We stumbled upon Curaçao on a whim, and it quickly became one of our most cherished Caribbean discoveries. It’s a destination unlike any other, boasting a vibrant capital city, water so brilliantly blue it seems unreal, and a surprising number of iguanas roaming freely.
Planning a last-minute escape to Curaçao? It’s a popular island, and accommodations fill up quickly, so securing your bookings as soon as possible is crucial.
Our adventure began with a simple desire: to reach Barbados for a Star Clippers cruise in December, ideally flying KLM business class and adding to our collection of KLM houses. Curaçao was a KLM destination – a perfect, spontaneous solution!
We weren’t entirely unprepared. Friends had raved about Curaçao’s beauty, and I knew it was renowned for its photogenic architecture and crystal-clear waters. The island promised a visual feast.
Arriving in Curaçao felt like finding a place uniquely suited to our tastes. It’s an island effortlessly explored independently, brimming with quirky charm and unexpected delights. Imagine landscapes dotted with cacti, ancient iguanas, and cliffs overlooking water of the most astonishing turquoise.
Curaçao is a small island nestled off the coast of Venezuela, a jewel in the southern Caribbean. It’s the largest of the ABC islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao – and a place where Dutch and Caribbean cultures beautifully intertwine.
Technically, Curaçao is a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside Aruba, Bonaire, and others. It’s a unique arrangement, similar to Scotland or Wales within the United Kingdom, yet proudly competes internationally under its own flag – a nation that even qualified for the World Cup in 2025!
English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamento are all spoken in Curaçao, making communication easy. While part of the European influence, the island uses the Caribbean Guilder, though US dollars are widely accepted. Be prepared for potential power outages, where cash becomes king.
What truly sets Curaçao apart is its ease of independent exploration. Its manageable size and well-maintained roads make renting a car a fantastic idea. Driving from Willemstad to the western beaches takes around 50 minutes – a reasonable distance for endless discovery.
After exploring numerous Caribbean islands, I can confidently say Curaçao stands out as one of the best for self-guided adventures. Forget the stressful roads of St. Lucia or the chaotic traffic of Barbados; Curaçao offers a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience.
Beyond its accessibility, Curaçao feels perfectly balanced. It offers hotels and resorts without being overwhelmed by them, preserving the charm of local life. Driving through rural areas reveals colorful homes and a genuine sense of community.
The water in Curaçao is simply breathtaking. It’s the source of the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, and the reality lives up to the hype. From the turquoise depths of Playa Lagun to the aquamarine shallows of Blue Bay, every swimming spot is a visual masterpiece.
Willemstad, the capital, is a city that captivates. Its colorful architecture, vibrant murals, and charming restaurants create an atmosphere unlike any other Caribbean city. It’s a safe and walkable city, perfect for losing yourself in its beauty.
Don’t miss the Queen Emma Bridge, a unique pedestrian bridge that swings open to allow ships to pass. It’s a delightful sight to witness, and a quintessential Willemstad experience.
Thursday nights in Willemstad are electric. “Punda Vibes” transforms the Punda neighborhood into a lively celebration of music and energy. Cascada Rooftop Bar offers a prime viewing spot for the spectacular fireworks display.
For a truly relaxing escape, consider a day trip to Klein Curaçao, a smaller island off the coast. Boat trips offer pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling, and a chance to disconnect from the world. Mermaid Boat Trips provided an exceptional experience, with comfortable amenities and delicious food.
Curaçao’s famous liqueur, Blue Curaçao, has a fascinating history. Originally intended to cultivate Valencia oranges, the island’s climate produced bitter fruit. But the peels proved perfect for distilling, leading to the creation of this iconic liqueur – and a rainbow of other flavors!
For a taste of luxury, Mondi City Beach Club offers a blissful escape. We enjoyed a day of relaxation, delicious food, and a rejuvenating massage, all within walking distance of Willemstad.
Iguanas are a constant, delightful presence in Curaçao. These fascinating creatures roam freely, adding a touch of wildness to the landscape. Bahia Restaurant, overlooking Playa Lagun, is a particularly good spot for iguana sightings.
Curaçao offers a diverse culinary scene. Van Gogh Specialty Coffee is perfect for breakfast, House of Stroop satisfies your Dutch pastry cravings, and Plasa Bieu provides a taste of authentic local cuisine.
Reaching Curaçao is surprisingly easy, with direct flights from numerous North American and European cities. It’s a convenient destination for travelers seeking a Caribbean escape.
Curaçao is a destination that exceeded all expectations. It’s a place I wholeheartedly recommend to adventurous travelers seeking beauty, independence, and a truly unique Caribbean experience. It’s a place I’ll undoubtedly return to.
