Curacao :: Top 10 Things to do

As I mentioned in a previous post Curacao is chock full of interesting, fascinating places and things to do. Aside from the beautiful beaches, I have made a list of my Top 10 picks but again there are so many more attractions. This list is surely a great place to start.

#10 :: Rif Fort

Rif Fort is part of the historic center of Willemstad that is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list and a part of the Renaissance complex on the west bank. The beautiful old walls of the fort built in 1828 have been preserved. Definitely worth a visit.

Nestled inside the fort are shops and restaurants. One shop in particular offers a large selection of Delft Blue, very popular and exclusive hand-made pottery from The Netherlands. From the inside of the fort you can climb the stone steps to the second level to experience the beautiful scenery of the waterfront and views of the Pontoon Bridge.

I think it is an ingenious way to preserve the past to be enjoyed by everyone who comes to visit.

#9 :: Curacao Liqueur Distillery at Landhuis Chobolobo

A visit to Chobolobo is a journey. Chobolobo is one of the few publicly accessible mansions in the country. The mansion was built early 19th century and since 1947 used for the production of the Senior liqueur. 

Did you know that a true Curacao Liqueur has to be made with the Laraha orange? And that this orange only grows here? And how come it’s blue?

Around the year 1500 when the Spaniards arrived on the island they brought along Valencia oranges. Due to the arid climate and the soil of Curacao the orange mutated into a green version. This orange is called the Laraha + is indigenous to the island. The Laraha is inedible. However the dried orange peels are perfect for the production of this unique liqueur and provide a unique taste. The liqueur itself has no color but they just add food coloring to make it blue. Anti-climactic, I know. Boo.

Since 1896 Senior is the only brand in the world that uses Laraha to make the blue liqueur. Senior also produces other liqueurs such as a chocolate liqueur and tamarind liqueur. 

You will learn all about the Curacao liqueur by taking the tour at Chololobo but also other really interesting facts about the history of the island itself. Of course the experience wouldn’t be complete without tasting the various liqueurs for yourself and by enjoying a delicious cocktail made by the experienced bartenders in their cute bar area.

#8 :: Landhuis Bloemhof

Landhuis Bloemhof is one of the smaller country estates on the island. The main building dates back to 1735. Exhibitions, lectures and creative workshops are ongoing here.

The former coach house was transformed in the 1950’s when it became May Henriquez’ sculpture studio. Frozen in time it now displays a permanent exhibition of her artistic work.

In Dutch the name Bloemhof means ‘flower garden,’ a perfect name for it as you will find indigenous plants and trees throughout in the garden. Here nestled in a grove you will discover the bathhouse with its two stone bathtubs. Originally fed by an aqueduct from the adjoining well this lovely spot recalls what must have been pure luxury in this serene environment back in the day.

#7 :: Plasa Bieu “Old Market”

By now you are well aware of my love for markets around the world and how I love interacting with the local people. Plasa Bieu is the perfect place for both, situated in the heart of Willemstad. Here you will find six different stands offering a wide range of local dishes of krioyo soul cooking.

The ingredients are fresh daily. Some of the popular dishes are :: stewed salted pork tails, bòkel [salted mackerel], kabes ku higra [head and liver stew], kadushi [cactus soup], bonchi kòra [red kidney bean soup] and Iguana soup. Dishes are served with rice and beans, funchi [polenta], mashed potatoes or french fries. Beware :: the food can be pika pika [spicy]! Feel free to wander around and ask for their specialities and enjoy the aromas. The people are so friendly and will gladly even let you sample the taste before buying.

Plasa Bieu is open daily during lunchtime. Closed on Sundays.

 #6 :: Serena’s Art Factory

“Where Love Comes in All Colors”

Serena’s is a unique experience for young + old.

You can treat yourself to a great variety of colorful, handmade Chichis® and souvenirs or paint your own souvenir during a lively workshop.

Visit Serena’s Art Factory free of charge and experience how the famous + colorful Chichi® sculptures are made by Serena and her team. These sculptures are made out of paper mache and hand painted by over 60 local women. With help and guidance from Serena these women produce the most spectacular sculptures.

**Where Love Comes in All Colors**

#5 :: Curacao Ostrich Farm

Experience the feel of South Africa for a day! Book a fun-filled quad tour to explore the beautiful Santa Catharina area. The Ostrich Farm offers guaranteed fun for the whole family!

Led by a team of enthusiastic people who will go to great lengths to make sure you have a great time will share their knowledge and make your experience unforgettable. If you’re willing you’ll even get to feed an ostrich and stand on one of their eggs! I never realized how strong the ostrich shell is!

The grounds of the Ostrich Farm also has a restaurant “Zambezi,” children’s playground and a souvenir shop.

#4 :: Kura Hulanda Museum

Kurá Hulanda Museum, situated on the site of a former slave yard, has the largest African collection in the Caribbean. It is an anthropological museum that focuses on the predominant cultures of the island. It offers a world-class chronicle of the Origin of Man, the African slave trade, West African Empires, Pre-Colombian gold, Mesopotamian relics and Antillean art. So interesting!

A UNESCO World Heritage site the Kurá Hulanda Museum is comprised of 15 buildings + spans more than 16,000 square feet.

Its mission is to acquire + exhibit collections related to the cultural identity of the people of Curacao, the Caribbean and the Atlantic Rim.

#3 :: Cathedral of Thorns in Landaus Bloemhof

On our visit to Landhuis Bloemhof we were so fortunate to have had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with the designer + artist of this magnificent artwork himself :: Herman van Bergen.

As of 2015 the Cathedral of Thorns has been his ongoing project comprised completely of thorns from the local plant Acacia Tortuosa or “sumpiñas” as it is locally known. For decades Herman had been experimenting with sumpiñas creating lamps, sculptures and installations. The Cathedral of Thorns is his most daring endeavor, a monumental artistic creation measuring 4300 square feet, 26 feet high.

Herman explained to us that the construction is designed in the form of a labyrinth as a symbol for spirituality and a path to enlightenment. The outline of the top is inspired by the local rock formation ‘El Indjan’ as an hommage to the Indians as original inhabitants of the island. 

On the whole the project pays tribute to the history + people of Curacao. It is pretty remarkable and I would highly recommend you go see it. Cathedral of Thorns is located within and behind Landhuis Bloemhof so you’ll be able to see two of my recommendations in one visit. There is no entrance fee.

#2 :: Curacao Sea Aquarium

The Curacao Sea Aquarium is my #2 pick for things to do in Curacao because it belongs to one of the most unique aquaria in the world, having managed to create natural habitats for all its marine creatures without using sophisticated technical equipment.

Since 1984 the aquarium has operated on the principle of providing an environment that mimics the natural living conditions of every creature in its care. This goal is accomplished by employing all the available natural sources and resources surrounding the aquarium.

This is without a doubt the most incredible aquarium I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing. I highly recommend it as my #2 pick of things to do in Curaçao. I think you will be as impressed as I was.

Click here to be directed to the Curacao Sea Aquarium website for more information.

#1 :: Mermaid Tour to Klein Curacao

Klein Curacao Island is my #1 pick of things to do in Curacao :: a remote, uninhabited coral island, eight miles and 2 hours off the southeast coast with white sand beaches, crystal clear water, a spectacular reef and colorful sea life. Having the longest and whitest beach in all of Curacao. The northeastern side routinely has calm water with gentle waves.

In the distance you can see Klein Curacao’s landmark lighthouse and a shipwreck that was lodged on the beach many years ago. As the boat approaches the coast, you’ll see an endless beach of white sand awaiting your arrival. The water is warm and crystal clear, perfect for relaxing + great for snorkeling.

Be careful when you walk out to where the old lighthouse stands [which is still lit by solar power] and also the shipwreck. I was only wearing my flip flops and tripped on the rocks. Ouch!

There are a few little huts with picnic tables under them strewn about but they are quickly taken up by guests on the tour.

Tip: grab a hut quickly if you don’t want to sit in the sun all day long because there is really no other shade

Apparently there are also coral and underwater caves there but I don’t do scuba :: what a shame. Klein Curacao is a mecca for divers, snorkelers and sunbathers. If you are certified and bring your own diving equipment, the diving is free. If not, there is a charge to rent the equipment.

The Mermaid Boat Tour to Klein Curacao is my #1 pick for things to do in Curaçao because all in all this was an incredible day on an incredible beach with incredible weather. From the boat trip to the food they served…

…to the beautiful island, sand and water to the old lighthouse… it all was absolutely perfect. It just doesn’t get better than this.

Again, with so many choices of things to do in Curacao, this is my short list. Seriously consider visiting Curacao because it holds something for everyone and her list of captivating attractions is endless.

Read more ::

15 Curacao Beaches in Photos

Top 5 Beaches in Curacao