Curaçao: Flamingos, Shete Boka, Turtles & Kenepa Beach Day Trip

Summary

Swim with turtles see wild flamingos taste local rum relax at Kenepa beach

You’ll spot wild flamingos near Willemstad, feel ocean spray at Shete Boka’s rugged coast, snorkel with sea turtles in clear water, and unwind on Kenepa Beach’s soft sand. The day ends with a taste of Blue Curaçao or local green rum—plus homemade cake and punch along the way. It’s relaxed but full of little surprises you might remember longer than you think.

What’s the experience like?

Pink legs everywhere. I didn’t expect the flamingos to look so casual just hanging out in the shallow water near Willemstad — they barely glanced at us. Our guide, Sevi, handed me a bottle of cold water (it was already warm by 9am), and pointed out how the salt flats shimmered behind the birds. Someone in our group tried to get a selfie but mostly got their own hat in the shot. We laughed about it for a while as we piled back into the van.

The drive to Shete Boka wasn’t long but felt like we crossed into another world — suddenly all wild wind and crashing waves instead of pastel houses. Sevi knew every twist in the road and told us about local fishermen who still come here for luck. At one point, I leaned over a rocky edge and felt sea spray on my face. It tasted salty, sharp — not like anything from a bottle. There’s something about that spot that stays with you, maybe because it’s so loud you have to shout just to say “wow.”

Snorkeling with turtles was next. I’d seen photos before but seeing them glide past my mask was… well, honestly I forgot to take pictures because I was too busy watching them nibble sea grass. One swam so close I could see its shell pattern — kind of hypnotic. Afterward we flopped down on Kenepa Beach, which is as blue as everyone says but not in an Instagram way — more like a crayon melted into sand. The sun felt heavy on my shoulders and I almost dozed off listening to people chatting in Papiamentu nearby.

Last stop: a quick detour for Blue Curaçao (or green rum if you’re feeling brave). Sevi poured his homemade rum punch — sweet and spicy at the same time — while telling us how his aunt once tried to make her own version and accidentally turned it purple. Not sure if that’s true or just his joke, but either way it made us all smile before heading back toward town.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Curacao island highlights tour

• Pick up from hotel or cruise
• Visit free living flamingos
• Explore Shete Boka National Park
• Swim with sea turtles
• Relax on Kenepa beach
• Visit Blue Curacao factory or Netto Bar

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Curaçao day trip?

Yes, hotel or cruise ship pickup and drop-off are included.

Do we swim with turtles during this tour?

Yes, there is a snorkeling stop where you can swim with sea turtles.

Are drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, soft drinks, bottled water, and homemade rum punch are included.

Is lunch included?

No full lunch is provided but you’ll get banana cake and drinks during the day.

Can cruise passengers join this tour?

Yes, cruise passengers can join—just provide ship details when booking.

Is entry to Shete Boka included?

Yes, entry fees for Shete Boka are covered by the tour.

What happens if Blue Curaçao factory is closed?

If it’s closed (weekends), you’ll visit Netto Bar for green rum instead.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This tour suits all fitness levels; activities are relaxed and optional.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or cruise pickup and drop-off, entry fees for Shete Boka, snorkeling gear for swimming with turtles, soft drinks or bottled water throughout the trip, homemade banana cake and Sevi’s own rum punch recipe—and ends with either a tasting at Blue Curaçao factory or Netto Bar before heading home.