Island Vibes Meet European Culture: 7 Incredible Things to Do in Curacao
Brush up on Your History
For a small island, Curacao has some outstanding museums. Museum Kura Hulanda in Willemstad documents the brutal history of slavery in the region, covering everything from the slave trade, to slave culture and finally abolition.
As well as giving you insight and appreciation for an ugly history that could easily be forgotten in such a beautiful place, it’s an important glimpse into the way African cultures shaped the Caribbean.
Another gem is the Savonet museum located in the north of the island. Set in an old plantation house, this museum offers another look at slavery, from the point of view of the former Savonet Plantation.
Catch Some Rays
Unsurprisingly, you can find dozens of spectacular beaches on Curacao. Many of them are small coves hidden away from plain sight, so you’ll have slivers of white sand bordered by tranquil blue waters all to yourself. Some of the standout places to pitch your beach towel are Jeremi, Kenepa and Playa Lagun.
Of course, you can also find beaches with plenty of loungers, umbrellas and cocktails if that is more your style! Check out Cas Abao or Blue Bay Beach for an indulgent beach day.
For something a little further afield, try a snorkeling trip to Klein Curacao. The “Little Curacao’” is an uninhabited island off the southeast coast, and is a gorgeous day trip destination for anyone who wants to explore isolated beaches and splash around in pristine water.
Sweet treats, lively parades and dazzling lights are all found at these enchanting holiday celebrations that take place around the world.
Feast on Creole Cuisine
Sitting seaside and dining on fish that were swimming in the ocean only hours earlier will probably be one of the highlights of your trip. With influences ranging from Dutch to Indonesian, Curacao’s cuisine is as unique and exciting as any in the Caribbean. Make sure you try the national dish, keshi yena — a spiced cheese and chicken casserole with olives, onions and prunes.
To wash it down, awa di lamunchi is a sweet, mildly addictive lime juice.
Try Rozendaels or the Seaside Terrace in Willemstad for grilled mahi-mahi served with creole sauces
