Dry Season
From December to April, this season offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
Travel guide
Curaçao
Curaçao, a vibrant Caribbean island, offers stunning beaches, rich culture, and diverse activities beyond its capital, Willemstad. Explore its colorful architecture, natural wonders, and local cuisine.
Mtmelendez · CC BY-SA 3.0- Best MonthsDecember to April
- AirportsCuraçao International Airport (CUR)
- TransitBuses and taxis available
- Power127V, type A and B plugs
- Tipping10-15% customary
- LanguageDutch, Papiamento, English
01
When to go
The best time to visit Curaçao is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
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Best monthsHot monthsCooler months
Wet Season
From May to November, expect more rain but also fewer tourists.
Hurricane Season
From June to November, while Curaçao is outside the hurricane belt, it's wise to stay informed.
02
Where to stay
Pick the neighbourhood by how you want the day to start and end, not by distance to one museum.
Cultural Hub
Willemstad
The capital city known for its historic architecture and lively atmosphere.
Busy with tourists, but full of charm.
Beach Life
Jan Thiel
A popular beach area with resorts, restaurants, and water sports.
Great for relaxation and activities.
Secluded
Westpunt
A quieter area known for its beautiful beaches and diving spots.
Less crowded, perfect for peace.
Local Culture
Otrobanda
Home to colorful buildings and a vibrant local scene.
Experience authentic Curaçaoan life.
Adventure
Klein Curaçao
A small uninhabited island ideal for day trips and snorkeling.
Accessible by boat tours.
Nature
Banda Abou
Known for its natural beauty and less commercialized beaches.
Explore the island's wild side.
Luxury
Santa Barbara
A luxurious area with a golf course and upscale amenities.
Perfect for a pampered stay.
Beach
Playa Lagun
A picturesque beach with excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Ideal for marine life enthusiasts.
03
What to eat
Everyday food, eaten the way locals do. Look for a busy place rather than a ranked list.
Keshi Yena
A traditional dish made with cheese and stuffed with meat, often found in local eateries.
→ A must-try local delicacy.
Sopi di Piska
Fish soup that showcases local flavors, available at many beachside shacks.
→ Enjoy it fresh by the sea.
Funchi
Cornmeal dish served with various stews, commonly found at local restaurants.
→ Perfect as a side dish.
Stobá
A hearty meat stew, often enjoyed at family gatherings.
→ Try it at local homes.
Pastechi
Savory pastries filled with cheese or meat, popular as snacks.
→ Grab one from street vendors.
Bolo di Piská
Fish cake that is a local favorite, often available at markets.
→ Great for a quick bite.
Tutu
A dish made from black-eyed peas and served with rice, found in traditional restaurants.
→ A comforting local staple.
04
What to see
An order that works on foot, with the trip out of the first city at the end.
Queen Emma Bridge
A floating bridge connecting Punda and Otrobanda, a must-see landmark.
Christoffel National Park
The largest national park in Curaçao, home to diverse wildlife and hiking trails.
Shete Boka National Park
Famous for its rugged coastline and blowholes, offering stunning views.
Hato Caves
A fascinating cave system with stalactites and stalagmites, rich in history.
Klein Curaçao
A small island known for its pristine beaches and snorkeling opportunities.
Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
The oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas, located in Willemstad.
Floating Market
A vibrant market where vendors sell fresh produce from boats.
Landhuis Chobolobo
The home of the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, offering tours and tastings.
Playa Kenepa
A stunning beach known for its turquoise waters and scenic views.
Curacao Sea Aquarium
An interactive aquarium showcasing marine life native to the Caribbean.
Punda and Otrobanda
Explore the colorful streets and historic buildings of these neighborhoods.
Fort Amsterdam
A historic fort that offers insights into the island's colonial past.
05
Getting around
Airport to city, across the city, and onward to the next region.
Curaçao International Airport
The main gateway to the island, offering numerous international flights.
CURCuraçao International Airport
Local Buses
An affordable way to travel around the island, connecting major areas.
Taxis
Readily available, but negotiate fares before getting in.
Car Rentals
A convenient option for exploring at your own pace.
Bicycle Rentals
A fun way to explore the coastal areas and enjoy the scenery.
06
Practical notes
Plugs
Curaçao uses type A and B plugs, with a standard voltage of 127V.
Cash
The local currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder, but US dollars are widely accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is customary, generally around 10-15% in restaurants.
Language
The official languages are Dutch, Papiamento, and English.
Data
A travel eSIM covers maps and tickets after landing.
Trip Duration
A stay of 5 to 7 days is recommended to explore the island fully.