Things To Do
in Curaçao
Curaçao is a vibrant island in the southern Caribbean Sea, renowned for its stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear, turquoise waters, making it a perfect destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its capital, Willemstad, displays a colorful array of colonial architecture, reflecting its Dutch heritage, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors with its historical richness and vibrant culture.
Beyond its picturesque beaches and cultural sights, Curaçao offers a blend of languages, cuisine, and music, showcasing a unique mix of European, African, and indigenous influences.
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Ko ta bai?" - How are you?
- "Adios" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing morning at Cas Abao Beach, enjoying the sun and soft sand. Snorkel in the clear waters to explore the vibrant marine life.
Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant and indulge in local seafood. Spend the afternoon lounging on a beach chair or taking a dip in the sea.
As the sun sets, grab a drink at a beach bar. Enjoy the picturesque view while listening to live music.
Visit the colorful waterfront of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll across the famous Queen Emma Bridge and enjoy the scenic views.
Explore the local shops and markets to pick up souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to try local snacks at a nearby café.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant with views of the floating market. Experience the lively atmosphere and taste traditional Curaçao cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear blue waters
- Rich cultural diversity and a blend of European and Caribbean influences
- Warm and sunny climate year-round
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Variety of outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking
- Historically significant architecture and colorful buildings
- Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
- Tax incentives for international businesses
- Higher cost of living compared to other Caribbean islands
- Limited access to some medical facilities
- Hurricane season poses a risk, although less common than other regions
- Dependence on imports for many goods and food supplies
- Job market can be competitive, particularly for expatriates
- Public transportation options are limited
- Corruption and bureaucracy can occasionally present challenges
Best Activities in Curaçao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the diverse underwater world with colorful coral reefs and marine life.
Discover the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine biodiversity along the coastline.
Glide through the calm waters and enjoy stunning views of the island from a different perspective.
Embark on scenic trails to explore the island's natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
Take advantage of the constant trade winds for an exhilarating windsurfing experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Curaçao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Curaçao
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful white sand beach with crystal-clear turquoise water, surrounded by stunning cliffs.
A national park offering panoramic views of the island from atop the Christoffel Mountain.
A rugged stretch of coast with natural bridges, blowholes, and dramatic waves, providing excellent photo opportunities.
A floating pedestrian bridge in Willemstad offering unique views of the city and the colorful Handelskade waterfront.
An elevated area with sweeping views of the northern coast and the surrounding countryside.
A small uninhabited island known for its pristine sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Food in Curaçao
Curaçao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful dish made with Gouda cheese, filled with spiced meat, raisins, and cashews. It is a must-try and can be found at local restaurants such as Marsche Bieuw, Jaanchie's, and Plaza Bieu.
Must-Try!
A staple side dish made from cornmeal, often served alongside fish or stews. Try it at popular local eateries like Old Market in Punda or at roadside food stands.
A hearty tripe soup infused with vegetables and spices, best enjoyed at traditional eateries like Zus di Plaza.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Curaçao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food market in Willemstad offers a variety of local dishes including Krioyo cuisine. Visitors can savor authentic flavors while enjoying a vibrant local ambiance.
Located in the heart of the city, this is a popular spot for affordable local meals. It's a hub for authentic home-style cooking and a great place to sample traditional dishes and street food.
Explore this vibrant market to discover an array of street food options, from fresh fruit smoothies to savory snacks like pastechi and empanadas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Curaçao, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. When addressing someone, using titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' is a sign of respect.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Curaçao. It is important to show deference and use polite language when engaging with older individuals.
When in public spaces, it is important to be mindful of personal space and avoid loud or disruptive behavior, as well as to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Curaçao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Curaçao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in Curaçao, but it is appreciated for good service. In most restaurants, a service charge is included in the bill, so additional tipping is at your discretion.
Most businesses in Curaçao accept credit cards, especially in tourist areas. It's also common to use cash, particularly in local markets and smaller establishments. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Curaçao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Curaçao with warm temperatures, little rainfall, and low humidity. Perfect for outdoor activities and snorkeling.
Expect occasional rain showers and higher humidity. However, the island is less crowded and prices for accommodation are lower. Great for diving due to plankton blooms.
Curaçao at Night
Hiking in Curaçao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This is the largest national park in Curaçao, featuring various hiking trails leading to the highest point on the island, Mt. Christoffel. The park offers diverse flora and fauna with stunning views.
Located on the northern coast of Curaçao, this park has rough coastline trails that provide dramatic views of the ocean and sea caves. It's known for its natural beauty and unique geological formations.
A moderate hiking trail that leads through the lush landscapes of Curaçao, providing opportunities to see local wildlife and experience the island's natural beauty.
Offering scenic trails along the coast, this area is perfect for hiking while enjoying the views of the Caribbean Sea and the natural environment.
This park features numerous trails through stunning landscapes, dry scrubland, and remote beaches, ideal for hiking and exploring the island's natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Curaçao through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Curaçao by plane.
Curaçao's main international airport, serving as the primary gateway to the island.
Located in Aruba, approximately 70 miles from Curaçao, offering numerous international flights.
An international airport in Ecuador, roughly 700 miles from Curaçao, serving as a hub for South American travels.
Located in Havana, Cuba, about 780 miles from Curaçao, serves various international destinations.
Located in Caracas, Venezuela, approximately 450 miles from Curaçao, offering numerous international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse group including a combination of European, African, and indigenous ancestors, primarily descendants of the early colonial populations.
Includes individuals of South American descent, particularly from Venezuela and Colombia, reflecting recent migration trends.
Encompasses individuals primarily of African ancestry, with a significant presence in the population, reflecting the island's colonial past.
Consists of individuals of Dutch, Spanish, and other European descents, making up a smaller percentage of the population.
Includes a small community primarily of Chinese and Indian descent, contributing to the cultural diversity of the island.
Represents the original inhabitants of the island, though they form a very small percentage of the current population.
The Soul of Curaçao
Discover the essence of Curaçao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Curaçao, with many local leagues and a strong national team.
Baseball is widely played and enjoyed in Curaçao, with many players aspiring to reach the Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States.
Basketball is also popular, particularly among the youth, with various clubs and competitions across the island.
Volleyball is a common sport played both indoors and on the beach, attracting numerous participants and enthusiasts.
With its beautiful beaches and warm waters, swimming is a favored sport for both recreation and competition.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional dishes often feature meats and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Curaçao offer vegetarian-friendly choices such as plant-based stews, fresh salads, and flavorful vegetable sides.
While vegan options may be limited at some establishments, many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegan dishes upon request. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences in advance.
Several restaurants in Curaçao offer gluten-free alternatives, and are happy to modify dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements. It's recommended to inform the staff about your dietary needs when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Curaçao with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Curaçao.