Ten must-do activities on Curacao
Written at Monday 20 April 2009 by Iren Nooren
photography © Memento Vivi
Curacao is the most beautiful island in the Caribbean. I think. It has everything to make your trip the best you ever had. If you’re looking for white beaches and crystal clear turquoise water, rich history and unique architecture; you’re at the right spot. Oh, and don’t worry about the weather… Curacao has a warm and sunny climate all year round!
{There is so much to see and do on Curacao and I only may choose ten??}
1. Visit the beaches at Banda’Bou. You will be stunned looking at the crystal clear water. Occasionally you may see dolphins swimming along the coasts;
2. Experience and learn about more than 300 varieties of herbs and plants from Curacao in Dinah Veeris’ Botanic & Historic Garden. Here you can also buy Dinah Veeris’ products, which are home made with much love and dedication;
3. Enjoy the distinct historical architecture of Scharloo. This quarter of Willemstad consists of beautiful mansions, built in the classicist style by rich Jewish families during the 18th century. It is a reminder of the of a golden period in the history of Curacao;
4. Climb the highest hill on Curacao – the Christoffelberg – in the biggest national nature park of Curacao. Also known as Mount St Christoffel. It is an enjoyable climb with views across the forest to the coast in all directions. An early start and strong walking shoes are recommended;
5. Take a hike at Jan Thiel. A unique area with its variety of salt lake ponds, lagoons, cliffs and panoramic views. There are different trails. Also excellent for biking;
6. Go sunbathing at Seaquarium Beach with its palm trees and white sand. It has a good selection of shops, bar, restaurants, and facilities for water sports. Ideal for children. The place to be {seen};
7. Enjoy the tremendous power of water at Shete Boka. The rugged coast of Boka Shete with its crashing waves is accentuated by beautiful bays and caves that are half immersed in water. The terrain is quite rough, be sure to wear good walking shoes;
8. Meet the fascinating ostriches at the Curacao Ostrich Farm. You can touch them, feed them even ride them {for real daredevils only}. Every hour a safari truck will take you on a remarkable tour through the farm corals. All you have to do is announce yourself at Restaurant Zambezi.
9. Catch Captain Goodlife’s watertaxi at Santa Cruz and go diving or snorkeling at Boka Santu Pretu. This beach is off the beaten track and only accessible by sea of a road through a idyllic and shadowy forest. It differs from other beaches with its black sand;
10. Don’t forget the best Aloe Vera of the world found at The Curacao Aloe Vera Plantation. Discover the secrets of Aloe Vera for yourself and enjoy the entertaining tour of the plantation and the production plant.
10a. Look for the souvenirs of Memento Vivi: dushi T-shirts of Curacao
I guess there are a thousand things you could do on Curacao. I really would like to read what you think is a must-do activity on Curacao. Leave a comment.
April 20th, 2009 at 17:36
11: go diving at the Tugboat, Carpile, Marie Pampoen and a hundred other great underwater spots
April 20th, 2009 at 20:04
12. And the music! Asia de Cuba, Hemingway´s, Omundo, De Heeren, Hooks Hut, Mambo Beach. My favorie local place Oasis…, just to mention some of all places with great entertainments.
Dance Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, listen to Latin Jazz ….
April 21st, 2009 at 14:49
@Joost _ I have to confess I am not a diver {I know it sounds silly, living on Curacao for seven years now and haven’t dived once in my life}. I had given it some thought when I was writing the post, but I didn’t know the most beautiful dive spots on Curacao. I’m glad you mentioned Tugboat and Marie Pampoen. Heard a lot about it, though. Thanks for adding that one to the list!
@Ulla _ neither I am into music & dancing, so I did not have any clue at all what is hot on Curacao.
I must say I totally forgot about the music and the happy hours. I think for many people it is the most important must-do on Curacao. Thanks for your comment.
Does anyone have more suggestions?