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.
Dazzling blue waters and immaculate shores together make up Cas Abao Beach, a picturesque canvas within which is draped much of Curaçao's natural magnificence. A seamless fusion of spotless nature and all the facilities that come with a contemporary holiday destination, the beach is riddled with a wealth of iridescent coral reefs, which thrive gloriously in its underbelly. A heaven for water-sports enthusiasts, the beach plays host to a wide array of activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and banana boating, among many others. Strung along its tranquil shore are numerous hut-like establishments, while the sprawling ring of verdure-clad cliffs only make the entire expanse more endearing. While curious adventurers plunge into its crystalline depths, the relatively-relaxed either sip tropical concoctions at the onsite daiquiri bar, or have their nerves soothed over by the beach masseur. Permeated with a true-blue (literally) tropical tenor, the alluring Cas Abao Beach embodies heaven on earth.
Committed to providing both fun and educational opportunities, Dolphin Academy Curaçao offers everything from open-water dives with bottlenose dolphins to scholastic programs for burgeoning marine biologists. Strap on your scuba gear, wade in waist-high water, or sign up for an interactive course. There's no wrong way to experience Dolphin Academy Curaçao. Please note that group sizes cap at six people per dolphin.
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.
Exciting marine creatures like sea turtles and manta rays weave through fertile seagrass beds and vibrant coral clusters at Curacao Underwater Marine Park. Sandy shores, fringing reefs, and dense mangroves provide important habitats for more than 350 fish species. Explore the park's biodiversity while touring the site's aquarium, snorkeling and scuba diving at one of 19 marked spots, or boating through a mangrove forest. Fill your day with incredible wildlife and unforgettable fun at Curacao Underwater Marine Park.