Curacao Island – Travel Guide
Curacao Island, a gem in the Caribbean, is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and colorful Dutch colonial architecture. The capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring charming streets, waterfront cafes, and historic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy world-class diving, snorkeling, and exploring hidden coves along the island`s rugged coastline. With its rich culture, Curacao is a perfect tropical escape.
All about Curacao Island
Getting around Curacao Island
By Car
Due to limited public transportation, getting around by car is the best way to see the island. Renting a car not only provides flexibility but also allows you to explore the island’s attractions at your own pace. Keep in mind that traffic conditions vary depending on the time of day, so plan for additional travel time. Most roads are easy to navigate, but there are occasional potholes and bumpy roads to look out for, just like with any of the Caribbean islands. Parking can also be an issue, this is more so in the heart of Willemstad. However, they do have parking garages if you can’t find street parking.
You can easily rent a car right from the airport or, if offered, the hotel or resort where you are staying from car rental companies such as Hertz, Alamo, Enterprise, and others. There is also a high concentration of car rental agencies on the eastern end of the island near the cruise ship terminal. Rates can vary by season and company. According to the U.S. State Department, your U.S. driver’s license is sufficient for driving in Curacao.
By Taxi
There are plenty of taxis on Curacao Island. This is a good way to get around for short rides around Willemstad, but longer journeys and island tours can get expensive by way of taxis. Curacao’s taxis are unmetered. Drivers may have rate sheets available for different destinations, although not every cab driver will follow the rules. If you have more than four passengers, cab drivers typically raise fares by 25%. Taxi drivers expect a 10% tip. It’s best to agree on a fare before you enter the cab.
By Bus
The large “Konvooi” buses are located around Willemstad, with stations located in Punda and Otrobanda. However, convoys only run about once an hour on weekdays, and even less on weekends. Convoys will also shuttle you westward, but service along these routes is infrequent (every two hours). A one-way fare varies but generally costs around 2 guilders. You can also ride the smaller buses, which are actually a nine-person van labeled “BUS”, which run more frequently than the convoys, but have no set schedule.
By Walking
If you stay withing the Willemstad area, you can easily navigate the city to get around to many restaurants and shops.
Curacao Island 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 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.
When is the 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. 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.
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.
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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.
Top Attractions
Queen Emma Bridge
Called the Swinging Old Lady, this 1888 pontoon pedestrian bridge opens laterally for passing ships.
Cas Abao Beach
White sand beach with snorkel & kayaks rentals, plus a banana boat ride, daiquiri bar & restaurant.
Mambo Beach
Busy, trendy white-sand beach with many nearby amenities, shops & a swimming area.
Shete Boka National Park
Named after the local term for an inlet, this national park provides nesting sites for turtles.
Unique Experiences
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Guided Tour at the Curacao Liqueur Distillery: Learn the ins and outs of the famous blue curacao liqueur distilling process on this guided tour of the Curacao Liqueur Distillery. Listen to a guide detail the history of the liqueur, used in tropical cocktails the world over, and the distilling process.
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Aquafari Tour in Curacao: Experience the stunning underwater world during this Aquafari adventure. Avoid the hassle of dealing with scuba tanks or snorkel gear and easily breathe underwater with a bell-shaped helmet that receives oxygen. Sit atop your scooter that works on jet propulsion and observe several marine species.
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What to expect while traveling
