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 The true stars of the island don’t walk on land or fly in the sunny skies, they swim! But you don’t even need a snorkel or a dive tank to meet these fascinating and unusual aquatic creatures. Just take a leisurely stroll through the Sea Aquarium. Here you’ll encounter neon-green moray eels, spotted eagle rays and flamingos. You can even get up close and personal with the animals: receive a kiss from a sea lion, play with the hand-tickling sea stars and even pet a nurse shark. It may even be worthwhile to bring your swimsuit, in case you feel like swimming with a dolphin.
For a more intimate, detailed look at the indigenous plants of Curaçao, pay a visit to Dinah’s Botanic & Historic Garden at Den Paradera. Owner and nature expert Dinah Veeris combines a scientific background of plant study with a vast knowledge of traditional Caribbean cultivation practices. In her lovingly-tended garden, herbs take on magical therapeutic properties that heal both body and mind. Stop at the botanic shop on the way out and stock up on homemade herbal shampoos, soaps and massage oils, as well as special weight-loss and relaxation herbs for teas and sauces.
Read more about Dinah Veeris.
 Of course, Curaçao’s charms aren’t just of the natural or marine variety. This is an island deeply steeped in history. And there’s no better place to uncover its rich, colorful past than within the downtown district of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sightseers should begin their tour at the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, built in 1888, which connects Punda, “downtown,” to Otrobanda, which literally means “other side.” The floating bridge regularly swings open to allow ships in and out of the St. Anna Harbor.
On the Otrobanda side, the bridge leads to Rif Fort, a historic 19th century fortress, now the site of upscale restaurants and trendy shops, like Furla and BCBG, at the Renaissance Mall. On the Punda side, the bridge is flanked by the imposing walls of Fort Amsterdam, the current seat of government, and Penha, with the distinctively yellow, Dutch colonial façade, which is one of oldest buildings in Curaçao. Take a stroll along the harbor promenade and you’ll hit the Caprileskade. The draw here is the Floating Market, where South American vendors come to sell their fresh, ripe fruits and vegetables straight off the boat.
 Wander deeper into the maze of alleys and you’ll stumble across the limestone walls of Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere. Pop inside to check out the unusual, sand-covered floors of the temple, or visit the Jewish Historical Museum to view a priceless collection of ceremonial religious objects used throughout the past four centuries. The time travel continues in Scharloo, once the most affluent neighborhood of Curaçao, and now lined with one-of-a-kind, restored 19th century mansions, like the unusual green-hued Bolo di Bruit, or “wedding cake house.”
For real history buffs, Curaçao has several must-see museums. The Maritime Museum in Punda chronicles 500 years of Curaçao’s role as an pivotal commercial trading port. The building itself, which was designed to resemble a ship and displays antique nautical charts and geographic maps on the walls like artwork, is worth the visit alone. Children will get a kick out of the navigation equipment exhibition.
 Across the harbor in Otrobanda, you’ll find the Museum Kurá Hulanda, housed in the restored colonial village complex of the Hotel Kurá Hulanda. This anthropological museum examines the West African influences on Curaçao art and culture. The permanent collection features fascinating Mesopotamian relics, current Antillean artwork and also highlights the history of the slave trade.
And remember: There's never enough time to do it all in Curaçao.
Check out our interactive map for 360 degree views of the island highlights!
Please visit the Transportation Section for information about getting around the island.
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