Curacao: UTV Buggy Adventure & Kokomo Beach Swim Stop

Summary

UTV buggy ride across Hato plains wild coast and Kokomo beach

You’ll tear across Curacao’s rugged Hato plains in a UTV buggy, spot wild flamingos near windmills, stand above crashing waves at Boca Patrick, then cool off swimming at Kokomo Beach with snorkel gear included. Expect dust in your hair and sand between your toes—a day that feels gritty and real.

What’s the experience like?

I barely had time to adjust my bandana before the engine kicked up dust—real fine stuff that gets everywhere. Our guide, Franklin, grinned like he’d seen this a hundred times. We rattled out of Willemstad in these chunky UTV buggies, past the airport, straight into what locals call Curacao’s “mini desert.” I didn’t expect it to feel so wide open—just us, the windmills spinning slow in the distance, and that dry earth smell. The ride was rough in a good way; every bump kind of shook you awake.

We stopped by these caves—Indian Cave, Franklin called it—and he told us stories about old drawings inside. I tried to get a photo but honestly my hands were still shaking from the drive. Then Boca Patrick: huge waves slamming into black rock, sea spray everywhere. You could hear the crash before you saw anything. Somewhere along the way we spotted flamingos standing around like they owned the place. They looked so casual about it all.

The last bit was Kokomo Beach for a swim stop. I don’t know if it was just relief from all that dust or what, but slipping into that water felt unreal—warm at first then cooler as you drift out. There were goggles if you wanted them (I did), and some folks snorkeled around while others just floated. The salt stuck to my skin after but I didn’t care. Franklin handed out snacks and we just sat there for a while watching people come and go. Sometimes I still think about how quiet it got right then—even with everyone around.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Buggy tour with beach and sights

• Drive on public road to Hato plains
• Pass Curacao's Windmill Farm
• Visit Indian Cave for photos
• See big waves at Boca Patrick
• Spot wild flamingos along trip
• Swim and snorkel at Kokomo Beach

Top questions

Is pickup included for this UTV buggy tour?

No, but public transportation options are available nearby the meeting point.

How long does the buggy tour from Willemstad take?

The experience is a half-day adventure including several stops along the route.

Can I swim or snorkel during this tour?

Yes, there is a swim stop at Kokomo Beach with snorkelling equipment provided.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What should I bring for the buggy tour?

You’ll want comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting dusty or muddy; goggles and bandanas are provided.

Will we see wildlife on this day trip?

You may spot wild flamingos during parts of the route across Curacao’s Hato plains.

Is lunch included on this UTV adventure?

No full lunch is included but snacks (treats) are provided during the swim stop at Kokomo Beach.

What’s included

Your day includes use of snorkelling equipment and goggles (to be returned), plus a bandana to help with all that dust on Curacao’s Hato plains—and there’s a treat waiting when you reach Kokomo Beach for your swim stop before heading back toward Willemstad.