What to do in Curaçao? A Sustainable Paradise
The question isn't just what to do in Curaçao – it's how to experience it responsibly. Here's your ultimate guide to getting to know Curaçao like a responsible local.
If you're wondering what to do in Curaçao, this guide will introduce you to eco-conscious adventures beyond the typical tourist plan.
The island welcomed over 500 k stay-over visitors and 800 k cruise tourists last year, according to the Curaçao Tourist Board's 2024 annual report. This is a good contribution to the local economy, but it represents a major challenge for sustainability.
With this many visitors each year, it's also difficult to balance preserving the island's natural beauty and creating authentic activities.
The most unique aspect of Curaçao blend of European, African, and Caribbean influences, creating a cultural mosaic unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. For those who love warm weather, Curaçao is an ideal destination with an average temperature of 28°C year-round.
Hidden Local Treasures
When locals consider what to do in Curaçao, these off-the-beaten-path destinations top our list:
- Playa Lagun - A beach beloved by snorkelers, fishermen, and locals. Perfect for snorkeling, enjoying the crystal-clear water, and the soft waves. This intimate cove offers a local environment without the crowds.
- Seru Grandi Viewpoint - Worthy of another planet. The markings on the rocks at Seru Grandi show the varying sea levels over the years. Hike this relatively unknown trail at sunrise for breathtaking panoramic views of the island's rugged northern coastline.
- Shete Boka National Park's Hidden Caves - This is the site where waves crash against coral rock formations. It's also the nesting ground for three species of sea turtles. To visit, you'll need a 4x4 SUV or book a tour with Uniek Curaçao. While tourists visit the main park areas, locals know about secluded sea caves accessible only during specific tide conditions.
- Plantation House Knip - This restored historical site offers insight into the island's complex colonial past while supporting cultural preservation efforts. It dates back to the 18th century and at the time was the most successful plantation of divi-divi seeds and sheep wool.
Where to eat in Curaçao? On the road through its flavors
Supporting local is a must, but sustainable restaurants are essential when considering what to do in Curaçao. These establishments prepare their dishes with local ingredients, giving each of their creations a very authentic touch and flavor.
- Hofi Cas Cora - This farm-to-table restaurant grows their ingredients on-site. The menu is never the same, and the best part is that when you sit down, you can see the field where your food was grown and harvested. Do not hesitate to take a walk around and see it for yourself, and visit their lovely rescue farm animals.
- The Green House - Operating with a zero-waste philosophy, they serve exceptional plant-forward cuisine using island-grown produce. Its menu spans a world of flavors: Mediterranean food, steak, and seafood.
The latter recommendation has no official sustainable practices, but it's a local favorite.
- Gouverneur Restaurant - Located in a historical building in Pietermaai, they specialize in authentic local cuisine while emphasizing waste reduction.
Eco-Conscious Accommodations
Lavishness is not at odds with sustainability, and these accommodations demonstrate this with their environmental initiatives:
- Baoase Luxury Resort - This 5-star boutique property has earned Green Globe certification through comprehensive energy conservation, water management, and community support programs. Offers all-inclusive reservations and the full American plan.
- Curaçao Avila Beach Hotel - Recently awarded sustainable tourism certification, this historic property combines luxury with environmental responsibility through its coral restoration project. By booking directly on the hotel's website, you are supporting their Tree Planted for Each Night program.
Pamela Herrera
