Curacao is an island that welcomes tourists, but it never seems “touristy”. There are many things to do, but the island is big enough that it’s easy to disconnect. Also, if you end up feeling somehow “tired” of relaxing in the sun with cocktails, there are many ways to get your body moving, from mountain biking to hiking.
Curaçao, like Aruba, is an island near South America which offers a variety of surfing beaches ranging from placid to wild and sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, beach bars and great water and diving sports.
If you love the ocean, plan to stay at or near the Sea Beach Aquarium, where you can easily access diving excursions as well as animal encounters and marine exhibits in the aquarium. Willemstad is a picturesque walking town, rich in history, shopping and with a vibrant culture. The northwestern tip of the island is less developed, offering outdoor activities such as ATV tours along the rugged coastline and mountain climbing.
Jan Thiel Beach is probably the best known (and most developed) beach in Curacao, protected and excellent for children. Beach Aquarium (or Seaquarium) Beach and adjacent Mambo Beach are the party area, surrounded by nightclubs, shops, beach bars and water sports vendors – plus outdoor massage shops
The northeast coast of Curacao is dotted with small beaches, many with a neighborhood feel. Kalki Beach is known for its diving, while locals go to Knip Beach and Little Knip Beach.
Kenepa Beach, also known as Knip Beach, is partially shaded by Manchego trees and has a cliff viewpoint, great for photos. Cliff jumping is also an option here, but there are no lifeguards. You can snorkel on the beach or swim in the reef. There is a snack bar and a small bathroom on site.
Playa Forti is a genuine postcard beach, with fishing boats and a panorama of the western tip of the island. Here you will find smooth pebbles along the coast and several snack bars. The Playa Forti restaurant, which serves Creole food and burgers, is built on the ruins of an old English fort. The luxurious Lodge Kura Hulanda Resort is close by.
The longest and whitest beach in Curacao is located on Klein Curacao, a small uninhabited island eight miles off the southeast coast. Dive operators and boaters such as Mermaid Boat Trips and Miss Ann take travelers there for beach parties and fantastic diving in coral caves.
When it comes to accommodation, from the European relaxation of the Lions Dive Resort to the urban luxury of the Kura Hulanda Hotel, Curacao offers a wide variety of hotels and resorts. All-inclusive enthusiasts will love Breezes resort, while Papagayo Beach Resort caters to those who prefer a residential setting where they can arrange their own meals. The exclusive Kura Hulanda Lodge also offers all-inclusive packages, while Willemstad’s Hilton and Renaissance resorts offer a full-service hotel, including casinos.
Regarding restaurants, dinner in Curacao is a culinary adventure: Dutch influences are found in dishes such as bitterballen (spicy meatballs) and a penchant for rijsttafel, a kind of buffet that is served in Asian restaurants such as Jaipur and Bali. Jaanchie’s in Westpunt is a must for seafood prepared with traditional Curacao recipes and ingredients, including iguana. Some of Curacao’s old landhuis (plantation houses) have been converted into quality restaurants, which can also be found in Willemstad at the Kura Hulanda Hotel, for example.
Regarding the island´s culture and history, the island’s various cultural influences include a Jewish population that settled on the island in the mid-17th century and the unique music and language developed by African slaves on the island. Ancient “tambu” music has been passed down among Curacao´s people from generation to generation, and the local Creole language, Papiamento, has been spoken here for over 300 years.
Regarding events and festivals, Carnival is the highlight of the cultural calendar on the island, but it is not the only one. In addition to events focused on diving, boating and other maritime activities, Curacao has numerous food festivals and sporting events, including an annual marathon, drag races and even a bridge competition.
Also, Willemstad has luxury nightclubs and casinos, many of which are located in hotels and resorts. Check out Salinja neighborhood for the best variety. Also, party boats like Mi Dushii are great for dancing and drinking outdoors.
