The best Curaçao itinerary for Chicago travelers

Day 1: Settle in at Coral Estate Rentals

Your home base in Curaçao sets the tone for your entire vacation. Coral Estates Rentals offers private villas and modern condos with wide ocean views, spacious terraces, private pools, and a calm atmosphere that feels perfect after your flight. You’ll be in close proximity to restaurants, the best beaches on the island, a dive school, and the pure and tranquil nature only the west side of the island can offer. 

Enjoy a dip in your private pool or stroll down to Koraal Rooftop Terrace for cocktails and a swim in their infinity pool. Or head to Karakter Restaurant for your first Curacao sunset dinner. December evenings are warm and tranquil, which makes this an ideal start to your winter escape.

Day 2: Beach day at Curaçao’s best beaches

No trip to Curaçao is complete without a beach day. Playa Porto Mari is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand. Cas Abao is also a beloved beach among locals and visitors alike, consistently appearing on lists of best beaches in Curaçao because of its beautiful setting and great snorkeling. Directly next to Coral Estate is Daai Booi beach, a cozy little beach loved by locals and visitors alike. And if you’re renting a car and feel a bit adventurous, you can engage in some beach hopping and enjoy more of the glorious 40 beaches on this side of the island.

Spend the day relaxing, swimming, snorkeling or enjoying the sunshine. In the evening, return to Karakter for dinner by the sea.

Day 3: Ziplining at Hofi Mango

If you love active days back home, add the Hofi Mango zipline to your Curaçao itinerary; one of the island’s newest attractions. Rush above green landscapes with views toward the Christoffel mountain and experience the west side of Curaçao from a different perspective. It is fun, safe, family-friendly, and a great change of pace during your trip.

Day 4: Explore Willemstad and Curaçao’s Christmas lights

Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its vibrant architecture, historic floating bridge, and lively streets. Walk through Punda and Otrobanda, explore cute cafés and local boutiques, and enjoy the picturesque pastel facades. The city is also home to vibrant street art and murals that add an artistic layer to the historic surroundings, especially in Otrobanda, where local and international artists have transformed walls into open-air galleries in collaboration with Kaya Kaya.

December makes Willemstad even more special. Curaçao is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with festive lights across squares, streets, and roundabouts. The island is known for its holiday displays, which create the perfect atmosphere for a lovely evening walk. Several Christmas markets and seasonal pop-ups, for example, in Kura Hulanda Village and Landhuis Bloemhof, offer local crafts, food, and music to get and keep you in the festive mood. 

Day 5: Nature day at Shete Boka and Christoffel Park

Curacao’s natural beauty deserves a place in every itinerary. Start at Shete Boka National Park for breathtaking ocean views, underground caverns, and a natural bridge, amongst other natural sights. Continue to Christoffel Park, the island’s largest nature reserve, where you can enjoy gentle hikes, panoramic viewpoints, and quiet, open surroundings.

Return to Coral Estate for a relaxing afternoon at your villa or condo. You can also book a massage at 8 The Experience Spa, located on Coral Estate, or we can help you book a private massage, right in your villa.

Day 6: Snorkeling and boat day

Curaçao is known worldwide for its snorkeling and crystal-clear waters. From Octopus, to Lion Fish and pretty coral, you’ll be surprised by all the beauty you’ll find beneath the surface of the turquoise waters. 

Visit Playa Grandi to snorkel with sea turtles, or join a boat trip to explore hidden coves and coral reefs. Experiencing Curaçao from the water is a must during your stay.

Day 7: Relax at Coral Estate

Spend your last day enjoying the calm of Coral Estate. Have breakfast on your terrace or visit Bread and More for a homemade pastry and a good cup of coffee. Take a final swim and savor the relaxed and refined environment before heading home.