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A Local's Guide to Curaçao

A Local's Guide to Curaçao

Today’s Local’s Guide to Curaçao is written for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a face-to-face meeting with the island’s rich history, colorful art and distinctive architecture, or if you’re just on the lookout for stunning sunsets and immersing yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, we are sure that Curaçao will leave you in a state of astonishment by the end of your trip. Here are some tips:

Blauwe Kamer

Blauwe Kamer

This submerged cave is on top of our list as it is perhaps the most beautiful spot for snorkeling in Curaçao.  The cave is called the “Blue Room” because the sun rays reflect on the water through the cave’s small entrance, and illuminate the cave with a natural, bright blue light.

How you get there makes it all even better. The best way to start your trip to the Blue Room is by driving to Santa Cruz Beach and renting a kayak. The lowest rent fee starts at $35 for 3 hours. If possible, we recommend going with someone local as it can be quite difficult to find the exact spot of the entrance of the cave.

Playa Porto Mari

Porto Marie Beach

Even though Curaçao counts with about 38 beautiful beaches, and countless places that are tucked away in several small inlets around the island, Porto Mari is our beach choice for you.  offers white sands, crystal-clear waters and amazing cliffs. It also has a beach bar with food, and a great variety of cocktails and smoothies. All of this in a paradisiac environment.

Another special thing about Porto Mari is its peculiar inhabitants; pigs. Besides working on their Caribbean tan, these friendly animals will pose for the camera and kindly stick around until you reward them with some of your foreign snacks. Don’t worry, they are not too picky. Bread or crackers will seal the deal with them and they’ll immediately walk along to the next group of snack-providers.

St. Christoffel Berg

St. Christoffel Berg

With 1,200ft (372m), St. Christoffel Berg is the highest point of Curaçao and a must-see for all nature lovers who also enjoy hiking. On your way to the top, you will see stunning views of the flora and fauna of Curaçao, as well as the endless Caribbean Sea.

The mountain is located at the reserved wildlife park called Christoffelpark, and there are eight different hiking trails for you to choose from. The park also organizes special activities throughout the year, such as safaris, cave excursions, occasional full moon walks and many more. The park is open all days of the week and adults must pay a fee of $14.50 to enter, children between 6-12 years old pay $4.50 and children below 6 years old may enter for free.

Scharloo District

Scharloo District

Scharloo is one of the four stunning districts of Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage List, this district radiates a mixture of art, history and architecture that finds its roots in the 18th century, when Curaçao’s wealthiest merchants started building their beautiful baroque mansions in the proximity of the St. Anna Bay.

In recent years, Scharloo has continued to build on its legacy as one of the most distinguished areas of the island, as many merchant houses in this district have been converted into business offices, or government buildings. These new tenants have taken care of restoring the beautiful façades of the classical mansions, a proud reminder of the historic elegance of this district.

Landhuis Chobolobo

Landhuis Chobolobo

Home to the world-famous Blue Curaçao Liqueur, Landhuis Chobolobo makes the fifth and final destination of our local’s guide to Curaçao. This impressive 19th-century mansion attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors a year due to its rich history, beautiful facilities and delicious cocktails.

Landhuis Chobolobo offers its visitors the opportunity to learn about the production process of two of the island’s most renowned brands, Glacial with its “Alcolado” mentholated splash lotion, and Senior & Co., the company behind the world-famous Blue Curaçao Liqueur. You can experience the distillation process of the Genuine Curaçao Liqueur and taste all its different flavors. If you want to take home a piece of Curaçao with you, you’ll also find a Gift Store with Curaçao’s most authentic and colorful souvenirs. There’s truly something for everyone.

As we promised in the beginning, our local’s guide to Curaçao will make sure that Curaçao leaves you in a state of astonishment by the end of your trip. So, tell us, what destination will you visit first?