Shete Boka National Park

Shete Boka National Park

The Shete Boka National Park, located in Curacao, was established in 1994 with the primary goal of protecting the nesting areas of Sea Turtles. These fascinating creatures exhibit a unique characteristic of returning to their birthplace to lay eggs, making it essential to safeguard the beaches of the Shete Boka National Park. During the nesting season of sea turtles, which runs from May to December, the Carmabi Foundation conducts extensive research to monitor the Shete Boka beaches for any sign of turtle activity. Researchers observe the behavior of the turtles, assess the health of the beaches and water quality, and provide education to visitors about the importance of conserving these endangered species. The foundation gathers data on the number of nests, hatchlings, and adult turtles, which helps in evaluating the effectiveness of the conservation measures implemented. The Shete Boka National Park covers approximately 10 kilometers of the rugged, wave-exposed north coast of the island and is adjacent to the Christoffel Park. The park has around ten pocket bays where three species of sea turtles - Green, Hawksbill, and Loggerhead - can be found. The park starts at Boka Tabla, where enormous waves crash into an underground cavern, creating a thunderous sound. Visitors can descend the steps cut into the rocks to reach the cavern's mouth, where they can observe the surf rolling in. After viewing the cavern, visitors can walk along the limestone bluffs above for a breathtaking view of Curacao's rugged north coast.