Curacao holidays

Popular holidays

Curacao holidays are a bit of an all-rounder – they’ve got the stock for scuba divers, history buffs and beach lovers.

Caribbean meets Dutch

Curacao takes a southern position in the Caribbean Sea, around forty miles north of the Venezuelan coast. Along with Aruba and Bonaire it makes up one third of the trio known as the ABC islands. The Netherlands ruled over these islands for more than three centuries, leaving them with a combination of Caribbean and Dutch influences. It’s most noticeable in Willemstad – the island’s capital and colonial old town – where buildings look as if they’ve been plucked from a canalside in Amsterdam, and given a tropical lick of paint.

Blessed by beaches

Curacao’s count of beaches stacks up to more than 35, delivering on plenty of options for fans of the sandy stuff. The shoreline that wraps around the island’s south coast is given special protection as part of the Curacao Underwater Marine Park. The sea’s at its clearest along this cut of coast, making it a hot spot for scuba divers and snorkellers. Meanwhile, out west, a collection of covers peppers the coastline – Playa Jeremi’s a great shout if you’d prefer something a little less well-trodden.

Capital sights

This coastal capital is well worth an entry on your holiday agenda. Be sure to check out the Queen Emma Bridge – or the Swinging Old Lady if you’re talking to the locals – which connects two quarters of the capital. It sweeps right across the water, allowing large boats and vessels entry to the sea. Across the bridge on the southwest side of the city, Otrobanda’s car-free streets come lined with colour-splashed street art and murals. Meanwhile, on the other side, Punda’s fitted with street-spilling cafés – they’re plotted in a perfect position for watching the world go by.

Popular hotels in Curacao

Facts about Curacao

Capital

Willemstad

Currency

Netherlands Antilles Guilder

(ANG)

Population

165,661

Language

Papiamento, Dutch, English

Time zone

GMT -4

Flight duration

9 hours 50 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What should I pack for Curacao?

For Curacao, pack light, summery clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. Bring multiple swimsuits, sun cream with high SPF, sunglasses, and a sun hat for beach activities. Include comfortable walking shoes for exploring, insect repellent, and a light sweater for air-conditioned spaces or evening breezes.

Where are the best places to shop in Curacao?

For shopping in Curacao, we recommend exploring the colourful Punda district in Willemstad. You'll find a mix of duty-free shops, local markets, and boutiques. The Rif Fort in Otrobanda offers upscale shopping with ocean views. Many resorts also have on-site shops for convenience.

What are the best beaches in Curacao?

Curacao features Cas Abao Beach with clear waters and coral reefs ideal for snorkelling, Playa Kenepa offering turquoise bays with calm swimming, and Mambo Beach with beachfront bars and water sports. Porto Mari Beach has underwater caves for diving, while Playa Lagun provides a sheltered cove popular with families.

Should I tip in Curacao?

Tipping is appreciated in Curacao, though not always expected. In restaurants, a service charge is often included, but if not, 10-15% is customary. For taxi drivers and tour guides, rounding up the fare or giving a small tip is common practice.

What's the nightlife like in Curacao?

Curacao offers a varied nightlife scene. You'll find lively bars and clubs in the Punda and Pietermaai districts of Willemstad. Many resorts host evening entertainment with live music and shows. For a local experience, try visiting some of the beach bars that often feature live bands and DJs.

Where can I try local food in Curacao?

To experience traditional Curacao cuisine, we recommend visiting local restaurants in Willemstad. Try dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and kabritu (stewed goat). The Old Market (Plasa Bieu) in Punda is great for authentic local food. Many resorts also offer themed nights featuring Curacaoan specialties.

Are there any local customs I should know about in Curacao?

When visiting Curacao, greeting people with a handshake is common, and it's polite to say "bon dia" when entering shops or restaurants. Dress codes are generally relaxed, but we recommend covering up when leaving the beach area. Asking for permission before taking photos of people is appreciated.

What travel adapter do I need for Curacao?

When visiting Curacao, you'll need a Type A or Type B adapter for your UK devices. Type A has two flat parallel pins, while Type B includes a third round grounding pin. We recommend bringing a multi-plug adapter if you have several devices to charge.