curacao tourism website

With its delightful Dutch colonial architecture, thriving art and culinary scenes and excellent history museums, go-go Curaçao feels like a little piece of Europe at the edge of the Caribbean. A little piece of Europe, that is, with glorious hidden beaches, wondrous caves, amazing snorkeling and diving, and a wild, undeveloped windward coast dotted with prickly cacti and whiptail blue lizards.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Christoffel National Park

This 1800-hectare preserve is formed from three old plantations, including the Savonet Plantation, which is now the excellent Savonet Museum; combination…

Museum Kura Hulanda

Located in a 19th-century merchant's house and slave quarters, this excellent museum documents the brutal history of slavery in the New World, including…

Curaçao's most majestic natural wonder is a hidden cave on its western shore, accessible only via the ocean. The prime attraction of the cave is its…

Landhuis Bloemhof

As visitors wander the leafy grounds of this 1735 plantation home they encounter a range of things. An old car covered in mosaic tiles depicting sea…

This West End beach is a stunner. In fact, you've probably seen it on the cover of a Curaçao tourist brochure: a perfect crescent of brilliant white sand,…

Queen Emma Bridge

Spanning Sint Annabaai, this local landmark is sometimes called Our Swinging Old Lady. It's a pontoon bridge that swings open to make way for oceangoing…

Gallery Alma Blou

Housed in the 17th-century Landhuis Habaai plantation house, this cooperative gallery has the city's largest collection of works by Caribbean artists. The…

Klein Curaçao

Remember the one book/song/food/friend you would bring if you were going to be stuck on a desert island? That'll come in handy when you take a trip to…

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Tips & Advice

Aug 31, 2023 • 5 min read

It can be hard to pick between Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. Here’s how to decide which of the ABC islands is perfect for you.

Aug 11, 2021 • 6 min read

Apr 2, 2021 • 2 min read

Oct 14, 2020 • 2 min read

Sep 13, 2019 • 2 min read

Jul 13, 2017 • 6 min read

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Curaçao Is Great For

Scuba diving.

Eat & drink

• Xanadu Curacao
• Landhuis Daniel
• Don Genaro Curacao Apartments
• Mirador Apartments
• Papagayo Beach Club
• Sea Side Terrace
• Playa Porto Mari
• Hemingway Beach Bar
• Mambo Beach
• Cas Abao Beach
• Playa PortoMari
• Klein (Little) Curacao
• Blue Room Cave
• Klein Curacao Day Trip with Premium Open Bar and BBQ-Lunch
• Curacao Guided Underwater Walking Tour No swimming skills needed
• Curacao Beach and Hato Caves Tour
• Boat Trip to Klein Curacao
• Curacao Complete Island Tour

• 2.1 Climate
• 2.2 Tourist information
• 4.1 By plane
• 4.2 By boat
• 5.2 By taxi
• 5.4 By ferry
• 7.1 Beaches
• 8.2 Shopping
• 9.1.1 Snacks
• 9.1.2 Budget
• 9.1.3 Mid-range
• 9.1.4 Splurge
• 10.1 Alcohol
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1.1 Coverage
• 13.1.2 Roaming

Curaçao is an island in the Caribbean Sea, among the group known as the ABC Islands alongside Aruba and Bonaire . This trio is located near Venezuela, and is considered to be outside the Caribbean's so-called "hurricane zone"; vacations to the island are rarely disrupted by tropical storms.

Cities [ edit ]

• 12.108 -68.935 1 Willemstad — the capital city of Curaçao.
• Hato — a town close to Curaçao's International Airport.

Understand [ edit ]

One of the most notable things about the island is its unique culture:

• The architecture is distinctively Dutch but with the houses painted in beautiful pastel shades. Visitors often see it as a colorful, tropical version of Amsterdam.
• The lifestyle is very laid back with lots of people just working enough to get by.
• The local language is a creole called Papiamentu (see "Talk" below)

Climate [ edit ]

Curaçao is warm and sunny throughout the year. The average temperature is about 27° C (81° F). Trade winds with a cooling effect blow constantly from the east. The rainy season is between October and February. Showers during the rainy season occur mostly at night and are usually short. Total annual rainfall is around 570 mm (22 inches).

The island lies outside of the hurricane belt, and a hurricane has not made landfall in Curaçao since the United States National Hurricane Center started tracking hurricanes. Prehurricane tropical storms occasionally affect Curaçao; the last one to do so was Tomas in 2010.

Mainstream weather websites are largely inaccurate with Curaçao weather forecasts. One of the most accurate sources for weather is the Curaçao Meterological Department website.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Curaçao website

Talk [ edit ]

The native language, Papiamentu, is a mixture of Portuguese, Spanish (90%) and Dutch (10%), but with a very basic grammar and a limited vocabulary. It is exclusively spoken on Curaçao, Bonaire , and Aruba (where it is spelled Papiamento ). Official spelling exists, but Aruba has a spelling that is different from Curaçao and Bonaire. Due to the limitations of Papiamentu, in education it is only used in the infant classes. Dutch is used in the higher classes and governmental affairs. One term often encountered is "dushi". "Dushi" is a generic term to describe everything good. It can be translated as "nice" (view), "beautiful", "sexy" (person), "delicious" (food), "honored" (guest). Another important word is "danki", which means "thank you" ("dushi danki" is thus "thank you very much").

Most people from the island also speak Dutch , English, and Spanish .

Get in [ edit ]

Countries eligible for a visa-free entry are shown in green on image to the right.

Other countries require obtaining a visa , which is valid for Aruba , Curaçao, Sint Maarten and the Caribbean Netherlands and allows multiple entry for a maximum period of 90 days within 180 days. The maximum uninterrupted stay in one of the individual countries is 30 days. The visa is not valid for the European part of the Netherlands.

By plane [ edit ]

Those who want to travel by air can enter at Curaçao's airport , Hato International Airport ( CUR  IATA ), located in Plaza Margareth Abraham, not far from the capital of Willemstad . It is served by international and regional carriers.

Before entering the island, a Digital Immigration Card must be filled out at the Curaçao Tourist Board's website . The paper-based ED-cards are no longer available as of 2019. It must be done at least 48 hours prior to departure.

Immigration can take a very, very long time (easily 2 hours). Handicapped people can wait for their turn in a seating area at the far end of the immigration hall (usually hidden by the 10 or so lines of people queuing up).

To get from the airport to Willemstad without a rental car, there are three options:

• There is a public bus (Konvoi) departing once every 1-2 hours from the bus station on your right when exiting Arrivals, past the rental car desks. Cash only, see Get around > By bus.
• Taxi (see Taxi section, including Click app)
• Bus (see Get around section) drivers enter the airport to pick up passengers, though they are not taxis and might be chased away by airport staff. Despite that, they are a great way to get into the city cheaply if you have some cash, light luggage and enjoy an adventure. They usually go to the large Otrobanda bus terminal just west of Pietermaai.

By boat [ edit ]

Cruise ships arrive at Curaçao Mega Pier or the Curaçao Cruise Terminal . From these ports it's a short walk to many of the island's popular tourist destinations. Travelers can also enjoy nearby shopping at duty-free stores. Larger ships will arrive at the Mega Pier, and smaller ships will dock at the Cruise Terminal.

Sailors can enter at ports in Willemstad and has various marinas at which seafaring travelers can dock their ships.

There are no ferry services to other islands or to Venezuela.

Get around [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

A car is pretty much needed to get around the island. While almost all of Curaçao is accessible by bus, departures are often 1-2 hours in between and getting to many of the spots, especially on the western part of the island, is very hard or impossible.

Cars can be rented for about USD45 per day, from a variety of hirers at Hato Airport and across the island. Driving in Willemstad is pretty similar to most Caribbean locations, with aggressive drivers, loosely enforced traffic laws and driving on the right side. Signs will be in Dutch using a European style. If you are involved in an accident, local laws prohibit moving your car. Dial 199 for road service. Do watch out for road hazards, such as donkeys, goats, and iguanas. If you stay outside of Willemstad, renting a car might be a good option as the taxi fares can be quite expensive and public transport is not very reliable.

By taxi [ edit ]

If public transit isn't your style, and you don't want to rent your own car, taxis are another popular and easy-to-find option. They, too, are marked, and their plates read "TX." Some taxi drivers will even be your tour guide for the day, if you ask. But remember to agree on a fee before heading out.

Click Curaçao is the local ride-sharing app (equivalent to Uber/Lyft) with cheaper fares than regular taxis.

By bus [ edit ]

There are two types of buses on the island, BUS and Konvoi. The easiest way to ride is to go to one of the two bus stations in Willemstad. These include Otrobanda Station, across the street from the Rif Fort (see Willemstad ) and Punda Station, at the post office, across from the Circle Market. For the most part, the Punda bus station serves stops along the eastern side of the ring, and to the east including Salina, Zelandia, Mambo, while the Otrobanda station serves destinations West of the Bay, to include the Airport, Piscadera and even Westpunt. The destinations do not typically overlap, so a 10- to 15-minute walk between stations may be necessary for cross island trips.

• Konvoi are large metro-style buses which run infrequently between major points in the city. Prices and routes are set at about 2 NAf, paid in cash only since the bus card requires residency. The ABC Curaçao app ( Android / iOS ) has a basic route planner and time tables which is helpful when traveling by public buses. 50 and 100 NAf bills are explicitly not accepted, so have smaller change ready.
• BUS. , on the other hand, are 9-12 passenger vans which look a lot like a taxi. You can spot a BUS. by a cardboard cutout in the front windshield listing a number of its stops, instead of the yellow Taxi sign in the windshield or on the roof, and/or by the BUS letters on the license plate.

Unlike taxis, the BUS. prices are not negotiable (1-3 NAf), but the route is. A common practice with bus drivers is to negotiate how close the driver can take you to your destination. Be sure to ask the bus driver if the bus stops near your destination before entering. You can pay the driver while the BUS. is en route, or before exiting the bus. You can board a bus anywhere on the island by waiting at one of the ubiquitous yellow 'Bushalte' signs and waiving at a coming BUS or Konvoi. Taxi drivers will also try to lure you in. So make sure to look at the sign in the window or a license plate (that says BUS.) to avoid paying high taxi fares. The bus schedule varies, from about 6AM-8PM for most stops, and until 11PM or even midnight (and sometimes later) to Salina and Mambo. If you are ever lost during daylight hours, just find a yellow bushalte sign, and the bus should take you to either Punda or Otrobanda.

By ferry [ edit ]

Ferries are a great way for shoppers to get to and from some of the island's main shopping areas.

See [ edit ]

• Willemstad waterfront; a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Westpunt: The westernmost point of the island has restaurants and beautiful small beaches abound.
• Nordpunt: The northernmost point of the island, much rougher sea than at Westpunt but beautiful nature (not recommended for swimming!).
• Watamulu, the "lungs of the island": Between Nordpunt and Westpunt hollow rocks and corals spit out water with every wave. An impressive sight and a must see when in the area. Note that one either needs a car or has to hike from Westpunt.

Do [ edit ]

• Diving and snorkeling : The clear waters and maritime life make it an ideal diving destination. Divers are, after cruise ship tourists, the largest group of tourists. Plenty of dive schools offer courses and certifications.
• Christoffel National Park , ☏ +5999 864-0363 . West Point. A national park that is run by the Carmabi Foundation. Christoffel National Park is home to Boca Grandi, Indian caves where you can see paintings left by the Arawak Indians and Mount Christoffel. (At 1,292 ft (394 m) high, Mount Christoffel is the highest point in Curaçao.)  
• Shete Boka National Park , ☏ +5999 864-0444 . West Point. A national park also run by the Carmabi Foundation, Shete Boka is home to the "7 bocas" including Boca Tabla and Boca Pistol (also known as "The Shooting Pistol") In season, some of the boca's serve as sea turtle breeding grounds.  
• Curaçao Sea Aquarium , ☏ +5999 461-6666 . Bapor Kibra Z/N. Home of the Dolphin Academy. This is one of the most popular attractions in Curaçao. If you wish to do a Dolphin activity book as early as possible! Entry price depends on activity you choose, but paying for an activity (such as something at the Dolphin Academy) gets you entry to all of the Aquarium.  
• Hato Caves , ☏ +5999 868-0379 . F.D. Rooseveltweg Z/N. Open 7 days a week, with tours twice a day. Coral and limestone caves that were carved out below the sea and born when the sea level dropped. There are beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations as well as water pools and a waterfall. The cave is also home to a colony long nose fruit bats. (Because of the colony, photography is limited and not allowed in certain chambers.) ( updated Sep 2019 )
• Snorkeling and Diving at Curaçao's Marine Park . The complete southwestern side of Curaçao is one large coral reef and marine park. In the north you can dive at the Banda Abou National Park, in the center at the Central Curaçao Underwater Park and in the south at the Curacau Underwater Park. Curaçao offers plenty of dive sites, from easy shore dives, pristine coral bay dives to sheer drop-offs especially in the southeast.  
• Curaçao Ostrich & Game Farm , ☏ +5999 747-2777 . Santa Catharina. The Curaçao Ostrich Farm is one of the biggest Ostrich farms outside Africa. The tour takes you around the ostrich pens and incubator. Meat from this farm is shipped to Aruba (Ostrich is a red meat, which is high in protein and low in fat.)  
• 12.2076 -69.025288 1 Kunuku Aqua Resort , ☏ +5999-8644455 , [email protected] . Small all-inclusive resort with lots of water slides, pools and bars. Nice for a day with kids.  

Beaches [ edit ]

Curaçao's public beaches are concentrated on the southern coast, especially the western side. Find these from Rif St. Marie up to Westpunt .

Lots of land on the eastern coast is privately owned and access is prohibited; exploration of these areas is not encouraged as private security services patrol most of the area and are known not to take intrusions lightly.

• Playa Kalki , also known as Alice in Wonderland, is located at the far west end of the island past the town of Westpunt. Ocean Encounters West [dead link] is a full service dive shop. For a small fee, you have use of a dive locker for storage of personal items while diving/snorkeling and use of fresh water showers and equipment cleaning area.
• Playa Grote Kenapa , also known as Big Knip is a large sand beach west of the town of Lagun.
• Playa Kleine Kenapa , also known as Little Knip is another beach past the town of Lagun. It is a nice secluded beach with plenty of shade trees if you desire to stay out of the direct sun. The bar/restaurant on this site operates on a sporadic schedule, so visit prepared.
• Playa Jeremi is a small secluded beach slightly north of Lagun. There are no facilities here.
• Playa Lagun , is a secluded bay towards the western end of the island in the town of Lagun. It is a small sandy beach on a rectangular shaped bay with tall cliffs on each side. The waters adjacent to the cliffs is excellent place for snorkeling. Both sides of the bay along the cliffs are teaming with a wide variety of marine life and corals. The left side of the bay has a greater variety of underwater structure for a better experience.
• Playa Porto Mari is a large beach with a full service restaurant, and a complete dive shop including fresh water showers and restrooms operated by Porto Mari Sports
• Cas Abao is a beach on a plantation. It is a long stretched sandy beach with lots of facilities including huts, beach chairs, restaurant, fresh water showers and bathrooms. [1] [dead link]
• Daaibooi Baai is near Habitat in Rif st. Marie. Limited facilities. Huts, restrooms, grill area. Beautiful protected cove with calm waters. Avg depth: 20m
• Pirate Bay . Is located on the Piscadera Bay. The location is a short drive a few miles west of downtown Willemstad near The Marriott and Hilton hotels. It has many beach amenities including showers/bathrooms, Hook's dive center and an excellent full service restaurant.  
• Habitat Beach is located in Rif St. Marie on the SW coast. It is Curaçao's Newest beach and has a full service Dive Operator, DiveVersity , Habitat Dive Hotel [dead link] , Oceans Restaurant, and in the gated community of Coral Estate .
• Kontiki Beach is about a ten minute drive east from downtown Willemstad near Breezes hotel. Kontiki is a full service beach offering watersports, shops, beach-bar and a restaurant. It is also serviced by Ocean Encounters dive center. Can get very crowded.
• Mambo Beach . Is next door to Kontiki beach and is the place where locals and tourists alike visit for the nightlife partying here.  
• Seaquarium Beach
• Jan Thiel Beach
• Caracasbaai
• Barbara Beach Private beach and future home to the Hyatt Hotel.
• Klein Curaçao is an uninhabited island accessible only by boat.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ]

The Netherlands Antilles guilder or florin , denoted by the symbol " ƒ " or " NAf " is the official currency, but the euro and U.S. dollar are readily accepted.

Coins of the Netherlands Antilles guilder come in denominations of 1-, 5-, 10-, 25 and 50 cents, NAf 1-, NAf 2 1 ⁄ 2 and NAf 5. Banknotes of the Netherlands Antilles guilder come in denominations of NAf 10-, NAf 25-, NAf 50 and NAf 100.

Automatic teller machines are widely available throughout the island, and many machines will dispense guilders and the U.S. dollar. Beware that ATM fees are high (US$10 per withdrawal at MCB, US$6 at RBC as of April 2022), so it might be a good idea to bring cash since you won't need to use it that much – cards are widely accepted.

Visa and Mastercard credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere on the island, but foreign, non-Dutch, non-Maestro cards will often have to pay in USD. American Express is not widely accepted.

Currency can generally be exchanged at local hotels, casinos and places of business. The exchange rate is generally pegged at about 1.77 NAf to the USD and stable. It is unlikely for tourists to be taken advantage when changing currency, but it is best to be aware of the current rates prior to arrival.

Gas on the other hand requires cash (USD or NAf).

Shopping [ edit ]

There are a plethora of random shops and markets around Willemstad offering clothing, souvenirs, crafts, and other goods. These include a commonly-termed "duty free enclave" in the downtown area. Offerings emphasize European goods, to include jewelry, timepieces/watches and linens, plus the usual collection of souvenir shops. Perhaps not noted for great bargains, you may find items at decent prices you'll see nowhere else in the Caribbean.

A water front market lies on the near north side of the main shopping area. It's packed with fresh foods and flowers, best seen or shopped in the mornings.

On Sundays, however, most businesses other than restaurants in the city are closed.

Eat [ edit ]

Local cuisine in Curaçao is a mixture of European, West-Indian and East Asian (particularly Indonesian) flavors. Dutch influences are found in the use of cheeses, bread and seafood, which are also important in Curaçaoan food. Indonesian cuisine, a migrant from Suriname, another of the Netherlands' former colonies, can be found on the island, and explains the widespread availability of sate and peanut sauce along with the islands more Caribbean fare. Also, Chinese "snacks" can be found all over the island serving cheap Chinese food. They cater mostly to locals, but most serve good food.

If you are not staying close to the city center, buying groceries on one of the local supermarkets (Centrum supermarket, for example) might be cheaper than eating out.

Restaurants [ edit ]

Snacks [ edit ].

Curaçao is littered with 'Snacks,' small bar restaurants which serve Chinese food. These are typically inexpensive, double as convenience stores and bars, and are typically open later than most other restaurants which cater to local (rather than European) patrons.

Budget [ edit ]

• Plasa Bieu, located in Punda, about 300 meters ENE of the floating bridge in Punda, is the favorite lunch spot of most, if not all, of the island's local-born population working in Punda. Open M-F, 10AM-3PM, the Plasa Bieu has about five restaurants within it, serving Chinese, Jamaican and Krioyo (local) food. Try the Cabritu Stoba (stewed goat) at Grasia di Dios, for an excellent example of the island's local cuisine, at one of the only restaurants in Punda which offer it. 8-14 NAf
• Downtown Cafe at the Hotel Estoril Breedestraat 179 (O), located 200 west of the Arti Supermarket, on the Otrobanda Side's main shopping strip (the Breedestrat/Roodeweg) Open seven days per week 7AM-8PM, 'el Estoril,' as the locals calls it, packs its seven or so tables full from about 10AM-4PM, with Venezuelan, Colombian and Dominican expats. The Estoril serves a mix of local and Latin dishes, all served in a more typically Latin style. Order at the bar and sit down when a seat becomes available. You'll be expected to share a table if your party cannot fill it. 8-20 NAf.
• Seaside Terrace is located next to Breezes Hotel and close to Lions Dive Hotel and Mambo Beach near the end of Penstraat. Seaside Terrace has a limited menu, but serves delicious fresh fish (red snapper, dradu, tuna, etc.) and, if available, very well prepared lobster against very fair prices. The owner "Amigo" is very friendly and makes you feel at home right away.

Mid-range [ edit ]

• On y va picnic sells picnic baskets to take to the beach. Order your favorite basket one day in advance and pick it up along the way to the beach, or they will deliver it. Located on the way to the beaches on the west side of the island. 26-45 NAf
• Gouverneur de Rouville is a popular restaurant in Willemstad that serves a variety of continental European dishes in a wonderful atmosphere. Ot is just north of the floating bridge on the Otrobanda Side, 25-45 NAf.
• Oceans Restaurant , Habitat Dive Resort in Rif. St. Marie on the SW coast. Serves a wide variety of international and regional cuisine. Overlooks the Caribbean Sea in an open air casual decor. Has full service bar. 15-35 NAf
• Wilhelmina Plein Cafe is 200 meters east of the Floating Bridge in Punda; this cafe is a favorite among the island's many Dutch interns and businessmen. Wilhelmina Plein Cafe offers exclusively outside seating along a major pedestrian thoroughfare, with good food and one of the island's better beer selections. 18-28 NAf
• Vincent's Cafe Copa Cabana is a relatively hidden cafe just east of the Iguana Lounge's Main bar along the water on the Punda side of the bay. Skip the overpriced and mediocre waterfront restaurants on the Punda side and go to Vincent's for great sandwiches and a number of good daily special entrees. Vincent's is an outdoor cafe under the shade of a number of trees and the two buildings between which it is sandwiched, which also create a very pleasant breeze. 8-20 NAf. M-Sa Lunch - 6:30PM.
• Old Dutch Cafe on the Pietermaaiweg 500 m east of the Bay on the Punda Side, the Old Dutch Cafe serves inexpensive Dutch cuisine with a kitchen that stays open late into the night. 15-28 NAf. Closed Sundays.
• Kontiki Beach Club is a seaside restaurant offering good food in an idyllic location right on the beach. It is a little outside of the city, but it is well worth the short drive.
• La Granja is a Peruvian influenced chain restaurant with a very local feel, serving great Latin cuisine, including excellent whole chicken, Lomo Saltado, and other great dishes. Sta Rosaweg 15-25 NAf. Open 7 days.

• Il Forno is a popular Italian/pizza restaurant with two locations, (Caracasbaai location and Doormanweg location) serving European (though not Italian) style pizzas with fresh and delicious ingredients. 15-30 NAf.
• Kasbanini located in the Rif Fort, 100m south of the floating bridge on the Otrobanda Side, is probably the best of the Rif Fort's five or so mid-level restaurants. Offering typical seafood and chops with a bit of local flair. 30-40 NAf. 7 days/week, lunch and dinner.
• La Pergola , in the Old Fort on the southwest side of Punda, is likely the island's best Italian restaurant. Offering good pasta dishes as well as a few innovative 'secondi', La Pergola's quaint waterfront view completes an excellent dining experience. 25-40 NAf.
• Ay Caramba is an American restaurant offering excellent American pub-grub with Tex Mex offerings. Located just below the Governeur Restaurant.
• Golden Star , on the Dr. W.P. Maalweg, on the way to Salinja. It serves local creole food and drinks, and is a good value for the amount of food you get. Prices vary from 15-25 NAf for a main course with sides.

Splurge [ edit ]

• Bistro le Clochard, located in the Rif Fort, offers outstanding French Cuisine with a beautiful waterfront view. Open daily. ANG50-80
• Sculpture Garden Restaurant located in the Kura Hulanda Hotel one block West of the Governeur Restaurant. Excellent international cuisine with some very innovative specials

Drink [ edit ]

Tap water , which comes from a large seawater desalination distillation plant, is excellent tasting and perfectly safe for consumption.

Alcohol [ edit ]

Popular alcoholic drinks include:

Amstel Bright beer , which used to be locally brewed by Antillaanse Brouwerij, a subsidy of Heineken International. It is a pale style lager, usually served with a wedge of lime.

Polar Beer , which is brewed in neighbouring Venezuela. It is a 5% abv lager beer.

Brion beer is the official local beer, though it is brewed on Barbados.

Curaçao is famous for the alcoholic beverage of the same name, Blue Curaçao , Orange Curaçao , Green Curaçao and White Curaçao . It is made from bitter oranges grown on the island and, except for the white one, food coloring. It is mostly used in cocktails, though, and rarely drunk straight.

Sleep [ edit ]

• Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino . Has excellent restaurants such as the Portofino Restaurant and the Seabreeze Bar and Grill, which specialize in local dishes and fresh seafood.  
• Flamingo Villa , St. Willibrordus , [email protected] . Luxury villa that sleeps 12 people with a private pool and overlooks the magnificent Caribbean Sea.  
• Pietermaai Smal Apartments , Pietermaai Smal 51 ( 20 meters away from the Caribbean sea ), ☏ +5999 465 0478 . In a 200-year-old renovated country house surrounded with an stylish swimming pool, you will find boutique hotel style apartments. Apartments with a distinctive design.  
• Seaside Curaçao , St. Willibrordus, Banda Abou . 10+ private villas to choose from. New beach-bar and restaurant, private pools. It sleeps 4-10 in a pure countryside setting with friendly security.  
• Westhill Bungalows , Westpunt ( west from Willemstad ). A place for a short or extended stay. Just up from Playa Forti and a short drive from other great beaches, each of the 2 bedroom bungalows are well equipped and all have kitchens. Nice grounds, pool and wonderful owners. 100 NAf .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Safety is not a big issue on Curaçao. The locals are friendly, welcoming, and willing to give assistance. After all, a major part of their island's income comes from tourists. Just take normal precautions for a tropical island and use common sense.

Car break-ins are a reoccurring problem so that some car rental agencies even prohibit parking rental cars at some specific places. In general it is a good idea to never ever leave valuables in a car.

Connect [ edit ]

Cellular phones [ edit ].

Curaçao has two main cell providers, UTS and Digicel . International roaming is also available for many carriers but it is usually cheaper to purchase a prepaid SIM card from one of the local providers. Prepaid local SIM cards will need to be purchased at either a UTS Store [dead link] or a Digicel Store . Refill cards can be bought at many stores and supermarkets around the island or it can be done online for both carriers.

Coverage [ edit ]

Both carriers have good coverage around the island although UTS is slightly better. Both carriers have started deploying LTE and it now covers most of the island.

Roaming [ edit ]

UTS offers roaming at no extra charge to countries in what they market as Chippieland. In addition to Curaçao, this includes, Bonaire, Saba, St. Eustatius, Dutch St. Maarten, French St. Martin, and St. Barts.

Digicel offers roaming at no extra charge to Aruba and Bonaire.

Cope [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

Leaving Curaçao will require you to pay an exit tax not included in your flight ticket with most airlines. As of 2016, it's USD39 for international flights (Visa and MasterCard accepted), USD10 to USD20 for flights to Aruba, and Bonaire, and USD5 for connections (in cash only). See the airport's website for the most up-to-date information.

• Aruba (a few minutes away by air)
• Bonaire (a paradise for divers)
• Guyana (a former British colony in South America, known for its pristine jungle and impressive waterfalls)
• Saint Martin (a former member of the Netherlands Antilles, with many gourmet, shopping, and beach options)
• Suriname (a former Dutch colony in South America, culturally linked to the Dutch Caribbean)

Airport security in the departure area stops working after the last scheduled departure, no matter whether some flights are delayed by hours. If you have not cleared security by then there is no way to board your plane. Thus, even for heavily delayed flights, checking in and then heading out to a beach or into town is not a viable option.

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We can’t wait to welcome you to our island.

All international visitors are required to complete the Digital Immigration Card (DI card) within 7 days prior to departure. The Digital Immigration card is a mandatory card for all foreign travelers to clear immigration in Curaçao.

For more information, about travel requirements and things to do while on the island, go to curacao.com

If you have questions regarding the Digital Immigration Card, please visit our FAQ section. In the case we are unable to find an answer to your question, please contact us at [email protected]

All international travelers are required to fill out the Digital Immigration Card (DI Card).

Make sure you have a valid passport, and a valid e-mail address that you can access. You will need to supply information from your passport to successfully complete the Digital Immigration card. After completing the travel requirement form(s), you will receive a confirmation of your application to the e-mail address you provided. This confirmation of approval will be your proof of qualification for travel to Curaçao. This confirmation is mandatory and will need to be presented and checked at your airline check-in either by showing a printed/digital copy.

What do I need to apply?

• Valid passport(s)
• Valid email address

How do I apply for the Digital Immigration Card?

• Enter travel information
• Enter passport information
• Enter contact information
• Enter personal information
• Accept disclaimer and acknowledge statements
• Review information
• Submit information
• Receive confirmation of approval and/or download Immigration Card
• Save an electronic or printed copy of the confirmation of approval

When can I fill out the Digital Immigration card?

You can fill out the Digital Immigration card up to 7 days prior to departure.

What is the Digital Immigration Card and who is required to fill it out?

The Digital Immigration Card is a mandatory form for all foreign visitors to clear immigration in Curaçao. The card can only be filled out online. Once completed, you will have the option to receive your submitted information as a downloadable PDF document or as a confirmation email with the PDF attached. This confirmation will need to be presented and checked at your airline check-in either by showing a printed/digital copy. Once you arrive in Curaçao, you must also be able to provide the form to the immigration authorities either digitally or as a printout.

What are the steps to filling in the Digital Immigration Card?

First go to dicardcuracao.com and fill out all required travel information fields. Then, upload your passport or fill out all required passport information as shown in your passport. Thereafter, fill out your contact and personal information. Finally, save the Digital Immigration Card and download the form and/or check your email for a copy of the Digital Immigration Card form.

Who is considered a visitor?

A visitor is a person staying at least 1 night and maximum of 90 nights in Curaçao for leisure, business and/or family matters. During their stay, a visitor does not perform work against pay/reward for a local resident or a legal entity established in Curaçao. The total number of days a person can stay in Curaçao as a visitor cannot exceed 180 days per calendar year.

I was born in Curaçao, but I am currently living abroad. Do I need to fill out the Digital Immigration Card?

Yes, you will need to fill out the Digital Immigration card. A resident is a person who is registered in Curaçao and holds a valid registration of residency.

I did not receive the Digital Immigration in my email. What should I do?

If you are not successful with above mention steps, please email the following information to [email protected] to retrieve your information:

Date of birth:

Passport number:

How can I update my submitted Digital Immigration Card information?

Go to dicardcuracao.com/dicard and select the “Yes, edit existing Digital Immigration Card” button. Fill out the required fields asked in order to make the changes. Make sure you use the same information you filled out the first time.

I have made a mistake while filling out my Digital Immigration Card. What should I do?

You should select the “Yes, edit existing Immigration Card” button on dicardcuracao.com/dicard. Fill out the required fields in the same way you filled these out the first time. Once you have access to the form, correct your mistake and save the card. You can choose to download the PDF document immediately from the website or from the confirmation email.

Should I apply again if I missed my flight or if it was canceled?

No, the card submitted will remain active for at least 1 day of your initial arrival date. The Immigration officers in Curaçao will update your travel date and flight number on the actual arrival date with its corresponding flight number.

How long is my Digital Immigration Card registry valid?

The Digital Immigration Card is valid from the moment the registry is completed to the moment the flight mentioned in the registry has arrived in Curaçao and the visitor has been granted permission to enter Curaçao. For the next trip to Curaçao, you must retrieve your previously submitted Digital Immigration Card and make the necessary edits to add your new travel information.

I will be in transit while in Curaçao. Do I have to fill out the Digital Immigration Card?

Visitors who are in transit and need to check-in again with a different carrier are required to fill out the Digital Immigration Card.

I am a frequent visitor to Curaçao; can I complete multiple Digital Immigration Cards for my upcoming trips to Curacao?

It is only possible to complete one application per person per trip. Once you have completed your trip to Curaçao, you are able to update the travel information to match your next trip to Curaçao. For future trips to Curaçao, please update your existing Digital Immigration Card. You can do this by selecting the “Yes, edit your submitted Digital Immigration Card” button on dicardcuracao.com/dicard.

I am extending my stay in Curaçao, should I edit my length of stay on the Immigration card?

No, you do not need to edit your Immigration card.

I cannot upload my passport, what should I do?

Please fill out the passport required fields manually. It is not mandatory to upload an image of your passport. It is important to use the same information as shown in your passport. Nicknames are not allowed.

I do not see my flight information, what should I do?

Please enter the flight number in the flight number field. This will automatically show a list of all active carriers, choose your carrier together with its port of embarkation.

What is the difference between the traditional Embarkation and Disembarkation card & the new Digital Immigration Card?

The traditional Embarkation and Disembarkation card is a physical card that is handed out during the flight to Curaçao, while the Digital Immigration Card is the digital version that can be accessed at dicardcuracao.com.

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Link to curacao.com

Curacao.com offers inspirational information about your next trip to Curaçao as well as keep you updated about the latest travel information. Discover the many colors of Curaçao and meet the many faces that will welcome you with open arms and at a safe distance. Soak up the sun on over 35 spectacular beaches and take your time to really recharge. Prefer to keep busy? Dive into an ocean of options that will allow you to discover a new side of Curaçao every day. Make yourself at home in one of our many accommodations, whether you are looking for a luxury resort, an apartment or a holiday home. Please visit www.curacao.com for more information.

Curaçao Island Guide for First-time Visitors 

Curaçao island is the perfect Caribbean destination if you’re up for something unique in a tropical setting. Although each Caribbean Island has its characteristics, I can confidently say that Curaçao is one of a kind.

Curaçao island is located in the southern part of the Caribbean , right above Venezuela and in-between the islands of Aruba and Bonaire. The capital of the island is Willemstad, with the districts of Punda, Otrobanda Pietermaai and Scharloo as the vibrant city center.

Curaçao is part of The Kingdom of the Netherlands and this is mainly reflected in culture and architecture.

When you walk through downtown Willemstad, it seems as if you have arrived in the colorful version of Amsterdam. The cotton candy-colored buildings on the Handelskade resemble the stately canal houses you can find in Amsterdam.

The History of Curaçao

Let me introduce you to the history of Curaçao in a nutshell. The first and original inhabitants were the Arawak Indians . In 1499 a Spanish expedition arrived on the island, enslaved most of the Arawak folk, and transported them to do forced labor in their colonies.

The island itself brought the Spaniards little fortune. Agriculture was almost impossible due to the hard subsoil and dry climate. Not many precious metals and raw materials were mined in Curaçao either. The Spaniards called Curaçao the ‘useless island’ and were not aware of the possibilities that the Dutch did see.

In 1634, The Dutch West India Company invaded the island, and Dutch Colonists started settling on Curaçao island. The Dutch founded the capital of Willemstad around the natural harbor that they called Schottegat. The island turned out to be the perfect place for trade and commerce.

Curaçao became an important center in the Caribbean for the slave trade. Most of the time, ships with slaves from West Africa arrived to the island before selling them elsewhere in the Caribbean region.

The Island rose affluent from the slave trade. Colonial buildings were built and plantations sprang up like mushrooms. The city of Willemstad became a vibrant hub in the Caribbean.

Led by the enslaved man Tula, in 1795 a major slave revolt took place. Slaves from several plantations around the northwest coast rebelled against slavery and demanded freedom. The revolt lasted about a month after which the slaves lost this battle.

It wasn’t until 1863 that slavery in Curaçao was abolished and the economy of the island experienced a downfall.

When oil was discovered in Venezuela , in the early 20th century, the economy of Curaçao island gained a huge benefit from this event. The supply of crude oil to the refinery in Curacao provided many jobs and further development of the island.

In 1954, Curaçao joined Aruba, Bonaire, Saint Martin, Statia and Saba in becoming the Netherlands Antilles . A little over 50 years later, on October 10, 2010, Curaçao island became a country within The Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The global outbreak of Covid-19 in 2020 has hit the island hard. Curaçao went into lockdown. There were no more flights and cruise ships to Curaçao island. This had disastrous consequences for an island dependent on tourism.

The capital of Curaçao island is called Willemstad . The lively city center quarters of Punda and Otrobanda are connected by the Queen Emma Bridge, the famous floating bridge that opens regularly to enable the passage of vessels into the St. Anna Bay.

The neighborhood of Pietermaai is the scene of many bright-colored townhouses and cozy restaurants. Colonial district Scharloo , with its baroque-style buildings, is just one block away.

Spoken Languages

What language do they speak in Curaçao? Hold on tight, there are three official languages in Curaçao. This is Dutch, English, and the local creole language Papiamentu. Spanish is also widely spoken. Read: Learn Papiamentu with our free guide.

Curaçao island Currency

Prices in supermarkets, shops, and restaurants are stated in the national currency, the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) . US Dollars are also widely accepted, but keep in mind the possibility that you will be given change in Guilders. The Antillean Guilder is fixed to the Dollar. 1 US Dollar is equal to 1.77 Nafl,-

Also read: The Best Currency to Use in Curaçao

Country Size

The size of Curaçao island is 444 km² and with that, the island is more than twice the size of Aruba. The island is about 38 miles long and about 7 miles wide at its widest point. It would take you a bit less than one hour to drive from east to west.

The Climate of Curaçao

Curaçao island has a tropical semi-arid climate with warm temperatures all year round. During the day the temperature fluctuates between 29 °C (84 °F) and 32 °C (90°F) at night it often does not get colder than 25 °C (77°F).

The temperature is constant throughout the year, with occasional fluctuations during the dry and rainy seasons.

Curaçao island is located outside of the hurricane belt , and the island rarely experiences tropical storms.

Curaçao Culture

The culture of Curaçao is a vibrant mix of various nationalities, backgrounds, and movements. Curaçao island is home to a majority of Afro-Caribbean people. The Dutch form the second largest community, followed up by a significant number of Latin-American and Asian folk.

Dozens of nationalities live on this island and they all add new features to the existing culture.

Celebrating and having a good time is the common thread in our culture. Holidays and events such as Carnival, King’s Day, Dia di Bandera (Day of the flag), Dia di País Korsou (Day of the country), Christmas, and New Year are celebrated exuberantly.

Local dishes, live music, and fireworks are pretty common during all kinds of celebrations.

Would you like a taste of the real Curaçao island culture? The event of Punda Vibes on Thursdays has become a periodic gathering of local artists, creators, and groups to celebrate our culture.

The streets and alleys of Punda are the scene of live music, dance, and art with a folkloric touch. During this evening you can enjoy the happy hours, there are specials in stores and restaurants, lots of activities for kids, fireworks, and that is just the tip of the iceberg!

Things to do

In terms of activities, there is much to experience on the island. There are many excursions and sights that cater to diverse interests.

You can participate in various water sports, and visit mesmerizing beaches and immersive museums. Willemstad is the bustling center of various sights and attractions. In the areas of Westpunt and St. Willibrordus , you will find many beautiful beaches, exhibitions, and nature parks.

Also read: 15 Budget-Friendly things to do in Curaçao

For an extensive and detailed overview, I refer to the activities category on this website.

Curaçao island Beaches

The beaches of Curaçao island are amongst the most beautiful ones in the Caribbean. This is because most of the beaches are located in pristine scenic coves.

The island has many sandy beaches, with Grote Knip as the island’s showpiece. However, there are also pebble beaches where it is advisable to wear water shoes.

The water is crystal clear and coral grows in many bays. this makes the island a paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Check our latest blog: 15 Amazing Free Beaches in Curaçao , for an extensive list of beaches that are free to access.

Hotels and Resorts

There’s no place like home, but when you’ve found the right accommodation, it might come close to that. Curaçao island has countless beach resorts and hotels that can meet your needs.

There are several resorts where you can opt for an all-inclusive concept, but lodging-based hotels are the most common in Curaçao.

You can choose from a wide variety of accommodations such as Beach Resorts, Boutique Hotels, Bed and Breakfasts, Airbnb, Hostels, and everything in between.

One thing is for sure: Wherever you decide to stay, you will be welcomed with a smile.

Restaurants

Curaçao is a small island that is big on food . Upscale dining? Check. Beach restaurants? Check. Late-night comfort food? Check. Varied cooking from all over the world, in a dreamy, Caribbean setting? Check!

Foodies will love the Curaçao kitchen. There is so much variety in flavors and traditions, Which makes Curaçao island the perfect destination if you’d like to try something new every day. overall, Curaçao island hosts an international kitchen with all sorts of restaurants, beach shacks, and takeaways.

The local food is called Krioyo and I’ll tell you more about that in the next section.

Local dishes

Taste the authentic local kitchen when you visit the island. It’s a must if you want to get the real Curaçao experience. Our local food Krioyo (Curaçao island food of African origin) is a feast for the eyes- and even more so for the stomach.

Enjoy amazing treats like

• Keshi Yena : a ball of cheese stuffed with meat
• Funchi: a kind of Polenta
• Kabritu Stoba : a goat stew
• Pastechies: Pastries with various fillings
• Bolo di Kashupete : Cashew cake
• Arepa di Pampuna: Pumpkin pancakes

There are many places where you can eat Krioyo food, but the most authentic place is the Plasa Bieu , a large covered hall with 6 open kitchens. You can find the Plasa Bieu in Punda, next to the round market.

Curaçao art scene

Curaçao island has a fascinating combination of tradition and tropical vibes; its history and culture blends beautifully with an eclectic, colorful atmosphere, and this extends to its art scene. There is something for all kinds of art lovers.

The island is well known for its brightly colored murals and paintings . All over Curaçao, you will find murals that depict the island’s daily life, its citizens, and culture. The streets and alleys of Willemstad are a canvas for talented painters and collectives. Most of the murals can be found in the districts of Punda and Otrobanda.

Read: Curacao Murals: What to See and Where to Go

A different kind of art object is the  Chichi ® . This sculpture of a beautiful curvaceous lady is a popular souvenir on the island and represents a strong and proud Caribbean woman. The Chichi ® was first designed and created by artist Serena Israel. On Fridays, you can join a workshop and paint your own Chichi ® at Serena’s Art Factory (next to the Aloë plantation).

Can’t wait to dance the night away? Let me tell you something about the amazing places you need to check out when the sun goes down. The island’s nightlife has a lot to offer.

For instance, you can visit one of the many Happy Hours . Live music, great offers on drinks, and smiling people. Could things get any better? The best Happy Hours can be found at several beach clubs at Mambo Beach and Jan Thiel beach.

Lovers of salsa and merengue are completely at home. You can visit one of the many weekly salsa events on the island. Thursdays are for Mundo Bizarro’s Salsa night; on Friday you can find live music at the Riffort. Sunday is the day to dance on the beach at Hemingway.

Moving your hips under the stars while your bare feet touch the sand is like a Caribbean dream come true. Enjoy every moment of it. This is where memories are made that will last a lifetime.

Shopping malls in Curaçao

Curaçao offers you a decent diversity of shopping experiences. The best places to go shopping on the island include shopping malls, fashion boutiques, and plenty of souvenir shops.

Downtown Punda is the flourishing center of boutiques and souvenir shops. In this part of town, you can find various clothing, cosmetics, and electronics stores.

Sambil is the biggest shopping mall on the island. With over 100 stores and brands, there’s no need to say that you can’t spend an entire afternoon shopping and dining in this place. There is an extended food court with over 25 mini restaurants and coffee shops. You can also go bowling or watch a movie at the cinema.

Zuikertuin mall, Bloempot shopping center , and Riffort village could be labeled as small-scale and cozy shopping experiences. Both Zuikertuin and Bloempot offer a variety of Dutch stores, boutiques, and high street international brands. Riffort Village is home to several well-known brands and high-end fashion- and jewelry stores.

Getting around in Curaçao

Curaçao island is not the best place to get from A to B on foot. Therefore, most tourists rent a car to get around during their stay.

Taxis in Curaçao are clean and safe. Drivers are very friendly and will get you to your destination in an efficient way. The taxis in Curaçao have fixed rates for several zones.

Local transportation is limited, but kind of okay if you need to get to Willemstad. You can find bus stations in Punda and Otrobanda, it just depends on which side of the island you will depart.

East side buses will drive to Punda. West side buses will drive to Otrobanda.

The large buses run once an hour. The small buses run more frequently, but they don’t have a schedule or bus stops. Just raise your hand when you want to get in and tell the driver where you would like to go.

In general, Curacao island is safe. The level of crime is not significantly high. The most common form of crime is (car)theft. Keep an eye on your belongings and don’t leave any valuables in your car.

Be streetwise and use common sense. With these skills, you can keep potential dangers to a minimum and you can simply enjoy a carefree holiday

Klein Curaçao Island

Soak up the sun during a day trip to Klein Curaçao island. This uninhabited island is truly a piece of paradise if you enjoy the pearly white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean. You can book an all-inclusive trip with one of the few charter boats.

On the island, you can discover various shipwrecks or visit the lighthouse. You can also choose to relax on the beach or snorkel with turtles (if they show up).

Most organizations serve a barbecue lunch. Check the conditions and facilities when booking your excursion.

Book an excursion

Are you looking forward to your vacation? Visit our Excursion page where you can find an extensive overview of various tours and activities. By booking an excursion through this website you support Exploring Curaçao at no cost to you.

Roxanne Verheesen

Hi there! My name is Roxanne , 30 years old and born in the Netherlands, I've visited Curaçao for the first time in 2011 and moved to the island one year later. Love to write, snorkel and watch pinky-orangish sunsets at the beach.

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Pietermaai 19 P.O. Box 3266 Curaçao

Phone: +(5999) 461 8200 Fax: + (5999) 461 5017 and (5999) 461-2305 E-mail: [email protected] For questions regarding the Online ED Card please contact us at [email protected] (available during office hours, 7.30 AM - 5 PM, Curaçao time).

Opening Hours Main Office: Monday - Friday | 7.30 am - 4.00 pm

Office Mambo Boulevard Curaçao Beach Boulevard (BLVD) Sea Aquarium Beach, Curaçao +(5999) 735-0044 Office WTC (World Trade Center) Piscadera Bay z/n, Curaçao +(5999) 463-6542

North America Curaçao Tourist Board 78 SW 7th Street, Suite 07-141 Miami, FL 33130 United States Phone: 929-222-CURACAO Toll Free: 1-800-328-7222 E-mail: [email protected]

Europe Curaçao Toeristen Bureau Europa Kas di Kòrsou/Curaçaohuis Prinsegracht 63-65 2512EX, Den Haag The Netherlands Phone: +31 (0)70 891 6600 E-mail: [email protected]

Germany Curaçao Fremdenverkehrsamt Deutschland Postfach 2038 85210 Dachau Phone: +49 (0)8095-66 90 822 Email: [email protected]

Venezuela Curaçao Tourist Board Venezuela Marco Leal Tel Curaçao: 00 5999 6925932 Tel Venezuela: 00 58 212 9933935 / 9910001 / 9937192 Email: [email protected]

Colombia Curaçao Tourist Board Colombia Phone: 310 760 23 25 PBX: (1) 6024615 E-mail: [email protected] Av. Calle 26 N° 69-76 edificio Elemento Torre 3 Ofc. 1501 Bogotá

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13 Best Curaçao Tourist Attractions

The best Curaçao tourist attractions and things to do include the historical city of Willemstad as well as the Curaçao sea aquarium, parks, HATO caves and liqueur factories. UNESCO has chosen Willemstad as a cultural heritage of the world.

One of the most famous Curaçao attractions is the capital city of Willemstad. Our day-long walk through the city center showed why UNESCO chose it as a cultural heritage of the world. It is very Dutch.

Cruise and hotel visitors to Curaçao will find that Willemstad offers more than enough things to do in one visit. A walk through the city reveals great historical places, monuments and architecture. A national shore excursion operator offered a guided walking tour that costs about $30 and takes 90 minutes.

1) More About Willemstad

Willemstad has more than 750 historical buildings with many of them along or near the famously colorful Handelskade waterfront. The waterfront is a popular photographic opportunity because of its vibrant colors and interesting architecture.

St. Anna Bay divides the city into two major districts—Punda on the east and Otrobanda on the west. Visitors will enjoy the famous Queen Emma Bridge, a swinging pontoon bridge that connects the two districts over the canal.

Like many visitors, we especially liked sitting at the outdoor restaurants along the canal and watching the bridge open and close for boat traffic.

A highlight of Punda is Fort Amsterdam, built by the Dutch after they captured the island from Spain in 1634. It now serves as the Government seat of the Netherlands Antilles.

Unlike the orderly grid of Punda, Otrobanda is filled with twisting streets and alleyways, many shops and restaurants and a variety of colorful and historic buildings.

2) Curacao Sea Aquarium

Located on the oceanfront at Bapor Kibra, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium is an ocean water system because of seawater pumped continuously into it.

Visitors can snorkel or dive with stingray, turtles, fish and sharks among the 400 species at the facility. Other highlights include feeding shows, a Touch Tank and video presentations.

3) Dolphin Academy

Like a growing number of Caribbean islands, Curaçao has a facility where visitors can swim with dolphins. Visitors experience dolphins in six different programs at Dolphin Academy in Willemstad.

Dolphin Encounter allows them to stand on a platform in the water about waist deep, learn about the dolphins and have moderate contact with them. In Dolphin Swim, participants can swim next to dolphins and pet them.

For Dorsal Ride, two dolphins will pick up swimmers and give them rides by holding on to their dorsal fins. In Dolphin Snorkel and Dolphin Open Water Dive, participants will dive on a reef with the dolphins. Dolphin Academy teaches participants about being a dolphin trainer.

Prices range from about $150 to $200 or more per person depending on the program. Note that the Sea Aquarium is just a quick taxi drive from the cruise pier.

4) Swimming with Sea Turtles

Like Barbados, visitors to Curacao can swim with sea turtles. After a 45-minute bus ride to Grote Knip beach, visitors will spend an hour snorkeling with the turtles, which come right up to low water and even the beach. Prices often start at $95.

5) Klein Curacao Beach

The island has 17 beaches, most of which are located on the southwestern coast ranging from the northern tip to southern tip. Note that some charge admission for access. There are no good beaches within walking distance of the cruise port.

Curaçao’s longest and whitest beach is on Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island eight miles off the southeast coast. It is the most popular beach with shore excursion operators. One example shore excursion via catamaran has prices starting at $130.

Kenepa is one of the most popular beaches because of its two coves. A popular choice for families is Porto Marie, which is about 18 miles or 30 kilometers from the cruise port.

Vacationers will find two 18-hole and one nine-hole golf courses. Curaçao Golf and Squash Club is the nine hole course; phone: +(5999) 737-3590. Blue Bay has an 18-hole golf course and resort; phone: +(5999) 868-1755. Hyatt Regency has an 18-hole Pete Dye-designed championship golf course; phone: +(5999) 840-688.

7) Ostrich Farm

The Curaçao Ostrich Farm is one of the largest Ostrich farms outside of Africa. Visitors can see more than 600 animals, learn about their habits, hold an egg, pet chicks and paint Ostrich eggs. The farm’s restaurant specializes in African food.

8) Hato Caves

The Hato cave covers 4,900 square meters and has limestone formations, pools, waterfalls and a Madonna statue.

It also has a colony of long nose fruit bats. The caves are open seven days a week and have tours on the hour starting at 10 a.m. and going until 4 p.m.

Shore excursions usually combine Hato Caves with other attractions such as an island tour. They cost about $50 per person with small discounts for adults.

9) Underwater Marine Park

Among the snorkeling opportunities around the island is the Curaçao Underwater Marine Park, which extends 12 miles along the southern coastline.

Views include shipwrecks, expanses of hard and soft coral, and massive numbers of fish.

10) Scuba Diving

Curaçao boasts 40 different dive areas with 65 dive sites including plane wrecks and a sunken tug boat.

Barracuda Point is a chance to meet curious barracuda. Playa Piskado, Playa Kalki, Jan Thiel and Kokomo Beach are popular with divers. Caracasbaai beach also is often used as an access point.

11) Christoffel Park

Christoffel Park is the largest national park of Curaçao and is home to wild orchids, the Palabora, the rare native barn owl, Curaçao White Tailed deer, and eight hiking trails including one to the top of Mt. Christoffel.

12) Shete Boka National Park

The park has 10 inlets where three species of turtles nest. Boka Tabla is the first inlet and has large waves that crash against an underground cave.

13) Liqueur Factory

Visitors to Landhuis Chobolobo can watch and learn about the production of the island’s famous Blue Curaçao liqueur.

Landhuis Chobolobo is a free-access country home in Salina. Visitors can take a self-explanatory tour in the visitor’s’ center and receive a free liqueur tasting. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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Curacao Travel Is Booming, With More Hotels, Added Flights and a New Energy 

The colorful streets of Willemstad; the floating bridge; the all-day party at Mambo Beach; the endless possibilities at Jan Thiel. Curacao has always been one of the most diverse places to visit in the region. Now, travelers have finally started to realize it — particularly Americans. 

Travel to the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao is, in short, booming right now, with visitors continuing to flock. 

In March, the island welcomed just under 64,000 visitors — a whopping 38.4 percent compared to March 2023. 

It’s what the Curacao Hotel and Tourism Association is calling a “remarkable” increase in visitor numbers, buoyed by new hotels (from Hilton’s newest all-inclusive resort to a reimagined adults-only hotel in town ) and a particularly strong increase in airlift. 

It’s the latter that has been the most impactful — led by Delta’s long-awaited return to the destination last fall and growing flights from the important Dutch market, too. 

Unsurprisingly, hotels on the island are, in a word, full. Hotel occupancy was what what the hotel association called “unprecedented” in March, with a 78.1 percent average (high for anywhere in the Caribbean), and revenues up 26 percent as well. 

It’s a moment that began with one key moment in the summer of 2022: the opening of Sandals Royal Curacao , which ushered in the island’s current tourism renaissance. 

Instantaneously, Americans travel to the island began breaking records, and other dominos in the “Sandals Effect” began to fall — new interest, new demand through travel advisors, and, most importantly, new flights. 

And that growth hasn’t just not shown down — it’s accelerated, with travelers now appreciating the wonders of the destination. 

Now, for the first time, Curacao actually had nearly equal visitor numbers from the United States as from Holland — the first time that has ever happened. 

So what’s next for the island? 

“The momentum continues to grow as we look at the rest of 2024,” the hotel association, CHATA, said in a statement obtained by Caribbean Journal. “Strong forward bookings and efforts continue through the second quarter ensuring further growth in this sector.”

Are you planning a vacation to Curacao? You can learn more at Curacao Tourism .

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Watery, Peaceful, Wild: The Call of the Mangroves

On Curaçao, visitors can explore the trees’ habitat, where colorful birds roost on tangled branches and trunks, and small paths through the greenery beckon.

The Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park offers guided tours, elevated boardwalks, programs for local schoolchildren and a tiered entrance-fee system for residents and overseas visitors. Credit... Frank Meyer for The New York Times

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By Elisabeth Goodridge

Elisabeth Goodridge is the deputy editor for travel at The New York Times.

• May 8, 2024

It was a sunny afternoon in February at the height of the high season on the Caribbean island of Curaçao, but my partner, Aaren, and I were far from lounging on a white-sand beach, snorkeling over a coral reef or strolling among the Easter-egg-colored buildings of Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site — typical activities for travelers to this former Dutch colony.

Instead, on a kayak tour with Serlon St Jago, a guide from the Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park , we were learning about the country’s mangrove restoration, and the vital role mangrove habitats play in coastal resilience, protection for marine and bird species, and fighting the effects of climate change.

No poisonous snakes, alligators or large predators live on Curaçao, Mr. St Jago said, reassuring information as we paddled toward a forbidding wall of mangroves lining Piscadera Bay. Up close, the trees were magnificent and cheerful. Colorful birds roosted on tangled branches and trunks, and small paths under the green and occasionally yellow leaves beckoned us to explore. With our kayaks beached, Mr. St Jago pointed out fiddler crabs and mussels, and described differences of the local mangrove species — the red, white and black — and how they adapted to live and propagate where water meets land.

“There’s so much life here,” he said with infectious enthusiasm.

We were the only tourists on the water, but getting more visitors like us interested in mangroves, perhaps even persuading them to replant some of the vital trees themselves, has been a priority of scientists, activists, park rangers and tourism operators on Curaçao in recent years.

The island isn’t alone in its efforts: Similar mangrove-focused work has started around the world, in places like Indonesia , Australia , Belize and Florida , as fragile destinations balance tourism’s growth with the conservation — and restoration — of the natural resources that captivate visitors.

“Coral reefs get all the attention. But mangroves are probably a lot more important,” said Gabby Ahmadia , a vice president with the oceans program at the World Wildlife Fund who oversees the organization’s mangrove science and restoration programs. “My favorite analogy about mangroves is that they are Swiss Army knives, because they do provide so many different benefits and they can do so many different things.”

Though these forests are one degree of separation from the sights and the activities that traditionally draw visitors to the ocean, changing perceptions might be hard. To protect the environment, mangrove kayak tours can be — as are most snorkel, fishing and bird-watching tours offered in other destinations — limited by number, and visitors must be interested in the first place. With their summer reads and beach toys, family traditions and limited vacation days, most tourists might simply agree with the old saying “Life is better at the beach.”

A foundation of life

The twisty branches, trunks and distinctive aboveground roots of mangroves are a stark, complex repudiation of how a child’s drawing portrays a common tree. The roots can arch up, pop up spikelike from the water or form stilts above and under the surface. Adapted to oxygen-poor soil, high salinity and the ebb and flow of an intertidal zone, coastal mangroves thrive where other trees and shrubs would perish. Unless they are yellow, the leaves are green, and some, if you lick them, taste salty.

Mangrove forests can appear impenetrable, muddy, smelly and swampy. For centuries, they have been cleared for firewood, farmland, urban development, aquaculture and, yes, tourism. On Curaçao, mangroves are now found on only 0.012 percent of the island. Globally, more than half of the mangrove forests have been cut down or otherwise destroyed in the past 50 years. Deforestation has slowed — but not stopped — in recent years, and rising sea levels and increased storm activity have done further damage.

But coastal mangroves — there are some 60 species worldwide — are the foundation of life above and below the water. With intricate root systems, they act as nurseries for juvenile fish and other marine life. Mangrove branches and trunks make safe feeding and nesting sites for yellow warblers , tricolored herons and other bird species, reptiles like iguanas, and insects aplenty.

Those strongly anchored roots also protect from flooding, erosion and tidal surges by slowing down seawater and trapping dirt and debris. More crucially, mangrove forests are extraordinary for decreasing the effects of global warming, by absorbing and storing carbon annually at a rate 10 times as great as tropical rainforests. Mangroves, along with other coastal wetlands, “sequester enough carbon each year to offset the burning of over one billion barrels of oil,” according to the Nature Conservancy .

Surreptitious beginnings

Ryan de Jongh, a 53-year-old Curaçao native, activist and tour guide, is the living embodiment of regenerative tourism. He’s an important reason we encountered a lush, thriving ecosystem in Piscadera Bay, and demonstrates how one person can make a difference.

Mr. de Jongh grew up swimming in the bay and watched the area’s mangroves being cleared for fuel and construction. In 2006, he surreptitiously planted the first mangrove tree — a single seedling can mature in around 15 years and lead to an entire thicket — and now, he said, more than 100,000 trees are growing. He made similarly stealthy plantings at other inlets and bays, making himself a local hero in the process.

Mr. de Jongh, who gives kayak tours himself , now works on widespread government-sanctioned restoration projects.

His aim is to eventually plant 1.3 million trees on the island. “I have to transform literally a desert back to green,” he said.

The interior of Curaçao certainly looks like a desert, with a dry, dusty landscape of cactus and other succulents. Along with its closest island neighbors, Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao is outside the Caribbean’s hurricane belt and receives minimal rainfall. People on the island drink desalinated seawater.

The trade winds bring cooler temperatures. In the 16th century, they also brought Europeans who enslaved and deported the Indigenous population and turned Curaçao into a slaving port. The colonists also planted oranges, sugar cane and other nonnative species, with varying degrees of success, and developed giant salt pans for export, but it was the construction of an oil refinery in 1918 and growing tourism that finally brought widespread jobs. The refinery shut down in 2019 — nine years after Curaçao voted to become a semiautonomous nation from the Netherlands — an event that only emphasized tourism’s importance for Curaçao’s economy. Last year, the island, only 40 miles long, welcomed 1.3 million visitors .

Aaren and I gladly did our part to support the economy: In Willemstad, that meant eating at Plasa Bieu , the Old Market, where individual vendors cook and sell local cuisine. We fought with each other over the fried wahoo and an arepa di pampuna — pumpkin pancake — but we were warned off the cactus soup. “I live here,” said another diner, “and I don’t even eat that.” We also snapped photos, like so many other visitors, while crossing the floating Queen Emma Bridge , and watched it open and close for marine traffic.

We waited in an hourlong, locals-heavy line at De Visserij Piscadera Seafood restaurant (“slaying and filleting” since 2017), where diners choose and purchase their fish fillets before sitting down; we drank oregano punch for the first time (think mint ice tea, but oregano and oh so refreshingly delicious); and we inhaled grilled shrimp and raw fresh tuna.

Further north, we ate “williburgers” — goat burgers — at Marfa’s GoodHangout in Sint Willibrordus, which overlooks an old salt pan that, sadly, the resident flamingoes absented that day, and delighted upon coming across a coral nursery while scuba diving right off the jam-packed Kokomo Beach.

Coral reefs are crucial to Curaçao’s tourism and fishing industries and valued at more than $445 million annually, according to a 2016 economic assessment published by the nonprofit Waitt Institute. And coral reefs, which support roughly 25 percent of all marine life, are enduring cataclysmic bleaching and disease brought on or compounded by climate change.

In the last 10 years, scientists have better understood the symbiosis between coral reefs and mangroves: They don’t need each other to exist, but proximity brings benefits to both ecosystems.

“Working in this field of conservation, you might come in from one entry point and then you realize everything is connected,” said Dr. Ahmadia of the W.W.F. “We can work on coral reefs, but we should be thinking about sea grass beds and mangroves, because they are all really connected. And then of course, they are connected to the human environment.”

One morning, Aaren and I walked through the 30-acre Curaçao Rif Mangrove Park , a short stroll from the center of Willemstad and a shorter one from the island’s cruise ship terminal. Open since 2022, the park offers guided and audio tours, elevated boardwalks, programs for local schoolchildren and a tiered entrance-fee system (guilders and U.S. dollars accepted) for residents and overseas visitors. Some 17,766 people came in 2023, an increase of 14,687 from 2022.

Manfred van Veghel is the new director of the Caribbean Research and Management of Biodiversity Foundation, which oversees the mangrove park and five other national parks. Working with the government of Curaçao, local travel operators and activists like Mr. de Jongh, Dr. van Veghel aims to expand park access, construct an elevated bridge and add a visitor center, among other goals. The efforts are part of his desire to transform Curaçao into more of a nature-based tourist destination.

“We had a record last year and they are pushing to get more,” Dr. van Veghel said of Curaçao’s number of annual visitors. Yet, he said, the beaches are getting full. “So we need to get activities other than going to the beach — and the mangrove park is an excellent activity.”

Mark Spalding is a senior marine scientist with the Nature Conservancy and lead scientist of the Mapping Ocean Wealth initiative , an online tool that applies economic value to coastal ecosystems.

Dr. Spalding said a draw of mangrove activities, like boating and hiking, is that “without having to trek through the Amazon for hours and hours, you can get that sense of wilderness and experience, and also the peace and tranquillity very quickly and very easily.”

“It might only be two hours of your entire holiday,” he said, “but it’s the thing you take home with you — the story you tell.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story misidentified an nongovernmental organization. It is the World Wildlife Fund, not World Wildlife Federation.

How we handle corrections

Elisabeth is the deputy editor for the Travel Desk at The New York Times. More about Elisabeth Goodridge

Open Up Your World

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Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

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