The Colorful Island of Curacao is the Amsterdam of the Caribbean
Looking for a Caribbean island that has it all? With Dutch colonial style and pristine beaches, the island of Curacao is a true Caribbean gem.
Situated in the middle of the ABC islands in the Leeward Antilles, the island of Curacao is just a 20-minute flight from its sister islands of Aruba and Bonaire.
The ABC Islands have always been one of my favorite destinations in the Caribbean.
Why? Because they’re known for nearly year-round sunshine. And, their prime location in the Southern Caribbean means the islands fall safely below the hurricane belt.
Read More: Why the Caribbean’s ABC Islands are the Perfect Sun-Splashed Destination for a Winter Escape
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
One of the Caribbean’s most popular islands today, Curacao was once considered worthless by its original Spanish owners. It was the Dutch who realized Curacao’s true potential as a trading base when the Dutch West India Company took it without much of a fight in 1634.
The colony changed hands several times in the century that followed before returning to Dutch rule again in 1815. In 1954, it became part of the Netherlands Antilles.
When that dissolved in 2010, Curacao became a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The island retains Dutch nationality for its citizens but manages its own internal affairs.
Aside from a certain electric-blue liqueur, the island of Curacao is probably best known for its colorful, Dutch-inspired capital of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The gabled buildings that line the sea could just as easily be located in Amsterdam if not for their rainbow of colors.
But there’s more to this lively island than just the historic capital. Like beautiful beaches, terrific diving, and a warm Creole culture.
So, let’s dive into how to get there, where to stay, and all the best things to do in Curacao!
How to Get to Curacao
Most travelers fly into Curacao International Airport. Frequent flights arrive from the United States, Europe, and other Caribbean islands. Once you land, it’s a twenty minute drive into Willemstad and the main resort areas.
Before you arrive, be sure to complete Curacao’s digital immigration card online. It’s mandatory for all visitors spending at least one night on Curacao.
If you’re arriving by cruise ship, you’ll disembark close to the heart of the city. The town of Willemstad is an easy walk from the port. It’s one of the best cruise stops in the Caribbean because the highlights are so close.
Where to Stay in Curacao
Yes, Curacao has several great beach resorts. But its vibrant capital also merits some quality time. Luckily, if you choose to stay in Willemstad, you don’t have to give up the beach.
Best Hotel Choice in Willemstad
Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao – Just a short walk from Willemstad’s main avenue, the Renaissance is situated next to the 19th-century Rif Fort and surrounded by a multitude of shops and restaurants. But this modern hotel in the city is locally famous for its Infinity Beach Club.
This man-made infinity pool on the second floor of the hotel is an engineering feat. It combines the sandy beach of Las Vegas stunner Mandalay Bay’s pool with the ocean-edge views of the infinity pool at the Sheraton Waikiki.
Ocean water is pumped up to the beach area and water pours over the infinity edge giving the illusion that it is returning to the sea. It’s hard to find a more tranquil spot to spend the day.
Best Curacao Beach Resorts
Curacao Marriott Beach Resort – Located on a beautiful stretch of beach just a few miles from Willemstad, the 5-star Marriott resort has everything you need for the perfect beach vacation.
Curacao Avila Beach Hotel – Just a 5-minute drive from downtown Willemstad, this full-service resort sits on a gorgeous beach and has 5-star amenities.
Best Budget Hotel in Curacao
Dolphin Suites – Situated in a tranquil location just off busy Mambo Beach, this boutique hotel is a great choice for families or anyone on a budget. All rooms, studios, and suites feature either a kitchenette or full kitchen facilities.
7 Fun Things to Do on Curacao
There are tons of fun things to do on the island of Curacao, here are just a few of my favorites:
1. Cross the Queen Emma Bridge
Connecting the two sides of this historic city is the Queen Emma Bridge. Built in 1888, it’s better known as the “Pontoon Bridge” or my favorite, the “Swinging Old Lady.”
The bridge is supported by 16 floating pontoon boats and swings open several times a day to allow ships to enter the port. When the bridge is open, a free ferry shuttles pedestrians from one side to the other.
2. Take a walking tour of Willemstad
From the Queen Emma Bridge, head into the historic neighborhood of Punda. Explore Willemstad’s colorful architecture and quaint shops with this popular downtown walking tour.
3. Swim with sea turtles at Grote Knip Beach
Curacao has several beautiful beaches to spend a lazy afternoon enjoying the Caribbean Sea. Grote Knip is one of the most popular with sparkling clear waters and the turtles that come right up to the shore.
Tip: This Swimming with Sea Turtles at Grote Knip Beach day trip is one of the best experiences on the island.
4. A Day Trip to Klein Curacao
This is easily Curacao’s most popular day trip. Located just 2 hours offshore, Klein Curacao is home to the island’s whitest and longest beach. The uninhabited island is a dream spot for snorkeling in clear, turquoise waters. Boats offer open bar packages and guided snorkeling.
This awesome full-day Klein Curacao Adventure Day Trip is my favorite way to explore the calm, crystal-clear waters of this beautiful island.
5. Spend a Day at Playa Porto Mari
This beach has calm waters, white sand, and a beautiful reef just offshore. The palm trees and soft breeze make it one of the best beaches on the island. It’s also home to the famous beach pigs that wander through from time to time.
It’s a perfect place for snorkeling and a peaceful beach day.
6. Shete Boka National Park
The north coast of Curacao looks completely different from the beaches. Here the waves crash into rocky cliffs with incredible force. Boka Pistol is the most dramatic spot. The blowhole sends water into the air with a loud burst that feels like a cannon.
Walking paths take you along the coastline and show off the raw power of nature.
Tip: Many full day island tours like this 6-Hour Private Guided Tour Beyond the Beaches of Curacao include a stop here.
7. Dive or Snorkel Tugboat Beach
Tugboat Beach is famous for a shallow shipwreck covered in coral. Scuba divers love it but it’s also an easy snorkel for beginners. The marine life around the wreck makes this a fun stop for anyone who enjoys underwater exploring.
Start planning your trip to Curacao today!
If you love a Caribbean island with both city amenities and beach vibes, Curacao is the perfect destination. You can spend the morning exploring colonial streets then end up on a pristine, white sand beach by lunchtime.
The island is a colorful mix of history, culture, and beautiful beaches that most island lovers will adore.
And if you’re looking for more fabulous Caribbean destinations, start here:
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The 10 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit (You’ve Never Heard of #7)
The Best Caribbean Islands You’ve Never Heard Of: Nicaragua’s Corn Islands
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