Dushi Curaçao: Sun, Snorkeling, and the Rugged North Coast

In late March, we traded the Dutch spring for tropical Curaçao. What a wonderful island! Whether you enjoy lounging by the water or prefer actively exploring the island, Curaçao has something for everyone. Curious about our tips? Then read on!

We stayed in the Jan Thiel Bay area, which comes highly recommended. You can spend a lovely day by the water here and enjoy beautiful snorkeling directly from the shore. For sea adventurers: catamarans depart from the pier for day trips to the uninhabited Klein Curaçao or for sunset cruises.

Especially in the late afternoon and evening, the atmosphere here is incredibly lively. The choice of dining options is vast: from Argentine cuisine at Tinto to dining with your feet in the sand at Zest Café.

Tip: Don’t miss Saturday night at Zanzibar! There is a large party with live performances that also draws in the local residents.

Don't feel like sitting still all day? There is plenty of action to be found:

• ATV / Buggy Tour (Favorite!): Looking for a real thrill? Book an off-road buggy tour along the West Coast. It’s pure fun and action; you’ll speed over dusty paths and see places you could never reach with a regular car.

• E-scooter Tour: A relaxed 2.5-hour tour along Caracas Bay and Fort Beekenburg. Ideal if you want to have time for a swim afterward.

• Hike to Mambo Beach: A beautiful walk along the coastline or the salt flats (approx. 45 minutes including photo stops). Wear sneakers and bring plenty of water, as the climb can be quite intense in the heat!

Renting a car is a "must" to discover the many coves. Each beach has its own charm. Smaller coves are free to visit, but at some larger beaches with more amenities, you are required to pay for entry and/or lounge chairs. Here are our top recommendations:

For peace-seekers & snorkelers:

• Grote Knip (Kenepa Grande): The most iconic beach. The view from the cliffs before you walk down is exactly the postcard you expect from Curaçao.

• Playa Jeremi & Kleine Knip: Intimate, quiet coves without much fuss. Perfect for those who want to escape the crowds.

• Playa Lagun: A narrow bay between high rock walls. This is the best spot to spot sea turtles while snorkeling!

For a complete day out:

• Cas Abou: White sand, swaying palms, and crystal-clear blue water. It is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and has all the facilities.

• Playa Porto Marie: Famous for its unique double reef and... the residents! There is a good chance you will encounter the famous pigs on the beach here.

• Kokomo Beach: Famous for the swing in the water. A cozy beach with great facilities and often live music on Sundays.

For a completely different experience, you must visit the north coast of Curaçao. In Shete Boka, the waves crash against the rocks with immense power. You can drive between the different bokas (inlets) over the rugged stone terrain. The strong wind provides a wonderful natural cooling effect.

A visit to the capital is essential. The famous Queen Emma Bridge (Pontoon Bridge) and the colorful Handelskade are iconic. We took a walk through Otrobanda with a guide from Dundu Tours; highly recommended for seeing the beautiful murals and learning more about the history. Afterward, be sure to stroll through the Pietermaai district with its beautiful boutique hotels and hidden alleys like the 'Kipsteeg'.

Near Jan Thiel, you will find the Chichi Garden. The 'Chichi' is the well-known statue of the most important woman in the Curaçaoan family. You can take a look around, but on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, you can also paint a statue yourself. How fun is that for a creative morning during your vacation?

In short: Curaçao is great! You can see and do a lot, relax wonderfully, and the weather is always good. Book your stay on Curaçao now via Leisure Time and enjoy an unforgettable vacation. Bon Bini!