scenes from Punda and Otrobanda. There is also a diverse range of sculptures, figurines, paintings, and photographs capturing the essence of the island.
Other museums in Willemstad, Curaçao
If you want to immerse yourself in the island’s history, there are more museums in the capital to explore. These include the following:
- Mongui Maduro Museum: This former plantation house has family heirlooms and antique furniture from its former residents—four generations of a Sephardic Jewish family.
- Kas Di Pal’i Maishi: This traditional Curaçaoan house is where formerly enslaved people lived after slavery was abolished. It has a thatched roof and original household features of how Afro-Curaçaoan people lived on the island in the past.
- Museo Di Tambú Shon Cola: This cultural museum showcases the history and traditions of Tambú music and dance. Tambú is a traditional Afro-Curaçaon music style with roots in slavery. Here, you can watch live performances and participate in workshops to experience this vibrant culture.
- Museo Tula: This museum is named after the leader of the 1795 slave revolt, Tula. Through exhibits and artifacts, visitors can learn about the struggles and triumphs of enslaved Africans.
Best Things to Do in Curaçao on a Cruise Day
Curaçao is a beautiful Caribbean island with plenty of exciting activities, especially if you’re visiting on a cruise day. Here are some of the best excursions and activities to spend your day in Curaçao:
Dolphin Academy
The Dolphin Academy offers a unique and interactive experience that allows you to swim with dolphins. Unlike some dolphin parks, the bottlenose dolphins live in a free environment with access to the sea. At the academy, you can learn more about the playful creatures, pet the mammals, swim with them, or enjoy a snorkeling adventure.
In addition to swimming with dolphins, the academy offers the following activities:
- Training sessions
- Feeding encounters
- Assist dolphin trainers for a day
- Scuba diving with dolphins
- Interactive experiences with stingrays, sharks, and sea lions (Sea Aquarium)
The Dolphin Academy is part of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium on the east end of Willemstad.
Curaçao Sea Aquarium
Located on the waterfront in Willemstad, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium features seawater pools in the sea. This environment provides a more natural habitat for the marine life on display. Daily shows featuring flamingos, dolphins, sea lions, and sharks offer visitors an entertaining and educational experience.
At the aquarium, you marvel at the underwater world in the Ocean Lens, where you can see a wide variety of marine life 17 feet (5 m) below the surface. The Dolphin Academy is part of the Curaçao Sea Aquarium.
Visit the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo
One of the must-see attractions is the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo. Located a 10-minute drive from the cruise pier, the historic distillery offers a unique opportunity to learn about one of the island’s most famous exports—Curaçao liqueur. You learn about the process of harvesting the bitter oranges for distillation and blending the liqueur.
Tours at the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery include samples of the distillery’s best liqueurs, from classic blue Curaçao to more exotic flavors. You can also buy unique gifts, try their signature cocktails, and engage in the cocktail workshop.
Day trip to Klein Curaçao
Klein Curaçao (Small Curaçao) is a small, uninhabited island located 6 miles (10 km) off the island’s southeastern coast. The island boasts pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and a shipwreck to explore. You can explore the old lighthouse on the island, relax in a thatched palapa, and enjoy a barbecue lunch.
It’s good to note that boat trips to Klein Curaçao may not be suitable if you have limited time in port. Most tourists suggest taking a full-day excursion to the island to enjoy its tropical, natural beauty.
Explore the Hato Caves
Explore the Hato Caves in Curaçao for a unique and fascinating experience. Located 20 minutes from the cruise terminal, the limestone caves feature stunning stalactites, stalagmites, underwater pools, ancient petroglyphs, and a colony of rare bats. It’s good to note that there are 49 steps to climb to the cave entrance.
Hiking at Christoffel National Park
Christoffel National Park has several hiking trails to immerse yourself in Curaçao’s natural beauty. You can choose from trails suitable for various fitness levels. If you’re highly fit and adventurous, you can hike to the island’s highest point at 1,239 feet (378 m) above sea level.
As you trek through the park, look for the rare white-tailed deer and the unique palabra owls (barn owls), adding to the thrill of your outdoor excursion. For the best experience, arrive at the park as soon as possible to avoid the scorching afternoon sun. Also, bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Explore the Shete Boka National Park
The rugged beauty of Shete Boka National Park features dramatic headlands, stunning inlets, and breathtaking scenery. The park is a 40-minute drive from Curaçao Cruise Terminal. You can choose from several hiking trails that take you through arid landscapes, underground caverns, and cliffs where the waves crash against the shore.
Guided tour of Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park
The Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park is a unique city park in the heart of Willemstad. Located near the cruise terminal, the park has a diverse ecosystem with mangrove forests, rivers, colorful birds, and tropical fish. You can walk along boardwalks above the river or book a kayaking excursion through the mangroves.
Snorkeling and diving excursions
The crystal-clear waters around the ABC Islands make Curaçao a fantastic destination for underwater activities. Snorkeling and catamaran excursions transport you to the island’s best locations. This gives you an opportunity to explore the vibrant marine life of the Caribbean. You can marvel at coral reefs, swim with sea turtles, and relax on sun-kissed beaches.
Many snorkeling excursions are cruise-friendly and may include an open bar, a barbecue lunch, and snacks.
Underwater walking tour
One of the best ways to explore coral reefs and marine life is to book an underwater walking tour. The tour involves wearing specialized helmets that have a constant supply of air, enabling you to walk among coral fish. The beauty of the underwater walking tour is that you don’t need any swimming skills.
Curaçao Ostrich Farm
The Curaçao Ostrich Farm is one of the largest outside of Africa. Visiting the farm is a fun and educational experience for all ages. You can get up close with these giant birds, feed them, hold an ostrich egg, and stroke adorable baby chicks. Additionally, the farm is home to pot-bellied pigs, emus, and crocodiles.
The Curaçao Ostrich Farm is 25 minutes by car or taxi on the island’s east side. Attractions at the farm include a safari tour to witness all stages of an ostrich’s life. You can also enjoy lunch at the Zambezi restaurant, which serves delicious ostrich-based dishes.
See flamingos at the salt ponds of St. Willibrordus
The salt ponds of St. Willibrordus near Jan Kok are home to a flock of native Caribbean flamingos. You can admire the majestic pink birds from a viewpoint at the flamingo sanctuary. In most cases, you can see the flamingos relatively close as they wade through the shallow waters of the salt pans.
Stopping off to the flamingos is a must if you’re on your way to some of the pristine beaches on the north coast of the island.
Spend a fun-filled day at Aqua Park
Aqua Park in Willemstad offers thrilling and enjoyable adrenaline-fueled water experiences for visitors of all ages. This water park is part of the Mangrove Beach Coredon Curaçao resort. It features six water slides, pools, and attractions for a fun-filled day.
You must purchase a day pass at the beach resort to access Aqua Park. This gives you full access to the park attractions, a private pristine beach, a swimming pool, a kids’ splash zone, a lunch buffet, and drinks throughout the day.
Amazonia The Jungle Experience
The Amazonia Jungle experience near the ostrich farm offers an unforgettable adventure through the island’s lush landscapes. This eco-friendly tour lets you encounter various tropical birds, monkeys, snakes, reptiles, and spiders. At the weekend, you can buy a day pass, which gives you access to the jungle pool and all-you-can-eat restaurant.
Shopping in Willemstad, Curaçao
Like many Caribbean cruise destinations, Willemstad offers a range of shopping experiences if you want to indulge in retail therapy. You can find a range of shops, from high-end designer stores to small market stalls selling souvenirs.
Renaissance Mall and Rif Fort
The Renaissance Mall and the adjacent Rif Fort are near the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal in Willemstad. This entertainment center offers cruise ship passengers in Curaçao an excellent shopping and dining experience.
The strategic fort was built in the early 1800s, and nowadays it houses multiple eateries. The Renaissance Mall is located just outside the fort’s gate. Here, you can find designer clothing, art galleries, bars, gifts, and souvenirs.
The Best Beaches in Curaçao Near the Cruise Port
Curaçao is home to spectacular beaches. However, with limited time on a cruise day, which top beaches on the island are worth visiting? Here are some fabulous beaches near the cruise port in Curaçao.
Punda Beach (Playa Marichi)
The closest beach to the cruise terminal is Punda Beach. Just a 15-minute walk from the pier, the small city beach is ideal if you want to explore Willemstad and spend time on sandy shores. The beach offers soft sands and excellent sea views close to the colorful buildings of Willemstad.
Mambo Beach
Mambo Beach is one of the most popular beaches near the cruise terminal. It’s a 15-minute drive from the Curaçao Cruise Port and offers a lively atmosphere with numerous beach clubs, restaurants, and a vibrant shopping boulevard. The crystal-clear, calm waters are excellent for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. Several beach bars dot the shoreline.
One of its highlights is Mambo Beach Boulevard. This area includes 50 stores, plenty of restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, Mambo Beach is near the Sea Aquarium and Dolphin Academy. Its convenient location near the cruise port and diverse amenities make it ideal for spending the entire day there.
The entry fee to Mambo Beach is $3.50 per person.
Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach is a popular beach destination for cruisers in Curaçao, as it’s only 15 minutes by taxi from the port. The beach has a gentle slope into the crystal-clear azure waters, making it ideal for children. Facilities at the beach include umbrellas, a bar, a restaurant, beach beds, water sports, a large pool, showers, and toilets.
There is a small admission fee for the beach.
Kokomo Beach
Kokomo Beach is one of the top beaches in Curaçao, and it has white sand and turquoise waters. Located 8 miles (13 km) north of the cruise port, the beach has lounge chairs, umbrellas, palapas, a variety of beach bars, and an open-air restaurant. Entrance to the beach is free, but you cannot bring your own refreshments.
Jan Thiel Beach
Jan Thiel Beach is one of the best beaches near Curaçao’s capital for water sports, relaxing in the sun, and swimming. The bay ensures the shallow waters are calm and perfect for swimming. You can also find a range of facilities, including beach bars, four restaurants, water sports rentals, and snorkeling opportunities in clear turquoise waters.
Marie Pampoen Beach
Close to the Willemstad Cruise Port, Marie Pampoen Beach offers cruise ship guests the perfect getaway from the crowds. The beach is one of the island’s best snorkeling and diving sites. Near the shore are artificial reefs where you can see corals and tropical fish. It’s also an excellent beach for swimming.
Playa Porto Marie
Playa Porto Marie—also called PortoMari—is one of the best locations on the island for snorkeling and diving. The beach is a 30-minute drive north of the cruise port and is known for its unique double coral reef and vibrant marine life. When snorkeling or diving at the reef, you may see sea turtles in their native habitat.
Cas Abao Beach
Regarded as one of the best beaches in Curaçao—if not the Caribbean—Cas Abao Beach has everything you expect from a tropical paradise. It has soft white sands, crystal-clear blue water, palm trees, palapas, and beach chairs. The beach bar serves a range of tropical cocktails and has complimentary WiFi.
Cas Abao Beach in Curaçao offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities due to the beautiful corals and colorful fish close to shore. Additionally, you can book a beach massage to unwind on your cruise day. It’s only a 35- to 40-minute drive from the Curaçao Cruise Port.
Playa Piskado / Playa Grandi
Playa Piskado, also known as Playa Grandi, is a unique beach in Curaçao, where many sea turtles swim near the shore. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters lets you admire beautiful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. According to most reviews of the beach, turtles are almost always in the sea at Playa Piskado.
The beach is a 40-minute drive from the cruise terminal in Curaçao.
Santa Barbara Beach
Santa Barbara Beach in Curaçao is an excellent choice for cruise passengers looking for a day of luxury and relaxation away from the main cruise terminal. Situated on the southeastern side of the island, it’s approximately a 20-minute drive from the port in Willemstad, making it easily accessible by taxi or rental car for those spending the day ashore.
The beach is part of the Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, offering visitors a pristine stretch of sand with clear, calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
To fully enjoy the amenities and services at Santa Barbara Beach, visitors need to purchase an all-inclusive day pass. This pass covers the cost of entry and includes the use of beach chairs and umbrellas, access to bathrooms and showers, and sometimes even non-motorized water sports equipment. Additionally, the all-inclusive day pass includes meals and drinks from the resort’s restaurants and bars, which are known for their high quality and excellent service.
Opting for this pass allows cruise passengers to indulge in a day of complete relaxation and enjoyment, without the need to manage additional expenses, making for a seamless and luxurious beach day experience.
Playa Kenepa
Playa Kenepa, also known as Kenepa Beach, is one of the most stunning and popular destinations for cruise passengers visiting Curaçao. Located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) from the main cruise port in Willemstad, it takes about a 45-minute drive to reach this idyllic spot.
Nestled between dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters, this beach offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist spots. Playa Kenepa is divided into two sections: Kenepa Grandi (Big Kenepa) and Kenepa Chiki (Little Kenepa), both renowned for their scenic beauty and serene atmosphere.
Cruise passengers often make a beeline for this beach to soak up the sun on its white sandy shores and swim in the crystal-clear waters. With its picturesque setting, Playa Kenepa provides a quintessential Caribbean beach experience that’s a manageable drive from Willemstad.
A thrilling highlight for adventurous visitors at Playa Kenepa is the opportunity for cliff jumping. The cliffs surrounding the beach offer spots where daring individuals can dive into the deep blue water below. This activity attracts those looking for an adrenaline rush and offers an unforgettable way to engage with the natural beauty of the island.
The cliffs provide not only a platform for jumping but also a panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea, making it a popular spot for both thrill-seekers and those content to watch the action from a safe distance.
Playa Lagun
Playa Lagun is a serene and picturesque beach tucked away on the western side of Curaçao, making it a charming destination for those looking to experience a more secluded and natural environment. The cove is framed by rugged cliffs that provide a stunning backdrop and create a sheltered bay with calm, turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The beach is smaller and more intimate compared to other beaches on the island, giving visitors a sense of privacy and tranquility.
From the main cruise port in Willemstad, Playa Lagun is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) away, which translates to about a 45-minute drive. This makes it a feasible day trip for cruise passengers who are willing to travel a bit further from the port to discover one of Curaçao’s hidden gems.
The journey itself is scenic, offering views of the island’s diverse landscapes. Once there, visitors can rent snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life just offshore, where coral reefs host a variety of colorful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. The beach’s remote location and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from the more commercialized tourist areas near the port.
Dining Experiences in Curaçao—How to Eat Like a Local at Plasa Bieu
Plenty of restaurants and cafes in Willemstad serve authentic Curaçaoan cuisine. The Old Market (Plasa Bieu) is the best place to eat like a local in Curaçao. Here, you can find six open kitchens and a communal seating area. Authentic dishes include fried plantains, jerk chicken, fried snapper, goat stew, shrimp, and ostrich meat.
Spend the Day at an Exclusive Beach Resort
Curaçao has several exclusive beaches where you can enjoy a luxurious day and all-inclusive amenities. Here are three luxury beach resorts close to the cruise terminal:
- Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort: Located beside the cruise terminal, the luxury resort has a private beach, restaurants, spa, casino, and infinity pool.
- Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort: Located 5 minutes from the port, the exclusive beach resort lets you unwind and relax during your cruise day in Curaçao. It has two swimming pools, a private beach, free WiFi, lounge chairs, and towels. You also get credit to spend at the superb restaurant.
- Mangrove Beach Corendon All-Inclusive Resort: Next to the cruise port terminal, a day pass to the stunning resort includes a buffet lunch, drinks, access to Aquapark, a private beach, and swimming pools.
Willemstad Port Curaçao: FAQs
Can you walk around Curaçao from a cruise port?
The Cruise Terminal in Willemstad is conveniently located near the historic city center. A short walk over the floating bridge takes you to the main attractions in the city. Here, you can easily explore the vibrant streets, colorful architecture, and local attractions on foot.
Which cruise lines dock at Willemstad Port, Curaçao?
Most major cruise lines in the Caribbean include Curaçao and the ABC Islands on their itinerary. For example, Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises include Curaçao as a port of call.
Are all beaches in Curaçao public beaches?
Not all the beaches in Curaçao are public. While many are accessible to the public, some may be part of resorts or private properties, requiring an entrance fee for non-guests. Also, some popular beaches charge a nominal entrance fee to help maintain facilities at the beach.
When is the best time to visit Curaçao on a cruise?
The best time to visit Curaçao on a cruise is during the dry season, typically from January to May. This period offers sunny weather, calm seas, and ideal conditions for beach activities and exploration. It’s good to note that during this time, prices are higher, and beaches are more crowded.
Curaçao, along with Aruba and Bonaire, are outside the Caribbean Hurricane Belt. Because of this, the islands get warm, relatively dry temperatures throughout the year. Therefore, you may find it best to visit Curaçao in the off-season to get better deals on cruise prices.
What currency should I use in Curaçao?
The official currency of Curaçao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), also known locally as the florin, and its symbol is ƒ. However, the US dollar is widely accepted at most tourist establishments, including shops, restaurants, and taxis.
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