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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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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.

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Adventure , Caribbean , Curaçao , Travel Guide · November 20, 2019

8 best things to do in Curaçao – the ultimate travel guide

When you think of Curaçao, you probably start dreaming about relaxing at white palm beaches with the bluest water and exploring colorful houses. Of course you can do that on the island, but there are way more things to do in Curaçao than just that! I did not expect doing a serious climb using both hands and feet to reach the top of a mountain, swimming with a bunch of sea turtles or sneaking up on flamingos to photograph them!

But before I start listing all the things to do in Curaçao, let me tell you more about the island first!

8 best things to do in Curaçao

Where is Curaçao?

Curaçao is one of the three ABC islands and the capital of the Netherlands Antilles, situated about 65 kilometers off the north coast of Venezuela.

When is the best time to visit?

The weather in Curaçao is sunny and warm all year round. Wet season lasts from October to December, but I was there in November and only heard heavy rain falling during the night. During my one week on the island I only had 3 days with 10 minutes of drizzling rain, so I’d say calling it wet season is quite exagerated. High season is from mid-December to mid-April. So I’d say low season is the best time to explore Curaçao.

Some practical tips

Make sure to rent a car so you can explore the island.

Wear loose and lightweight cotton clothes . Don’t bring synthetic fabrics. The climate is extremely hot and humid and you won’t be able to bear tight synthetic clothing.

When stopping in front of a traffic light, make sure to stop the car on the stop line. Most traffic lights are “intelligent” and react to the vehicles stopping at the lights. I stood in front of a traffic light that didn’t turn green, because I didn’t know about it, until a lady told me.

Curaçao has some late night shopping centers like Sambil (until 10 pm), Bloempot (until 8 pm) and Zuikertuin (until 7 pm). At Zuikertuin there is also a large pharmacy in case you need it.

Bring a flash light , the electricity tends to fail from time to time. When I was there the whole island was without electricity for about 14 hours!

Make sure to have some cash money in case there is no more electricity (ATMs don’t work then and card machines tend to fail too)

Be aware that the Queen Emma Bridge at Willemstad, which connects the Punda quarter with Otrobanda, often opens to let ships pass (even huge cruise ships!). Depending on the size of the ship this can take a while. Make sure to leave the bridge in time and at the right side. If it opens for longer than 10 minutes you can take the free ferry. Otherwise you just have to wait.

Parking at Willemstad is easy and free! I mostly parked the car at the big parking lot at Waaigat.

Where to stay in Curaçao?

Bario hotel world heritage – an authentic boutique hotel in the city.

This unique monumental hotel is situated in the Otrobanda neighborhood in the city center of Willemstad. It consists of several colorful colonial houses which are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The hotel offers both rooms and apartments.

I stayed at one of the apartments which had one bedroom, a seating area, a small kitchen, a spacious bathroom and most importantly: air conditioning! 😀 Trust me, you can’t survive Curaçao without air conditioning!

The apartment was clean and if I needed something (like clean towels or candels during the electricity outage) I just needed to ask and I got it from the super nice owner Clayton. The pool was just outside the apartment, so perfect if I needed to relax and cool off!

The small breakfast buffet was served outside in the courtyard. I loved that they served different fruits and cakes every morning. The nice breakfast lady always asked how I wanted my eggs and served them freshly made with a smile!

There are no lunch or dinner options at the hotel. But Bario hotel is located in the city center, so there are plenty of restaurant options to choose from in the neighborhood! If you are on a budget, you can cook if you have a kitchen.

The hotel has a cute little bar and a parking lot where you can park your car safely. Clayton and his colleagues are always happy to share tips about the neighborhood and Curaçao.

I absolutely loved my 4 night stay here, not only because the hotel was absolutely fabulous and the staff was so friendly, but also because its location was perfect to explore both Willemstad and the rest of the island! It was fun to be able to explore by night as well!

Book your stay here!

Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort – an all-inclusive luxurious beach hotel

If you are more into a relaxing luxurious vacation at the beach or into sports like golf, tennis or water sports, then Santa Barbara Resort is the right choice for you!

You can choose between the breakfast package or the all-inclusive package. The breakfast buffet is extensive and is served at the Medi Restaurant. Lunch and dinner are à la carte (which I loved because I hate buffets). The hotel has 3 à la carte restaurants; the main restaurant Medi, the more chique Shore restaurant and Splash, near the pool, where they only serve lunch.

I loved the grilled fish tacos and the chicken quesadillas for lunch at Splash. Also try the Curacao Sunset cocktail here! The Curaçao fish stew at Shore was very tasty, but I preferred dinner at Medi. It had a more relaxed vibe and more light outside on the terrace.

Room service is not included in the all-inclusive package, but it is certainly a must do! I ordered breakfast one morning and it came right on time in extensive portions (we had ordered way too much, we realized!). It was so yummie and relaxing to eat in the room on our final morning at the resort.

The room was huge and me and my friend each had a Queen bed to sleep in. It was the typical hotel room with a desk, a TV (with Netflix!), a closet, air-conditioning and a spacious bathroom. It was very clean and light. I loved that there were so many pillows to choose from. I always sleep bad if a pillow is too flat or too thick. A nice extra was the terrace with view on the private beach.

The hotel has two giant pools and is right by the beach. I never had the feeling it was too crowded. It is not the kind of hotel where people fight for their sunbeds and place their towels before going to breakfast. The hotel had a relaxed vibe and I loved all the birds flying around in the palm tree garden.

You can do quite some activities like stand up paddle boards, kayaks, private boat trips, snorkeling and diving courses. But there is also a huge golf course (voted #1 Best Caribbean Golf Course by USA Today in 2018 and 2019), tennis fields and a spa! Honestly I couldn’t understand how people were able to do these things in the hot humid weather! 😀

I stayed here the first 4 nights of my vacation which was perfect. The big beds were excellent to catch up on jet lag and to rest from the more active stuff I did on the first days. I also needed to get used to the hot and humid climate. So during my stay here I was often already asleep at 9.30 pm!

How long should you stay?

I stayed for 8 nights which was enough to both relax and explore the island.

What are the best things to do in Curaçao?

Discover the colorful capital willemstad.

Willemstad is quite big (117 km²) and consists of many different areas. The old city center is rather small though, but fun to explore with all its pastel-colored colonial houses. I especially loved to explore the many colorful quarters:

This is the shopping area of the old city center. There are cute little souvenir shops, small clothing stores and some bigger brand stores like Victoria’s Secret and Tommy Hilfiger. I especially loved the colorful small bars at Columbusstraat and the view of the colorful houses at the Handelskade, where you can also find restaurants beside the water.

When you cross the Queen Emma Bridge you arrive at Otrobanda ( the other side ). This area used to have a bad reputation of being a criminal neighborhood. But these days, thanks to initiatives (from the owners of the Bario Hotel) like the Kaya Kaya Street Party which gives the local artists a chance to perform their art and street art initiatives from the government, the area is now a colorful safe neighborhood to explore! There is many street art to discover and the locals were all really nice greeting me with a smile!

Scharloo/Fleur de Marie

After crossing the Wilhelmina Bridge or the smaller pedestrian bridge north of Punda, you will arrive at another former “bad neighborhood”. Prostitution, drug dealing and decay gave Scharloo a bad name. But now thanks to the government who wanted to revive the city, the Fundashon Rebiba Skalo Abou ( Fresa), the local street art foundation, and local street artists like Garrick Marchena, Francis Sling, Alex da Silva and Roberto Meeuw, Scharloo now is becoming a colorful decent area to explore with a lot of street art as well!

I met a local named Ethelson, who told me his personal story. He lost everything in a fire, told me about his mother and how he worked hard to keep the street clean. He showed me his family photos and his own personal street art. I think what he did was amazing and he really touched me. A lot of tourist tours give him a visit as well. I think he is kind of an icon in Scharloo.

This is an area with a lot of colorful colonial houses turned into boutique hotels, restaurants, shops and bars. At night it is a quite vibrant area when everyone is having a cozy dinner or a big party. By day it is just fun to wander around and admire the beautiful houses.

Spot flamingos

There are two main areas at Curaçao where you can spot flamingos; Saliña Sint Michiel on the way to Bullenbaai and Sint Willibrordus. I visited both and saw some flamingos in the far distance at Sint Michiel. But the best spot to see flamingos was definitely Sint Willibrordus! You can approach them rather close if you keep low and move slow. I felt like a lion stalking its prey! A lot of people say you have more chance seeing them early in the morning, but I passed Willibrordus both in the morning and afternoon and the flamingos were always there!

Climb the Christoffel mountain, the most adventurous thing to do in Curaçao

This is one of the most adventurous things to do in Curaçao and definitely not something for the faint hearted. Climbing the Christoffel mountain is not just an average hike. The second part of the hike is quite steep and mainly consists of climbing rocks using both hands and feet. Even at the top you won’t find much steady ground!

Start the hike as early as possible since the Curaçao climate is already quite unbearable while doing normal activities. The humidity and heat make this hike very hard. The park opens at 6.00 am. After 10.00 am you are no longer allowed the start the hike.

To do this hike, wear loose and lightweight cotton clothes and decent shoes like sneakers or hiking shoes (no converse, they don’t give enough support). Use anti mosquito repellent and bring a towel to wipe your face and body, because you will be sweating HARD!

Watch the waves crash at Shete Boka

Shete Boka is the most beautiful national park of Curaçao. It means seven inlets. Giant waves of the Caribbean Sea formed these inlets. It sure is an impressive sight to watch the spectacle of waves crushing into these rock formations. My favorites were Boka Pistol, where the water really gets blown into the air, and Boka Wandomi, a natural bridge.

Swim in a sea cave

Curaçao contains a lot of sea caves. I decided to swim at the secret Tomasito cave. It is a true hidden gem, which is situated on the private grounds of the Kura Hulanda resort. Just ask the hotel reception how to get there.

Snorkeling with sea turtles

Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear to Curaçao because there are a lot of colorful fish to spot here! At Playa Grandi you can even swim with a LOT of sea turtles. The reason why so many turtles live here, is because the fishermen clean their catch here and throw the fish parts back into the sea. I started snorkeling at Playa Grandi in the morning before the tour groups arrived. It was way more pleasant. After the groups arrive the turtles become a little restless and they even bite sometimes!

Stand on a hidden natural bridge

Shete Boka is not the only place with a natural bridge. I actually found one in the northeast of the island near Playa Canoa. The fun part of this one is that you can actually go stand on it. But you have to be careful though and watch the rhythm of the waves. Normally they don’t reach the bridge itself, but I can imagine that when the sea is rough, they will just drag you into the water hole!

Enjoy the beaches

Curaçao has a lot of beautiful beaches where you can relax. These are the ones I visited:

Jan Thiel: This is probably the most famous beach of Curaçao. Here you find rows of lounge chairs packed with tourists and beach restaurants. I loved the Papagayo beach part though, which was a little more quiet.

Playa Porto Marie : I visited this beach because I heard there were pigs running around here. Don’t get fooled though. There are indeed 2 pigs. I only saw one dirty pig lying like dead in the mud. The beach itself is packed with lounge chairs and tourists. Definitely not my favorite one.

Mambo Beach : another tourist beach, also known for its parties and overpriced stores (150$ for a low quality dress you can find at the market for 20$… seriously). It is a fun place to have a drink or dinner though!

Pirate Bay : There is a quiet beach in front of this restaurant

Playa Grandi : the turtle beach

Kenepa Grandi (Grote Knip) : This was a more natural beach, that wasn’t as packed as the other beaches I visited. It looked very pretty.

Kenepa Chiki (Kleine Knip) : This was my favorite beach on Curaçao. It was quiet, just a few lounge chairs and the bluest water!

Cas Abao : a pretty beach with lounge chairs, but not packed like Jan Thiel or Mambo Beach

Where to eat in Curaçao?

If you want to eat at a more refined restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, the Italian restaurant Serafina is definitely the place to be! Maurice, the Italian owner and his staff will make sure you feel welcome. The menu isn’t extensive, but that is because the kitchen only uses fresh ingredients. Maurice is very selective when it comes to all the products that are used in his dishes. He lets them ship straight from Italy. And it pays off! It was obvious the restaurant was packed with returning customers. They even got a hug from Maurice!

I was lucky to get the fine dining option. I didn’t know beforehand what I would get. The only thing I had to share was whether I liked fish or meat. Maurice made a special menu for me and it was absolutely fabulous! I definitely recommend this place!

Serafina – Lombokstraat, Willemstad, Curaçao

Mundo Bizarro

I discovered this restaurant thanks to Madelinde. She worked at the Bario Hotel and told me she and her husband organize Tango nights here on Tuesdays. So I decided to check that out. When I arrived at Mundo Bizarro I fell in love with its interior and atmosphere. The bar is completely covered with beautiful mosaic tiles and the furniture is a mix of old chairs, lamps, mirrors, closets etc. It looked a little as if I entered a pirate movie.

The people working here are extremely nice and the food and drinks are also very delicious! I had dinner here once and lunch on my last day, because I really needed to taste that pasta with shrimps and truffle cream sauce again!

Mundo Bizarro – 12 Nieuwestraat, Willemstad, Curaçao

Restaurant & Café Gouverneur De Rouville

At Otrabanda you’ll find De Gouverneur. It has a terrace with a fantastic view on the Handelskade. The food here is very good. Even during the electricity outage their chef managed to prepare a delicious fish trio in the dark!

Restaurant & Café Gouverneur De Rouville – De Rouvilleweg, Willemstad, Curaçao

Other places I ate at:

Iguana Café : A nice restaurant at the Handelskade in Willemstad where they serve both snacks and local dishes.

The Green House : a restaurant with a huge terrace at Mambo Beach where they serve huge portions of local dishes. Perfect place to watch the sunset while dining.

Pirate Bay Restaurant : a pirate themed restaurant at the beach

Also watch my video about the 10 best things to do in Curaçao!

Pin these best things to do in Curaçao for later!

This article is sponsored by the  Curaçao Tourist Board and in collaboration with Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort and Hotel Bario – World Heritage. However, my opinion is, as always, my own.

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December 25, 2022 at 3:24 PM

Hello enjoyed reading your article, especially the part about Scharloo Abou since I am involved with the street art there. Could you add a link to the district website we set up? http://www.scharlooabou.com there you can read up on things to do and the art part. The curating initiative is Street Art Skalo, not Fresa, and can you add the local artist name Blend a.k.a Sander van Beusekom. He made the one “teach a man to fish” on one of your pics, plus he is one of the initiators. (He is also the artist behind “life is a beautiful struggle on your other picture) We curated a mix of local artists to make the art in Skalo to help the neglected area in an alternative way. After bringing the arts, its slowly becoming a new hotspot. If there is a way to let me know when those changes have been made, then i can share the article to the fb of @scharlooabou and @streetartskalo

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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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• 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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Curaçao achieves remarkable tourism success in 2023

January 15, 2024

WILLEMSTAD – January 15, 2024 – The Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) proudly announces a historic milestone in tourism, marking 2023 as the best record-breaking year for stayover tourism arrivals. In total Curaçao welcomed 582,409 stayover visitor arrivals in 2023, which is a 19% growth compared to the year 2022. December 2023 stands out as the most exceptional month in terms of visitation, with a stunning surge in arrivals, setting an all-time high in one single month. CTB registered a total of 63,390 stayover arrivals in December, a 41% growth compared to December 2022.

The image below shows the monthly performance of 2023 compared to the monthly target and 2022 arrivals.

December 2023, a month of triumph:

December 2023 proved to be a crowning achievement, with a record-breaking 63,390 stayover arrivals. This remarkable figure reflects a substantial 41% increase compared to December 2022, solidifying Curaçao’s position as a top-tier travel destination during the festive season.  Key factors driving this growth are airline contributions, new product offering, consistent marketing promotions, strategic collaboration between the public and private sector to name a few. 

The Netherlands visitors : The primary source market played a significant role in the December success, recording an outstanding 29% growth in stayover arrivals. A total of 23,108 Dutch arrivals were greeted in December 2023. The newest addition on the Amsterdam route with Corendon Airlines, played a pivotal role in the heightened December performance. Collaborative efforts of KLM and TUI, who expanded their services during the peak month, further contributed to the positive outcome of the Dutch market. The outcome of the additional flights out of Amsterdam is exciting after months of downfall in performance out of the Netherlands. The Dutch market accounts for 36.5% of all the tourists who traveled to Curaçao in December, holding its position of being the main source market for Curaçao.

United States of America Visitors: From the United States of America, the market has set a new high in total arrivals of 14,714 visitors in December, a 41% growth compared to December 2022. The share of the second source market was 23.2% in December. Curaçao has welcomed a remarkable total of 141,175 US arrivals in 2023. The growth out of the US market is 51% compared to 2022, contributing to a spectacular record-breaking tourism year for Curaçao. Air service development out of the USA was notable during the year, with JetBlue servicing Curaçao with 5 weekly flights instead of 3. At the end of the year, we celebrated the return of Delta Air Lines connecting Atlanta with Curaçao. United Airlines starting the service to Curaçao earlier this winter, and American Airlines connecting Charlotte daily instead of once weekly.

Colombia Visitors: The Colombian market celebrated a triumphant conclusion to the year, achieving record-breaking arrivals in December with an outstanding 76% growth, totaling 5,405 Colombians visitors. The overall annual arrivals for Colombian visitors in 2023 reached an impressive 39,414 stayover arrivals (38% growth), showcasing a substantial increase in affinity for Curaçao among Colombian visitors. Avianca amped its service since October from 8 to 11 weekly flights out of Bogota, and Copa went from 4 weekly to daily end of April 2023.

Canada Visitors: The fourth source market, Canada, recorded an extraordinary total of 32,256 arrivals in 2023, marking an impressive 165% growth. December proved to be a strong month, with 4,674 Canadians visitors, reflecting a 35% increase compared to December 2022. The great performance out of Canada is mainly because of consistent promotion commitment towards the market with year-round three weekly service out of Toronto with Air Canada. In addition, the increase capacity with Air Canada and WestJet in the last months of the year showed a great spike in stayover arrivals.

Brazilian Visitors: The fifth source market, Brazil, concluded the year with a notable 26,815 Brazilian visitors, a 164% growth in comparison with the year 2022. Out of Brazil we have welcomed a total of 3,665 stayover visitors in December 2023, which is a 257% increase compared to December 2022. The success in the Brazilian market can be attributed to consistent promotional efforts, with 2023 witnessing the inaugural of Azul airlines. Azul’s direct service from Belo Horizonte started with a weekly frequency and expanded to 2x weekly service by the end of the year. This strategic move has significantly contributed to positive results, showcasing the fruitful collaboration of all stakeholders working together. Next to Azul Airlines other connecting options through Panama with Copa or Bogota with Avianca, shows positive outcome for Curaçao.

The images below show the performance of each region compared to 2022, including the share of the total arrivals and the performance of the top 5 countries, including their top 3 states of residence of our visitors.

Stayover, cruise, and day trippers:

Altogether 180,526 visitors were welcomed in December 2023. As mentioned before 63,390 stayover arrivals were registered arriving through CUR airport. These visitors stayed at least one night with a maximum of 90 days. Another 2,452 arrivals were registered via CUR airport, however departing the same day of arrival, also known as day trippers.

According to the Curaçao Ports Authority, a total of 114,684 cruise visitors are registered in December. The total number of arrivals in December is 20% more compared to December 2022 when we welcomed a total of 95,891 visitors.

During the year 2023, the total number of arrivals amounted to 1.3 million consisting of (582,409 stayover, 19,763-day trippers and 710,769 cruise visitors). In 2022 we recorded a total of 1 million visitors.

To conclude, Curaçao celebrates the diversity of its source markets and the collaborative efforts with all stakeholders that have led to these remarkable achievements in 2023. The continuous growth in arrivals from all source markets exemplifies the global appeal and accessibility to our island. 2023 has been a year, where we have opened new air service gateways to our island and expended more frequency from existing gateways. We have broadened our product offering with new accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, diversifying options for all our visitors. All of this in combination with strategic partnerships contributed to the success of 2023. As we reflect, we look forward to building upon these achievements and welcoming even more visitors from around the world in 2024.

Most recent

40 travel agents from Argentina explore Curaçao

April 12, 2024

Recently, a delegation of 40 travel agents from Argentina visited Curaçao

40 agente di biahe for di Argentina a eksplorá Kòrsou

Resientemente un delegashon di 40 agente di biahe prosedente di Argentina a bishitá Kòrsou

Aruba is ready to join Caribbean Pinks All Out 2024 in Curaçao

April 11, 2024

The Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB), along with Jacky Circuit, recently visited Aruba to provide all information about Caribbean Pinks All Out 2024.

Aruba lo ta presente durante Caribbean Pinks All Out 2024 na Kòrsou

Ofisina di Turismo di Kòrsou huntu ku Jacky Circuit tabata na Aruba pa duna tur informashon di e Caribbean Pinks All Out 2024.

Must-see attractions in Curaçao

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…

Shete Boka National Park

Shete Boka means 'seven inlets' – the park is named for a series of picturesque coves carved out of the limestone along this 10km stretch of coastline…

Savonet Museum

Set in the old landhuis (plantation house), this fascinating museum recounts the history of Curaçao through the story of the Savonet Plantation. Visitors…

Near the airport, this is an impressive network of caves with the standard collection of faces and figures (pirates, horses and, of course, the Virgin…

Flamingo Sanctuary

Though the island is lacking in lawns, you may spot the occasional Caribbean flamingo. On rainy days the majestic pink birds congregate in the Saliña Sint…

Playa Kalki

The island's westernmost beach, Playa Kalki is a small, secluded strand tucked into a cove near Curaçao's far tip. It's not exactly a destination beach:…

This mid-coast beach (sometimes spelled Cas Abou) is an island favorite for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters and surrounding scenery. It's a…

Jan Thiel Beach

The beach at Jan Thiel was literally carved out of the coast – by humans. The whole thing is artificial, which explains why the swimming area is actually…

Jewish Cultural-Historical Museum

The 1651 Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue has the oldest continuously operating Jewish congregation in the western hemisphere. Its small but fascinating…

Curaçao Maritime Museum

Engaging displays trace the island’s history, including exhibits on the Dutch West India Co, the growth of Willemstad, the slave trade and more. A…

Curaçao Museum

Small but worthwhile, this museum touches on art, history and society in its eclectic collections. In an unlikely residential location 1.6km west of…

Landhuis Chobolobo

Did you ever wonder why blue curaçao is blue? Find out at Landhuis Chobolobo, where the liqueur is produced (in five colors, actually) from the peel of…

Steam for Oil

At the Curaçao Maritime Museum, this exhibit includes a working model of the oil refinery that has been a centerpiece of the island's economy throughout…

Floating Market

A colorful place to see piles of papayas, melons, plantains, grapes, oranges, apples, tomatoes and much more. The vendors sail 70km from Venezuela to set…

Once among the island's most prosperous plantations, Kenepa was the site of a devastating, month-long slave rebellion in 1795, led by a man named Tula…

Fort Amsterdam

Dating from the 17th century, this much-modified fort is now home to government offices. Inside the large courtyard (enter through the gate on the western…

Octagon Museum

After a failed revolt in Venezuela in 1812, Simón Bolívar fled to Curaçao with his two sisters, who were accommodated in this oddly shaped beach house…

Mambo Beach

By day this ribbon of white sand is a family-friendly beach with a full range of activities. By night it transforms into a beach club and disco branded …

Curaçao Sea Aquarium

This attraction doesn't exactly live up to the hype. Yes, there are plenty of marine animals here, including sea lions, sharks, sea turtles and stingrays,…

Landhuis Groot Santa Martha

Dating to 1675, this landhuis (plantation house) is one of the oldest country houses on the island. Throughout the 18th century the Santa Martha…

Miami Building

An example of beautifully preserved art-deco architecture in the crumbling Scharloo district.

More destinations you need to see

Curaçao Tourist Board

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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

Brazil Curaçao Tourist Board Brazil Janaina Araujo Avenida Interlagos, 307 sala 02 São Paulo- SP CEP 04661-000 Tel: (+5511) 987550371 Tel: (+5511) 3165-3467 Email: [email protected]

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Curaçao Travel Guide: Where to Stay, What to Eat, and More

The island of Curaçao feels like a slice of Europe plunked down in the far southern reaches of the Caribbean. You’ll find colorful colonial architecture, creative restaurants and a vibrant arts scene, while on the streets you’ll hear a smattering of Dutch, along with Spanish, English, and the Creole tongue of Papiamento. Home to just over 150,000 people, the tiny tropical nation may be small in size, but it has an array of outstanding attractions, including a picturesque harbor capital and some stunning national parks — not to mention those alluring Caribbean beaches.  Curaçao is also a great place for digital nomads .  

• Where to Stay 

Where to eat

Where to stay  .

You’ll encounter appealing resorts all along the coast as well as as boutique hotels and bohemian-chic guesthouses in Willemstad.  

Best Caribbean Hideaway: Baoase Luxury Resort

With a phrase like “luxury resort” in your title, Baoase sets high expectations when it comes to   Caribbean decadence. Given the gorgeous grounds, private beach and a top-notch fusion restaurant, Baoase impresses even the most jaded of travelers. Whether you book a room, a suite, or a villa, you can expect ample space, a unique tropical-influenced design, and outstanding service. The resort’s lagoon is the perfect spot to unwind.  

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Best Boutique Hotel: BijBlauw

Perched over the seaside, the BijBlauw is a small, 11-room boutique hotel that hits all the right notes. Rooms range in size from “Cozy Small” to “Extraordinary Large,” and all are set with king-sized beds, stylish furnishings, and rain showers, while some boast private terraces with enviable Caribbean views. If you need more space, BijBlauw also rents out several fully equipped apartments. There’s a dip pool and an excellent open-sided restaurant with a partially open courtyard where you can enjoy mouthwatering seafood while watching the sunset.  

Best Penny Pincher: Bed and Bike

One of the finest hostels in the Caribbean, Bed and Bike is set in a former parliament building in the vibrant Pietermaai district in Willemstad. The sunny terrace is a fine spot to start off the day, and you can hop on a bike for a spin around town. In 2019, Bed and Bike opened a second location out near the beach, and the swimming pool, games room, and balcony rooms add to the appeal.  

There’s plenty of variety in Curaçao’s dining scene. You’ll find good options in the neighborhood of Pietermaai in Willemstad, as well as resort restaurants, food shacks on the sands, and waterfront eateries on the tourist beaches.  

Best Cafe: Number Ten

Set on the lush grounds of the Landhuis Bloemhof cultural center, this charming café makes a great setting to start off your day — or to pop in for a relaxing lunch. Baristas whip up some of the best coffees on the island, and can munch on açaí bowls, mushroom toast, or seared tuna salad while listening to birdsong at the outdoor tables.

Best Gastropub: Caña Bar & Kitchen

Whether you’re after a creative meal or some quality cocktails, the lively gastropub on Lombokstraat rarely disappoints. The menu blends Latin and Caribbean dishes with global accents in standouts like Moroccan fish stew tacos, tempura soft shell crab buns and baby back ribs with Sambal rum glaze. Tangy ceviches, good vegetarian options and imaginative cocktails help seal the deal.

Best Tapas: Fish & Joy

Though the name sounds like the title of a satirical play about mermaids, this atmospherically lit bistro turns out some of the best seafood on the island. The small plates menu roams around the globe, with flavors from Iberia (octopus with romesco sauce and fennel salad), Japan (savory beignets stuffed with crab) and Latin America (grilled red snapper with pico de gallo sauce). The wine selection is top-notch (get a bottle, as choices by the glass are more limited), and you can dine outside in the candlelit courtyard.  

The Dutch Caribbean Island boasts over 35 beaches, and if you have a few days, you can bask on the best of them. At the top of the list Grote Knip, a picture-perfect stretch of snow white sand and turquoise blue water backed by a forested hillside.

Colonial Lore

When you need a break from the sun and sea, spend some time exploring Willemstad’s Unesco-listed historic center. Apart from snapping photos of the cheerfully painted colonial facades, you can walk the pedestrianized brick lanes, browsing shops, cafes, and galleries. It’s also worth a trip to Alma Blou, one of the oldest and largest galleries in Willemstad. It’s set in a former plantation house Landuis Habaai on the outskirts of town.

Nature Beckons

The forested hillsides of Curaçao is a great place to get active. You can look for birds and other wildlife while hiking one of eight trails in Christoffel National Park. You’re unlikely to suffer altitude sickness climbing Christoffel Mountain, but at 1,240 feet, Curaçao’s highest point offers a sublime view across the island’s verdant expanse. Afterwards, veer north to Shete Boka National Park and follow trails that hug the coastline. You’ll pass picturesque coves and walkways overlooking limestone cliffs pounded by the roaring surf.

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• Travel Guides

For some travelers, luggage is purely functional. Their suitcase, backpack, or rollaboard is merely a tool to haul their stuff from point A to point B. For others, it’s as much an extension of their personality as the car they drive. Most of us fall somewhere in between. We want luggage that’s affordable, durable enough to survive whatever punishment the airlines subject it to, and a little bit of style doesn’t hurt, too.

With so many options, finding the right luggage can be a challenge. There is no best luggage, rather, it’s about what’s best for you, and that all depends on how you travel, how long you plan to be away, and what you typically pack. Should you opt for hard-sided or soft-sided luggage? Perhaps a carry-on, a checked bag, or a combination of the two?

Are you tired of shoveling snow off your driveway? Do you dream of basking in the warmth of the sun instead of having to blast the heater in your home all day? If you want to escape the cold reality of winter where you live, Tulum, Mexico, might just be the perfect getaway for you.

Here are 13 of the best things to do in Tulum during winter.

Honolulu is home to some 47,000 hotel rooms. And while it's virtually impossible to have a bad time in paradise, some of these establishments are in an elite league of their own. Like the very best wines or a timeless rock 'n' roll record, the superiority lies in the details.

The following three hotels in Honolulu not only offer prime locations and unmatched service but also go the extra mile by way of unrivaled experiences like high tea or immersive luaus. Some are teeming with incredible history, while others get bonus points for being highly sustainable. Together, they capture the incredible brand of hospitality genuinely unique to Hawaii and allow visitors to absorb legendary Waikiki and Honolulu, Hawaii's largest metro area and a delightfully diverse one at that.

Explore Curaçao

Plan Your Trip to Curaçao: Best of Curaçao Tourism

Essential curaçao.

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Curaçao Is Great For

Scuba diving.

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• 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
• Curaçao Seabob Tour (by Bearded Butlers Curaçao)

Curaçao Travel: A Guide For 2022

There are many picture-perfect places in the Caribbeans , but Curaçao (which is now open to foreign visitors) stands out as one of the region’s most alluring destinations. Known for its rich heritage, brightly painted colonial architecture, and exciting culinary scene, it offers an island escape with a difference.

Planning a trip to Curaçao in 2022 and looking for travel recommendations? Check out my travel tips below:

Top activities in Curaçao

History and culture.

Visit historic Willemstad to admire the Handelskade. A vibrant reminder of Curaçao’s Dutch heritage this stretch of painted buildings line the waterfront of St Anna Bay and have become one of the most photographed places on the island.

Take a walk across the iconic Queen Emma floating bridge . Known as the “Swinging Old Lady”, this floating pedestrian bridge connects Willemstad’s two halves, Punda and Otrobandawhich, and passes many UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Rif Fort.

Art lovers should check out the street art and open-air galleries in the vibrant colonial neighbourhoods of Otrobanda and Scharloo . Here you’ll also find a number of artist initiatives designed to engage the local communities in preserving their neighbourhoods.

Outdoor adventures

There’s a whale of a time to be had in Curaçao’s underwater world. Known as one of the best scuba diving spots in the world , its crystal-clear blue waters, natural coral reefs, shipwrecks, and caves make it suited to all dive abilities. And with over 60 dive sites and more than 30 beaches, you won’t be short of opportunities to explore the island’s coastal environments.

If really wild activities are your bag, head to Shete Boka National Park which lies on the far north coast of Curaçao . Known locally as Shete Boka (meaning “Seven Inlets”) its rugged terrain of rock and coral terraces hints as to the volcanic origins of the island.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Curaçao (@curacao)

Where to stay on Curaçao

In general, when choosing where to stay on Curaçao it’s a good idea to look at the amenities and activities you think you’ll need during your stay and book something that has everything you need within easy reach . The island has lots of scenic enclaves so wherever you choose to stay, book a rental car to make the most of the opportunity to see the island.

There’s very little in the way of beaches and family-friendly activities on the island’s east coast, but if you love hiking, this is the place to be !

Avoid the south, unless you’re booking a resort stay , as the beaches here are generally man-made or for resort guests only.

Best self catered stays on Curaçao

Choose a hosted stay or book a self-catered apartment in historic Willemstad (the capital of Curaçao) to soak up the island’s rich colonial culture. The city is spread out over much of the south, but the architecture and panoramic ocean views of the Pietermaai neighbourhood make it an ideal choice for an urban island stay.

To experience the best of Curaçao’s nightlife, book a self-catered stay on Mambo beach. Here there is no shortage of lively locations for dining, cocktails, and entertainment. 

Best beach resort stays on Curaçao

If you prefer to relax at a resort, take note of the latest Curaçao resort . Sandals Royal Curaçao opens in April 2022. Enclaved on 3000 acres, Royal Curaçao is a romantic paradise with 350 rooms and suites.

The resort also has the first Awa Seaside Bungalow and if you want to take pool photos for your Instagram, then opt for one of the Kurason Island suites overlooking a heart-shaped pool and the DOS Awa 2-level infinity pool. The island’s first-ever floating restaurant this Sandals resort has 12 all-new dining concepts and three new food trucks.

It is a perfect getaway for a luxurious and romantic stay while exploring Curaçao.

READ MORE CARIBBEAN TRAVEL GUIDES FROM WANDERLUSTERS

Do you have to quarantine when flying to Curaçao?

The Curaçao Tourist Board, the Ministry of Public Health, Environment and Nature, and other government agencies have firmly committed to a safe and controlled reopening for travel in 2022.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to visit:

• Fourteen-day isolations are mandatory for those in contact with Covid patients.
• You will need to arrive with proof that you are not carrying the COVID virus. EU countries can now use the EU Digital Corona Certificate (EU DCC) as proof of testing and vaccination for Curaçao’s entry policy. 
• If you are connecting through an international airport, be sure to adhere to the respective country’s travel regulations.
• Make sure your travel insurance offers enough coverage for medical care abroad and understand whether there are any limitations on cover for Coronavirus.

IMPORTANT – These guidelines are subject to change, so please check the Curaçao Travel advisory for up to date information before you travel.

What COVID restrictions are in place for travel to Curaçao?   

As of Sep 13, authorities in Curaçao require all visitors to take a pre-travel test within 48 hours of departure. All travellers entering the island are required to have medical insurance to cover their trips. They must also carry printed or digital proof of their negative pre-travel test.

Local COVID measures

There is a strict curfew from 00.01-4.30, during which only people working in essential service are allowed outside their house.

Public gatherings must not exceed 100 people

Businesses must close at least one hour before the curfew. Additionally, everyone must wear a protective facemask indoors and when using public transportation. 

It is very important to abide by all restrictions and national health and safety measures. Before you travel to Curaçao, reconfirm your travel and accommodation arrangements.

Curaçao travel sources for up to date information

gov.uk travel advice. for Curaçao

COVID 19 negative PCR test upload form for travel to Curaçao

Travel updates from the Curaçao Government

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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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Curaçao Travel Guide

Feel for yourself the flair of Curaçao, an endless wave of colour that boasts a distinct European and Caribbean blend .

Perfectly situated between the Americas and Europe, an escape to Curaçao offers an undeniably unique experience to all who visit.

This Southern Caribbean paradise was originally inhabited by the Arawaks from mainland South America, before the first arrival of Europeans in 1499. Curaçao became Dutch territory in 1634, and today it is home to 55 different nationalities, creating a cocktail of cultures and heritage.

The largest of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao), a rich mix of European and Caribbean influences exude through every corner of Curaçao, especially the capital city of Willemstad.  

This historic area and designated UNESCO World Heritage Site consists of several distinct historic districts, including Punda, the oldest part of the capital. The architecture of Willemstad has been shaped not only by Dutch colonial concepts, but also the tropical climate and architectural styles from towns throughout the Caribbean. 

Social and cultural differences have converged to enrich building traditions in the country, resulting in adapted architectural styles draped in a kaleidoscope of Caribbean colour. These vibrant pastel-coloured historic buildings are an iconic local tradition, dating back more than three centuries in a country bursting with unique Euro-Caribbean culture.

Away from the immersive and historic architecture at the island’s cultural core, more than 35 pristine picture-postcard beaches dot the Curaçaoan coastline, offering azure-blue bliss and private coves for a quaint escape. 

Warm and sunny all year round, with temperatures averaging 30 degrees Celsius, every moment in Curaçao is a chance to indulge, explore and unwind.

TOURISM INSIGHTS: CURAÇAO TOURIST BOARD

Marketing Curaçao as a leisure and business destination, thereby assuring sustainable benefits and attracting more visitors to the island, is the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB).

CTB was established in 1915 to develop Curaçao’s travel and tourism industry, the latter of which has been growing ever since as the country has become a popular Caribbean tourist destination.

The quality of the overall tourist experience is the main measure of success for CTB, whose tourism product development activities contribute to a better experience for visitors.

Curaçao’s top three markets – the Netherlands, US, and Colombia – continue to perform well when it comes to stayover visits, as the island bounces back from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indeed, CTB has reported more than 400,000 stayover visitors in the first 10 months of 2022, surpassing the number of arrivals registered during the same period of 2019.

We learn about what is set to be a record-breaking year for Curaçaoan tourism with Hugo Clarinda , Deputy Director of CTB, who details

What are the current travel trends in Curaçao? We understand you have welcomed a record number of stayover arrivals this year?

Hugo   Clarinda, Deputy Director (HC):  North American travellers are quickly becoming privy to how dynamic and inviting a destination such as Curaçao is, with activities that cater to visitors with any type of interest.

Travel trends on the island are quite varied, but some of the most influential include off-the-beaten path adventures, authentic cultural immersions, and unique luxury experiences. Also, with the COVID-19 pandemic moving companies to remote work, we are also seeing an influx of extended stays for those that can work from anywhere.

Our motto continues to encourage consumers to “Feel it for Yourself” to find what truly resonates with them out of the many unique offerings found on the island. 

What about Curaçao’s growing popularity with US travellers? Why has there been such success in the US market in particular?

HC:  Curaçao’s growing popularity within the US market is largely to do with the increase of airlift from most major US cities. 

The rich culture and unique experiences that the island offers are also a major draw for travellers, such as the iconic Dutch colonial architecture and European-esque capital city, as well as the stunning turquoise blue waters. The addition of global hotel brands with loyalty programmes incentivises US travellers to visit this hidden gem of the Caribbean.

Equally, how has Curaçao’s tourism product changed over time? What trends are transforming the tourism industry?

HC:  The evolution of Curaçao’s tourism product is rooted in expansion. With some significant new hotel openings in 2021, ranging from luxury boutique properties to global name-brand favourites, the island offers accommodations for every type of traveller and the experience they are looking for. 

Through the evolution and development of the island, we have strived to maintain its authenticity, preserving some of the oldest hotels that are still in operation with loyal guests from both Europe and the US coming back year after year.

How imminent is the need for sustainable and responsible tourism in Curaçao, to preserve natural resources such as your coral reefs?

HC:  Sustainable tourism is important throughout the world for all destinations, but especially island nations with precious and endangered ocean life.

In Curaçao, both the private and public sectors understand this and do their part to help visitors travel responsibly. On-island sustainability efforts range from the Reef Renewal Project led by Ocean Encounters, to recycled plastic product brand Limpi, and of course, hotel specific efforts to conserve water and use sustainable materials. 

Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Curaçao?

HC:  As our motto says, feel it for yourself! On top of the rich culture, history, world-class cuisine, and unparalleled beaches, Curaçao has a tonne of activities ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and group getaways. Many of our visitors continue to flock to the island year after year because no trip is the same with all of our diverse offerings.

What differentiates Curaçao as a tourist destination from other Caribbean islands?

HC:  Curaçao is unique in the sense that locals and travellers are constantly interacting. There is no specific “tourist area” or “tourist attractions” on the island – and oftentimes you’ll find a local, Dutch expat, and US vacationer all sitting beside each other at a bar or one of the cove-like beaches.

Travellers are constantly getting that authentic Curaçaoan experience, and truly seeing the blend of over 55 distinct nationalities on the island influencing art, food, and attractions. Local influence has allowed the hospitality industry to develop in a way that appeals distinctly to trendy and savvy visitors looking for an authentic escape.

What are some of Curaçao’s most overlooked or underrated landmarks?

HC:  On top of more than 35 stunning cove-like beaches (some that are virtually untouched), we have natural wonders like Skete Boca National Park on the rugged western side of the island, which has a surprising desert landscape.

The Salt Flats of Jan Thiel, another iconic landmark, is said to have special healing properties. We invite travellers to understand our history with a visit to the critically acclaimed Kura Hulanda, which is home to relics and ancient artifacts, and Kas di Pal’i Maishi, a traditional adobe house which dates back to 1888 and is home to a small museum showcasing the Afro-Curaçaoan heritage.

How do you forecast tourism developing in Curaçao in 2023? 

HC:  The outlook for 2023 looks very promising with strong demand out of our source markets in North America, Europe and South America. With 2022 already breaking records, we expect to even exceed arrival numbers in 2023 as we forecast to finally surpass the 500,000 stayover visitors in the upcoming year.

OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS

FOR A TASTE OF TRADITION…

Curaçao’s national dish,  keshi yena , traditionally consists of a large, round ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat. Some modern cooks prepare  keshi yena  in ramekins, whilst others stick to baking the dish in an empty can of sausages or by wrapping the cheese in plantain leaves.

FOR A HISTORICAL DISCOVERY TOUR…

The  Curacao Maritime Museum  immerses visitors in more than 500 years of Curaçaoan history. Illustrated by a permanent exhibition consisting of displays with authentic nautical charts, ship models and navigation equipment, combined with audiovisual techniques, this journey of discovery is an attraction not to be missed.

FOR WEST COAST EXPLORATION…

Curaçao’s full service PADI 5-star dive centre,  Caribbean Sea Sports Curaçao , is located on the idyllic Dreams Curaçao Resort Spa & Casino beach. Snorkelling excursions and more than 20 dive sites allow you to enjoy and explore the country’s beautiful west coast in top-of-the-line gear.

FOR RESORT LIFE AMID THE MANGROVES…

From on-site water sports to daily adventure tours, there are activities for everyone at  Mangrove Beach Corendon . Enjoy family and adult-only pools, an aquapark with water slides, a children’s playground, art gallery, cigar lounge, and dive centre at this all-inclusive beachfront resort, which also offers 12 on-site restaurants and lounges for a true Caribbean escape.

FOR A FUN CLIMBING EXPERIENCE…

Rock Climbing Curaçao

FOR SERENITY AT SEA…

Miss Ann Boat Trips

FOR THE BEST MASSAGE IN CURAÇAO…

Natural Blends Esthetics

FOR VACATIONING AT THE WHEEL…

RW Rental Sleep: 

FOR HOTEL COMFORT AND HOMELY ATMOSPHERE…

Bed & Breakfast Sombré di Kabana

WILLEMSTAD IN FOCUS

The architecture in Willemstad reflects not only European urban planning concepts, but the styles of colonial towns with which the capital city engaged in trade.

An exceptionally well preserved example of a Dutch colonial trading settlement, Willemstad’s colourful building exteriors pop in a striking array of red, blue, yellow ochre and green, a local tradition dating back to 1817 when white lime finishes were prohibited.

Willemstad shares a common cultural history with its Caribbean counterparts, and is a rare instance of a historic port town uniquely set in a natural harbour, which continues to serve as the gateway to the city.

Four historic districts – Punda, Pietermaai, Otrobanda, and Scharloo – demonstrate the city’s subsequent stages of development over the course of centuries. 

With a long and rich colonial history, Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that accommodates more than 700 protected monuments, most of which are historic shops, townhouses and mansions. The majority of Curaçao’s listed buildings are also situated in the old districts of the capital, whilst many urban structures, such as the narrow alleys of Punda and Otrobanda, remain relatively intact. 

These vibrant pedestrian-only streets create a picturesque atmosphere, adorned with myriad shops, cafés and terraces conveniently situated in one area. As one of the world’s most beautiful inner cities, walking in Willemstad will present you with perfect photo opportunities at every turn.

Punda’s quaint streets and alleys are alive with colour and brimming with life, leading to some of the island’s very best jewellery, electronics, cosmetics, clothing and souvenir stores.

LARDMARK ATTRACTIONS

Blue Room Cave

A special natural phenomenon transforms this underwater cave into a spectacular blue room. Sunlight is reflected into the cave through the water, giving it a beautiful luminescent glow. The cave is therefore at its glistening best around midday when the sun is at its sharpest. Visit by boat, or if you’re in for an adventure, we also recommend going by canoe.

Handelskade

This picturesque harbourfront is lined with brightly painted 18th century buildings, that today house art galleries, sidewalk cafés and house boutiques. Pop into the shops along the water and watch ships enter the harbour by day; experience illuminated façades and reflections glinting on the bay by night. Whatever time you visit, you’re going to want to capture it all on camera.

Queen Juliana Bridge

At 56 metres high, the Queen Juliana Bridge is the tallest in the Caribbean. It has been an inseparable and towering element of the Willemstad landscape ever since opening in 1974, allowing visitors to enjoy awe-inspiring panoramas of the city. Thrill seekers can even rappel from this blue and yellow bridge with professional guidance!

GETTING THERE AND AROUND

Boasting the region’s third longest commercial runway, Curaçao International Airport services flights from the Caribbean, South America, North America, and Europe.

Curaçao is also accessible by sea via a cruise or yacht, however there are no ferries operating between the ABC islands despite their close proximity, so the only way of island hopping between Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao is by air.

Upon arrival, the best way of getting to know the island is by renting a car, with many car rental companies operating at Curaçao International Airport as well as occupying desks in larger hotels. A deposit will be required, and it is advisable to make rental car reservations in advance. 

Taxis can be found at the airport, near many hotels, or alternatively ordered on the 24-7 Taxi Curaçao app anytime and anywhere on the island. Cabs can be expensive, however, especially if you are planning to use them frequently.

An airport transfer service is also offered by many Curaçaoan hotels, some of which offer regular shuttles to the beach and downtown Willemstad. 

For a real local experience, public buses known as “konvoi” make for a fun outing and allow you to interact closely with resident islanders. Most buses run hourly, with a reduced Sunday service and tickets paid to the driver in cash. Smaller minibuses also handily run all over the island, although these have no fixed schedule.

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