The island of Curacao is the capital of a larger group of islands called the Netherlands Antilles in the southwestern Caribbean. Surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters washing onto some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in the world, Curacao is known for its warm and sunny climate year-round, rich history and magnificent coral reefs. Guests at the Curacao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino are conveniently situated to take advantage of many of the island’s popular activities, combining scenic relaxation with culture and a bit of adventure. The resort’s tour desk is available to help make arrangements.
BY WATER
The Beaches
The southwestern shore of Curacao is a breathtaking expanse of white sand beach leading to the calm, clear-blue Caribbean Sea. The island’s most popular beaches are located along this sheltered coast, where the waters are best suited for swimming. Curacao’s beaches range from intimate, rocky coves to long, pristine stretches of sand that beckon sun-worshippers to relax by the shore. The Curacao Marriott Resort & Emerald Casino is located on its own private beach in Piscadera Bay for those guests who prefer not to journey from the resort.
Scuba Diving
The island of Curacao is a haven for scuba divers, offering many excellent diving spots to choose from. The island was originally formed from volcanic limestone, providing an ideal place for several varieties of coral to grow over the centuries. Curacao’s southern coast offers the most impressive sights from several diving areas that span the distance from the Curacao Underwater Park in the south to the Banda Abao, with the Central Curacao diving area nestled in between them. The flora and fauna will impress even the most experienced diver, most notably through the abundance of brilliantly colored tropical fish.
Other Water Sports
The abundance of shimmering blue-green water in Curacao leaves no shortage of things to do in it. Activities such as snorkeling, canoe safaris and even deep-sea fishing can all be easily arranged.
BY LAND
The Curacao Seaquarium
Providing a special glimpse into Curacao’s underwater world, the Seaquarium is home to every species of marine life native to the island. Guided tours, including a feeding show, are held four times daily. Hundreds of the ocean’s creatures are on display here in natural seawater tanks, with some in “touch tanks” for those who want a closer encounter. In “Animal Encounters,” visitors can watch divers and snorkelers swim with stingrays, sharks, angelfish and more, even going so far as to feed them by hand.
Marine Awareness Center at the Seaquarium
Although the coral reefs of Curacao may seem bustling and invincible, in reality they’re quite fragile. This newest addition to the Seaquarium is meant to educate visitors about the world’s reef systems. Divers learn fascinating details about the sea creatures they can encounter underwater and heighten their understanding of the delicate balance of this truly magnificent marine ecosystem. The Marine Awareness Center offers various programs to choose from as well as individualized specialty courses and a curriculum just for children.
Jeep/Canoe Safaris
Catering to landlubbers as well as seafarers, visitors are offered more than one way to explore the countryside. By jeep, drivers wind through narrow trails, passing stone caves and fields full of cactus plants, continuing on past grand estates, mountains and glorious beaches. Experienced drivers may also suggest a night rally for interested four-wheeling fans. To experience the island from a different vantage point, canoe trips whisk guests along the awe- inspiring south coast of Banda Abau, stopping to rest and eat on the beach.
Christoffelpark
Journey through scenic terrain and see the wonders of the land with a trip into Curacao’s Christoffelpark. View the sights by car or, for some exercise, take a walking tour to the Savonet/Boca Grande to see how the plantation system worked and the effect it had on the environment. Christoffelpark even has its own ranch, Rancho Alfin, and can be experienced from astride a horse on a guided tour.
Sailing/Snorkeling Trips
Numerous organizations offer voyages through Curacao’s waters, so there is always a boat ready to take on passengers. The Insulinde takes passengers to Porto Marie Bay and the island’s East Point, and Bonaire on weekends. Aboard the traditional schooner Bounty, the crew whisks guests away on day trips to beautiful bays ideal for diving. Deep sea fishing, sunset cruises, party trips and more are also available to seafaring enthusiasts.
The Ostrich & Game Farm
See how the biggest and fastest bird in the world grows up from one enormous egg into the unique creature we recognize in its adulthood. This fun and educational attraction specializes in ostriches, allowing visitors the chance to hold a fluffy day-old chick or even see one hatch. After a long day of activities, there’s no need to leave the Game Farm for dinner: eat at the Zambesi Restaurant that serves up meals for famished explorers.
Bicycle Tour
An active yet relaxing way to see the island, cycling tours provide complete immersion in the sights and sounds of the countryside. While most of the time the route winds over surfaced roads, there are occasionally quaint tracks and hills to traverse before the journey ends on one of Curacao’s picturesque white sand beaches.
Senior Curacao Liqueur Factory
When the Senior family began commercially producing their own unique Curacao Liqueur in 1896, it marked the beginning of a legacy for the island. One of Curacao’s most famous historic landmarks, the 17th century converted plantation house outside Willemstad still produces Curacao today using the original recipe and equipment. The liqueur is sold in uniquely shaped bottles in the on-site gift shop for visitors who want to bring home a special memento.
Floating Market
Just a short walk from the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge in downtown Willemstad is the bustling Floating Market. Both a common meeting place and hub of activity, the action here never seems to slow. Watch as schooners tie-up along the canal to sell spices, fresh fish, tropical fruits, handicrafts and other wares beneath brightly colored canopies. Take photos of the vessels as they arrive daily from exotic locales such as Venezuela, Columbia or the West Indian islands or simply stand aside and soak up this singular dose of local culture.
Old Marshé (The Old Market)
Located at the heart of central Willemstad, this famous and popular lunch spot offers authentic fare in a boisterous, fun atmosphere. Local food, called “Kuminda Krioyo,” consists of hearty dishes such as chicken and beef served with peas and rice, potatoes or funchi (boiled cornmeal) capable of sating any appetite. Not only are the portions generous, but the meal prices couldn’t be better.
Historic Willemstad
One of the most impressive historical regions in the Caribbean, the western part of the city called Otrabanda is still reminiscent of an older time. In fact, it is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list to mark its value to the world’s cultural and natural heritage. Its unique history can be traced as far back as the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries and includes such landmarks as the Floating Market and Mikve Israel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the western hemisphere to remain in continuous use. Take a walking tour through narrow, winding alleys or view the city’s unique Dutch-influenced architecture via the “pleasure train.”
Shopping
Merchandise of the highest quality from around the globe can be purchased in Curacao, whose history as a major trading center dates back hundreds of years. Bargain hunt amidst charming old buildings while boats traverse the channel cutting through Willemstad, the undisputed center for shopping on the island. Works by local artists, designer clothes, collectible coins, jewelry and even Dutch wooden shoes can be found here among the other wares. The lucky traveler may stumble upon an occasional street fair or holiday flea market, which add extra festivity to the city’s character and blanketing it in vibrant colors.
Nightlife
When the sun finally goes down, the same can’t be said for the rest of the island. Happy hours are plentiful on Curacao, present in nearly every hotel, restaurant pub or casino. Major festivals can often be found by checking Curacao’s calendar of events. Also, the island’s national theatre, Sentro Pro Arte, hosts concerts and plays regularly for everyone’s entertainment. Most establishments have air conditioning and remain comfortable even after a long, hot day.