Setting Sail on a Curacao Adventure

As a former professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours riding the waves and exploring the hidden gems of the Caribbean. But every now and then, I crave a different kind of adventure—one that takes me beyond the beaches and into the heart of the island. That’s exactly what I found with the Private Guided Tour in Curacao. With a week of diving planned, I needed an afternoon escape that wasn’t tailored for the typical cruise crowd. This tour promised a unique blend of nature, culture, and local charm, and it delivered in spades.

Our guide, Sherwin, was a true islander, born and raised in Curacao. His stories of growing up on the island, coupled with his knowledge of local politics, history, and the vibrant communities, made the drive times fly by. The vehicle was snug for our group of four, but it was clean, new, and the air conditioning was a blessing in the tropical heat. Sherwin’s fluency in English was impressive, and his passion for sharing the island’s beauty was infectious.

Discovering Curacao’s Natural Wonders

Our first stop was the Flamingo Sanctuary at Sint Willibrordus. Watching these elegant birds in their natural habitat was a serene experience, a perfect prelude to the rugged beauty of Shete Boka National Park. The park’s dramatic coastline, with its crashing waves and hidden coves, was a sight to behold. As someone who feels a deep connection to the ocean, witnessing the raw power of the sea was both humbling and exhilarating.

Next, we headed to Playa Grandi, known for its turtle sightings. Unfortunately, the surf was rough that day, and the water was churned up, making visibility poor. As a seasoned surfer, I’m used to the ocean’s unpredictability, but I could see how it might be daunting for less experienced swimmers. While we only spotted one turtle, the experience of being in the water, surrounded by the island’s natural beauty, was worth it. A tip for future adventurers: bring your own fins if you have them, as they can make a world of difference in choppy waters.

A Taste of Island Life

After a day of exploration, we dined at Restaurant Playa Forti. The food was excellent, the drinks refreshing, and the beer was ice-cold—a welcome change from the lukewarm offerings at our resort. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.

One of the highlights of the tour was Sherwin’s willingness to go above and beyond. I was on a quest to find a baseball jersey from a local team, and although we skipped the shopping stop in Willemstad, Sherwin offered to check some local stores on his own time. His dedication to helping me find that elusive jersey was touching and a testament to the warmth and hospitality of the islanders.

In all my travels across the Caribbean, this tour stands out for its personalized touch and the genuine connection we felt with our guide. If you’re looking to explore beyond the beaches and dive into the heart of Curacao, this tour is a must. Thank you, Gone Caribe, for an unforgettable afternoon.