Nature is king at Playa Porto Marie. The endless white-sand beach offers opportunities to splash in the surf, swim through reefs, and explore nature trails. Hikers and mountain bikers will find the beginnings to the Seru Matteo, History, and Bird Trails in the parking lot at Playa Porto Marie. Snacks and drinks are available at the onsite bar and restaurant. Spend a picture-perfect afternoon at Playa Porto Marie.
Built in 1888 to honor Queen Emma of the Netherlands, this bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts of Curacao. It is famously nicknamed "Our Swinging Old Lady" because it is supported by floating boats and regularly swings open to allow passing vessels access to the port. The completely renovated and restored, Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge is a sight to behold in the evening, when it glows under colored lights. It is known for offering some of the nicest panoramas in Willemstad.
Punda represents one of four historic quarters in Willemstad. Once a Dutch trading hub, this charming area is now frequented by eager shoppers. Stores selling clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, and souvenirs line the waterfront alongside numerous markets and tasty eateries. Great for a shopping spree or cultural excursion, Punda awaits.
Measuring 56.4 meters (185 feet) at its pinnacle, the Queen Juliana Bridge stands proudly as the highest bridge in the Caribbean. The impressive vantage point offers sweeping vistas of Punda and Otrobanda, as well as the Saint Anna Bay that connects them. Although not open to foot traffic, visitors will get a rush (and some great photos) when crossing by car. Drive across in the sunshine and under the moonlight for distinct but equally stunning perspectives.
Touted to be one of the oldest surviving institutions of its kind in the region, the Curaçao Synagogue is a colonial visage colored in bright yellow. Known locally as SNOA, the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue is also one of the most continually-used synagogues in the whole of the Americas. The congregation was formed in the 1650s, and consisted of many members of the Brazilian and Netherlandish descent. With its current form built in the 1730s, the synagogue is deeply entrenched in the principles of the contemporary principles of Judaism, the arm of which is known as Reconstructionist Judaism. Featuring a tapestry of dazzling stained-glass windows, intricately-carved woodwork, tall vaulted ceilings and a pleasant courtyard, the synagogue is also home to the Jewish Historical Cultural Museum. Having aged gracefully for over 200 years, the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue is not just a treasured historic jewel, but it has also been instrumental in forging a strong community spirit among Jews residing in the area.
Neighbor to Christoffel National Park, Shete Boka stretches approximately 200 hectares (494.2 acres) along Curaçao's rocky northern coast. Visitors primarily flock to Boka Tabla, a cave situated dramatically between land and sea. Other attractions include various bays that serve as nesting grounds for sea turtles, pockets of prolific mangrove growth, and one-of-a-kind natural features like the narrow cove at Boka Pistol. Visitors will adore this rugged and picturesque slice of Curaçao's stunning landscape.
A boat trip on The Natural is a must on your Curacao itinerary. With its starting point at Piscadera Bay, the tour company offers excursions around the panoramic island and guarantees safety. Unwind while sunbathing on the deck or make a splash into the Caribbean for a chance to swim among turtles and dolphins. The adventurous can dive into the turquoise ocean for a glimpse of the Black Sand reef and the mesmerizing underwater world. Snorkel to the underwater cave, engage in some fishing, or watch the sun set on the horizon while taking in the views of pristine beaches and picturesque landscapes. The outfitters provide you with the essential equipment and also offer snacks and beverages on board.
Built as a private home and gallery, Yubi Kirindongo Gallery is an eclectic residence that was designed by the artist himself. The brightly-painted home is perched on top of a hill, overlooking the city of Willemstad. The house also features a gallery and a sculpture garden for visitors to explore. The artist draws inspiration from local culture and blends it with his own unique style to craft pieces from scrap metal and waste that most would consider useless. Materials of choice include car bumpers, corrugated sheets, rubber tires and more. Both avid art collectors and enthusiasts will appreciate the fine modern art on display.
Zapata Flyboard Caribbean teaches water sports fans the basics of Flyboarding within an hour. After the training session, visitors are taken out onto the water for a 30-40 minute action-packed adventure. Test your skills out on the open ocean as you flip, somersault and dive through the waves. The knowledgeable instructors will have you trying out the iconic "dolphin dive" in no time. All above the age of 10 are welcome to give it a shot. Go ahead and add this to your holiday plans for a thrilling couple of hours of adrenaline-boosting fun.
Named after captain Pieter de Meij, Pietermaai is a lively district in the city of Willemstad. It is a buzzing place with good hangouts for tourists and locals alike. There are several monuments and old buildings which are about two centuries old and have been renovated to function as restaurants, bars, hotels, apartments and commercial spaces.
Aquafari is a travel agency that offers interactive maritime excursions for the entire family. Take a 90-minute trip and explore the island's unique natural beauty and sea life up close and personal. Each client is given basic instructional training on how to use the underwater submersible scooters, following which you're guided through some of the most beautiful reefs where you can spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and more beautiful flora and fauna. The scooters are self propelled and eco-friendly, and suitable for ages ten and up. Call the company to make a booking.
Enjoy a sight of the gorgeous Sint Anna Bay, also known as the Santa Anna Bay, during your time in the island of Curaçao. Connecting the Schottegat Industrial area to the Caribbean Sea, the Sint Anna Bay is 1.60 kilometers (one mile) long and 304.8 meters (1000 feet) wide channel that offers a gorgeous waterway through the city. Two bridges, namely, Queen Emma and Queen Juliana Bridge also span the bridge, allowing motorcars and pedestrians to cross across the channel. Hard to miss during your time in the city, the Sint Anna Bay is a prominent feature of Willemstad.