Just off the Venezuelan coast lies the small Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. Here you’ll find intimate beaches, pristine hiking trails, tropical forests, and a rugged coastline made for adventure. From water sports to off-road excursions, here are some of Curaçao’s best outdoor activities.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
With sea on all sides, stellar underwater experiences are never far away on Curaçao. Sail the coast of Spanish Water Lagoon with stops for snorkeling above colorful coral reefs, or try your hand at scuba diving for an up-close view of fish, sponges, and beautiful coral. If you’re already a certified diver, you can opt for two guided dives at some of the island’s best spots for spotting lionfish, parrotfish, barracuda, and moray eels.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Fun, eco-friendly, and suitable for beginners, paddleboarding along the shores of Willemstad and Curaçao offers a close-up look at the beauty of the island’s mangroves and pristine Caribbean coastline. Spanish Water Lagoon provides a nursery for many species of seabirds and marine life, perfect for wildlife watching as you paddle.
Off-Road Adventures
One of the best ways to experience the rugged, mountainous coast of Curaçao is from behind the wheel of a dune buggy. During an off-road tour, follow a local guide to some of the island’s most remote landmarks—Indian Caves, Curaçao Ostrich Farm, and a natural coastal blowhole—and other sights that traditional vehicles can’t access.
Hiking
Formed from the merging of three ancient plantations, Shete Boka National Park comprises 4,447 acres (1,800 hectares) of beautiful wilderness full of sea cliffs, hiking trails, Caribbean waters, and abundant bird life. Keep an eye out for sea turtles, frigatebirds, and herons as you trek this rocky northern coastline.