After spending 5 weeks on the island, these are the exact spots I’d recommend to my best friend. From the best beaches to hidden eats, here’s what not to miss in Curacao.
Sections
6
🛏️ Where to Stay in Curacao
🏖️ Best Beaches (and When to Go)
🍽️ What to Eat in Curacao
🚗 Easy Day Trips + Local Attractions
🛍️ Souvenirs + Local Markets
🧳 What to Pack for Curacao
🛏️ Where to Stay in Curacao
A breakdown of the best areas to stay in Curacao
Where To Stay In Curacao: The Best Areas Guide for 2025
This was our home base in Curacao—close to beaches, restaurants, and super family-friendly. I'd stay here again in a heartbeat.
Our Stay at This VRBO in Jan Thiel, Curaçao: Would We Book It Again?
A charming colonial building in the heart of Willemstad’s coolest neighborhood. Walkable, colorful, and full of character.
Piertermaai Boutique Hotel In Willemstad
One of the best accessible and kid-friendly hotels near Mambo Beach. Bonus: they partner with the Curacao Dolphin Academy.
Dolphin Suites & Wellness Center
A historic hotel with two private beaches and gorgeous views. Ideal if you want a relaxing resort vibe close to the action.
Curacao Avila Beach Hotel Willemstad
🏖️ Best Beaches (and When to Go)
A full-day boat excursion to a deserted island with stunning sand and turquoise water. Totally worth it.
Tanya's Recommendations for Klein Curacao Day Trip
Snorkeling + wild pigs? Yes please. One of the most unique beaches we visited.
Playa Portomari
Calm, clear water and great facilities. It’s a winner for families, and one of the most beautiful on the island.
Cas Abao Beach
Snorkel right off the shore and discover the sunken tugboat. Don’t miss the quirky beach bar while you're there.
Tugboat Beach | Home | Curaçao
We loved the area around the Sea Aquarium to swim with Dolphins and relax
Swim with Dolphins in Curacao | Family Fun at Sea Aquarium
🍽️ What to Eat in Curacao
Read my recommendations for restaurants and some of the best food to try on the island!
What to Eat in Curacao with the BEST Beach-Front Restaurants
A must-try local dish. Ask around for the best homemade version—we found one at Playa Forti and De Gouverneur Restaurants
Try Keshi Yenna (Stuffed Cheese) at Playa Forti
Sold roadside and made fresh to order. Perfect way to cool off after the beach.
Batido (Smoothie)
A local food hall with affordable, authentic island meals. Great way to taste Curacao on a budget.
OLD MARKET - PLASA BIEU, Willemstad - 2025 Reviews & Info
🚗 Easy Day Trips + Local Attractions
Swim with wild turtles on a private beach tour!
Swimming with Sea Turtles and Grote Knip Beach Tour
Get dusty and dirty on a fun ATV tour in Curacao!
Beach Hopping Curacao; UTV/Buggy All Inclusive Semi Private Tour
Safe and Easy underwater scooter tour of the reefs and marine life in Curacao
Aquafari Tour in Curaçao
Such a fun and memorable thing to do in Curacao - the photographer puts you at complete ease!
