Best Things to Do in Curacao for Ocean Lovers

Best Things to Do in Curacao - for Guests Who Love Private Sailing Experiences

Guests who book a private sailing excursion in Curacao usually share similar travel styles: they love comfort, adventure, beautiful ocean views, and personalized experiences. Whether you're staying at Sandals Royal Curacao, Marriott Beach Resort, Sunscape Curacao, Avila, or an Airbnb near Jan Thiel, chances are you’re searching for the best things to do on the island that match the same level of quality and relaxation you get from sailing with Maxie Sailing Curacao.


Here is a guide to the best experiences in Curacao for travelers who enjoy the ocean, nature, comfort, and a touch of luxury.

Wooden bridge with arched lights over water, colorful Curacao

1. Snorkeling at Tugboat — Calm Waters & Clear Visibility


If you loved snorkeling during your Maxie Sailing tour, Tugboat is a beautiful visit. Known for:

  • Clear blue water
  • Colorful reef fish
  • A small sunken tugboat
  • Great visibility year-round
  • Easy to visit by car


It’s one of Curacao’s most famous snorkeling spots and perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

Why it appeals to sailing guests:   The location is peaceful (ok when you ignore the large rig in front of you), beautiful and accessible from the coast - perfect if you want more snorkeling without being on a big group tour.


2. Visit the Blue Room Cave — A Magical Natural Wonder


The Blue Room is a glowing sea cave where sunlight reflects underwater, creating a surreal blue effect. You can:

  • Swim into the cave
  • Snorkel in the glowing water
  • Enjoy stunning underwater colors


Most travelers reach the Blue Room by boat, but some guided tours lead you on a short hike to the entry point.

Why it’s similar to private sailing:   It’s an adventure in nature with unforgettable views - peaceful but exciting.


3. Relax at Cas Abao — One of the Best Beaches in Curacao


Cas Abao Beach offers:

  • Crystal-clear turquoise water
  • White sand
  • Snorkeling straight from the shore
  • Plenty of space to relax


It’s less crowded when there is no cruise ship in town - then it feels like a true Caribbean escape. (There is a part at the beach where beds are reserved for cruise guests only)


Perfect for guests who love sailing because: It’s amenities, clean beach, scenic and ideal for swimming and snorkeling - just like the calm bay visited on Maxie Sailing tours.

4. Explore Jan Thiel Nature Reserve on Foot or Bike


This coastal nature reserve features:

  • Walking trails
  • Biking paths
  • Flamingos if you're lucky
  • Beautiful ocean views
  • Salinas (salt flats)

It’s a peaceful, open area where you can feel the sea breeze and enjoy untouched nature.

Great for sailing lovers because:  It brings the same sense of freedom and open-air relaxation.


5. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner at a Waterfront Restaurant


If your private sailing tour didn’t include sunset - or if you want more of Curacao’s romantic views - a sunset dinner is a must. The best spots (according to the Maxie Sailing Crew include:

  • Baoase Luxury Resort (favourite by far)
  • St. Tropez Ocean Club - downtown
  • Fort Nassau overlooking Willemstad
  • Landhouse Klein Santa Martha (overlooking bay)

Watch the sky turn orange and pink while waves crash gently nearby or views are too stunning got be true.

Why Maxie Sailing guests love it: Sunsets are one of Curacao’s highlights - enjoying them from land with culinary food is just as magical.

6. Visit Klein Curacao - Full-Day Island Adventure


For travelers who love being at sea and don't mind the wavy Caribbean Sea, Klein Curacao is perfect for a day trip. This uninhabited island features:

  • A long white-sand beach
  • Ultra-clear turquoise water
  • A lighthouse
  • Sea turtles near the shore
  • Beautiful reef areas for snorkeling

Several private and semi-private operators offer Klein Curacao tours, though for guests who prefer comfort and privacy, choosing a smaller boat or private charter is best.


7. Walk Through Willemstad’s Colorful Historic District


After relaxing on the boat, exploring Willemstad gives you a taste of Curacao’s vibrant culture. Highlights include:

  • The floating bridge
  • Colorful Dutch-style buildings
  • Kura Hulanda area
  • Slavery Museum
  • Art murals
  • Local boutiques
  • Oceanfront cafes


It’s a beautiful half day activity - especially early in the morning or late afternoon.

Why it fits the sailing guest style: It’s scenic, slow-paced and sooo full of charm.


8. Take a Private Island Tour With Local Guide


Just like private sailing gives you personalized service, a private island tour offers a fully customized land-based experience. You can visit:

  • Shete Boka cliffs
  • Flamingos at St. Willibrordus
  • Playa Jeremi (intimate)
  • Local food spots
  • Westpunt beaches

Your guide adapts the day to your interests - perfect for travelers who dislike large bus tours, ask Maxie Crew for recommendations.


9. Enjoy a Spa Day After Your Sailing Adventure


If you're staying at Sandals Curacao or another upscale resort, you’ll have access to a luxury spa. After time in the sun and sea, a spa day is the perfect complement to your sailing tour.

Popular treatments include:

  • Aloe massages
  • Relaxation therapy
  • Oceanfront couples massages
  • Hydrating facials


The combination of a private sailing excursion + spa day is one of the most relaxing vacation pairings possible.


Conclusion


For guests who love private sailing experiences, Curacao offers many high-quality activities that match the same feeling of relaxation, adventure and natural beauty. From snorkeling and ocean caves to exclusive beaches and sunset dinners, you’ll find endless ocean-loving experiences that perfectly complement your day on the water with Maxie Sailing Curacao.