Overview of Curaçao

Language: Dutch (official), Papiamentu, English, Spanish

Currency: Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), USD widely accepted

Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season)

Entry Requirements Valid passport; visa-exempt for many countries; ED card required online

Curaçao Weather

Discover Curaçao's delightful year-round weather! Enjoy a warm, sunny, and primarily dry tropical climate, with average temperatures consistently around 27-30°C (mid-80s °F).

Why Curaçao's Weather Shines:

Outside the Hurricane Belt: Enjoy greater peace of mind knowing Curaçao has a very low risk of hurricanes, making it a reliable destination throughout the year.

Abundant Sunshine: Perfect for beach days, diving, and island adventures.

Comfortable Warmth: Ideal temperatures for swimming and outdoor activities.

Refreshing Trade Winds: Constant breezes keep you comfortable.

Short & Mild Wet Season: Brief showers, typically from October to December and often at night, give way to sunny skies.

A Personal Tip on Water Temperature: If you love warm ocean swims, I found the water in November to be particularly inviting and even warmer than a February visit!

Curaçao International Airport (Hato – CUR) is the island’s main entry point, located just 12 km from the capital, Willemstad. With direct flights from North America, Europe, South America, and other Caribbean islands, getting to Curaçao is straightforward and stress-free.

By Cruise Ship:

Curaçao is a major port of call for Caribbean cruises. Ships dock at the Mega Pier Cruise Terminal, just steps away from historic Willemstad. Cruise passengers can easily explore the capital without a car or excursion.

Ground Transportation:

Airport to Willemstad: ~15–20 minutes by taxi

Taxi fare: ~$30 USD; no meters, but standard rates apply

Car rentals: Recommended for exploring beaches and remote sites; available at the airport

Ride-share apps: Not available; use local taxis or shuttles

Travel Tips

Water: Tap water is safe to drink, thanks to a modern desalination plant.

Internet: Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public areas.

Flights to Curaçao:

From North America:

American Airlines – Miami, Charlotte

JetBlue – New York (JFK)

Delta – Atlanta (seasonal)

Air Canada, WestJet – Toronto

From Europe:

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – Daily nonstop from Amsterdam

TUI Fly – Flights from Brussels and other European cities

From South/Central America:

Copa Airlines – via Panama City

Avianca – via Bogotá

Surinam Airways – regional connections

From the Caribbean:

InterCaribbean Airways and Divi Divi Air offer connections from Aruba, Bonaire, and other islands

Visa & Entry Requirements

Curaçao has visa-free access for most travelers, including:

United States, Canada, European Union, United Kingdom, Australia & New Zealand, Several Caribbean and Latin American countries.

Required Documents for Entry:

A valid passport (must be valid for the duration of your stay)

Proof of return or onward travel

Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay

Hotel or accommodation address

Mandatory Digital Immigration Card:
All travelers must complete the Digital Immigration Card (ED Card) before arrival. It’s quick and free to fill out online:
https://edcardcuracao.com

Visa Duration:
Tourists can typically stay up to 90 days. For longer stays, consult the local consulate or immigration office.

Tip: Print or screenshot your completed ED card confirmation in case of spotty Wi-Fi upon arrival.

Curaçao Itineraries

Top Things To Do in Curaçao

Wander Through Willemstad

Explore the UNESCO-listed capital with its two districts—Punda and Otrobanda—connected by the Queen Emma Floating Bridge.

Don't miss:

Handelskade waterfront for iconic pastel architecture

Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest in the Western Hemisphere

Floating Market, where vendors from Venezuela sell fresh produce and fish

Dive or Snorkel World-Class Reefs

Curaçao is a diver’s paradise:

Tugboat Beach: A sunken tugboat surrounded by vibrant coral and tropical fish

Blue Room Cave: A glowing underwater cave accessible by snorkeling

Mushroom Forest: Famous for its unique coral formations

Visit Klein Curaçao

This uninhabited island is just a 2-hour boat ride away. Activities include:

Swimming in crystal-clear waters

Exploring a shipwreck and historic lighthouse

Enjoying a beach BBQ with tour operators like Mermaid Boat Trips

Shete Boka National Park

A rugged coastline park with dramatic sea cliffs and blowholes. Highlights include:

Boka Tabla: A sea cave where waves crash dramatically

Boka Pistol: A natural blowhole spraying water into the sky

Enjoy Curaçao’s Beaches

Each beach has its own vibe:

  • Playa Kenepa Grandi: Stunning, photogenic with turquoise water

  • Cas Abao: Great for families and snorkeling

  • Playa Porto Mari: Dual reefs, ideal for diving

Where to Stay in Curaçao

Main Areas to Know:

  • Willemstad (Punda & Otrobanda): The colorful UNESCO capital, split by a bay, offering historic Dutch architecture, shopping, dining, and the iconic Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge.

  • Pietermaai District (Willemstad): A trendy, historic area known for boutique hotels, excellent restaurants, and vibrant nightlife in restored mansions.

  • Jan Thiel: An upscale southeastern area with popular beaches, lively beach clubs, resorts, and a polished, active vibe.

  • Mambo Beach Boulevard (Sea Aquarium Beach): A bustling family-friendly beach area east of Willemstad with shops, restaurants, bars, and the Sea Aquarium.

  • Westpunt (Banda Abou): The rugged, natural northwestern side, home to Curaçao's most stunning secluded beaches, national parks, and prime diving/snorkeling spots.

  • Piscadera Bay: A resort area west of Willemstad with upscale hotels, private beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere.

  • Sint Willibrordus (Williwood): A small village en route to Westpunt, notable for flamingo sightings and access to beautiful natural beaches.

Luxury Stays

Baoase Luxury Resort
A secluded, Balinese-inspired oasis with private villas, gourmet dining, and a romantic beach—perfect for honeymoons or high-end retreats.

Avila Beach Hotel
One of the island’s oldest hotels, combining colonial architecture with modern luxury. Oceanfront restaurants and live jazz add to its charm.

Sandals Royal Curaçao
Escape to an adults-only, all-inclusive paradise offering the show-stopping double infinity pool, luxury dining, unique food trucks, and dream-worthy romantic suites.

Mid-Range Picks

Scuba Lodge Boutique Hotel Located in the artsy Pietermaai District, this colorful hotel is ideal for divers and urban explorers. Oceanfront pool and dive shop on-site.

The Ritz Village Hotel
Set in a restored ice cream factory, this quirky yet affordable hotel features bright rooms and a central location.

Budget-Friendly Options

Airbnb Stays: Plenty of budget apartments and studios inWillemstad.

Where to Eat in Curaçao

Local Dishes

Keshi Yena: A flavorful dish of spiced chicken or beef encased in melted Dutch cheese.

Funchi & Tutu: Cornmeal-based sides often served with local stews.

Stoba: A hearty stew made with goat or beef and root vegetables.

Pastechi: Turnover-style pastries filled with cheese, meat, or fish.

Fine Dining Restaurants

The Wine Cellar
A culinary institution offering fine French and international cuisine with impeccable service and a robust wine list. Best for a special night out.

BijBlauw
Stylish cliffside dining in Pietermaai with a seasonal menu and fresh local ingredients. The ambiance is unbeatable at sunset.

Fort Nassau
Situated in a restored fort with panoramic views over Willemstad. Offers elevated Caribbean-European fusion cuisine and craft cocktails.

Kome
A creative and contemporary restaurant blending Caribbean, Latin, and Asian flavors. Known for its tasting menu and innovative desserts.