Curaçao is one of the most colorful and culturally rich islands in the southern Caribbean. The island is known for its pastel Dutch architecture, turquoise beaches, and lively neighborhoods. Cruise passengers love this port because everything is close, walkable, and full of personality. You can explore historic forts, visit museums, relax at beach clubs, or wander through the famous Queen Emma Bridge. Whether you want a relaxing beach day, a cultural experience, or a scenic adventure, Curaçao offers plenty of options just minutes from the cruise terminal. It’s also a great island to extend your stay, giving you time to enjoy more beaches, food, and history.

Here are the 10 best things to do in Curaçao during your cruise day.

1. Explore Willemstad & the Queen Emma Bridge

Willemstad is one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant capitals and a great place to start your day. The historic districts of Punda and Otrobanda are connected by the Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge that swings open for ships. Walking across it is a fun experience and gives you great views of the harbor. As you explore the city, you’ll see pastel Dutch buildings, waterfront cafés, boutique shops, and lively plazas. Everything is easy to reach from the cruise port, so you can enjoy the city at your own pace. It’s a simple and rewarding way to experience Curaçao’s charm. Read the full guide →

2. Visit the Curaçao Sea Aquarium

The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is one of the island’s most popular family attractions. It offers marine exhibits, interactive shows, and educational programs that highlight Caribbean sea life. Visitors can watch dolphin and sea lion presentations, learn about coral restoration, and see a variety of fish and marine animals. The aquarium uses an open‑water system, so the animals live in natural seawater that flows directly from the ocean. It’s located next to Mambo Beach, which makes it easy to combine both stops. If you enjoy marine life or want something fun and easy for all ages, this is a great choice. Read the full guide →

3. Relax at Mambo Beach

Mambo Beach is one of Curaçao’s most famous beaches and a favorite for cruise passengers. The sand is soft, the water is calm, and the boardwalk is lined with restaurants, shops, and beach clubs. You can rent a lounger, swim in clear water, or enjoy a relaxed lunch by the sea. The beach is protected by a breakwater, so the water stays calm and family‑friendly. With plenty of amenities and a lively atmosphere, Mambo Beach is perfect if you want a stress‑free beach day close to the port. Read the full guide →

4. Snorkel at Tugboat Beach

Tugboat Beach is one of Curaçao’s best snorkeling spots. Just offshore, you’ll find a shallow sunken tugboat covered in coral and surrounded by colorful fish. The water is clear and calm, which makes it great for beginners and experienced snorkelers. The beach has a relaxed, rustic feel with a small bar and gear rentals available. Many visitors also snorkel near the nearby pier, where even more marine life gathers. If you want an affordable and memorable adventure without a long excursion, Tugboat Beach is a fantastic option. Read the full guide →

5. Tour the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery

The Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, located inside Landhuis Chobolobo, offers a fun and educational look at the island’s famous Blue Curaçao. You can tour the historic mansion, learn how the liqueur is made from the peel of the local laraha citrus fruit, and watch the production process through viewing windows. Tastings are included, and you can try several flavors beyond the classic blue version. The grounds are beautiful, and the experience is easy to fit into any itinerary. It pairs well with a city tour or beach stop. Read the full guide →

6. Visit the Kura Hulanda Museum

The Kura Hulanda Museum is one of the most important cultural sites in the Caribbean. It focuses on the transatlantic slave trade, African history, and Curaçao’s multicultural heritage. The exhibits are powerful and thoughtfully curated, offering a deeper understanding of the island’s past. The museum is set in a restored 19th‑century merchant village with cobblestone paths and peaceful courtyards. It’s a meaningful stop for visitors who want to explore Curaçao beyond the beaches and learn more about its history. Read the full guide →

7. Relax at Playa Kenepa Grandi (Knip Beach)

Playa Kenepa Grandi, often called Knip Beach, is one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean. The water is bright turquoise, the cliffs are dramatic, and the views are stunning. It’s farther from the cruise port, but the scenery makes the trip worthwhile. You can swim in clear water, relax on soft sand, or take photos from the overlook above the beach. Amenities are limited, so the beach feels peaceful and natural. If you want a postcard‑perfect beach experience, Kenepa Grandi is a must‑see. Read the full guide →

8. Explore Fort Amsterdam

Fort Amsterdam is one of Curaçao’s most significant historical landmarks. Built in the 1600s by the Dutch West India Company, it now houses government offices and a historic church. Visitors can walk the grounds, explore the architecture, and enjoy views of St. Anna Bay. The fort sits in the heart of Punda, so it’s easy to visit while exploring Willemstad’s shops and cafés. If you enjoy history or scenic viewpoints, this is a quick and worthwhile stop. Read the full guide →

9. Wander Through the Floating Market

The Floating Market is one of Curaçao’s most colorful experiences. Vendors from Venezuela and nearby islands bring fresh produce and handmade goods by boat, creating a lively waterfront market. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a great place for photos and people‑watching. The market sits along the edge of Punda, so it’s easy to visit while exploring Willemstad. It’s a short but memorable stop that highlights Curaçao’s multicultural identity and its connection with South America. Read the full guide →

10. Visit Shete Boka National Park

Shete Boka National Park offers a dramatic change of scenery from Curaçao’s calm beaches. The coastline here is rugged, with crashing waves, blowholes, and rocky inlets. Visitors can walk along coastal trails, explore sea caves, and watch waves surge into the bokas. It’s a great choice for travelers who want adventure, photography opportunities, and a look at the island’s natural landscape. Although it’s farther from the port, the views are unforgettable and worth the drive. Read the full guide →

Final Thoughts

Curaçao is a vibrant and welcoming island with a great mix of beaches, culture, and history. Whether you spend your day exploring Willemstad, snorkeling at Tugboat Beach, or relaxing at Mambo Beach, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The island is easy to navigate and full of personality, making it a standout stop on any Caribbean cruise. For more details on each attraction, explore the full guides to plan the perfect day in port.