Willemstad isn’t just a pretty port; it’s a lively hub for engaging tours that showcase Curacao’s stunning scenery, wildlife, and culture. Whether you’re a beach lover, a history enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, you’ll find options that match your style. We especially like the Best Highlight Island Tour for its comprehensive coverage of key landmarks like Shete Boka, Kenepa Beach, and the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, all in a relaxed small-group setting. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and local flavor.
Curacao shines when it comes to outdoor activities, and our list of the 15 best tours gives you a good mix— from snorkeling with sea turtles and private beach-hopping adventures to off-road safaris and customizable private tours. Whatever your interests, there’s a tour that can turn your Willemstad visit into a memorable, authentic experience.
1. Best Highlight Island Tour – Perfect Day Tour. Small group Tour
Discover the best of Curaçao during this well-rounded sightseeing tour. Covering key landmarks like Shete Boka National Park, Kenepa Beach, and the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, it’s a great way to see the island’s diversity. The tour includes light refreshments and round-trip hotel transportation, making it easy to relax and soak in the scenery. What sets this tour apart is its small-group format, which keeps it intimate and flexible— your guides Patricia and Sevi are praised for their warmth and knowledge.
With flamingos at Sint Willibrordus, swimming with sea turtles at Playa Piskado, and relaxing at Grote Knip, you get an authentic taste of Curaçao’s wildlife and beautiful beaches. Most reviews rate it a perfect 5/5, with travelers calling it “an amazing adventure” and “a perfect way to explore the island in one day.” This tour is ideal for travelers who want a structured yet personal experience that hits all the highlights.
Bottom Line: An all-inclusive, value-packed day for those who want a balance of wildlife, beaches, and local culture.
2. Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles
For around $99, this half-day tour offers an intimate experience with Curaçao’s marine life. You’ll be picked up and taken to a beach where swimming with sea turtles is the main event. Snorkel gear and photos emailed afterward make it a hassle-free way to enjoy the ocean’s best wildlife. No boat is involved, just you, the guides, and the turtles in their natural habitat—an experience many say beats aquarium visits hands down.
The itinerary includes one hour of snorkeling at the turtle site, with a guide in the water helping spot the best fish and turtles. The tour also includes a quick stop at a flamingo sanctuary, providing a well-rounded nature experience. Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and the quality of the turtle encounters, with one calling it “the best turtle snorkel” they’ve ever done.
Bottom Line: Perfect for snorkelers and wildlife lovers wanting a focused marine experience without the crowds.
3. The Curacao Private Beach Hopping / Snorkeling Tour
At number 3, this private, customizable tour offers a flexible way to explore Curaçao’s best beaches and secret spots. You’ll visit several beaches, including the famously beautiful Grote Knip, and enjoy snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing in privacy. It’s perfect if you want a personalized experience, because your guide will tailor the route based on your interests.
The tour includes private round-trip transport, giving you the luxury of choosing how long to stay at each location. Highlights include swimming with turtles, visiting vibrant marine spots, and exploring the island’s natural wonders. Travelers love the flexibility and personal attention, with reviews emphasizing the “fantastic” guide Juan and the “beautiful, uncrowded beaches.” It’s best suited for those who want control over their day and enjoy a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers seeking a customized, private island exploration.
4. The best Full-Day Beach Hopping in Curacao
For a full immersion in Curaçao’s beaches, this tour is the way to go. Starting at Grote Knip, you’ll enjoy crystalline waters followed by swimming with turtles at Playa Piskado. Later, you’ll savor local cuisine at Playa Forti and relax at Cas Abao Beach—named by National Geographic as one of the most beautiful beaches.
This 7 to 8-hour tour is praised for its relaxed pace and variety. It includes stops at multiple stunning beaches, and travelers mention “Papi’s lively commentary” and the opportunity to snorkel and swim in some of the Caribbean’s best waters. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and local flavors in one day. The value is high, especially considering the included lunch and all transportation.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-day option for beach lovers who want variety and a hassle-free experience.
5. West Island & Beach Safari
This off-road safari is a rugged way to see Curaçao’s less-visited western coast. You’ll explore Bandabou’s sandy plains, visit caves, and stop at Museum Savonet for a taste of local history. The highlight is racing across the sandy plains of San Pedro and visiting rugged Bocas on the north coast, with stunning views.
The tour is best for adventure-minded travelers who want to see untouched landscapes and learn about the island’s natural and cultural history. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, and the tour includes snorkeling at Director’s Bay. It’s a longer, more active outing—ideal for those comfortable with off-road terrain and looking for a true adventure.
Bottom Line: A memorable, active tour for explorers eager to see Curaçao’s wild side.
6. Curacao Private Tour and Activity Experience (4 up to 13 people)
This private, customizable tour is designed for small groups who want flexibility. You can choose to visit Shete Boka, the Curaçao Liqueur Distillery, flamingo sanctuaries, and more, tailoring your day to your interests. The guide can suggest an itinerary or follow your lead.
It offers hotel pickup and the option to combine beaches, national parks, and cultural sites. Reviews mention guides like Anita, who are praised for their “attention to detail” and for making the trip personal. The cost is $110 per person, which provides good value given the flexibility and private nature.
Bottom Line: A great choice for groups or couples wanting a personalized, all-encompassing tour.
7. Private and Airport Transfers (Willemstad Area Only)
While not a traditional tour, this private transfer service ensures smooth arrivals and departures. Ralph, the driver, is known for being courteous, attentive, and knowledgeable about the island. The service is ideal for those arriving or leaving via Willemstad’s airport, or needing a private ride to or from their hotel.
It’s a practical choice for travelers who want peace of mind and comfort after a long journey or before heading home. The reviews highlight punctuality and friendly service, making it a smart add-on to any trip.
Bottom Line: A dependable, hassle-free way to start or end your Curacao adventure comfortably.
8. Authentic Curacao: Private Full Island Tour
This private, all-day tour can be fully tailored to your interests. Whether you want to visit national parks, beaches, or cultural sites, your guide will craft a personalized itinerary. It includes snorkeling gear, beach towels, and hotel or cruise port pickup.
Reviewers mention guides like Ruth, who provide “a great mix of history, scenery, and personal touches.” The flexibility makes this suitable for families, couples, or small groups wanting to experience Curacao at their own pace. The price ($250 per person) reflects its bespoke nature.
Bottom Line: The best pick for travelers seeking a private, flexible tour with full customization.
9. Curacao Beach and Hato Caves Tour
Ideal for combining nature and wildlife, this tour visits Flamingo Park, the Hato Caves, and ends with free time at Daaibooi Beach. It’s a good mix of wildlife viewing, cave exploration, and relaxing on a quiet beach. The guided cave tour showcases limestone formations and even long-nose bats, making it engaging for those interested in geology and fauna.
Most reviews note the guides’ friendliness and the well-organized itinerary. The tour is suitable for all ages and activity levels, offering a balance of adventure and leisure. It’s a budget-friendly way to see diverse natural sites.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, affordable tour for nature lovers and families.
10. Snorkel with Turtles & Kenepa Grandi Beach: Nr.1 Island Day Trip
This 4- to 5-hour tour features snorkeling with turtles at Playa Grandi, plus relaxing at Grote Knip and Landhuis Jan Kok with flamingos. It’s a great half-day experience for those wanting a taste of Curaçao’s marine life along with stunning beaches.
Reviews praise the friendly guides Naomi and Angelo and the chance to observe turtles up close. The itinerary allows for witnessing wildlife in their natural habitat, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. The tour includes hotel or cruise port pickup, simplifying logistics.
Bottom Line: A compact, wildlife-focused tour with excellent snorkeling and beach time.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you want a comprehensive day covering highlights like Shete Boka and Kenepa Beach, the Best Highlight Island Tour is a standout. For marine wildlife lovers, snorkeling trips such as the Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles or Snorkel with Turtles & Kenepa Grandi Beach offer unforgettable encounters.
Want a private, tailor-made experience? The Private Full Island Tour or Curacao Private Tour and Activity Experience fit the bill. For adventure seekers, the West Island & Beach Safari and Off-Road & Snorkel Safari provide rugged fun. Always book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
In The Sum Up
Willemstad offers a variety of tours that can turn your trip into a memorable adventure. From the well-rounded Highlight Island Tour to private customized experiences and snorkel adventures, there’s something for every traveler. For families, couples, or solo explorers, Curacao’s diversity shines through in its tour options.
We recommend picking a tour that matches your interest level and activity preference—if you love beaches and wildlife, tours like the Beach Hopping or snorkeling trips provide excellent value. If privacy and flexibility are key, look into private tours with tailored itineraries. Whichever you choose, booking early guarantees you won’t miss out on these fantastic options.