Shete Boka National Park – Curaçao
Shete Boka National Park is one of the most dramatic natural attractions in Curaçao. Located on the island’s rugged northern coast, the park is known for its crashing waves, limestone cliffs, sea caves, and powerful blowholes. The landscape feels wild and untouched, offering a completely different experience from the calm beaches on the southern side of the island. It’s a great stop for travelers who want to explore Curaçao’s natural beauty and enjoy a scenic break from the beach.
Fun Facts
- “Shete Boka” means “Seven Inlets,” referring to the many coves carved into the coastline.
- The park covers more than 10 kilometers of rocky shoreline.
- Boka Tabla is the most famous viewpoint, featuring a sea cave and crashing waves.
- Boka Pistol creates a blowhole effect that shoots water high into the air.
- The park is an important nesting area for sea turtles.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Your visit begins at the park entrance, where you’ll receive a map of the main viewpoints. The roads inside the park are rough but manageable, and each stop offers a different look at the coastline. The scenery is dramatic, with sharp cliffs, dark volcanic rock, and powerful waves that crash against the shore.
Boka Tabla is usually the first stop. Here, you can walk down into a small cave where waves rush in with incredible force. Above the cave, a viewing platform gives you a wide look at the coastline. The sound of the waves echoes through the rocks, creating one of the most memorable moments in the park.
Next is Boka Pistol, named for the way the waves shoot upward like a burst from a cannon. When the water hits the narrow opening in the rocks, it explodes into the air, creating a natural blowhole. Visitors often wait here to capture photos or videos of the spray.
Other viewpoints include Boka Wandomi and the Natural Bridge, where the sea has carved a long arch into the rock. The landscape feels raw and powerful, and the walking paths make it easy to explore at your own pace.
Why It’s Worth Visiting
Shete Boka National Park shows a side of Curaçao that many visitors never see. The northern coast is wild, windy, and dramatic, offering a refreshing contrast to the calm beaches near the cruise port. The blowholes, sea caves, and cliffs create unforgettable scenery, and the park’s layout makes it easy to visit several viewpoints in a short amount of time.
Travelers who enjoy photography, nature, or scenic landscapes will find this stop especially rewarding. It’s also a great pairing with nearby Christoffel National Park or Playa Kenepa Grandi.
Where It’s Located
Shete Boka National Park is located on Curaçao’s northern coast, near the town of Westpunt.
How to Get There From the Cruise Port
The drive from the cruise port takes about 45–60 minutes. Most visitors rent a car for the day because the western attractions are spread out. The roads inside the park are unpaved but accessible for most vehicles.
Best Time to Visit
Morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable temperatures. The waves are strong all day, but the lighting is especially beautiful in the morning. Because the park is exposed and windy, it’s best to avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day.
Tips for Visiting
- Wear sturdy shoes for walking on rocky paths.
- Bring water — the park is hot and exposed.
- Hold onto hats and loose items because the wind can be strong.
- Stay behind the safety barriers near the cliffs.
- Pair your visit with Playa Kenepa Grandi or Christoffel National Park.
Common Complaints
Some visitors mention that the roads inside the park are rough. The area is also very windy and hot, so it’s important to bring water and sun protection. Even so, the scenery makes the visit worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Shete Boka National Park offers some of the most dramatic coastal views in Curaçao. Its blowholes, sea caves, and rugged cliffs create a powerful and unforgettable experience.
For more ideas to plan your day, explore my full Curaçao Cruise Port Guide for the best things to do on the island.
