Things To Do
in Curaçao
Curaçao is a sun-soaked Caribbean island known for its turquoise waters and the miles of pristine coral reefs. Its capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO-listed harbor full of rainbow-colored Dutch colonial buildings and a lively waterfront. The island blends African, Dutch, and Latin influences into a warm, welcoming culture with a strong culinary scene.
With year-round seas, snorkeling, diving, and outdoor exploration are accessible in every season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Hato International Airport and head to your hotel in Willemstad. Take some time to settle in and enjoy a refreshing welcome drink. Afterward, stroll through the colorful streets of Punda to get acquainted with the local architecture and culture.
Visit the famous floating market and grab fresh produce and local goods while interacting with the friendly vendors. Stop by the Queen Emma Bridge for picturesque views of the Handelskade and the harbor. Finally, take a relaxing break at a café, enjoying a slice of traditional Dutch cheese.
Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Caribbean cuisine, tasting dishes such as keshi yena and fresh seafood. After dinner, explore Willemstad’s vibrant nightlife at a bar or club, where you can dance to local music. Stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets, enjoying the magical atmosphere.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local bakery, savoring traditional treats like pastechi. Visit the Museum Kurá Hulanda to learn about the island's history and the African slave trade. Walk along the Pietermaai district, admiring its charming buildings and vibrant street art.
Head to the nearby Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the Americas. Afterward, take a tour of the local distillery to understand the rum-making process, complete with tastings. Spend some time shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in the artisanal shops throughout the area.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking the harbor, where you can savor local seafood dishes while watching the sunset. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a night walk along the waterfront to capture the skyline's illumination. Wind down with a quiet drink at a rooftop bar, soaking in the island's night ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨One-night in a mid-range hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚗Car rental per day | $40-70 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, year-round sunshine and easy access to pristine beaches and reefs
- Vibrant, multicultural culture with welcoming locals
- High-quality snorkeling and diving, especially around Curaçao's protected reefs
- Walkable historic district in Willemstad with photogenic architecture
- Prices can be higher than some nearby destinations due to import costs
- Public transportation is limited; a car or scooter is often necessary to explore
- Roads and parking can be busy in Willemstad during peak times
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Por fabor" - Please
- "Dank'i" - Thank you
- "Unda ta e?" - Where is it?
- "Mi ke" - I would like
- "Mi ke hable Ingles" - I would like to speak English
Places to Visit in Curaçao
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic rainbow-colored colonial facades along the harbor—perfect for daytime and sunset shots.
A moving pontoon bridge linking Punda and Otrobanda; dramatic photos with boats and sunset backdrops.
Blue-domed courtyard and distinct architecture offering striking contrasts against the blue Caribbean sky.
Historic fortifications with sea views, red brick walls, and moody lighting at dusk.
Sugar-white sands and turquoise water framed by cliffs—ideal for landscape and calmed-water photography.
Rugged shorelines, blowholes, and dramatic waves for expansive coastal photography.
Limestone caverns with dramatic light shafts—great for interior photography and texture shots.
Food in Curaçao
Curaçao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A baked cheese shell stuffed with spiced meat or vegetables, a hallmark of Curaçaoan comfort food.
Must-Try!
Slow-simmered beef or goat stew with local seasonings and root vegetables.
Cornmeal mush served as a side or base for stews and grilled meats.
Goat stew with peppers, onions, and local herbs.
A traditional fish dish often prepared with fresh seafood and island spices.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market by the harbor where vendors sell fresh produce and local foods from their boats.
Casual, authentic food hall atmosphere offering daily Curaçaoan dishes and home-style cooking.
Street-side stalls and snack stands offering quick bites and fruit cups along busy thoroughfares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Bon dia' or 'Bon tardi'; English, Dutch, and Papiamento are commonly spoken.
Dress modestly in churches and religious sites; beachwear is appropriate only at beaches today and in resort areas.
Be polite, avoid loud behavior in residential areas, and ask permission before taking photos of individuals.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; a small tip for service workers goes a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Curaçao
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 5–10% tip is common if service is not included; round up cab fares and tip hotel staff modestly for good service.
Credit cards are widely accepted; US dollars are commonly accepted, and the local currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG). ATMs are plentiful, and many places display prices in USD for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with light to gentle trade winds; comfortable sea temperatures and ideal visibility for diving and snorkeling.
Warm and pleasant with consistently good conditions; humidity remains manageable and outdoor activities are enjoyable.
Warm to hot days with steady trade winds; great for beach days and water sports, though afternoons can be the warmest.
Possibility of brief showers and warm seas; shoulder season for fewer crowds and potentially better deals.
Curaçao at Night
Hiking in Curaçao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A to-the-top hike in Christoffel National Park with sweeping views of the island and coast.
Coastal trails along rugged cliffs and blowholes, offering dramatic sea landscapes.
Short nature trails near the Savonet area, combining history and natural scenery.
Airports
How to reach Curaçao by plane.
The main gateway to Curaçao, located near Willemstad; offers direct flights from North America and Europe and a range of domestic services. Taxis and rental cars are readily available for easy transit to the city and resorts.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population with roots in African and Caribbean ancestry; the cultural core of Curaçao.
Influence from Dutch heritage is evident in official language and architecture; many residents have ties to the Netherlands.
Immigrant communities and cultural influences from neighboring regions contribute to a diverse, multicultural society.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Curaçao has a strong baseball culture and has produced many professional players; community leagues and youth programs are common.
A popular sport with local leagues and regular matches; many residents follow the national and club games.
Diving, snorkeling, and sailing are widely enjoyed due to the clear waters and abundant reefs.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy a variety of vegetables, grains, and legumes; ask for meat-free Keshi Yena or request fish-free options, and look for fresh salads and plant-based sides at most restaurants.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Curaçao.