You don’t have to go far for a vacation where you can rest, relax, rejuvenate and refresh. The Dutch-Caribbean island Curaçao because is the ultimate playground for rest and rejuvenation.

Located underneath Aruba and roughly 2.5 hours away from Miami, this hidden gem island has a lot to offer to renew your soul. There are more than 30 public beaches, world-class spas, fantastic food locations and hiking trails that you can visit during your stay.

Here is a four day itinerary for the ultimate rest trip on Curaçao Island.

Day 1 in Curaçao

Choosing a suitable accommodation is essential for your wellness trip. The best hotels and resorts will offer what you need on-site, such as a pool, spa and fitness center.

Coral Estate Luxury Resort is home to one of the best spas on Curaçao Island. It is located on the island’s western portion, and it offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere with amazing views, beaches and pools.

Once you’re settled in, kick off your trip by setting your intentions for your vacation and life when you get back home. You can do this by making an appointment to visit Universal Alchemist, Marerly “Elly” Sambo.

Universal Alchemist, Marerly "Elly" Sambo.
Photo credit: Parker Diakite

Sambo is a microbiologist who develops wellness products, including teas, essential oils and aura sprays from an experience called a mood table. She uses herbs that she grows in her garden or from the Hofi Cas Cara farm. Travelers will begin by discussing their goals with her. Then, she will customize an experience to help you channel that energy in a safe space for your trip and beyond.

Mood Table With Essential Oils and Aura Spray
Photo credit: Parker Diakite

Travelers will learn from Sambo that the farm’s foods directly impact your mood and energy. It’s essential to be mindful of what you consume on your wellness trip.

After your visit with Sambo, head to Sweet and Blue for lunch. The chef’s creations are intentional, as they view nutrition as preventative medicine. Ingredients on the menu are natural, chemical, preservative and additives-free. There’s something for everyone. Sweet and Blue has vegan and gluten-free options.

After lunch, practice meditation and breathing at The Space. The Yoga studio is near the Willemstad city center. It is perfect for beginners because you don’t have to be flexible or familiar with Yoga to practice. Instructors will guide your experience based on your needs and energy. The studio offers a ton of treatments and therapies for wellness and growth to support your journey.

Day 2 in Curaçao

Curaçao Islands’s slogan is “feel it for yourself” because the peace and energy you will find here is unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. On day 2, start your day by learning about some of the happiest people in the world with a guided walking tour.

Kurt Schoop, a local islander, can take you on a journey to explore Curacao’s old town. Schoop’s tour takes you on a journey through the capital city’s key sites, history and local flavors.​

The best thing about this tour is learning how the community comes together to create colorful homes, artwork and murals to show off their beautiful home and culture.

Artwork in Willemstad, Curaçao
Photo credit: Parker Diakite

After your tour, make your way to Bario Urban Street Food for crafty drinks and tapas. Bario Urban Street Food is a food market in Otrobanda. There are multiple food windows to taste local cuisine, drinks and music.

After lunch, go shopping and venture down to the Queen Emma Floating Bridge. There, you will find the island’s iconic architecture that’s similar to the Netherlands.

Once you’re done in the city, head back to your resort for dinner at Karakter. You will be surrounded by a tranquil ambiance with the hammocks, lounge chairs and beautiful views.

Day 3 in Curaçao

On Day 3, you should take advantage of everything the Coral Estate Luxury Resort has to offer for rest and wellness. Start your day taking in the world’s beauty with a snorkel experience with Coral Divers.

Next, spend your time at the 8 Experience Curaçao for a relaxing day. It’s one of the best spas on the island. Plan to spend at least four hours here to experience Bliss. The spa’s approach to wellness draws from the ancient healing arts of Ayurveda.

Inside you will find a sauna, steam room and an ice room you can indulge in. There’s also a nail and hair salon onsite.

Massages and beauty services are available with views of the Caribbean Sea.

Spa 8 Experience Curaçao with views of Caribbean Sea
Photo credit: Parker Diakite

Following your spa day, enjoy dinner at Soi95 and ask for a seat on the rooftop. Ask your server about the most popular items on the Asian-inspired menu. Another win is this is where you will find some of the island’s most creative cocktails.

Day 4 in Curaçao

Experience the nature of Curaçao Island and the historic Hofi Mango during day four of your trip. There’s nowhere like this nature sanctuary in the Caribbean as it’s decorated with centuries-old mango trees.

You can explore the mango farm and park alone or with a guide. The park is best viewed from the hill in the middle of the park where you will find the masterpiece “The Hand of God.” Once you make it to the top, you will find a beautiful view of the Christoffelberg.

The hand of God with view of the Christoffelberg.
Photo credit: Parker Diakite

You can take a book and spend your entire day at Hofi Mango. When you’re ready for lunch, your next stop should be Toko Williwood for the delicious goat meat burger.