Curaçao route: Punda, Queen Emma Bridge and Shete Boka
This 57 km route through Curaçao connects the colorful colonial architecture of Punda and Otrabanda with pristine coastal attractions including the iconic Queen Emma Floating Bridge, dramatic cliffs at Shete Boka National Park, and white-sand beaches at Grote Knip and Cas Abao, while passing through the historic Rif Fort.
- Distance
- 57.0 km
- Mode
- route
- Start
- Plasa Bieu
- End
- Cas Abao
- Stops
- 8
- Video author
- travmap
- Updated
Stops on this route
- Plasa Bieu — Traditional local food district with historic restaurants (50-70 years established)
- Punda — Historic downtown district, one side of Willemstad
- Queen Emma Floating Bridge — Iconic floating bridge connecting Punda and Otrabanda
- Otrabanda — Historic district on the other side of the Queen Emma Bridge
- Rif Fort — Historic fort, one of eight forts designed to protect Curaçao
- Grote Knip — Beautiful beach with blue water and snorkeling activities
- Shete Boka National Park — National park featuring blow holes with dramatic wave action against rocks
- Cas Abao — Beach destination in Curaçao
Useful for your trip
- Transport
- Use Ace Car Rental at the airport. Rent a Chevy Spark for affordable, reliable transportation and good gas mileage.
- Food
- Try peanut sauce on your food at Flako's Grill—it's a local specialty and phenomenal. Also get a smoothie from the shop behind the grill for under $4.
- Food
- Visit Plasa Bieu for traditional local food from restaurants running 50-70 years. Many places are cash only, so bring cash.
- Food
- Visit Van Gogh specialty coffees in Willemstad for iced and hot coffee options, lattes, and sweet potato fries.
- Where to stay
- Book an Airbnb for around $54/night. Look for hosts offering unique touches like guides, welcome drinks, bathroom amenities, and outdoor spaces.
- Tip
- Fill out the dCard Curaçao digital immigration form (linked online) before arrival. It takes 5 minutes and customs processing is quick.
- Tip
- Visit the Punda District to see the Queen Emma Floating Bridge, which moves back and forth to let boats pass through.
- Tip
- Explore Punda and Otrabanda districts for Dutch colonial architecture, street art, and the Jean Girigori Gallery featuring world-renowned local artist.
- Food
- Snorkel with turtles at Playa Grandi. Take a day trip with Blue Finn Charters to Klein Curaçao for white sand beaches and an abandoned shipwreck.
- Tip
- Visit Shete Boka National Park to see blow holes. Grote Knip and Jan Thiel are among the best white sand beaches with crystal-clear water.
- Save money
- Use Plannin membership for up to 40% off accommodation stays. Download the free Explore Curaçao Travel Guide for additional money-saving tips.
- Transport
- One-way flights cost around $128 per person with Avianca. Book flights early to find the best deals.
Video on this route
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