Second trip to Curaçao Island

Returning to Curaçao is a bit like reopening a book whose pages still smell of sun and salt.

As soon as the plane descends toward the island, the familiar colors reappear: the dazzling turquoise of the sea, the pastel facades of Willemstad, and that unique light that seems to soften everything.

For this second trip, we no longer arrive as hesitant explorers, but as confirmed lovers of this warm island.

We already know that the warm wind will welcome us as soon as we step out of the airport, that the beaches will once again offer their infinite shades of blue, and that each day will have that unhurried pace that makes you forget the rest of the world.

Yet, despite this sense of déjà vu, Curaçao always manages to surprise. A new cove to discover, a different sunset, a smile shared with a local...

The island has that rare talent for reinventing itself without ever betraying what makes it so endearing.

This second trip isn’t a repetition, then, but a reunion: a chance to rediscover Curaçao with more attentive, more connected, and perhaps even more amazed eyes.

I invite you to keep reading this travel journal and watch the videos that will help you learn a little more about the island’s different attractions.

Just click on the video image to start watching.

To go to a specific post, here are the appropriate links:

Exploring Willemstad’s colorful neighborhoods The Most Beautiful Beaches in Curaçao Hike at Boka Sint Michiel | Flamingos & panoramic views Climbing Christoffel Mountain Den Dunki & Flamingos of Jan Thiel Must-see spots in Curaçao Snorkeling at Playa Kenepa Chiki: Turquoise Water & Tropical Fish Snorkeling at Porto Mari: One of Curaçao’s Best Spots Snorkeling at Mambo Beach, the Perfect Spot Snorkeling at Daaibooi Beach, a diverse marine world

Discovering the colorful neighborhoods of Willemstad

12.105732, -68.939863 Parking 12.105139, -68.937922 Fort Rif 12.106676, -68.936060 Floating Bridge 12.104410, -68.933453 Curaçao Sign

We left our car in a large parking lot near the historic center of Willemstad. It’s free to access.

We passed by Fort Rif, built in 1828, and then headed toward the Otrobanda district, one of the two neighborhoods that make up the city of Willemstad—the other being the Punda district.

Actually, these two districts are separated by a waterway. To move between them, a mobile floating bridge (Queen Emma Bridge) was installed, and it can be opened at any time to let ships pass.

For this reason, when the floating bridge is open, it’s replaced by a free ferry that shuttles between the two districts.

The floating bridge was in place when we started our visit, so we took the opportunity to walk across this famous bridge to the other side.

When you see the beauty of Willemstad’s homes, it’s easy to understand why the historic center of this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The buildings are very colorful and reflect the colonial era, both Spanish and Dutch.

The story goes that the houses were painted in different colors to reduce the reflection of the sun’s rays, at the request of a vice-admiral in 1817 who suffered from this glare.

We strolled through the small streets of this district, which feature stunning buildings with dreamy architecture.

Many of them house shops, restaurants, and other types of businesses.

Near the floating bridge, in the Punda district, there’s a huge heart-shaped brooch covered in countless padlocks. It’s an attraction in itself.

We also visited a small park where tourists, just like us, get their photos taken in front of the giant letters spelling out *Curaçao* and *Dushi*.

To return to the parking lot on the other side at the end of our visit, we took the ferry.

https://youtu.be/v1rLh6GSvQ8

The Most Beautiful Beaches of Curaçao

I’m taking you on a tour of the most stunning beaches in Curaçao—must-visit spots like Kokomo Beach, Playa Kenepa Grandi, Blue Bay Beach, Playa PortoMari, Daaibooi Beach, Playa Lagun, Playa Kalki, and Playa Santa Cruz.

Beaches, hikes, viewpoints, turquoise water—it’s all here.

🏖️ KOKOMO BEACH

📍 12.16097, -69.00457 Beach 📍 12.16117, -69.00321 Start of the trail (450 m round trip) 📍 12.16025, -69.00444 Lookout

Kokomo Beach is one of Curaçao’s most iconic beaches. Turquoise water, chill vibes, restaurants, and—best of all—a short trail leading to an amazing lookout.

The viewpoint offers an incredible perspective over the bay.

🏖️ BLUE BAY BEACH

📍12.13491, -68.98413 Parking 📍12.13449, -68.98497 Beach

A very popular private beach ($), perfect for snorkeling and relaxation.

Blue Bay is known for its golden sand, palm trees, and calm waters.

Great for families and travelers looking for a comfortable spot with amenities.

🏖️ PLAYA KENEPA GRANDI (GROTE KNIP)

📍12.35091, -69.15168 Parking 📍12.35115, -69.15186 Lookout 📍12.35185, -69.15145 Beach

Probably the most photogenic beach in Curaçao. From the lookout, the view of the electric-blue water is spectacular.

The beach is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with a wilder vibe than the more touristy spots.

🏖️ DAAIBOOI BEACH

📍12.21201, -69.08416 Parking 📍12.21247, -69.08360 Beach 📍12.21160, -69.08484 Start of the trail (left side) 📍12.21263, -69.08488 Start of the trail (right side)

A small, local beach—calm and authentic. Great for snorkeling, with sea turtles often spotted near the rocks. Relaxed vibe and crystal-clear water.

Short hike on either side of the beach along a coastal trail, offering stunning views of the sea. Perfect for exploring before or after a swim.

🏖️ PLAYA PORTOMARI

📍12.21918, -69.08566 Parking 📍12.21901, -69.08578 Observation tower 📍12.21951, -69.08604 Start of the Seru Mateo trail

Playa PortoMari is famous for its double reef—a snorkeling and diving paradise.

The observation tower offers a panoramic view of the beach and surrounding hills.

A short but steep hike (Seru Mateo trail) leads to a summit with a breathtaking view of Curaçao’s west coast.

🏖️ PLAYA LAGUN

📍12.31841, -69.15016 Parking

A small, secluded cove—perfect for spotting sea turtles. One of the island’s best snorkeling spots.

🏖️ PLAYA KALKI

📍12.37529, -69.15684 Parking 📍12.37543, -69.15773 Beach

Nicknamed Alice in Wonderland, Playa Kalki is a diver’s paradise. Crystal-clear water, healthy corals, and a peaceful atmosphere.

🏖️ PLAYA SANTA CRUZ

📍12.30616, -69.14526

A wide, peaceful beach—great as a starting point for excursions, including the famous Blue Room. Perfect for unwinding at the end of the day.

Hike at Boka Sint Michiel - Flamingos & Panoramic Views

Discover one of the island’s most authentic and surprising trails: the 5.5 km loop around the Boka Sint Michiel lagoon, also known as Boka Sami.

An accessible, varied hike that’s perfect for observing local wildlife, including the famous pink flamingos.

🌅 Start: Parking lot (12.14748, -68.99863)

This hike can be done in either direction. However, to avoid the heat, it’s best to arrive early and start with the climb to the viewpoint, then follow the left bank of the lagoon, as the return will be through the forest where you’ll have more shade.

To get there, you’ll need to cross a body of water that may vary in depth depending on the tide.

📍 Viewpoint (12.14898, -68.99911)

The climb to the viewpoint is quite steep but only takes about fifteen minutes. It’s totally worth it, though, as the views of Boka Sint Michiel and the coastline are absolutely breathtaking.

🦩 Flamingo spotting (12.15577, -68.99026)

As we continued along the lagoon, we were delighted to spot colorful parrots and a kestrel.

We reached an exceptional spot for observing flamingos. Here, they’re often more numerous and much closer to the trail.

The silence of the lagoon, the gentle breeze, and the pink reflection on the water create an almost surreal atmosphere. It’s one of the best spots on the hike for capturing incredible photos.

🌿 Crossing the lagoon (12.15318, -68.98915)

We then made our way to the opposite bank via a narrow strip of land that crosses the lagoon.

However, since this strip doesn’t reach all the way to the opposite bank, you might have to wade through shallow water to get there, depending on the tide.

↗️ Right fork (12.15217, -68.98896)

Landmark to follow the trail along the lagoon until you reach an intersection.

🏞️ Left fork (12.14882, -68.99122)

The trail splits again. We take the left fork to continue toward the summit. The vegetation gets denser, and the path winds between cacti and shrubs.

⛰️ Summit & turnaround (12.15066, -68.98736)

At the highest point of the hike, we enjoyed an incredible view of the Caribbean Sea, the lagoon, and the surrounding hills.

This is where we turned back, retracing our steps.

We were lucky enough to spot some pretty hummingbirds.

🏁 Return to the parking lot (12.14882, -68.99122)

We took the left fork again to complete the loop and return calmly to the starting point.

A varied, peaceful hike that’s perfect for discovering a wilder, more authentic side of Curaçao.

🎬 Conclusion

This 5.5 km loop around Boka Sint Michiel is a must for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone who enjoys contrasting landscapes.

Between flamingos, the lagoon, hills, and panoramic views, it’s a complete experience that’s accessible to everyone.

https://youtu.be/MV7z0I1VhDc

Climbing Christoffel Mountain

Video dedicated to climbing Christoffel Mountain, the highest point in Curaçao and one of the island’s most unmissable adventures.

If you're planning a trip to Curaçao or just want to experience it as if you were there, this video is for you.

🏞️ Christoffelpark Visitor Center (12.350635, -69.106408)

This is where the adventure begins. A must-stop to pay the entrance fee, get the day’s info, check the weather conditions, and make sure you can climb before the park closes.

🚗 Parking & Trailhead (12.344482, -69.119944)

The trail is about 2.7 km round-trip, but don’t be fooled: the climb is short, intense, and rocky. A true tropical hike.

👀 Belvedere (12.341681, -69.124198)

A first stop that already gives you a taste of the park’s beauty: dry vegetation, volcanic cliffs, and the sea as a backdrop.

🪨 Marker 1 (12.339494, -69.124603)

From here, the trail gets steeper. You’ll scramble over rocks, sometimes using your hands. A real adventure.

🌿 Marker 2 (12.337945, -69.123691)

Final push before the summit. The vegetation clears, the wind picks up, and the view starts opening up over the whole island.

🏔️ Christoffel Mountain Summit (12.336648, -69.123101)

The long-awaited moment. A 360° view of Curaçao: cliffs, green hills, endless sea, and even—on clear days—the coast of Venezuela.

A magical moment, perfect for photos and taking it all in.

There are several birds at the summit. Many come to eat right from your hand.

🎒 Practical tips for a successful climb

- Start early in the morning (the park closes trail access after 10 AM) - Bring water - Wear good shoes (the terrain is rocky) - Pack sunscreen, a hat, and snacks - Moderate to difficult level, especially toward the end

https://youtu.be/nwKrAVFa5Yg

Den Dunki & Flamingos of Jan Thiel

I’m taking you to explore two iconic spots on the island: Den Dunki National Park and Jan Thiel Lagoon, a true natural sanctuary where many flamingos live.

I’ll show you how to easily access the site, where to park, and most importantly, where to observe the flamingos in their natural habitat.

A perfect adventure for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

🚗 1. Access & Parking - Den Dunki National Park

📍 12.102331, -68.881958 Roadside parking

This is where the exploration begins. Simple, free parking, ideal for direct access to the park’s trails.

Den Dunki National Park, also known as Sorsaka, is a place steeped in history, surrounded by majestic trees and mysterious ruins—perfect for a peaceful stroll.

In the 17th century, this was the site of a prison that housed enslaved people arriving from overseas. Today, only the Slave Bridge (Swanbridge) remains.

🏞️ 2. Discovering the Salt Flats - Jan Thiel Lagoon

📍 12.096322, -68.884095 Salt flat

Following the trail, you’ll quickly reach the salt flats, a unique landscape where the saltwater creates incredible reflections.

It’s a quiet spot, perfect for observing local wildlife and enjoying an atmosphere completely different from tourist beaches.

🦩 3. Flamingo Watching

📍 12.093058, -68.885144 Flamingo spot

The highlight of the visit.

At these coordinates, you’ll find one of the best observation points to admire many flamingos. They move freely in the lagoon, offering a stunning natural spectacle.

Remember to keep your distance so as not to disturb them.

https://youtu.be/YmJfF_L3x4o

Must-see spots in Curaçao

Join us as we explore the must-see spots in Curaçao, a Caribbean island where raw nature, spectacular cliffs, and turquoise waters come together.

In this video, we check out the island’s most impressive locations, including several wonders of Shete Boka National Park, as well as unique natural spots.

🌊 Boka Tabla – Shete Boka National Park

A spectacular site where waves crash into a sea cave.

12.367196, -69.116790 Park entrance 12.367819, -69.116463 Start of the 434 m loop trail 12.368564, -69.115771 Boka Tabla 12.368988, -69.115937 Belvedere

🌬️ Boka Wandomi – Shete Boka

A wild landscape featuring its Natural Bridge carved by the ocean.

12.370594, -69.122211 Parking 12.372069, -69.122254 Belvedere 12.372412, -69.122962 Natural Bridge

🌿 Boka Kalki – Shete Boka

A short trail leading to a rocky bay battered by waves.

12.364707, -69.113518 Parking 12.364791, -69.113437 Start of the 600 m round-trip trail 12.366808, -69.112622 Boka Kalki

💥 Boka Pistol – Shete Boka

One of the park’s most impressive spots: a natural geyser formed by the force of the waves.

12.365045, -69.108994 Parking 12.365354, -69.108424 Boka Pistol 170 m round-trip

🌪️ Watamula Hole

A spectacular blowhole in the heart of a volcanic landscape.

12.389729, -69.155548 Parking 12.390439, -69.156162 Watamula Hole 200 m round-trip

🕳️ Koraal Tabak Cave

A hidden cave accessible via a dirt road and a few turns. You can observe a bat colony here.

12.137713, -68.830570 Barrier 12.137190, -68.821986 Left turn 12.140720, -68.817850 Right turn 12.139923, -68.817708 Right turn 12.140316, -68.818510 Cave

🏰 Fort Beekenburg

A historic fort overlooking the bay, perfectly preserved.

12.071763, -68.861288 Parking 12.072363, -68.861993 Fort

🐢 Boka Ascension

A stunning natural site where you can spot turtles from the cliffs.

12.267655, -69.059815 Dirt road 12.272239, -69.053750 Parking 12.271367, -69.055016 Boka Ascension 950 m round-trip

🌅 Belvedere – Santa Martha Bay

An exceptional viewpoint overlooking one of Curaçao’s most beautiful bays.

12.270237, -69.124609 Belvedere

🌳 Hofi Pastor & the giant Kapok tree

A shaded trail leading to a monumental tree that’s several centuries old.

12.290396, -69.073121 Parking

🦩 Pink flamingos – Jan Kok Salt Flats

An iconic spot to observe flamingos in their natural habitat.

12.21360, -69.05385 Freedom Monument 12.21313, -69.05357 Salt flats

🦩 Pink flamingos – Sint Michiel Salt Flats

Another gorgeous spot to admire these iconic birds.

12.15687, -68.98798 Observation point

This video brings together Curaçao’s most beautiful natural landscapes, from cliffs and caves to natural bridges, blowholes, wild beaches, and wildlife sightings.

https://youtu.be/pIRM6tO6F_g

Snorkeling at Playa Kenepa Chiki: Turquoise Water & Tropical Fish

Location: 12.34112, -69.15243

This little paradise beach, surrounded by cliffs and turquoise water, is a true natural aquarium.

In this video, we dive into the heart of the crystal-clear waters to observe:

- 🐠 A large number of tropical fish - 🌿 Seagrass and coral accessible right from the shore - 🌊 Calm and transparent water, perfect for snorkeling - ⛱️ Peaceful vibe, far from the crowds

https://youtu.be/d3d1fU6JqUE

Snorkeling at Porto Mari: One of Curaçao’s Best Spots

📍Location: 12.21894, -69.08598

Discover one of the most beautiful snorkeling spots in Curaçao: Playa Porto Mari.

Located on the island’s west coast, this beach is famous for its unique double reef, incredibly clear turquoise water, and abundant marine life.

I’ll take you beneath the surface to explore a colorful world filled with tropical fish.

Playa Porto Mari is also perfect for a relaxing day: white sand, a beachfront restaurant, an iconic pier, and a peaceful vibe.

If you’re planning a trip to Curaçao or looking for the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean, this video is for you.

https://youtu.be/q8OZX6ChK0o

Snorkeling in Curaçao: Mambo Beach, the Perfect Spot

📍Location: 12.08534, -68.89845

Join me in discovering the incredible snorkeling experience at Mambo Beach, Curaçao—one of the best spots in the Caribbean to admire tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and breathtaking turquoise water.

What to expect:

- Snorkeling in crystal-clear water - Spotting plenty of tropical fish - Exploring the reef near Mambo Beach

https://youtu.be/cMN0KmGMX_E

Snorkeling at Daaibooi Beach, a diverse marine world

📍Location: 12.21198, -69.08470

Welcome to this latest adventure in Curaçao.

I’m taking you to Daaibooi Beach, one of the most authentic and preserved beaches on the island for an absolutely unforgettable snorkeling session in the heart of a diverse and spectacular marine world.

As soon as we arrived, the turquoise water immediately made us want to dive in.

Just beneath the surface, we discovered a vibrant coral reef teeming with brightly colored tropical fish.

We spotted turtles, a school of thousands of juvenile fish, a trunkfish, a sea snake, trumpetfish, a flounder, parrotfish, sergeant majors, damselfish, surgeonfish, and several other species.

What makes Daaibooi Beach unique is how easy it is to access the reef—just wade a few meters out and you’re surrounded by incredible marine life.

The water is calm and clear, perfect for beginners and snorkeling enthusiasts alike.

Every minute spent underwater was pure wonder.

Daaibooi Beach is a must-visit for all sea lovers.

This beach combines natural beauty, tranquility, and some of the best snorkeling on the island.

https://youtu.be/EM10XYuoA0A