By Elise Hofer Shaw

There’s no place quite like Curaçao to indulge in vacation bliss. This gem of an island, nestled in the Southern Caribbean, boasts warm tropical weather, beautiful terrain, and activities in abundance — all primed for the vacation of your dreams. Read on for a guide to the island’s top adventures and beaches.

Explore Willemstad By Bike

The best way to take in the sights and sounds of historic downtown Willemstad is by bike. Plus, it’s a low-impact adventure the whole family can enjoy. We recommend getting an early start and renting your bikes through Van Gogh Specialty Coffee. During a lovely breakfast of fresh croissants, fruit and yogurt bowls or veggies-topped avocado toast, ask your server to register your names and you’ll be good to go. We recommend sticking to the city center (Pietermaai, Punda, Otrobanda, and Scharloo). Be sure to pedal past the colorful murals in Punda and the beautiful homes in Scharloo. And don’t forget to order a peach iced tea from Van Gogh to pop in your cup holder for the ride.

Head To Curaçao’s Top Beaches

Well-preserved colonial architecture, a thriving art scene, lush greenery, and rugged mountains… There’s so much to love about the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. One of its main draws, of course, are the stunning beaches. If you’re looking to stay close to Willemstad, the best beaches nearby are Jan Thiel and Mambo Beach. If you’re willing to journey a little farther (less than an hour by car from the city center) Kenepa Beach, also known as Knip Beach, is one of the most photographed beaches in Curaçao. It features a picturesque bay surrounded by stony cliffs and offers idyllic snorkeling and swimming conditions.

Located on the western side of the island, Playa Porto Mari is renowned for its unique double reef system, making it a hotspot for divers and snorkelers. This popular beach also has palapas for shade, a beach bar, and a casual restaurant for visitors who want to sit back and relax. That said, Grote Knip is touted by many as the best beach on Curaçao. If you’ve got limited time and can visit only one, make it this beach. The sand is soft, the water is crystal clear, and the beach is surrounded by tall cliffs. Before heading down to the water’s edge, be sure to pause at the entrance to take in the stunning vista.

Plan a Boat Trip to Klein Curaçao

Whether you’re looking to snorkel, kitesurf, or kick back and sunbathe, Klein (Little) Curaçao is a fabulous day trip. This uninhabited island is only a 1.5 to 2-hour boat ride from Curaçao, and there is a bounty of charters to choose from. However, only two companies have permanent structures on the island — Mermaid Boat Trips and Miss Ann Boat Trips — which is nice if you want easy access to fresh water, bathrooms, and shade. Plus, you can enjoy lunch on the beach instead of having to swim back to your catamaran or boat. While you’re there, get in some steps with a walk to the abandoned lighthouse and shipwreck. It’s only a 10 to 15-minute walk and the postcard-perfect views are worth the stroll.