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Shete Boka National Park

Shete Boka National Park

Thundering surf, a sea cave you can walk into and turtle nesting coves on Curaçao's rugged north coast.

Photo: Lswarte, CC BY-SA 3.0
  • AreaNorth coast, Banda Abou
  • OpenDaily from 8:00; last entry 15:00
  • Time1–2 h
  • Best forWaves, photos, short walks

The calm turquoise bays of the west coast are only half of Curaçao. Drive over to the north coast and the sea changes character completely: the trade winds drive big swells straight into limestone cliffs. Shete Boka National Park, managed by the conservation foundation Carmabi, protects almost 10 kilometres of this wild coastline and its "boka", the small inlets carved by the waves. Despite the name, which means "seven inlets", there are more than seven.

Boka Tabla and the other inlets

Most visitors drive straight to Boka Tabla, the first inlet past the entrance. Steps cut into the rock lead down into a cavern where the waves boom in and spray back out; you can stand in the mouth of the cave and feel the floor shake. From the bluffs above you have a sweeping view of the coast.

  • Boka Wandomi trail: roughly an hour's walk to a natural bridge in the rock.
  • Boka Pistol: a narrow inlet where the sea shoots up with a bang (the name says it all).
  • Sea turtles: several species nest in the coves, mostly between May and December; stay off any marked nesting areas.
Good to know: Since July 2026 the park opens at 8:00, with the ticket office open until 15:00 and visitors out by 16:00. There is a paid entrance; check current fees on the park website. Swimming is not possible here: the currents are dangerous.

Tips for your visit

Go in the morning, when it is cooler and the light on the surf is best. Wear closed shoes for the rocky paths, and bring water and a hat, since there is little shade. Keep a healthy distance from the edge; waves can be unpredictable.

Shete Boka is right next to Christoffel National Park, so a typical day is the Christoffelberg early, Shete Boka late morning and a swim at Playa Kenepa in the afternoon. West Curaçao tours often include a stop here: see GetYourGuide. Driving yourself is easier; compare rental cars on DiscoverCars and read our Westpunt guide.

Tours: Shete Boka National Park

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Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Shete Boka?

No. The north coast has strong waves and currents; it is for watching, not swimming.

How long do you need?

One hour for Boka Tabla and the viewpoints, two with the Boka Wandomi walk.

When do turtles nest?

Mainly from about May to December. Nests are monitored by Carmabi; keep your distance.

Shete Boka National Park
Photo: Seasidesaltlife, CC BY-SA 4.0

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