What to do on a cruise stop on Curaçao: Favorite tours for a perfect day ashore

Aranka van de Sanden
Aug 25
3 min read

So your cruise ship just pulled into Curaçao, the sun is shining, the water is blindingly turquoise, and you've got… what, 6–8 hours to spare? Trust me, that's plenty of time to fall in love with this colorful island—without missing your ship’s horn blast at the end of the day.

I’ve collected the best day trips for cruise passengers on Curaçao, based on real feedback from other travelers (and some very enthusiastic friends). Even if I haven’t done every single one myself, they all check the important boxes: local flavor, doable in half a day, and cruise-ship friendly.

Let’s dive in—with sunscreen, of course.

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What are the best shore excursions from Curaçao cruise port?

Half-day tours like Hato Caves, flamingo spotting, and city/beach combos are ideal.

You want something fun, local, and efficient—without cutting it close on your return.

Here are some favorites:

Half Day Hato Cave, Flamingo & Beach Tour

Let’s start with a crowd-pleaser. This half-day tour packs in a surprising amount without rushing. You’ll explore Curaçao’s famous Hato Caves (stalactites, ancient petroglyphs, bat colonies—the full Indiana Jones treatment), spot flamingos in their natural salt flat habitat, and finish with some beach time at one of the island’s prettiest coves. Bonus: you’ll be back in plenty of time.

Best Highlight Island Tour – Perfect Day Tour (Small Group)

This one lives up to its name. You’ll hit the island’s highlights—from historical Willemstad to gorgeous coastal viewpoints—all in a small group. That means no waiting for 52 people to get back on the bus. You’ll get a taste of local culture, colorful architecture, hidden beaches, and even some snack stops. It’s a great option if you want to do a lot without planning a thing.

Shop and Beach Guided Tour in Curaçao City

Want to squeeze in some retail therapy before hitting the sand? This combo tour gives you guided time in downtown Willemstad (those pastel buildings are even cuter in person), plus a beach break to cool off afterward. Perfect for anyone who wants a slice of Curaçao’s famous Dutch-Caribbean charm without going full Indiana Jones.

Eastern Treasures of Curaçao Tour (Meeting Point: Starbucks)

Yes, it starts at Starbucks, which is close to the port. No, it’s not just frappuccinos and selfies. This tour takes you to the east side of the island, full of hidden gems. Think scenic views, nice beaches, and some fascinating local stops. It’s a great tour for those who’ve been to Curaçao before—or just want something different.

Curaçao Complete Island Tour

Got the full day? This is one of the best local tours for cruise visitors on Curaçao who want a proper taste of the island in one go. It covers both the east and west sides, including top cultural spots, beaches, plantations, and viewpoints. You’ll see it all—without needing to rent a car or argue with your travel buddy about directions.

What are the best half-day tours on Curaçao for cruise guests?

The Hato Cave, Flamingo & Beach Tour is a solid bet. So is the Shop and Beach combo. They’re short and sweet—so you’ll get back on board with plenty of time for buffet seconds.

Can you book Curaçao cruise day tours independently?

Yes—and it often saves money.

All the tours I’ve listed here are available on Viator, which lets you book in advance (no cruise markup), and they include pickup or give you easy instructions on where to meet. Just make sure to double-check the timing and cancellation policies.

Is it safe to leave the Curaçao cruise port on your own?

Totally. Curaçao is one of the safest Caribbean islands, and the port area is clean, colorful, and walkable.

Many tours pick you up nearby or at easy-to-reach meeting points. Just follow the instructions and you’re good.

Final thoughts: Don’t just stay on the ship

Whether you’re here for just a few hours or most of the day, Curaçao has something worth stepping off for.

These tours give you a little taste of paradise, culture, nature, or shopping—without the stress. And who knows? Maybe you’ll come back for a full vacation next time.