Holidays and events
Public holidays
There are a number of public holidays that do not have a fixed date but are based on the location of Easter. Easter takes place on the first Sunday that follows the first full moon after the beginning of spring. Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent, which ends on Holy Saturday, is 46 days before Holy Saturday. The date for Pentecost is 50 days after Easter. The Corpus Christi festival is celebrated on the 2nd Thursday after Pentecost.
Date | Type of holiday |
January 1 | New Year |
6th January | St. Stephen’s Day or Feast of the Three Kings. Dinner with traditional dessert, the “galette des Rois”, with a king being drawn |
January | Beginning of the carnival season, every weekend until Ash Wednesday you can see and hear carnival groups in the streets |
Early February | Shrove Tuesday: the carnival is at its peak, |
Early February | Ash Wednesday: on the occasion of a nightly parade “Grand Brilé Vaval” |
middle of March | Half of Lent – a day of carnival during Lent. Parades in black and red costumes |
March April | Good Friday and Easter Monday – On the 2nd Easter holiday, folklore groups in traditional costume sing through Punda and Otrobanda |
1st of May | Labor Day |
May | Whit Monday |
May 27 | abolition of slavery |
July 14 | Jour de la Bastille / National holiday |
21 July | Jour de Victor Schölcher/Day of the Liberation of Slaves |
August | Curacao Salsa Festival at the festival, artists from Curacao, other Caribbean islands and Latin America appear |
17th August | Commemoration of the most important slave revolt of 1795 |
November 1 | All Saints Day |
November 5 | Nikolausfest, the children put a shoe with some grass for the white horse in front of the door. |
November 11 | Armistice |
end of November | Arrival of Nicholas on a sailing ship from Spain |
24. -26. December | Christmas |
December 31 | New Year’s Eve, the old year ends at midnight with huge fireworks |
Source: Countryaah
Curacao: climate
Curacao has a semi-arid (semi-arid) climate with an average annual rainfall of around 500 mm and an average annual temperature of almost 28 °C. The average temperature of the water is around 25 °Celsius. The relatively low amount of precipitation – mostly in the period from October to February – is due to the fact that the warm and humid air hardly finds any mountains on which it can rise and cool down. That would lead to rain. A pleasantly cool trade wind is blowing from the east. The intense sunlight makes effective sun protection necessary.
Sights and activities
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Historic center of Willemstad
The historic center of Willemstad with the port and Fort Amsterdam was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.
In addition to the historical center, the houses in Scharloo and Pietermaai – the history of which can be traced back to the 17th century – are listed as historical monuments.
The beginnings of Willemstad go back to the 16th century and were based heavily on the buildings and structure of Amsterdam, but over time it acquired its own characteristic Caribbean flair – especially the striking light pastel colors.
In addition to the historic center and the lively harbor, Willemstad also offers four particularly noteworthy districts:
Punda
The two districts of Punta – in the east – and Otrobanda – in the west – are separated from each other by the St. Anna Bai. A mobile pedestrian bridge (see below) spans the bay allergings. After the island was conquered by the Dutch in 1634, work began on building a fort here – today’s Fort Amsterdam. You can still find the old office buildings, shops, warehouses and residential buildings along today’s Columbus Street, Madurostraße and Handelsstraße.
Otrobanda
After the rapid growth of Punda, the quarter, Otrobanda – in German on the other side “- was expanded. The buildings in the new neighborhood were essentially the same as those in Punda. Punda has a very extravagant road network, which does not exist in Otrobanda. But this disordered “mess” of streets and alleys gives the quarter its special charm. During the late 18th and especially during the 19th century, numerous freed slaves came here. In addition, Otrobanda is an important cultural center, especially for the island’s “black middle class”. No visitor should miss a walk through the romantic alleys and passages as well as past its partially weathered monuments.
Scharloo and Pietermaai
In the districts of Scharloo and Pietermaai, visitors will find numerous houses that have now been lovingly restored. Scharloo and Pietermaai, together with the historic center of Willemstad, were entered on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Emma Bridge
The “mobile” pedestrian bridge called “Emma Bridge” connects the two districts of Willemstad – Punda and Otrobanda – with one another. If ships go into or out of the port, the bridge is moved to the side. During this time, small passenger boats operate free of charge.
Museums, galleries and synagogue
Carib Fine Art
in the Hotel Kura Hulanda
The gallery Carib Fine Art presents paintings, sculptures, ceramics, glassware, which were created by indigenous and other Caribbean artists
Guracao Museum
The museum is located in a building in the “VanLeeuwenhoekstraat” that from the year 1853 dates. The museum exhibits paintings, old furniture, Native American works of art and old maps of the Caribbean and Curacao.
D’art Gallery
The D’Art Gallery is located in the historic Scharloo district of Willemstad. Here the visitor will find an interesting selection of contemporary local and international art.
Bitterstraat 11/Werfstraat 6
Scharloo (Punda)
Tel.: +5999 – 462 8680
Fax: +5999 – 4627275
Opening times
Mon – Fri: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sat. and Sun. by appointment only
Galerie John Baselmans
Dokterstuin 237
Tel.: +5999 – 864 3595
The artist’s motto is: The gallery is mine At home. In the gallery the visitor can look over the shoulder of the artist at work.
The drawings are more realistic and give an impression of life and nature on Curacao. You can also find modern sculptures here.
Galerie Mon Art
The gallery exhibits paintings, ceramics and a selection of calendars, diaries and books.
Opening times
Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
At Fort Riffort, Unit 103
Otrobanda/Willemstad
Tel.: + 5999- 462 2977
Fax: +5 999 – 462 2962
Jean Girigory Gallery
The gallery opened in February 2004 and shows works by the artist Jean Girigory – paintings, bronze sculptures, ceramics, glass works and masks.
Opening times
Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: by appointment only.
Kas di Alma Blou
The house was built at the end of the 19th century in the middle of Willemstad in close proximity to the water. It is considered a brilliant example of Dutch-Caribbean architecture on Curacao.
The gallery exhibits paintings and sculptures. In addition, the visitor can buy handicrafts from local artists here.
Landhuis Habaai – Frater Radulphusweg 4
Otrobanda/Willemstad
Tel: +5999 – 462 88 96
Fax: +5999 – 462 18 88
Kas di Pal`i Maishi
In this small and traditional Kunuku house, located in the west of the island, the life of the majority of the islanders is kept alive.
Landhuis Bloemhof
The farmhouse Bloemhof with its main building from 1735 has an impressive architecture. The outbuildings – the former stables and barns – have been extensively renovated and now house an archive, a library and a reading room dedicated to the art of May Henriquez.
Opening times
Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Santa Rosaweg 6
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 737 5775
Fax: +5999 – 737 6240
Museum Kura Hulanda
This museum is located on the site where the slave market used to be – on today’s St. Anna Bay.
Here you can experience the development of slaves, Africans and the other residents of the island in an interactive way
Nena Sanchez Gallery
This is where the Curacao-born artist Nena Sanchez exhibits her works. You can also find works by her in Europe and South America.
Bloempot Shopping Center
Tel.: +5999 -7382377
Open Atelier
The Atelier sees itself as more than just an art gallery. It sees itself as a platform for the development of art on the island. The visitor will find works of local artists here.
Opening times
Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
on weekends only by appointment.
FD Rooseveltweg 443
Mahuma, Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 868 6027 Slave Museum
This museum is the only museum in the Caribbean dedicated to the history of slavery in the Caribbean. It is located in the old colonial quarter of the capital Willemstad.
Cont
After the Dutch conquered Curacao in 1634 and ruled there until the end of World War II, they were always in danger of being attacked and defeated on the island. The threat initially came from the Spaniards and later from France and England. In addition, pirates were a constant threat. The attack by a fleet of the French privateer Jacques Cassard in 1713 is still fondly remembered today. The capture and plundering of the island could only be prevented by paying a ransom of 400,000 guilders. For these reasons, the Dutch built forts at numerous strategically important locations. Only eight of them have been more or less well preserved or have been restored. Six of them are shown below:
Fort Amsterdam (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
This large and most important fort in Curacao was built in 1635 right at the entrance to the port of Willemstad. The fort was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997 with the center of Willemstad and the port. In the fort there is, among other things, the fort church (Fortkerk), in the wall of which you can still admire a cannonball that was shot down from the ship of the legendary Captain Bligh (1754-1817) – most known for the “mutiny on the Bounty” has been. Nowadays the residence of the Dutch governor, a ministry, several government offices as well as the “United Protestant Church” with the mentioned church and a museum are located here.
Fort Beekenburg
Fort Beekenburg was built in 1703 on the Caracas Bay. The fort was named after director van Beek, who provided the plans for the defense of the city from 1701 to 1704. The fort was originally built to protect against pirate attacks, but it was attacked several times by French and English ships in the 18th century. The fort is extraordinarily well preserved – it is even considered the best preserved fort in the entire Caribbean. The fort can only be visited by appointment.
Fort Nassau
The fort was built in 1797 and named after the Dutch royal family to defend St. Anna Bay and parts of central Willemstad. The fort was extensively restored and served as a control tower for the port for many years. From the fort you have a wonderful view over the harbor. In the fort you will find an exclusive restaurant with an extravagant kitchen.
Fort Riffort
Fort Riffort was only built in 1828 between the harbor entrance and the sea coast and was supposed to defend the reefort – the outer part of Otrobanda – a district of Willemstad. The visitor will find the exclusive French-Swiss restaurant “Le Chlochard”, a shopping center, and can look out over the harbor from here. Various galleries are also located here
Fort Waakzaamheid
This rather small fort was built in 1803 to prevent an impending invasion by the French. Sea adventure enthusiasts will be interested to know that in 1804 the fort was besieged for almost four weeks by Captain Bligh (1754-1817) – most known for the “Mutiny on the Bounty”. During the Second World War, the fort was used as a US barracks. From the small fort you have a good view of the Otrabanda district of Willemstad.
Waterfort
The fort was built in 1634 to protect the outer part of Punda. The original building was replaced by a new building in 1827, which at the time housed shops and stables. Allied troop units were housed here during the Second World War. Nowadays you can find some restaurants here
Farmhouses, country houses, market hall
The old farmhouses on the island – mostly raised – were built in the course of the 17th and 18th centuries. Erected as a residential building on the 100 plantations and farms at the time. The plantations gave many places, areas and neighborhoods or regions their current names. Almost all plantations were designed with the farmhouse in the middle. Here was the seat of the farm owner with his family and the house slaves. The farm buildings with the barns and the accommodations for the other slaves are grouped around them. At that time, maize, cotton and beans were mainly grown on the farms. But salt and even phosphorus were also extracted. The following farmhouses – listed in alphabetical order – are open to the public:
Landhuis Ascension
This plantation was opened in 1672. The house is located on a hill, which allowed a good overview of what was happening in the fields and also made it possible to warn or be warned by the other farms in the event of slave rebellions. It should be mentioned that the poet, author, diplomat and minister “Nicolaas (Cola) Debrot” (1902-1981) lived on the farm at the beginning of the 20th century and described this time in his novel “Mijn zuster de negerin”. Nowadays, local artists present their works here in the country house of the Royal Navy. The farmhouse is open to visitors every first Sunday of the month from! 0:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and there is a guided tour available every Thursday.
On the way to Westpunt
Tel.: +5999 – 864 1950
Fax: +5999) – 864 2892
Landhuis Blauw
This farm was founded by Anno Blauw around 1700 and named after him. On the farm – among other things – a very special blue color was also produced. Nowadays the Blauwbaai Golf & Beach Resort is located here with a golf course, a swimming pool, a beach and a children’s playground – and on the “Blue Bay Beach” there is a restaurant and a bar as well as a water sports center, which rents kayaks, among other things. More information about the beach below under the heading “Beaches”
Blue bay
Tel.: +5999 – 868 1755
Fax: +5999 – 869 0212
Landhuis Brakkeput Mei Mei
The name ‘Brakke Put’ translated into German means “Brakige Quelle”. Cattle were raised on the farm and corn and beans were grown. Other products from the farm were vegetables, fruits and dairy products. As the farm yields decreased, the farm and the farmhouse were sold to the Dutch company Shell in 1929. In 1985 the farmhouse was placed under the “Foundation for the Preservation and Renovation of Historic Buildings” and has served as a party center with an attached restaurant ever since.
Jan Sofat, Spaanse Water
Tel.: +5999 – 767 1500
Fax: + (5999 – 747 0209
Landhuis Brievengat
This farmhouse was built around 1750 and was one of the largest farmhouses at that time of the time. Aloe vera was grown and cattle were raised on the farm. In 1877 it was so badly damaged by a hurricane that the owner at the time, Shell, wanted to have it demolished. But this did not happen because the owner donated the house to a cultural foundation in 1954, which renovated the building. Two towers at the two ends of the terrace of the house are striking – which were formerly used as watchtowers and as a prison for slaves.
Brievengat
Tel.: +5999 – 691 4961
Landhuis Chobolobo
The Chobolobo farmhouse was built in the 18th century northeast of Punda. For friends of the liqueur it should be mentioned that the distillery “Senior Co” has been based here since 1946 and produces the world-famous “Blue Curacao Liqueur” from the peels of the local oranges. The distillery can be visited – but you shouldn’t drive a car afterwards. Live music evenings take place on the weekends in the adjoining garden restaurant, and local artists also exhibit their works here.
Saliña Ariba in Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 461-3526
Fax: +5999 – 461-3503
Landhuis Daniel
This farm was founded around 1650. Since the farm was no longer sufficient for maintenance, the farm and buildings were repeatedly auctioned off to new owners from 1800 onwards, until around 1900 the farm was abandoned and increasingly fell into disrepair. But in 1997 the new owner converted the house into a guest house and restaurant, with a predominance of Caribbean-French cuisine.
On the way to Westpunt
Tel.: +5 999 – 864 8400
Fax: +5 999 – 864 7284
Landhuis Dokterstuin
The farm was already being used in the 17th century and is located near the Ascencion farm (see above) on the way to Westpunt – the farmhouse belonging to it, on the other hand, was built in the late 18th century. Nowadays there is a Creole restaurant here. Here you can enjoy freshly cooked fish, a goat stew or Funchi. Funchi is made from cornmeal, water, salt, pepper and butter.
Komedor Krioyo
Tel.: +5999 – 8642701
Fax: +5999 – 8642740
Landhuis Groot Davelaar
This farmhouse is worth a visit not least because it was built around 1865 by Antonio Guzmán Blanco (1829-1899) – who was exiled to the West Indies by President Julián Castro in 1858. The exile became the President of Venezuela from 1870 to 1877, from 1879 to 1884 and from 1886 to 1887.
Tel.: +5999 – 738-3300
L andhuis Groot Santa Martha
This building, built at the end of the 17th century, is not only one of the oldest, largest farmhouses on the island. Sugar cane was cultivated here until the beginning of the 19th century, and later legumes were grown and cattle were raised. In addition, around 90% of the salt of Curacao was produced here, which was extracted from the salt water of Santa Martha Bay. After the house was thoroughly rebuilt and renovated in 1979, disabled people live here from the sale of the works of art they created.
Klein Sta. Marta
Tel.: +5999 – 864 1323
Fax: +5999 – 864 2788
Landhuis Habaai
This building is one of the most beautiful on the island and, not least because of this, was particularly popular with officers and wealthy families on the island. This is where the Kas di Alma Blou gallery is located with pictures by local artists.
Frater Radulphusweg 4
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 462-8896
Fax: +5999 – 462-1888
Landhuis Jan Kok
The farmhouse was built around 1840 on the remains of a previous house. The building got its name after the 18th century slave trader Jan Kok, who was feared and notorious for his cruelty. From the terrace of the property the visitor has an impressive view of the salt pans in St. Marie Bay with the flamingos living there. In the building there is a gallery run by a local artist.
Willibrordus
Tel.: +5999 – 8694965
Fax: +5999 – 8640965
Landhuis Klein Santa Martha
That on a hill northeast of the Sta. Martha Bay’s farmhouse was built before 1700. The farm successfully grew sugar cane and obtained the Divi Divi seeds from the tan. In addition, the then very valuable salt was extracted from the salt pans of Martha Bay. In 1805 the building was set on fire by the British and severely damaged. In 2001 the building could finally be thoroughly renovated.
Klein Sta. Marta
Tel.: +5999 – 864 1323
Fax: +5999 – 864 2788
Landhuis Knip
The building was built at the end of the 17th century and was one of the most flourishing farms on the island at the time. Mainly Divi-Divi seed pots and sheep’s wool were produced here. The building was restored in 1985. Nowadays there is an exhibition of antique furniture and household appliances. The two beaches “Kleine Knip and Grote Knip” are located near the house.
Tel.: +5999 – 864 0244
Fax: +5999 – 864 0385
Landhuis Rooi Katootje
The building was built around 1820 in the neighborhood of Rooi Catootje and was used less as a farmhouse and more as a country house. The “Round Table Talks” on the political reorganization of the Netherlands Antilles took place here. The local library enables visitors to look into various documents.
Rooi Katootje
Tel.:: +5999 – 737 5119
Fax: +5999 – 737 6875
Landhuis St. Barbara
This farmhouse was built around the year 1662. The building and the surrounding farmland covered an area of around 1,215 hectares = 12.15 km², making it one of the largest farms on the island, where agriculture and cattle ranching were carried out. After it was sold to the Englishman Godden, this phosphate from the nearby Table Mountain began to mine phosphate and became a wealthy man. The dismantling only ended around 1890.
Landhuis Zeelandia
The building was completed at the end of the 18th century and from the beginning served less as a farmhouse but primarily as a country house for the wealthy.
Polarisweg 28
Tel.: +5999 – 461 6191
Fax: +5999 – 461 5563
Landhaus Zuikertuintje
This Zuikertuintje (sugar garden) house, built in the middle of the 18th century, was formerly used as a country house for the people of the city. It was named after a garden where sugar cane grew. After numerous additions and renovations, there is now a shopping center and a restaurant in the building.
Zuikertuintje, Willemstad
Market hall – Marchè Bieu
The old market hall – Marchè Bieu – can be found in Punda (see above) behind the “round” market hall. Here the visitor will find some excellent cookshops that enjoy a good reputation far beyond Curacao.
National parks, parks and other natural beauties
Shete Boka National Park
Shete Boka National Park is the youngest national park on the island. The park begins in Boka Tabla with its caves into which the waves of the Kabik beat. The visitor arrives or enters the caves via steps carved in stone. You can explore the national park on foot or by 4×4. A dirt road from Boka Tabla leads past six bays on the lonely north coast. These bays are protected breeding grounds for turtles.
The hiker will find two signposted hiking trails. On the one hand there is the Boka Pistol hiking trail, which takes about 1 hour to hike. The rBoka Wandomi hiking trail leads along the “rolling lava hills”, and on to Boka Wandomi to the limestone cliffs and a natural bridge and then leads back to Boka Tabla.
Boca Tabla Z/N
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 864-0444
Fax: +5999 – 864-0170
Den Dunki National Park
The region of today’s “Den Dunki National Park” was a slave camp of Dutch slave traders at the end of the 17th century. After the slaves were released in the late 1880s, the owners of Landhaus Zuurzak built a park here with a water fountain, a spring and an impressive bridge. This laid the foundation stone for today’s park.
Zuurzak
Tel.: +5999 – 864 8461
Fax: +5999 – 465 67 57
Christoffel Park
The park was developed in 1972-1978 and is managed by the Stinapa Foundation. Attention is drawn to the unique fauna and flora in the park. A small highlight in the park is the 375 m high Christoffelberg – the highest mountain on the island. The park consists of the site of three former farms Savonet, Zorgvliet and Zevenbergen. You can hike the park very well, with one of the signposted hiking trails leading to the Christoffelberg. The visitor will also find the slave stake (Slavenpaal) and the monuments to the abolition of slavery (Monton di Piedra) here in 1863. Not to be missed are the grottoes with Indian drawings and the Boca Grandi. In the Savonet Museum, visitors will find, among other things, an exhibition on the geological features of the island. The daily feeding of the common Trupial is a little special experience. The Trupial is a black bird with an orange belly and white stripes on the wings.
Curaloe Ecocity and Aloe Vera Plantation
The Aloe Vera plant also grows on Curacao. This widely known medicinal plant has long been used as a proven remedy. This plantation produces aloe vera gels for the CurAloe products. As part of a guided tour, visitors can get an overview of the history of the aloe vera plant, the plantation and the production of a number of products and expand their knowledge of the plant. All CurAloe products made here can be purchased in the shop attached to the plantation. Literature on the healing power of this plant is also available and can be bought.
Willemstad, Santa Catharina
Tel.: +5 999 – 767 5577
Fax: +5 999 – 767 5577
Opening times
Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hofi Pastor
This nature park
Hato Caves (Hato Grottoes)
Many millions of years ago, the Hato Grottoes were formed below sea level. When the sea levels fell during the Ice Age, an island rose out of the water – it was the hour of birth of Curacao.
The Hato Grottoes cover an area of 4900 m² on which sensational limestone formations, water basins, small waterfalls and the “Madonna statue”, venerated by the faithful here, had formed. Flying foxes live inside the caves.
FD Rooseveltweg z/n
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 868-0379
Fax: +5999 – 868-8114
Opening times
Daily
guided tours every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Midden Seinpost Hill
Midden Seinpost Hill at Rooi Santu in Willemstad is a lookout point with a fantastic view over Curacao. According to tradition, the tribal chief of the island’s Indians is said to have called all members of the tribe together here once a year to settle conflicts and discuss problems of the tribe. The hill was sacred to the Indians.
Klein Curacao
Klein Curaçao is an uninhabited island with only one lighthouse. The island can only be reached by boat and is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island is particularly recommended for day trips. Because of the coral reefs and underwater caves there, the island is a popular place for divers as well as beach holidaymakers. It is approached almost daily by the excursion and diving boats of Curaçao. The island is located around 11 km southeast of the southeastern tip of Curacao. The island covers an area of around 1.7 km²
Aquarium, zoo, dolphin school
Curacao Sea Aquarium
The Curacao Sea Aquarium was built in 1984 directly on the sea. The system is an “open water system”, so that the seawater is pumped directly into the aquarium – an almost unique aquarium worldwide. There are also large touch tanks where you can come into direct contact with the animals. In which aquarium can the visitor snorkel or dive among the animals – as well as feed stingrays, turtles and sharks. If you don’t want to go into the water, you can experience all of this from the underwater observation boat. The aquarium is located at Cabana Beach a few kilometers south of Willemstad.
Bapor Kibra Z/N
Tel.: +5999 – 461-6666
Fax: +5999) – 461 32 78
E-mail: info@curacao-sea-aquarium.com
Dolphin Academy
At Curacao’s Dolphin School, guests have the opportunity to swim, snorkel or even dive with the dolphins. It is certainly a highlight to hold on to the dorsal fins of two animals and let them pull through the lagoon.
Bapor Kibra z/n
Curacao Sea Aquarium
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 4658900
Fax: +5999 – 4658300 Parke Tropikal Zoo
The small zoo of Curacaos is located on the former plantation Cas Córà. The visitor will find monkeys, bears, crocodiles, lions and numerous birds from the Caribbean and mainland South America. The zoo is particularly suitable for children, there are two children’s playgrounds and a “petting zoo” where the little ones can ride ponies and pet and feed donkeys, rabbits, sheep, pigs or goats. There is also a botanical garden nearby.
Chuchubiweg z/n
Tel.: +5999 – 7360188
Fax: +5999 – 7360189
Opening times
Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Admission is free
Animal farms
Ostrich and Game Farm
The Curacao ostrich farm is one of the largest farms outside of Africa. More than 600 of these ratites live on the farm. During a guided tour, the visitor learns a lot about these animals – for example playing with chicks and observing the adult birds up close.
Santa Catharina
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 747-2777
Fax: +5999 – 747-1766
Opening times
daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Marco’s Fishfarm
Marco’s Fish-Farm is the only fish farm that breeds tilapia on Curacao. These fish belong to the cichlid family. The fish originally came from Africa and the Jordan. In Israel, for example, representatives of this genus are also referred to as “Petrus fish”.
Weg Naar Fuik 269
Willemstad
Tel.: +5999 – 666 0101
Fax: +5999 – 767 1402
Email: marcosfishfarm@scarlet.an
www.marcosfishfarm.com
Special beaches
Almost all 38 beaches on the island are located on the calm and sheltered southwest coast. The sea there is clear, calm and turquoise blue. In some bays, however, an entrance fee is charged. The common in Europe “topless bathing” is neither common nor welcomed and is also prohibited – although it is tolerated on some beaches.
Blue Bay Beach
Blue Bay Beach is a large and shady beach in a palm grove, the beach is about 10 minutes by car from Willemstad. There is a restaurant and bar here as well as a water sports center that offers diving and kayak hire. Access to the beach is chargeable
Landhuis Blauw z/n
Willemstad
Tel.: +5 999 – 888 6489
Fax: +5 999 – 888 6495
Boca Santa Cruz
Captain Goodlife
Tel.: +5999 – 864 0438
The mangrove swamp that surrounds the beach clouds the water and is therefore not suitable for snorkeling. The large beach offers a beautiful palm grove and great bird watching opportunities. There is a small bar and a restaurant.
Boka St.Michiel
Small boats bob in the bay of the fishing village. The local diving school offers a restaurant and public toilets. The small beach is also known as Boka Sami.
Caracas Baai
This beach is located at the Underwater Park in the east of Willemstad and consists of coarse-grained sand and pebbles and is extremely popular with divers and snorkelers because of the underwater park. There are a few small restaurants.
Cas Abao
This beach is one of the most beautiful sandy beaches with trees and sun loungers in the west of the island. The bay can be reached in about 10 minutes by car from the main road.
Daaibooi Baai
This small bay near the city offers excellent snorkeling spots. You should definitely visit the small fishing cave. There is a bar, parasols and a toilet here.
Jan Thiel Beach
The beach in the large bay offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. The beach is in a new residential area to the east…
Jeremi
Visit the narrow, picturesque bay in the late afternoon and linger there to watch the beautiful sunset. The exceptionally clear water makes the lack of shade more shade…
Playa Kenepa
These two beautiful bays are very popular. Machineel trees provide shade. The snack bar is only open on weekends and plays loud music.
Klein Curacao
The longest beach, which consists of dazzling white sand, is located on “Klein Curacao”, an uninhabited island with a length of approx. 2.2 km and a width of less than 500 m, which is about 11 km southeast of Curacao.
Playa Kalki
This small bay with a sandy beach with limestone is popular with snorkelers and divers – and has a separate swimming area. You can spend your time in the shade of the trees.
Playa Lagun
The fishing boats anchored in front of the beach give the small bay a special aura. The water is very shallow and calm on the shore and offers excellent snorkeling grounds. The beach is also suitable for smaller children,
Playa Porto Marie
Playa Porto Mari is a white sandy beach on the private property of the “Porto Mari” plantation on the west coast of the island. The white sand with the clear, calm, turquoise-colored clear and calm sea leaves little to be desired. You will find umbrellas, a bar, showers and toilets here. Also suitable for snorkelers.
Sea Aqarium Beach
This sandy beach is located near the sea aquarium and is considered one of the most beautiful on the island. A dazzling white sand with palm trees on the shallow sea with few waves invites you to swim and linger. The beach is particularly suitable for children. The visitor will also find bars, cafes and shops here.
Semi-submarine and submarine
Atlantis Adventures
The Seaworld Explorer is originally from Australia for cruises in the Great Barrier Reef. The ship is not a submarine and therefore does not dive. Since the guests sit in the partially glass hull of the ship about 3 m below the surface of the water, one has the impression of being on an underwater trip and thus has the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna of the sea and can thus see the colorful underwater world up close watch, which is made easier by having a diver feeding the fish right outside the window. The start of the trip is Willemstad. A knowledgeable expert explains, among other things, the reef and its residents.
Hilton Hotel Pier – JF Kennedyboulevard
Willemstad
Tel.: +5 999 – 461 0011
Fax: +5 999 – 461 0012
Substation Curaçao (submarine)
Recently, you can even dive in a small submarine to a depth of 1,000 feet = 312 m. It is mentioned that the submarine’s depth during the 2nd World War was 100 m. The subway station Curaçao is located in Bapor Kibra, only ten minutes drive from Willemstad. In the submarine there is space for two guests in addition to the commander and two passengers can dive down. The use of another submarine, which is supposed to provide space for four guests, is planned. The submarine dive takes about half an hour and costs around € 525 per person. Up to six dives are carried out per day.
The boat has a certificate from “Lloyds of London”.
Tel.: +5999 – 465-2051
info@substation-curacao.com
4×4 excursions, jeep safaris
Some interesting places on the island can only be explored by 4×4 and with an experienced guide.
Buggy tours
Pater Eeuwensweg 60
Tel.: +5999 – 461-3231
Fax: +5999 – 461-3231
Email: info@bazzfunrental.com
www.bazzfunrental.com
Curacao Buggy Adventures
Scooter and Buggy tours
Tel.: +5999 – 523-8618
Fax: +5999 – 461-0802
Email: info@scooterscuracao.com
www.curacaobuggyadventures.com
Tiger Rentals
Scooter and Buggy Tours
Tel.: +5999 – 869-8875
Fax: +5999 – 869-8875
Email: info@tiger-rentals.com
www.tiger-rentals.com
You can also explore the island by jeep with an experienced guide:
Curacao Actief
Tel.: +5999 – 433-8858
Uniek Curacao
Tel.: +5999 – 462-8989
Yellow Jeep Safari’s
Tel.: +5999 – 462-6262
Bicycle and motorcycle riding
Cyclists and motorcyclists get their money’s worth on Curaçao. It is possible to go on such excursions alone or with friends or family, but guided tours are without a doubt more sensible, safer and more memorable. Most of the guided tours do not lead over the larger and mostly paved roads but rather on small paths that you would hardly have found without a guide. If you want to cycle with a guide, you should reserve in advance.
Eric’s ATV Adventures
Scooby’s Rental Scooters
ATV excursions
Tel.: +5999 – 524-7418
Scooter rental
The Bike Shop
Tel. +5999 – 523-8618
Motorbike rental/ATV tours Wanna Bike Curaçao
Tel.: +5999 – 560-3882
Mountain bike excursions
Tel.: +5999 – 527-3720
Note
The “Amstel Curacao Race” takes place annually on Curacao, an international bicycle race that brings professionals and other cyclists from all over the world to the island. More information about the race:
www.amstelcuracaorace.com.
Golf courses
Curaçao Golf & Squash Club
9-hole golf course
Tel: +5999 – 737-3590
E-mail: cgsc@caribonline.net
Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort
18-hole golf course and resort
Tel: +5999 – 868-1755
E-mail: info@bluebaygolf.com
Hyatt Regency Golf, Spa & Marina Resort
18 hole golf course
The course was designed by the Ohio/USA born and world famous golf course designer Paul B. “Pete” Dye.
tennis
Most of the larger hotels offer their guests their own tennis courts. If your hotel does not have courts, please contact one of the following tennis clubs:
RCC Racing Club Curacao
Angolaweg z/n
Tel.: +5999 – 737-8785
Tel.: +5999 – 736-9401
E-mail: info@rcc.an
Sport & Country Club Sta. Catharina
Sta. Catharina
Tel.: +5999 -767-7030
Tel.: +5999 – 767-7026
horse riding
There is something about getting to know the island on horseback – preferably in a group with an experienced riding instructor and guide.
Ashari’s Ranch
Tel. +5999 – 869-0315
Curaçao Tour Info Centers
Tel. +5999 – 462-6262
Herberg Hoefijzer
Tel. +5999 – 560-3653
Manege SHC
Tel. +5999 – 737-9160
Deep sea fishing
The following companies offer deep sea fishing opportunities – as well as some of the necessary equipment:
All West Diving
Tel: + (5999) 864-0102
Caribbean Sea Sports
Curacao Marriott Beach Resort
Tel.: + (5999) 462 2620
Ed’s Fishing
Tel: + (5999) 5267312
Let’s Fish
Tel.: +5999 – 747-4489 or 561-1812
E-mail: info@letsfish.net
www.letsfish.net
Fish Charter Curacao
Tel.: + (5999) 529-3899
www.fishchartercuracao.com
Marco’s Fish Farm
Tel: + (5999) 666-0101 or 523-6203
Miss Ann Boat Trips
Tel.:+(5999) 767-1579
Captain Jaro
Tel: + (5999) 560-2081
Website: www.curacaofishcharters.com
Sunny Curacao
Tel.:+(5999) 5267312 or + (5999) 869 6967
E-mail: inf@sunnycuracao.com
Website: www.sunnycuracao.com
Samira Shopping Center
F.D. Rooseveltweg 32
Tel.:+(5999) 869-3441
E-mail: curapeska@hotmail.com
Sailing and boat trips
A trip into the sunset with a boyfriend or girlfriend is just great.
But it is also possible to spend a whole day on the sea and pursue sporting activities or simply indulge in good food and drink.
Adrenaline Tours
Boat, Jet-Ski, Kayaks
Tel: +5999 -767 6241
E-mail: info@adrenalinetourscuracao.com
www.adrenalinetourscuracao.com
Bounty Adventures
Tel: +5999 – 560-1887
Tel: +5999 – 562-8666
Email: reservations@bountyadvertures.com
www.bountyadventures.com
Curacao Yacht Club
Tel.: +5999 – 767-4627
Cat Sailing
Catamaran sailing
Tel: +5999 – 527-5531
Tel: +5999 – 747-5830
Email: info@catcuracao.com
Classic sailing yacht The Shameeza
Gulet Ketch Sailing yacht
Tel: +5999 – 517-9466
Tel: +5999 – 528-6397
Email: info@curacaoboat.com
Curaçao Activities
Boat trips and fishing trips
Tel: +5999 – 465-1664
Email: curacaoactivities@interneeds.net
Hobie Cat Getaway Sailboat
Catamaran
Sailing Tel: +5999 – 527-5531
Tel: +5999 – 747-5830
Email: info@catcuracao.com
Insulinde Sailing Ship
sailboat
Tel: +5999 – 560-1340
Email: sail@insulinde.com
www.insulinde.com
Mermaid Boat trips
boat trips to Klein Curacao
Tel: +5999 – 560-1530
Email: info@mermaidboattrips.com
www.mermaidboattrips. com
Miss Ann boat trips
boat trips
Tel: +5999 – 767-1579
email: missannboattrips@interneeds.net
www.missannboattrips.com
Pelican boat trips
boat trips in combination with other activities
Booking Office Curacao Seaquarium
Tel: +5999 – 465-8388/527- 0747
www.curacao-sea-aquarium.com
Pro-Sail Curaçao
Boat rental and sailing lessons
Tel: +5999 – 565-6070
Tel: +5999 – 767-2233
Email: info@prosailcuracao.com
Sail Fast
Sailboat
Tel: +5999 – 693-3060
Sunny Curacao
Fishing Trips and Boat
Trips Tel: +5999 – 526-7312
E-mail: info@sunnycuracao.com
www.sunnycuracao.com
Yuana Blou
Water Sports and Boat
Trips Tel: +5999 – 864-0817
Email: jerry@yuanablou.com
Snorkeling and diving
There are around 60 places for diving and snorkeling on Curacao, most of which are also suitable for beginners – a small selection:
Car cemetery
This unusual car cemetery is located at a water depth of between 22 m and about 50 m – although the “normal” bottle diver should not dive much more than 30 m water depth. Otherwise it can lead to deep intoxication or oxygen poisoning. Lovers of old cars will find a very special car museum here – even models from the 1940s. Most of these vehicles are heavily overgrown with corals and algae.
Double Reef
The “Superior Producer” is regarded by divers as a shipwreck that is particularly worth seeing – not least because the ship is upright on its keel. The wheelhouse is at a depth of around 25 m.
Hell’s Corner
This dive site is only suitable for experienced divers as it is directly exposed to the waves and currents of the open sea.
Mushroom Forrest
Mushroom Forrest is considered the most beautiful diving region of the underwater park Banda Abou – especially because of the sloping reef that is overgrown with large mushroom corals.
Punti Sanchi
This reef is still little frequented and has undoubtedly contributed greatly to increasing the popularity of Curacao as a diving paradise.
Bird watching
The visitor encounters the native birds in many places of the insects. Ornithologists estimate that the island has a little less than 170 species of birds – around 50 of which are breeding birds and around 70 are immigrants from the United States, 20 species are from South America and another 19 species are marine birds. The most famous bird species are the Trupial – a black bird with a bright orange belly and a white pattern on its wings – and the Chuchubi, a Caribbean mockingbird. If you want to watch the birds more closely, you shouldn’t forget to bring binoculars and of course be patient. For more
information, go to:
www.carmabi.org.
Hike
Curacao and its landscapes are best explored on foot. Last but not least, this is quite easy as there are numerous signposted and well-developed hiking trails on the island. Far away from cars and the like. the hiker can concentrate fully on the landscape, its plants and animals. That can be along the rough north coast or in the lovelier south. A hike around the salt pans with their large flamingo colonies is also exciting.