Curaçao
At a peek
Location:
Southern Caribbean
Capital:
Willemstad
Official Languages:
Dutch, Papiamentu, and English
Currency:
Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), U.S. Dollar widely accepted
Best Time to Visit:
March – October
Average Temperature:
Around 32°C/82°F
Culinary Highlight:
Keshi Yená – a cheese stuffed traditionally with chicken and vegetables
Unique Feature:
Famous for its vibrant, colorful architecture and unique blue liqueur production.
If you ever have been roaming all over the internet, looking for a perfect place to choose where to spend some quality time, then Curaçao might be the answer.
Curaçao is not only a paradise for those seeking sunny skies and crystal-clear waters, but it’s also a hub for a wide range of activities and purposes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an adventure-filled holiday, or a peaceful retreat to recharge, Curaçao offers something for everyone. Its diverse landscape allows for hiking, diving, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the island. For couples, the secluded beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape.
Additionally, Curaçao is an ideal destination for wellness retreats, offering yoga sessions with breathtaking views, spa treatments that use local ingredients, and wellness resorts dedicated to your physical and mental well-being. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and recreational activities, Curaçao is the perfect destination for any travel purpose. It’s also the ideal place for every newlywed couple to enjoy their honeymoon. In fact, we chose to spend our own honeymoon here. You will get a warm welcome, an amazing sunset, mouthwatering cuisine, and more. We have spent 7 days on this beautiful island.
This island with such a long and colorful past certainly provides the exploratory traveler with an amalgamation of mind-blowing events. Many moments from our one-week travel to Curaçao still linger, but we will never forget this whirlwind of island vibes, cultural immersion, and unparalleled natural beauty. Curaçao’s primary attractions are its magnificent isolated beaches and crystal clear blue seas with ideal diving conditions, but there is much more to see than just the beaches. So stay tuned and let’s explore together with our Curaçao travel guide.
At a peek
Location:
Southern Caribbean
Capital:
Willemstad
Official Languages:
Dutch, Papiamentu, and English
Currency:
Netherlands Antillean Guilder, U.S. Dollar widely accepted
Best Time to Visit:
March – October
Average Temperature:
Around 32°C/82°F
Culinary Highlight:
Keshi Yená – a cheese stuffed traditionally with chicken and vegetables
Unique Feature:
Famous for its colorful architecture and unique blue liqueur production.
Things to do
Discover Curaçao’s Beaches
Curaçao, is renowned for its beaches, offering a unique experience to those who tread its sands. During our explorations, three beaches stood out. Here’s a closer look at Curaçao’s top three beaches, including Kokomo Beach.
1. Kokomo Beach: The go-to for relaxation and stunning sunset views, Kokomo Beach is a serene spot with a laid-back vibe. Perfect for a leisurely day, complete with a beachside café to satisfy your cravings.
2. Cas Abao Beach: Famous for its snorkeling opportunities, Cas Abao’s clear waters are home to vibrant marine life, making it an underwater paradise. The white sandy beach and available amenities ensure a comfortable day under the sun.
3. Playa Kenepa Grandi (Knip Beach): Offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views, Playa Kenepa Grandi’s blue waters and secluded setting make it a favorite for both tranquility and scenic beauty.
Each of these beaches offers something unique, ensuring that every visitor to Curaçao finds their perfect spot in the sun. Also, there are picture-perfect locations for sunsets that evoke priceless memories. Don’t miss out on the breathtaking beauty of the Indian Ocean and Seychelles for similarly stunning experiences. Plan your ultimate tropical getaway today with Flightmod Explorers!
Curaçao, is renowned for its beaches, offering a unique experience to those who tread its sands. During our explorations, three beaches stood out. Here’s a closer look at Curaçao’s top three beaches, including Kokomo Beach.
1. Kokomo Beach: The go-to for relaxation and stunning sunset views, Kokomo Beach is a serene spot with a laid-back vibe. Perfect for a leisurely day, complete with a beachside café to satisfy your cravings.
2. Cas Abao Beach: Famous for its snorkeling opportunities, Cas Abao’s clear waters are home to vibrant marine life, making it an underwater paradise. The white sandy beach and available amenities ensure a comfortable day under the sun.
3. Playa Kenepa Grandi (Knip Beach): Offering breathtaking panoramic ocean views, Playa Kenepa Grandi’s blue waters and secluded setting make it a favorite for both tranquility and scenic beauty.
Each of these beaches offers something unique, ensuring that every visitor to Curaçao finds their perfect spot in the sun. Also, there are picture-perfect locations for sunsets that evoke priceless memories.
For equally magnificent sunset spots, we also recommend to check our Seychelles Island Hopping guide.
Curaçao’s Cultural Riches and Natural Splendors
Willemstad: The Vibrant Heart of Curaçao Willemstad, Curaçao’s colorful capital, is renowned for its lively, Dutch colonial architecture. The districts of Punda and Otrobanda, with the famous floating Queen Emma Bridge, are a must-visit for every traveler. The bustling markets, museums, and the historic Fort Amsterdam complex offer a deep dive into the island’s culture and history.
Shete Boka National Park: Nature’s Dramatic Showcase Shete Boka National Park is celebrated for its rugged coastal landscape, including spectacular coves and caves carved by the surf. It’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers eager to explore the wild side of Curaçao, where the relentless power of nature meets the tranquil beauty of the Caribbean.
Klein Curaçao travel guide
Did you ever hear about Klein Curaçao, also known as Little Curaçao?
Imagine yourself on a deserted Caribbean island with kilometers of pearl-white beach, crystal clear seas, and a majestic pink lighthouse. Sounds interesting, right?
An island located 2 hours from the Curaçao coast with the longest and whitest beach. The sand is white and soft while the water is crystal clear but with no shade. The northeastern side regularly keeps a smooth and silky surface of its water with moving waves.
This little slice of paradise is a perfect day trip destination. For those who love riding the waves and also if you’re more into exploring the underwater world. The visibility is incredible, allowing you to witness the vibrant marine life in all its glory. Also make sure that you bring your snorkeling gear! During our visit, we were lucky enough to spot a turtle, gracefully gliding through the water not far from our boat. It was one of those moments that make you appreciate the beauty and serenity of nature.
If you would ask me what the absolutely must see activity during your Curaçao visit is, I would vote for visiting Klein Curaçao without any hesitation. For this tour we have chosen a catamaran tour that includes not only the boat ride itself, but also food and beverages as well as a full day experience. You can find the link for this activity in the next chapter of our Curaçao travel guide.
Our Top 3 attractions in Curaçao
Snorkeling Tour
Turtle Bay & Blue Room
See all Beaches
Private Beach Hopping
How to plan your Curacao travel
Planning a trip to Curaçao is exciting. Here’s a straightforward guide to booking your journey to this beautiful island. When it comes to choosing the best time to visit Curaçao, you should keep in mind that there are two seasons. The dry season, running from March to September, is the most popular time to visit Curaçao. During these months, you’ll enjoy warm, sunny days with little rainfall, making it perfect for exploring the island. The wet season, from October to February, sees more frequent but usually short-lived rain showers, often in the late afternoon or evening. Despite the increase in rainfall, temperatures remain warm and the rain quickly gives way to sunshine, ensuring that your plans won’t be too disrupted. This season can be more appealing for those looking to avoid the crowds of peak tourist times and enjoy the lush, green landscapes that the rains bring to life.
A vital tip for anyone planning to visit sunny destinations like Curaçao is to never underestimate the strength of the sun. Speaking from personal experience, I learned this the hard way when I didn’t use enough sun protection during my trip. Unfortunately, this oversight resulted in a painful sunburn on my back. The near-equatorial position means the UV index is often high, making adequate sun protection crucial. It’s important to consistently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing such as hats and long sleeves, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Flights
For travelers from the United States, major departure cities include Miami, New York, and Atlanta, offering direct flights to Curaçao, ensuring a hassle-free start to your adventure. Canadian visitors can find convenient flights from Toronto and Montreal, with seasonal services increasing options during peak travel periods. European adventurers typically route through Amsterdam, which serves as a key gateway, providing direct flights to Curaçao.
In our recent trip to Curaçao, we had the pleasure of flying via Amsterdam too, with KLM as our chosen airline. We were thoroughly impressed by their exceptional service. KLM’s customer care truly stood out, making our journey not just comfortable but genuinely enjoyable. The staff was attentive and professional, and the onboard amenities exceeded our expectations.
Transportation during your curacao travel
To fully experience all the island has to offer, you need to know the best ways to get around. We’ll now explore the various transportation options available in Curaçao and explain why renting a car is the best choice for most visitors.
Public Transportation
Curaçao’s public transportation system primarily consists of buses. The two main types of buses are the larger „Konvoi“ buses and the smaller „bus“ vans. While these can be a cost-effective way to travel, they have some limitations:
Limited Routes: Buses don’t cover all areas of the island, especially more remote locations.
Infrequent Schedules: Buses often run on an infrequent schedule, especially on weekends and holidays, which can be inconvenient for tourists on a tight itinerary.
Lack of Comfort: The buses can be crowded and may not offer the level of comfort you might want after a long day of sightseeing or beach-going.
Taxis
Taxis are another option for getting around Curaçao. While they are more flexible than buses, there are a few drawbacks to consider:
Expensive: Taxi fares can add up quickly, especially if you plan to explore various parts of the island.
Availability: Taxis are not always readily available in more remote areas or during off-peak hours.
Why Renting a Car is the Best Option during your Curacao travel
Given the limitations of other transportation options, renting a car stands out as the best way to get around during your Curaçao travel. Here’s why:
Freedom and Flexibility: A rental car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You can visit popular tourist spots and hidden gems without worrying about bus schedules or taxi fares.
Convenience: With a rental car, you can easily travel from one attraction to another without the hassle of waiting for public transportation or hailing a taxi.
Cost-Effective: If you plan to explore multiple areas of the island, renting a car can be more economical than paying for numerous taxi rides. Additionally, many rental companies offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance.
Comfort: Enjoy the comfort of having your own vehicle, where you can store your beach gear, shopping bags, and other belongings without concern.
Tips for Renting a Car in Curaçao
Choose the Right Vehicle: Consider the size of your group and the type of activities you plan to do. A compact car is great for solo travelers or couples, while a larger vehicle might be better for families or groups.
Understand the Rules of the Road: Familiarize yourself with Curaçao’s driving laws and road signs. Driving is on the right side of the road, and speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour.
Hotels
Curaçao offers a variety of hotels to suit different preferences and budgets. Luxury seekers will enjoy the resorts with their stunning beaches and world-class amenities.
For budget travelers, cozy guesthouses provide affordable yet comfortable stays with easy access to Willemstad’s vibrant culture. Many hotels on the island emphasize sustainability, making Curaçao a great choice for eco-conscious travelers.
When planning a trip, choosing the right hotel is paramount for a comfortable stay. The Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort is a standout option among the rich landscape of hotels in Curaçao. Nestled in a top location, this resort allows easy access to both the tranquility of the northern part of the island and the vibrant city of Willemstad.
The accommodations here are designed to meet the needs of every guest, from couples on their honeymoon to families on vacation. Each room offers luxurious amenities and breathtaking views, ensuring a stay that is both pampering and memorable. For dining, the resort boasts a variety of options, including an extensive breakfast buffet.
As an insider tip for those staying at the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, be sure to take advantage of the dual pool options available. The resort features a family-friendly pool that is perfect for guests with children. For those seeking tranquility, the adults-only pool area offers a peaceful retreat where relaxation is the priority. Guests can inquire at the reception for more details and choose the pool area that best suits their needs, making their stay perfectly tailored to their preferences.
Source: Expedia.com
Source: Expedia.com
Find the Perfect Fit for Your Budget
Budget friendly
Quint’s Travelers Inn
beautiful interior
Kontiki Beach Resort
Our favorite
Marriott Curaçao
Tired of the DIY travel headache?
DIY planning is a maze of missed opportunities. Don’t settle for less when you can access exclusive deals and insider knowledge with our tailored service. Choose seamless travel without the hassle. Let’s craft your dream getaway together. Say yes to expertise, say yes to peace of mind. Contact Us now to unlock your perfect vacation!
*Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
It’s a win-win: you get great deals and support our blog. Thank you and happy travels!