Curacao – Travel Guide
Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island, captivates with its vibrant capital, Willemstad, known for its pastel-colored architecture and UNESCO-listed historic district. The island`s diverse beaches, such as Cas Abao and Playa Kenepa Grandi, offer crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. Curaçao Sea Aquarium provides interactive marine experiences, including swimming with dolphins. The Hato Caves, with ancient stalactites and stalagmites, offer a fascinating underground adventure. Curaçao`s rich cultural heritage, fusion of Dutch and Caribbean influences, and lively festivals make it a unique and inviting destination.
All about Curacao
Curacao FAQ
What is Curacao known for?
The colorful Dutch Caribbean Island of Curacao known as the `ABC` Islands is layered with stunning natural beauty, a fascinating history, a diverse culture, and friendly people. This piece of paradise boasts welcoming warm weather year-round, making it the ideal destination for a tropical vacation. Endless opportunities and adventures await in Curacao with incredible beaches like Klein Knip beach with its pristine sands, bright blue Caribbean waters and breathtaking views, Mambo Beach, Porto Marie, and Jan Thiel Beach are a few other favorites. The UNESCO World Heritage capital city is Willemstad divided in two by St. Anna Bay, linked by the Queen Emma Bridge. Known for its charming colorful colonial buildings lining the historical waterfront with Handelskade as the city`s main attraction. Enjoy the fantastic food in Curacao, a rich blend of cultures creates some delicious authentic dishes like hearty stews. Food trucks around the island are dishing up flavorful Caribbean cuisine like local dishes `arepa di pampuna` (pumpkin pancakes) and the Marshe Bieu, or Old Market is another popular place to try the local fare. Enjoy some of the best shopping experiences in the Caribbean in Curacao where you can purchase some of the island’s iconic blue and white porcelain dishes, authentic souvenirs, and delicious Dutch snacks. Partake in the islands happening nightlife scene any night of the week with bustling bars, beachside venues, and clubs where DJs play live sets and annual vibrant festivals like Carnival and King`s Day.
What are the best places to visit in Curacao?
Curacao Island the delightful Dutch, Caribbean, Island, a melting pot of history, culture, art, music, and food. All of which can be found throughout the charming Dutch colonial streets decorated with brightly colored buildings and historic sites. Visitors can go island hopping, explore wondrous caves, laze on hidden beaches, sip on blue curacao, and enjoy a vibrant nightlife. Curacao`s inviting white sand beaches are the perfect place to relax and unwind, with the tranquil turquoise waters that are filled with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
How many days should I spend in Curacao?
We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel, and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.
What is the best way to get around Curacao?
Traveling around the island of Curacao is best done by renting a car and driving around to experience the island’s hidden gems at your own pace. Explore the island on your own time with a rental car that can be found at the airport and other locations on the eastern side of the island. Driving in Curacao is on the right-hand side with well-posted road signs.
What is the currency of Curacao?
The official currency in Curacao is the Antillean Guilder (ANG) also called the Florin fixed to the US Dollar at 1USD=1.80ANG. US dollars are widely accepted in the service industry. There are ATMs found at airports, and banks throughout the main cities and towns.
Do people speak English in Curacao?
The official language spoken in Curacao is Creole, based on Portuguese, Spanish, and Dutch. Many people speak English especially in the service industry at hotels and restaurants. Most of the island’s inhabitants have a good comprehension of the English language. We recommend you get a good English-Creole guidebook and learn common phrases such as hello, goodbye, please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.
Best time to visit Curacao
Curacao is a tropical Caribbean island that enjoys warm, sunny weather throughout the year. The best months to visit are from May through November, which is the low season on the island when the lowest airfares, and hotel rates are offered, sometimes up to 50% lower than during the high season.
Read More
The daily average temperatures on the island float in the mid-80s and don’t suffer from the wrath of hurricane season due to its strategic location 12 degrees north of the equator. The offseason on the island is a peaceful time, with less crowded beaches and pools and no wait for restaurants and attractions.
Tipping in Curacao
The official currency in Curacao is the Antillean Guilder (ANG) also called the Florin fixed to the US Dollar at 1USD=1.80ANG. US dollars are widely accepted in the service industry. There are ATMs found at airports, and banks throughout the main cities and towns.
Top cities in Curacao
What to expect while traveling
