What to Do in Curaçao

Marko Jovanović, 18 Apr 2024

A trip to Curaçao offers adventure, cultural exploration and natural wonders waiting to be discovered. From beaches and culture to resorts and natural attractions, Curaçaohas is something for every traveller.

Why to Visit Curaçao

In the southern Caribbean Sea, 40 miles north of Venezuela, Curaçao offers cultural heritage, history, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination.

  • Willemstad, the capital city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, features colourful markets, Dutch colonial architecture, and landmarks like Museum Kura Hulanda.
  • Explore Curaçao's art scene through murals in Pietermaai and Otrobanda, and visit galleries such as Nena Sanchez's and Gallery Alma Blou.
  • Enjoy 35 beaches offering activities like swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing, with highlights including Porto Mari and Playa Knip.
  • Curaçao offers a budget-friendly tropical escape with accommodations, dining options, and activities suitable for every budget.

Good to Know: Caribbean, Curaçao Peak Season: December-April, December warmer, less rain. Jan-Apr is ideal for visiting Curaçao, trade winds reduce heat, and rain.

Photo by Den Harrson via Unsplash

Photo by Den Harrson via Unsplash

Top Things to Do in Curaçao

From pristine beaches to historic districts, bustling markets to serene parks, Curaçao offers a diverse array of attractions for travellers of all tastes and interests

Blue Bay

Suitable for Photo enthusiasts, Economic travellers, Adventure seekers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 9 km

Blue Bay, one of the most beautiful places in Curaçao, offers serene seas and beautiful surroundings. Enjoy water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking, or relax on the sunny shoreline. It's the perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

Good to Know: Blue Bay named for its blue seas, is a resort with beach restaurants, sun loungers, and nearby golf courses.

Handelskade

Suitable for Shopping enthusiasts, History buffs, Photography lovers, Economic travellers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 14 km

At Handelskade, in Willemstad, explore Dutch colonial history. Enjoy the UNESCO site by sipping drinks, visiting markets, and admiring colourful buildings.

Good to Know: Handelskade offers architectural marvels, shopping for souvenirs, local cuisine, and vibrant street life.

Otrobanda

Suitable for History enthusiasts, Photography lovers, Economic travellers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 11 km

Take a walk through Otrobanda, Willemstad's historic district, and get a glimpse of Curaçao's diverse culture. See the colourful Dutch houses, soak up the lively atmosphere of Brión Square and delve into the sobering history of the Atlantic slave trade at the Kura Hulanda Museum.

Good to Know: Rif Fort in Otrobanda is a modern commercial centre mixing historical charm with modern amenities.

Photo by Damian Kamp via Unsplash

Photo by Damian Kamp via Unsplash

Shete Boka Park

Suitable for Adventure seekers, Photography enthusiasts, Economic travellers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 7 km

Shete Boka Park offers rocky cliffs meeting the Caribbean Sea, perfect for experiencing the beauty of Curaçao's coastline. Discover bays by walking along the cliff paths and admire the turtle nesting sites.

Good to Know: Shete Boka Park shows wild nature and hidden beaches, offering a peaceful retreat from busy tourist spots.

Sambil Curacao

Suitable for Food enthusiasts, Families, Shopping lovers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 7 km

Sambil Curacao is a large retail centre on the island, offering dining, entertainment, and retail stores for the whole family to enjoy.

Good to Know: High-street fashion & dining at Sambil Curacao attracts locals & tourists.

Hato Caves

Suitable for History buffs, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 2 km

Open up the mysteries of Curaçao at Hato Caves, where 2,000-year-old secrets are revealed in limestone tunnels. Discover underground passages, cliffs and traces of a prehistoric past.

Good to Know: The Hato Caves offer a fascinating journey through time, unveiling insights about the island's geological and cultural history.

Lagun Blancu

Suitable for: Economical travellers, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 26 km

A stunning cove nestled between rocky cliffs and azure waters, Lagun Blancu is a hidden paradise on Curaçao's south coast. Accessible via a challenging hiking trail, Laguna Blanca offers a secluded retreat for intrepid nature lovers.

Good to Know: Lagun Blancu has stunning panoramic views, good snorkelling, and a peaceful atmosphere in a remote forest location.

Christoffel National Park

Suitable for: Families, Photography enthusiasts, Adventure seekers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 29 km

Go on an outdoor adventure at Christoffel National Park, with diverse plants and animals on Christoffel Mountain's slopes. Enjoy hiking, seeing animals, and breathtaking views of the untamed landscape.

Good to Know: Christoffel National Park is a top spot for eco-conscious travellers, providing immersive encounters for nature lovers of all ages through hiking trails and safari tours.

Photo by Aron Marinelli via Unsplash

Photo by Aron Marinelli via Unsplash

Punda District

Suitable for: History enthusiasts, Photography lovers, Adventure seekers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 14 km

In the historical Punda district of Willemstad, explore bustling markets with handicrafts, colonial architecture and famous sites such as Fort Church.

Good to Know: Punda District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases Curaçao's cultural legacy with stories around every corner.

Curacao Casinos

Suitable for Nightlife enthusiasts, Luxury travellers

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 12 km

At famous Curacao casinos, experience glamour and high-stakes thrill. Explore various venues for exciting gaming experiences, from luxurious hotels to cosy halls.

Good to Know: From blackjack tables to slot machines, Curacao casinos offer exciting nightlife with luxurious amenities and tropical drinks.

Top Must-Try Restaurants in Curaçao

From traditional local eateries to seaside gems, there's something for every palate. Here are the top must-try restaurants in Curaçao.

Old Market (Plasa Bieu)

Plasa Bieu's Old Market has regional merchants offering delicious foods like iguana soup, cactus stew, and kabes ku hijra (goat head and liver stew). It's a must-visit for traditional Curacao dishes.

Tip: For a budget-friendly dinner in Curacao style, Old Market is a great option. The outdoor dining area with picnic tables under a domed roof has a casual feel like a mess hall.

Rozendaels

Located by the Octagon Museum in a tropical garden, Rozendaels serves Caribbean & Curacao cuisine. Well-known in Willemstad for regional dishes like keshi yena, Galina di smor, and karni stoba.

Tip: For those with dietary needs, Rozendaels offers seafood, foreign dishes, and vegetarian options. Check out this dinner spot for a sophisticated atmosphere and local favourites.

BBQ Express

A popular food truck in the area is BBQ Express, serving pork chops, chicken, burgers, shellfish, and barbecued ribs. The mixed combination meal includes a bit of everything, sauces, and French fries.

Tip: BBQ Express in Willemstad is a top spot for late-night fuel. Open from night till early morning, it’s known for takeout. Outdoor diners can enjoy picnic tables by the food truck.

Komedor Krioyo

A trendy restaurant, Komedor Krioyo, is known for its lovely setting and Creole cuisine at Landhuis Dokterstuin. The 17th-century house has a yellow exterior, an outdoor dining area under a tin roof, and indoor seating with fans.

Tip: Komedor Krioyo is popular for regional specialities like piska kora (red snapper), kabritu soba (stewed goat), and banana soba (stewed banana with pork).

Photo by Ramon Kagie via Unsplash

Photo by Ramon Kagie via Unsplash

De Visserij Piscadera

Fresh fish at De Visserij Piscadera is delicious with fantastic views of the Southern Caribbean Sea. Not ideal for formal dinners, but still enjoy a welcoming and authentic Curacao eating experience there.

Tip: A bucket of prawns, red snapper, catch of the day, yellowfin or blackfin tuna in four ways at De Visserij Piscadera. No bookings, come early or late to avoid long waits for food.

Tabooshh! Curacao

In a pretty beach location, Tabooshh! is a family restaurant offering seafood and regional dishes. The chef's family has been cooking for generations, yet with a modern twist.

Tip: Fresh lobster is a must-try. Seating options include a covered dining room with white linen-covered tables or a terrace with views of ships and the bay.

Top Beaches in Curaçao

The best beach on the island depends on your vacation preferences. Some beaches are for swimming and others are for water sports.

Cas Abou Beach

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 22 km

Cas Abou Beach in Bandabou is popular with beach lovers. The turquoise sea & white sands are perfect for relaxation. Visitors enjoy sunbathing under palm trees or in palapas. Water sports like diving & snorkelling are available on-site.

Tip: Diving is one of the unique things to do in Çuraçao. Divers can explore marine life, including the unique frogfish. Best to arrive early due to the beach's popularity.

Photo by Aurelien Romain via Unsplash

Photo by Aurelien Romain via Unsplash

Playa Grandi (Playa Piscado)

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 36 km

Playa Grandi, or Playa Piscado, is great for marine activities. Westpunt Beach is perfect for snorkelling, diving, swimming, and sunbathing. Turtle sightings are common because of local fishermen.

Tip: Nature lovers can appreciate vibrant marine life at Playa Grandi, with colourful fish, pelicans, and diverse birds

Porto Marie

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 18 km

Porto Marie in Bandabou has inviting beaches and clear seas, perfect for swimming and water activities. Despite being popular, visitors are drawn to its stunning views and diving spots.

Tip: Tourists can dine at the beach restaurant and birdwatchers can observe the local bird species. Porto Marie offers a day of fun, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Playa Kenepa

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 33 km

Playa Kenepa, or Grote Knip, is a serene white sand beach offering solitude away from the city. Visitors love its beauty and peaceful atmosphere for swimming and snorkelling among colourful reefs.

Tip: It's recommended to bring supplies, but local sellers may have refreshments at times.

Playa Kalki

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 36 km

A secluded spot for snorkelling and diving, Playa Kalki belongs to Kura Hulanda Lodge. A vibrant coral reef lies beneath the small beach. Divers can explore the Alice in Wonderland reef from the dive shop's pier.

Tip: Snorkelers enjoy colorful fish and corals. Playa Kalki provides a remote underwater adventure away from crowds and distractions.

Photo by Lucas Swennen via Unsplash

Photo by Lucas Swennen via Unsplash

Mambo Beach

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 16 km

Mambo Beach has beautiful sands, blue waters, a music stage, eateries, and bars, offering fun and excitement for all ages.

Tip: Visitors can indulge in delicious food, rent beach chairs, and watch a dolphin show at the Seaquarium nearby.

Jan Thiel Beach

Distance to Curaçao International (CUR) Airport: 20 km

Located in the southeast of Curaçao, Jan Thiel Beach offers a European vibe with upscale resorts, elegant dining, and water sports.

Tip: Jan Thiel Beach is the pinnacle of coastal luxury, offering everything from live music and exquisite restaurants to beach sports and sunbathing.

Top Nightclubs in Curaçao

If you want to know what to do in Curacao at night, Curaçao boasts a diverse array of nightlife hotspots, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy every night of the week.

Netto Bar

The oldest bar, Netto Bar, in Curacao's Otrobanda district is famous for its Green Rum, a must-try for tourists, with a classic appeal. It offers a variety of drinks and promos, inviting customers to celebrate from day to night

Noir Cocktail Bar

One of Curaçao's popular cocktail spots, Noir Cocktail Bar, is conveniently next to Netto Bar. With a great selection of tropical drinks, this bar offers a unique drinking experience. Customers can also enjoy delicious meals with their drinks for a delightful gastronomic experience.

BAR P Curacao

With its welcoming environment and late-night hours, BAR P is a comfortable haven for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. This low-key club doesn't skimp on quality, serving up great music and delicious cocktails every night.

Ochenta Cocktail Bar

Ochenta Cocktail Bar welcomes guests with a wide range of classic and tropical drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. On the bar's small terrace, customers can relax and enjoy the cocktails expertly prepared by the bartenders.

BlackJack Curacao

With its blend of outdoor charm and indoor comfort, BlackJack Curacao offers a cool respite from the bustling nightlife. As a sports bar, it offers customers the opportunity to enjoy traditional food and drinks while keeping up with their favourite sporting events.

OBaAR Brazilian Lounge

OBaAR Brazilian Lounge adds a touch of culture to Curaçao's nightlife by transporting guests to the vibrant streets of Brazil. This club offers an immersive experience for everyone, complete with traditional food and drinks and live Brazilian music.

Getting from Curaçao International Airport to Willemstad

The main entry point is Curaçao International Airport (CUR) on Curaçao in the southern Caribbean Sea, 7.5 miles from Willemstad. The airport provides easy access to a sought-after Caribbean location.

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Bus from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad

Journey Time: 40 min

Key Point: The Konvooi bus provides transfers for tourists familiar with the island's transit system. Two routes, 4B to Otrobanda and 2A or 2C to Punda, connect areas in Willemstad and beyond.

Note: Using the Curaçao airport bus is cheap but not always practical. Gets crowded and hot, with long waits. May need extra transit from the city centre to accommodation.

Bus Fare from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad

The bus fare from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad is €1.

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Taxi From Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad

Journey Time: 20 minKey Point: Taking a taxi is also the most expensive option, especially at midnight when prices increase by 25%. Note: When comparing taxi costs from Curaçao Airport to Willemstad, it's higher than other options. A 20% surcharge applies for each extra passenger beyond the initial four.

Taxi Fare from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad

The taxi fare from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport to Willemstad is €30 excluding surcharges.

Curaçao Airport Transfers

Curaçao Airport Transfers

Private Transfers from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport

Looking for a stress-free and personalized ride from Curaçao Airport? AirportTransfer.com offers private transfers tailored to your needs and schedule. With convenient drop-off points at popular hotels and apartments in Curaçao, our services prioritize a smooth travel experience.

Travel with peace of mind! Benefit from 100% refundable bookings, flexible cancellation policies, English-speaking drivers, 24/7 customer support and affordable vehicle choices.

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Group Bus Transfers from Curaçao International (CUR) Airport

Tired of waiting for public transport at Curaçao International Airport? AirportTransfer.com provides reliable coach transfers, ensuring a stress-free journey for all passengers. With comfortable buses, friendly drivers, and swift service, forget about queuing and start enjoying your Caribbean adventure without delay.

Hotel Transfers at Curaçao International (CUR) Airport

Embarking on a Curaçao adventure? Whether you're staying at Hilton, Radisson Blu, Mövenpick, Olivemare, or other hotels, AirportTransfer.com offers dependable hotel transfers at Curaçao Airport for your accommodation. Compare prices, provide airport and hotel details, and let us find the ideal vehicle to ensure a seamless transition to your hotel.

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