These are some of the best things to do in Curacao with your family, a beautiful Caribbean island destination. Plan your trip to visit Curacao today.
Unique places to see in Curacao
For a memorable family time, this southern Caribbean island of Curacao is a pure delight. From its kind, welcoming locals to its stunning beaches and delicious food, you are sure to return with precious memories. While the locals speak Papiamentu (which has Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, and French influences), most are comfortable with English, so communication is not an issue.
The best things to do in Curacao with the family
If you are planning a trip and wondering what to do in Curacao, there are so many wonderful activities and things to see! On Curacao island, you can enjoy the warm weather, swaying coconut palms, soft white sand, numerous water sports activities like swimming and snorkeling, exotic sea life, and the Dutch colonial architecture adorning the scenic towns. Stay in an all-inclusive resort in Curacao for a dream vacation. Let’s explore some family-friendly places to visit in Curacao.
Visit a UNESCO Heritage Site
The capital of Willemstad is a UNESCO heritage site filled with colorful and vibrant candy-hued buildings and a charming atmosphere. The alleyways are full of murals and beautiful street art. Shop at the many boutiques dotting the streets and people-watch later at a local café in the vicinity.
Willemstad, Curacao
Relax Your Stress Away at the Seaquarium Beach
Curacao’s many beaches offer ample opportunities for various water sports. At the Mambo beach or Seaquarium beach east of Willemstad, you can sunbathe, play some non-competitive beach volleyball, and enjoy barbeques and cocktails at the beach bars. It’s best to avoid the northwest coast if you’re traveling with children and prefer calmer waters. Head to the west coast’s sheltered bays for tranquil seas.
Explore Underwater Life at the Curacao Sea Aquarium
The Curacao Sea Aquarium can offer a family fun day out. You can see various sea creatures, including fish and turtles, and interact with sea lions and dolphins in live shows. Children can access the touch tank to pet some marine creatures and use the feeding holes to experience the thrill of feeding sharks, manta rays, and turtles. A coral reef and natural lagoon within the aquarium allow the adults to swim with parrotfish and stingrays, among other creatures. You can also book the nearby Dolphin Academy for a swimming session with the friendly creatures!
Go Underwater in a Submarine
Another unique tour in Willemstad is the Substation Curacao, where you can book an underwater tour in a submarine. The tour lasts for 90 minutes, where you descend to 1,000 feet below sea level and get a first-hand view of the colorful deep-sea life, including stunning corals. You can also tick off ‘visiting an old shipwreck’ off your bucket list!
Spot the Island’s Indigenous Birds
Curacao is home to unique birds, including the bananaquits and the melodious troupials. The former translates to “tiny sugar thief” in the local lingo as they devour sweet treats the visitors leave them. Try spotting as many varieties as you can on a local bird walking tour.
Visit an Interactive Ostrich Farm
Situated near Willemstad, the Curacao Ostrich Farm is one of the biggest global ostrich breeding facilities outside Africa. You will get a tour of around an hour of the entire farm, where you can interact with the feathered birds. You can feed and pet them, and even ride one! There is a safari tour available as well on an open-top bus. The quad tour gives you a chance to explore the vast wilderness and other animals like peacocks and crocodiles. You can later relax and grab a bite at the onsite restaurant, Zambezi, while your kids let off steam in the playground.
Enjoy an Immersive Experience at the Children’s Museum
The kids can enjoy a fun learning session at the Curacao Children’s Museum. Through the power of open-ended play, children are offered a multi-sensory experience. With several interactive exhibits, both indoors and outdoors, your child can satiate their curiosity. In the local language, ‘chichi’ means loved big sister and chichi dolls are a big part of Curacao’s art and culture. There are several workshops across town where you can paint your own little doll to take home as a souvenir.
Get an Insight into Jewish Culture
Visit the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Jewish synagogue in West Curacao for an interesting insight into Curacao’s Jewish community’s history. You will see the sand-covered floor which pays tribute to the Jewish Dutch-Portuguese tradition of yore and works as a biblical reminder of the Jews’ long walk through the sandy desert. A tour of the Jewish Museum is also available to book.
Visit an Ancient Cave for Panoramic Views
The Hato Caves in north Curacao are almost 300,000 years old and are the highest limestone terrace on the island. With cave paintings dating to over 1,500 years ago, stalactites and stalagmites, and an underground lake, you will be spoilt for a choice of exploration options once you are there. With an illuminated paved path, it is pretty safe for families with young children to visit. There is also a nearby cactus garden to stroll in.
Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Blue Room Cave
Fancy swimming or snorkeling in a cave with shimmering blue waters? While it is a bit of a walk to reach the Blue Room Cave, it is worth it once you reach the natural wonder. This is one of the best things to do in Curacao with your family, kids love this place. Book a local tour to get you there safely and enjoy relaxing in the placid blue-hued waters with your noodles and snorkeling gear.
Visiting Curacao is a must for you and your family
If you want to see more, take a look at some of our past photos of Curacao island. Whichever Curacao activities you decide to do, we hope you enjoy your trip!
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