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Caribbean

Willemstad, Curacao

Get your camera ready for the most colorful capital in the Caribbean. Pack your curiosity—and maybe your camera.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

79-88F (26-31C)

Currency

ANG,USD

Language

Dutch, Papiamento, English

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

Overview

Willemstad is a visual masterpiece, a city that feels like Amsterdam was dropped in the Caribbean and given a vibrant, tropical paint job. The city is split in two by the St. Anna Bay: Punda and Otrobanda (Other Side). They are connected by the iconic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, which swings open to let ships pass. The Handelskade, Pundas waterfront row of brightly colored Dutch buildings, is one of the most photographed sights in the region. Explore the floating market, where Venezuelan vendors sell fresh produce from their boats. Then, escape the city to discover the islands famous beaches, like Kenepa Bay, or snorkel with sea turtles.

Top Sights

  • Playa Kenepa (Grote Knip)
This is arguably the most beautiful beach on the island, a stunning cove of white sand and brilliant. turquoise water. It's a popular, rustic spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
  • Handelskade (Punda Waterfront)
This is the iconic, postcard-perfect row of colorful 18th-century Dutch colonial buildings. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site. and the perfect place for a photo op and a waterfront drink.
  • Curacao Liqueur Distillery (Landhuis Chobolobo)
Visit the historic 19th-century mansion where the original Blue Curacao is made. Take a tour to learn. about the distilling process and sample the famous liqueur in various colors.
  • Shete Boka National Park
Witness the islands rugged, wild north coast at this dramatic national park. Watch massive waves crash. into limestone cliffs and create the impressive Boka Tabla sea cave.
  • Kura Hulanda Museum
Located in Otrobanda, this powerful museum is built on the site of a former slave yard. It offers a. sobering and essential look at the history of the slave trade in the America's.
  • Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge
This is the city's most famous landmark, a unique swinging old lady that connects the Punda and Otrobanda neighborhoods. Walking across. it as it opens or closes for a ship is a quintessential Curacao experience.

Neighborhoods

Punda

Local eats and photo spots

Otrobanda

Local eats and photo spots

Pietermaai District

Local eats and photo spots

Westpunt

Local eats and photo spots

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Beach Hop & Snorkel Stops

4.0 Hours

Moderate

Crystal blue waters and spritely sea air will inspire you to explore the island's captivating shores - and what lies beneath.
View Details
From

$90 USD

Curaçao Highlights and Mambo Beach

4.0 Hours

Easy

Get to see some of Curaçao's most charming sites on a scenic drive, its distillery, and free time at Mambo Beach
View Details
From

$65 USD

Hato Caves & Mambo Beach

4.0 Hours

Moderate

Get in a whole lot of color, mystery, and beach time when you explore Curaçao's most captivating haunts.
View Details
From

$110 USD

Ambulatory Accessible Curacao Scenic Wonders

4.0 Hours

Easy

Explore Curacao's history, flavors, and sights on an accessible tour, featuring a distillery visit, aloe farm, seaside dining, and iconic landmarks.
View Details
From

$240 USD

Explore all Willemstad Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Beach Hop & Snorkel Stops

4.0 Hours

Moderate

Crystal blue waters and spritely sea air will inspire you to explore the island's captivating shores - and what lies beneath.
View Details
From

$90 USD

Curaçao Highlights and Mambo Beach

4.0 Hours

Easy

Get to see some of Curaçao's most charming sites on a scenic drive, its distillery, and free time at Mambo Beach
View Details
From

$65 USD

Hato Caves & Mambo Beach

4.0 Hours

Moderate

Get in a whole lot of color, mystery, and beach time when you explore Curaçao's most captivating haunts.
View Details
From

$110 USD

Ambulatory Accessible Curacao Scenic Wonders

4.0 Hours

Easy

Explore Curacao's history, flavors, and sights on an accessible tour, featuring a distillery visit, aloe farm, seaside dining, and iconic landmarks.
View Details
From

$240 USD

Explore all Willemstad Shore Things
© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

79-88F (26-31C)

Currency

ANG,USD

Language

Dutch, Papiamento, English

Time Zone

AST (UTC-4)

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