Why Go to Curacao
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Curacao is the C in the ABC islands, alongside Aruba and Bonaire, and it might be the most colorful of the three. Its capital, Willemstad, looks like a slice of old Amsterdam dropped into the Caribbean, with pastel Dutch colonial buildings in pink, yellow and blue reflected in the waters of St. Anna Bay. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the swinging Queen Emma pontoon bridge is a fun way to cross between neighborhoods.
Leave the city and the landscape turns rugged and dry, with aloe, cactus and weathered limestone cliffs. But the beaches are the real draw. Dozens of small bays and coves ring the island, with calm turquoise water and soft white sand. The reefs are full of life, making Curacao a fantastic destination for snorkeling and diving, including spots where you can swim with sea turtles. Best of all, the island sits south of the main hurricane belt, and steady trade winds keep temperatures in the mid-80s all year.
Curacao is also a popular southern Caribbean cruise stop. I'll match you with the right resort and beach and plan your snorkel and island tours.
BEST FOR
Snorkelers, couples, culture seekers and beach travelers
BEST MONTHS
Year-round, with the best weather from January to June
EXPLORE
Punda and Otrobanda face each other across Sint Anna Bay in Willemstad; Pietermaai offers dining and boutique stays; Westpunt is a gateway to quieter coves and snorkeling spots.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Curacao
North America › Southern Caribbean › Curacao
Rainbow-colored Willemstad, hidden coves and world-class snorkeling in the Dutch Caribbean.
Beach & Resort
Caribbean
Architecture
Diving
Culture
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Drive out to the western beaches in the morning when they're calm and quiet, then spend the evening in Willemstad as the waterfront lights up.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Explore Punda and Otrobanda on foot, crossing the harbor by the floating bridge or free ferry.
Willemstad Historic District
Willemstad's UNESCO-listed historic center is full of colorful Dutch colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, cafés and boutiques on both sides of Sint Anna Bay.
Wait for the bridge to swing open; it's one of the island's most memorable sights.
Queen Emma Bridge
This famous floating pontoon bridge swings open to let ships pass, connecting Punda and Otrobanda across the harbor.
Photograph it from the Otrobanda side at sunset for the best light.
Handelskade
Willemstad's iconic waterfront row of pastel buildings is one of the most photographed views in the Caribbean.
Arrive early on weekends, when locals flock here and parking fills up fast.
Playa Kenepa Grandi
A gorgeous cove on the west end with white sand, turquoise water and cliffs. It's one of the island's most beautiful beaches.
Start the summit hike early in the morning; access is limited in the afternoon heat.
Christoffel National Park
Curaçao's largest park is home to Mount Christoffel, the island's highest point, with hiking trails, wildlife and sweeping views.
An exclusive luxury resort with villas, a private beach and serene design, just outside Willemstad.
Baoase Luxury Resort
Willemstad / Pietermaai outskirts
Boutique · Beach
A historic seaside hotel near Pietermaai with a private beach and easy access to Willemstad's dining scene.
Avila Beach Hotel
Pietermaai / Willemstad
Boutique · City · Beach
A full-service beach resort on Piscadera Bay with pools, a casino and easy access to Willemstad.
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort
Piscadera Bay
Beach · Family
A waterfront resort in Otrobanda with an infinity pool and a private beach, steps from the historic center.
Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort
Otrobanda / Willemstad
City · Beach
A modern resort near Willemstad set beside a mangrove park, with beach access and an easy walk to town.
Corendon Mangrove Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton
Otrobanda / Mangrove Beach
City · Beach
An adults-only all-inclusive for couples with overwater bungalows and an infinity pool on the island's southeast coast.
Sandals Royal Curaçao
Santa Barbara / Spanish Water
All-Inclusive · Adults-Only · Beach
An all-inclusive beach resort near Willemstad with a kids' club and plenty of dining choices.
Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino
Piscadera Bay
All-Inclusive · Family · Beach
A family-friendly all-inclusive with a water park, several pools and a free kids' club, centrally placed for exploring the island.
Kunuku Resort All Inclusive Curaçao, Trademark by Wyndham
Daniel / central Curaçao
All-Inclusive · Family · Value
A relaxed dive-focused resort on Mambo Beach, close to the Sea Aquarium and Willemstad's nightlife.
Lions Dive & Beach Resort
Mambo Beach
Value · Beach
A modern beach hotel at Jan Thiel with a lively beach club scene and easy access to the southeast coast.
Papagayo Beach Hotel
Jan Thiel
Beach
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Curacao
High 88°F · Low 79°F · Rain 3.7 in
Cooler breezes arrive, and the island prepares for the busy holiday season.
Curaçao is a year-round destination, with warm weather and sunshine most days. Peak season runs from December through April, with the driest and breeziest days. Summer and fall bring great deals, and because the island sits outside the main hurricane belt, storms are rare.
Best Times to Visit Curacao
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Curaçao's food reflects its blend of Dutch, Caribbean, African and Latin influences. Hearty stews, fresh seafood and Dutch snacks are everywhere.
- Local favorite: Visit Plasa Bieuw (the Old Market) in Punda for traditional local dishes served family-style.
- Pietermaai: This trendy district is full of restaurants and bars in restored colonial buildings.
- Must-try: Keshi yena, stewed goat (kabritu stoba), fresh fish and a Blue Curaçao cocktail.
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Walking
Willemstad's historic center is compact and easy to explore on foot, with a free ferry when the bridge is open.
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Public Buses
Local buses connect Willemstad with outlying areas, but service is limited for visitors.
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Taxis
Taxis are widely available but can be expensive. Agree on the fare before you go.
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Rental Cars
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island's beaches and parks, especially on the west end.
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Cruise Port
Ships dock at the Mega Pier in Otrobanda, steps from the floating bridge and the historic center.
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Flying In
Curaçao International Airport (CUR) is about 20 minutes from Willemstad, with nonstop flights from several U.S. cities.
Most visitors fly into Curaçao International Airport, about 20 minutes from Willemstad. A rental car is the best way to explore the beaches and national parks, while Willemstad itself is perfect for exploring on foot.
Getting Around Curaçao