On the tropical island of Curaçao, most itineraries revolve around the sun and cocktails. But venture beyond the hotel zones, and the island will reveal its personality as so much more.
On my most recent visit, in just 72 hours, I was able to wind through Westpunt’s fishing villages, explore coves, and take in the island’s wildest landscapes. Go beyond the beaches to find national parks, flamingo salt flats, and alluring residential neighborhoods worth a stroll.
Here’s my exact itinerary if all you have is 3 days and a desire to go beyond the expected stops and cruise crowds.
In this article
Day 1: Relax and Unpack
Skip the major hotel chains and crowds and base yourself away from the busyness of downtown Willemstad. Baoase Resort is tucked away in a residential neighborhood with only 23 rooms and suites. The hotel blends both Balinese and Caribbean styles, and is set around a man-made lagoon and private beach.
It’s quiet and relaxing, but still well positioned to venture offshore to Bida Island, a remote hideaway surrounded by clear waters, rocky shorelines, and tropical vegetation. It’s part private island, part beach club, with a small spa, bar, and restaurant, plus inviting spots for swimming and lounging by the water.
For dinner on day one, keep things simple and hang back at the hotel. The on-site restaurants serve cuisines ranging from fresh seafood to Caribbean and Asian-inspired dishes, and there are also periodic themed dinners.
If you’d rather eat off site, my favorites include Basilá Café for casual seafood or L'Eskinita D'Gavilan for large portions of rice, beans, and plantains.
Day 2: See the Island's Natural Wonders
Well rested, start your next morning with a road trip to the rugged northwestern tip of Curaçao. Car rentals are readily available, or the hotel can help you book a private tour.
A highlight is exploring the rocky terrain of Shete Boka National Park, which stretches nearly 6 miles along Curaçao’s northern coast and adjoins Christoffel Park. It makes for an excellent hike by the coast and a chance to explore the caverns down below. Within the park, Boka Pistol is a fun stop for epic views and a little excitement, where a dramatic blowhole blasts gun-like sprays high into the air.
Though a little busier, Grote Knip Beach is definitely a local favorite thanks to its striking cliffside viewpoint, turquoise water, and white sands. Once you’ve swum up an appetite, enjoy views of the beach down below (known for its sea turtles) and lunch at Playa Forti. Start with the Caribbean fish platter or tuna steak and come hungry, the portions are huge.
On the drive back to Willemstad, stop at Jan Kok Salt Flats (Sint Willibrordus Flamingo Sanctuary), where you’ll find flamingo flocks gathered in shallow, pink-tinted saltwater lagoons.
Day 3: Get Your Culture Fix in Town
If all you have is 3 days, a long walk through Willemstad is the best way to begin the last one, especially since the sun will be at its coolest in the morning.
Stroll past residential homes and admire the city’s colorful downtown. Grab a smoothie or some fresh produce at the Floating Market or Old Market before venturing across the swinging Queen Emma Bridge. This is an Instagram-worthy shot you’ll want, as your backdrop will be the ocean and a line of crayon-colored facades.
On the other side, take your time admiring the old city quarter of Otrobanda to browse the brightly painted buildings, murals, and side-streets. There are also two main museums, the Curaçao Museum, which has exhibits on the geological history of Curaçao, and the Kurá Hulanda Museum, which focuses on the Atlantic slave trade, West African culture, and the island’s colonial past.
Finally, cap the trip with a stop into a brewery along the harborfront. The Swinging Old Lady has plenty of outdoor seating and serves craft beers brewed on the island, as well as light bites perfect for a midday snack.
The Shortcut
Base yourself outside of the main tourist drag in Willemstad. Baoase has 23 rooms and its own offshore island, and you'll still be 10 minutes from downtown.
Shete Boka and Grote Knip are close enough to do in one morning. Get there early to see Boka Pistol's blowhole.
Lunch at Playa Forti is a two-for-one: the fish platter, and a cliff view of the sea turtles swimming below.
