I’ll always have a soft spot for Amsterdam, but when I want a taste of Dutch charm with a Caribbean twist, Curaçao is my go-to destination. This Dutch colony feels like a little slice of The Netherlands, but with crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine. The best part? It’s a much shorter journey from the U.S.
Curaçao’s iconic Amsterdam-style waterfront buildings don’t feel out of place at all. This island is where Dutch and Caribbean cultures blend together effortlessly. First visited by Europeans in 1499, it was initially settled by the Spanish before becoming a Dutch colony. The island’s history runs deep, and it’s even home to the oldest continuously inhabited Jewish community in the Western Hemisphere.
But beyond its rich past, Curaçao is famous for its stunning beaches, colorful colonial architecture, and incredibly friendly locals. If you’re planning a trip, here’s your ultimate Curaçao travel guide, complete with top destinations and must-know Curaçao travel tips.
Where to stay
You’ll encounter appealing resorts all along the coast as well as as boutique hotels and bohemian-chic guesthouses in Willemstad.
Best Caribbean hideaway: Baoase Luxury Resort
With a phrase like “luxury resort” in your title, Baoase sets high expectations when it comes to Caribbean decadence. Given the gorgeous grounds, private beach and a top-notch fusion restaurant, Baoase impresses even the most jaded of travelers. Whether you book a room, a suite, or a villa, you can expect ample space, a unique tropical-influenced design, and outstanding service. The resort’s lagoon is the perfect spot to unwind.
Best boutique hotel: BijBlauw
Perched over the seaside, the BijBlauw is a small, 11-room boutique hotel that hits all the right notes. Rooms range in size from “Cozy Small” to “Extraordinary Large,” and all are set with king-sized beds, stylish furnishings, and rain showers, while some boast private terraces with enviable Caribbean views. If you need more space, BijBlauw also rents out several fully equipped apartments. There’s a dip pool and an excellent open-sided restaurant with a partially open courtyard where you can enjoy mouthwatering seafood while watching the sunset.
Best penny pincher: Bed and Bike
One of the finest hostels in the Caribbean, Bed and Bike is set in a former parliament building in the vibrant Pietermaai district in Willemstad. The sunny terrace is a fine spot to start off the day, and you can hop on a bike for a spin around town. In 2019, Bed and Bike opened a second location out near the beach, and the swimming pool, games room, and balcony rooms add to the appeal.
Where to eat
You can’t talk about Curaçao travel tips without mentioning the island’s amazing cuisine. There’s plenty of variety in Curaçao’s dining scene. You’ll find good options in the neighborhood of Pietermaai in Willemstad, as well as resort restaurants, food shacks on the sands, and waterfront eateries on the tourist beaches.
Best cafe: Number Ten
Set on the lush grounds of the Landhuis Bloemhof cultural center, this charming café makes a great setting to start off your day — or to pop in for a relaxing lunch. Baristas whip up some of the best coffees on the island, and can munch on açaí bowls, mushroom toast, or seared tuna salad while listening to birdsong at the outdoor tables.
Best gastropub: Swinging Old Lady Brewery
Head over to the waterfront and check out Swinging Old Lady Brewery. For drinks, head over to The Taproom, which has over 100 seats as well as 8 different delightful beers to choose from. Cool off with the signature “Lap Dance Lager” or “Salsa Saison” while enjoying a view of the crystal clear water. If you’re hungry, the restaurant has innovative bar food for you to try out. From deluxe hot dogs to beer-battered fish and nachos, you’re sure to be happy with your meal here.
Best tapas: Kome
Located in the bustling Pietermaai District, this modern Caribbean restaurant features locally sourced cuisine and unique flavors. The restaurant is dedicated to sustainability, and it works directly with local farmers and uses eco-friendly products to reduce waste and ensure each meal is fresh. While it does have a full brunch, lunch, and dinner menu, Kome‘s tapas menu is unmatched. You can try a little bit of everything at Kome, from mushroom toast to crispy calamari and steamed pork dumplings — Kome has it all.
What to do
The Dutch Caribbean Island boasts over 35 beaches, and if you have a few days, you can bask on the best of them. At the top of the list Grote Knip, a picture-perfect stretch of snow white sand and turquoise blue water backed by a forested hillside.
Colonial lore
When you need a break from the sun and sea, spend some time exploring Willemstad’s Unesco-listed historic center. Apart from snapping photos of the cheerfully painted colonial facades, you can walk the pedestrianized brick lanes, browsing shops, cafes, and galleries. It’s also worth a trip to Alma Blou, one of the oldest and largest galleries in Willemstad. It’s set in a former plantation house Landuis Habaai on the outskirts of town.
Nature beckons
One of the best Curaçao travel tips is to become one with nature. The forested hillsides of Curaçao is a great place to get active. You can look for birds and other wildlife while hiking one of eight trails in Christoffel National Park. You’re unlikely to suffer altitude sickness climbing Christoffel Mountain, but at 1,240 feet, Curaçao’s highest point offers a sublime view across the island’s verdant expanse. Afterward, veer north to Shete Boka National Park and follow trails that hug the coastline. You’ll pass picturesque coves and walkways overlooking limestone cliffs pounded by the roaring surf.
