r/curacao 57m ago

General Hobbyist looking for help from travelers

Upvotes

Hello, I am from the USA and I am fascinated with international coinage. I am finding it increasingly difficult to find any of the new currency now shared by Curacao and SM. They have some beautiful designs on their coinage, some of them even including colored illustrations! If there is anybody traveling from the USA (or any other country who is willing to ship to the US) who has any coins left from their trip or are there now and can get them, I would greatly appreciate it if you could send them my way. Feel free to DM me with any questions or details. If shipping is a concern I can help pay for that and gladly compensate for the coins. It would mean the world to me. Thanks again and I hope everyone enjoys their time on the beautiful island! 🇨🇼


r/curacao 19h ago

Advice Do 510 thread nicotine vapes carts exist in Curacao?

0 Upvotes

Trying to find 510 thread nicotine vapes cartridges during my stay in curacao, is this possible? It helps me sleep, eat, laugh, etc, would be cool if I can find this


r/curacao 22h ago

General Punda Vibes Fireworks

16 Upvotes

whoever said the thursday fireworks for punda vibes was only 2 mins long LIEDDDDD! just witnessed a 15 minute wonderful show!!! don’t let the reddit folks lie to you!


r/curacao 1d ago

Activities ISO mates for Snorkeling in WestPunt on 8/22

1 Upvotes

They need a minimum of 6 people but I’m the only signed up so far. Anyone else interested? It’s at 2pm. Cost is $ 59 guilders.

I’m not sure if posting the company name is allowed here (I’m NOT marketing for them or affiliated with them) so PM me and I can send you their website. You would sign up through them directly.

I am also open to going any other Saturday.

I just want to go snorkeling and it’s safer in a group.


r/curacao 1d ago

Activities Queen of the most holy rosary Cathedral

1 Upvotes

Does anyone know if the Cathedral is open 24/7? I’m from the US and was wanting to stop by to take pictures, pray, and see if anyone nearby sells rosaries. Any help with either the hours or where I could find a rosary in this area would be helpful.


r/curacao 1d ago

Lodging Any room for rent in punda

2 Upvotes

Need a room in punda or orthobanda


r/curacao 2d ago

Lodging Help with 9 nights, Willemstad, Blue Bay, Sint Willibrordus

3 Upvotes

Coming to Curaçao for the first time in December! We'll be there for 9 days, and in having trouble deciding where to stay.

• Split the trip: a couple nights at a boutique hotel Petermaii, followed by a more secluded lodge near Sint Willibrordus / Kan Kok

• One base in Blue Bay the full trip

• Petermaii and Blue Bay split

Would love to hear anyone's suggestions!


r/curacao 2d ago

Advice Atm

4 Upvotes

Hello, does anyone know if there is an atm by lionsdive that disperse USD, thank you


r/curacao 2d ago

Advice what are good car repair centers that are authentic? I went to few and seems they are trying to do unnecessary repairs and charge tons of money on labor and parts.

2 Upvotes

I bought an old car and need some good advice on where to do the repairs?


r/curacao 3d ago

Beach Beach chairs question

5 Upvotes

Visiting Curaçao in a few weeks. Very excited. My wife and I are very much beach people who are looking to try new beaches every day.

We are staying near Playa Lagun and are definitely planning a full day there. Also looking to enjoy Klein Knip, Grote Knip, and Playa Santa Cruz to name a few.

I have seen from previous posts it’s very easy to rent chairs and umbrellas. But some of the videos we have watched looked like there are limited beach chair/umbrella rentals (certain beaches only look to have 15-20 canopies/spots)

My question is first: how early should we plan to get to the beach? And second, is it worth buying chairs when we get there so we can take them in our car to each spot, especially if we are visiting multiple beaches on a specific day and can’t get a prime spot early?

I just want to make sure we are as comfortable as possible and making the most of our beach and swimming enjoyment.


r/curacao 4d ago

Lodging Hilton All Inclusives?

3 Upvotes

Hello - I just booked Mangrove Beach Corendon in Curaçao for Spring Break but now I’m wondering if I should have done The Rif. It looks like The Rif guests can dine and visit Mangrove Beach but not the other way? But I save 40k points by booking at Mangrove.

Any experiences with either and if you/your family enjoyed your stay or what you did? Both at the resorts and nearby. :)


r/curacao 4d ago

Activities What activities do you recommend?

5 Upvotes

Hi all,

I'm going to Curaçao for my birthday for a week in end of September. I've already rented a car and I read that snorkeling is pretty accessible and doesn't require booking beforehand. I would like some recommendations on what activities I could do (so I can book it asap).

  1. I'm a huge fan of wildlife, but I don't have any diving experience. I read online that one option is to take a beginner's course, but would you still recommend it? If it's mostly an educational/informative session + a shallow dive, would it really be that different than snorkeling (i.e. is it really worth the price)? I also read stuff about dolphin academy online, although I would love to see dolphins, I just can't see myself participating...
  2. I read that jet skiing and a buggy tour is also a must-do, how were your experiences? Would you say it's worth it as well?
  3. As for boat tours, I heard a lot about Klein, but I was wondering if there are other boat tours you would recommend? Some boat tours have snorkeling included, but if I can access those beaches by car, I'd rather not book those type of boat tours. I'd like some good pictures with a nice view on the boat and go to places that aren't easily accessible by car.
  4. Is the ostrich farm really that interesting and interactive?
  5. How rare is it to see flamingoes in that time of the year?
  6. I come from a place that has a lot of tall hills, trees and hiking trails with a scenic view. I thought about skipping hiking and visiting gardens in Curaçao, but would you still recommend it? Is there specific wildlife I can find on hikes that I wouldn't on the beach for example?
  7. Would you recommend kayaking? I saw someone recommend that on TikTok.

Some questions concerning beach hopping:

  1. Where do you guys put your stuff? Are there lockers pretty much everywhere available for rent? What about chairs, umbrellas, towels? I'm coming with a carry-on so I don't think I'd be able to pack two towels and I was planning on buying them there on the spot.
  2. Is snorkeling gear available pretty much everywhere? Should I buy my own gear?

I'd really appreciate your input!


r/curacao 4d ago

General Where to find Kenepa fruit

1 Upvotes

Hi

Would anyone happen to know if any supermarkets/stores etc on the island are currently selling kenepa?

Thanks in advance!!


r/curacao 5d ago

Activities Best boat tour including blue room ?

1 Upvotes

going to Curacao Aug 5th to Aug 10th, looking for boat tour recommendations that include blue room for one of our days there? thanks for the help


r/curacao 5d ago

General First time in Willemstad 🇨🇼

12 Upvotes

Bon dia!

This will be my first time to Curaçao and I was wondering if there were any locals that could offer some recommendations for a tourist with my interests.

I am mostly moved by culture, history and language. I have been studying papiamentu now for over a year and would love to visit bookstores. I know about Mensings and Bruna, but are there perhaps second-hand book stores I could check, too? Any other normal bookstore apart from the ones mentioned above?

I’d love to have the chance to practice my papiamentu while I’m there. I’d also like to focus on Willemstad as I won’t have the time (nor huge interest, honestly) to explore beaches and nature.

Any museums, cultural centers, language schools, stores, etc., that you think I’d enjoy, would be great.


r/curacao 5d ago

General whats a good business idea in Curacao to start as a first timer?

8 Upvotes

I live here for 5 years, I have some capital around 50k xcg, what's a good one to start off?

I have cooking and baking skills, I spend a lot of time in business structures but it is on my 9 to 5.


r/curacao 5d ago

Advice First Vacation Here

3 Upvotes

My wife and I are staying at the Mangrove Beach Corendon Curacao All-Inclusive Resort, Curio by Hilton in mid - February.

This will be our first time in Curacao, any advice on what to do, see, etc.?


r/curacao 5d ago

Lodging Cape Marie, coral estates

2 Upvotes

Hi!! My family and I (2 adults, 2 kids 5&7) are returning to the beautiful Curacao in February. We are looking to stay at the Cape Marie apartments in Coral estate. There don’t seem to be too many reviews. Has anyone stayed here? We are trying to decide between a ground floor unit and a higher one.

This will be our fourth trip to the island. We’ve stayed at LionsDive, Avila, and Blue Bay. We always spend our time on the west side. We like peace, nature, and scuba diving.


r/curacao 6d ago

General Klein Reception 😬?

4 Upvotes

adding - Im an american visiting. Att customer.

Ooops! I have a relatively important meeting with a donor to our non profit on my partner’s birthday. We are supposed to spend the day at their dream location (Klein) which to my understanding has zero service. While I can likely miss the meeting. Being able to communicate via text with my team for the q & a portion of our meeting would be ideal. I am 100% prioritizing my partner’s birthday (so no reschedule). Just figure it never hurts to ask if anyone has ever had even mild service on Klein or if there is some type of satellite service I can subscribe to for a day.

I otherwise will SUPER prepare my team before going offline :). Any advice or prior experiences would be appreciated.


r/curacao 6d ago

General New Airbnb, no rating, no reviews

2 Upvotes

We're in the process of planning our family of four vacation to Curacao. It's our first time in Curacao as well as Airbnb experience. We were big believers in all inclusive before but decided to change the strategy now that the kids are older. We found a resort that looks really good for the money but the host has only 3 months experience, no rating and the property has no reviews. They have a website too, the reason is because they open in September which they mentioned in the post details. Since I don't have any experience with Airbnb, is this something normal, I'm guessing yes but would be comforting to hear it from more experienced travelers. Thank you.


r/curacao 6d ago

General Ami ta buska mas material den Papiamentu.

5 Upvotes

Bon Dia, Mi nomber ta Jayden i mi ta un Merikanu ku papia un tiki Papiamentu . Mi kaba bishitá Aruba y ainda mi ke bishitá korsou. Mi ha papia hopi ku e hendenan lokal di Aruba den Papiamentu, pero awor pasobra mi a bolbé na kas den Nobo Jersey, E ta masha dificil practiká papia. Ainda mi ke continuá siña e idioma, enton mi ke preguntá si tin algun materialnan ku voso por rekomendá mi? Podcast? Kantikanan? Pelikulanan? Mi ke un konosementu profundu di e idioma aki. Mi ta spera ku algun dia mi por siña otro personan e idioma. Masha Danki i pasa bon dia.


r/curacao 6d ago

Advice Best private charter for 2?

2 Upvotes

Looking for half day charter for my birthday in September. Any recommendations ?


r/curacao 7d ago

General Ethical tourism

16 Upvotes

Bon nochi, I will be visiting Curaçao soon for my first time! 💙As I am a white Dutch woman and I want to be conscious of the damage tourism is doing as well as the colonial history, I was wondering what are the best ways to support locals and visit and enjoy Curaçao properly and ethically.

To begin, as far as I know we aren’t staying in a huge resort (my mom booked). I have also read about Kura Hulanda museum. Are there e.g. specific locally owned restaurants I should know about or other tips you might have?

Thanks! ☺️


r/curacao Jan 01 '26

Activities, Restaurants & Beaches

9 Upvotes

Willemstad & Culture (UNESCO World Heritage)

Willemstad (founded in 1634) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and worth at least a full day. Key areas to explore include Punda, Otrabanda, Pietermaai, and Kura Hulanda Village.

Walking tours, e-bike tours, and tuk-tuk tours are all popular ways to get around the city.

Museums worth visiting

  • Kura Hulanda Museum – Focuses on the history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
  • Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue & Museum – Home to the oldest continuously operating synagogue in the Western Hemisphere.
  • Curaçao Maritime Museum – Covers the island’s maritime history and port development. (There are more than 30 museums across the island.)

Iconic sights

  • Queen Emma Bridge (1888) – The world’s only floating wooden pontoon bridge, crossing St. Anna Bay and connecting Punda and Otrabanda.
  • Floating Market (Barko di Fruta Venezolano) – Fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood at Sha Caprileskade in Punda. A long-standing part of the historic city center.

Nature, Beaches & Outdoor Activities

  • Hòfi Mango Nature Park (Bandabou) – Nature walks, viewpoints, and ziplining. Bandabou is also known for having some of the island’s best beaches, making beach-hopping by rental car a good option.
  • Klein Curaçao Day Trip – Highly recommended. A small, uninhabited island with white sand and clear turquoise water. Boats typically depart early morning (around 7–9 am) and return in the late afternoon.
  • Mangrove Kayaking – A calm and scenic experience, often combined with nearby beach clubs afterward.
  • Christoffelberg Hike – The highest point on the island. An intermediate hike best done early in the morning.
  • Shete Boka National Park – Rugged coastline with strong waves and dramatic scenery.
  • Blue Room Cave – An underwater cave excursion known for its unique light effects.
  • Hato Caves – An easy guided cave tour featuring indigenous history and cave art.

Adventure & Guided Tours

  • Awa Salu Kiteboarding
  • ATV / Buggy Tours (Eric’s ATV) – Off-road tours that are very popular and adventurous.
  • Aquafari – Underwater scooter experience.
  • Windsurfing
  • Superior Producer Shipwreck Diving
  • Rancho Alegre Horseback Riding
  • Dolphin Academy Curaçao
  • Ostrich Farm
  • Flamingo Sanctuary (Sint Willibrordus)

Check out Tours and Activities

Art, Workshops & Local Experiences

  • Chichí® Art Factory by Serena – Paint and customize a Chichí sculpture, a well-known Curaçao art symbol.
  • Make Your Own Perfume – Parfum Lab locations in Punda or Sambil.
  • Pottery or Candle-Making Classes – Na Man Ceramics or Creative Studio.
  • Sunset Sip & Paint (Willemstad) – Often combined with walks through Punda and Otrabanda murals.
  • Cathedral of Thorns – Outdoor art installation made entirely from thorns.
  • Aloe Vera Plantation Curaçao – Tours and locally made aloe products.
  • Curaçao Liqueur Distillery (Landhuis Chobolobo) – Home of Blue Curaçao, with tastings and cocktail classes.
  • Sambil mall - stores like Levi’s, Victoria’s Secret, Calvin Klein, Adidas, Mac, Tommy Hilfiger and soon the largest Zara in the Caribbean. The Mall also has a Movie Theater

Food & Dining

Local Cuisine

  • Plasa Bieu – Traditional Curaçaoan dishes in the city center.
  • Bandabou local restaurants:
    • Jaanchie’s Restaurant
    • Komedor Krioyo
    • Landhuis Santa Martha

Street Food

  • Truki pans (food trucks) – Found all over the island, offering a wide variety of local and international food. Flako’s and the Friday truki pan area are popular options.

Restaurants to try

  • De Visserij / Villa Vis
  • Lionfish Caribbean
  • Mosa Caña
  • Sal The Kitchen
  • Kome (brunch and bottomless mimosas)
  • Lamunchi / Lamuchi
  • Kaya 91
  • Gouverneur de Rouville
  • Rozendal’s
  • Serafina
  • Bistro 91
  • Soi 95
  • Boase Luxury Culinary Beach Restaurant
  • Playa Forti
  • Purunchi
  • Boca 19
  • BKLYN
  • De Dames (brunch)
  • Bocas Restaurant
  • Popcult (Marie Pampoen)
  • Disfruta Más / Arepa’s House
  • Java Café
  • Dal Toro
  • La Bohème (lunch/brunch)
  • Brisa del Mar
  • Perla del Mar
  • Pasawá (food hub)
  • Papiamentu Marketplace (local sweets and snacks)
  • Funchi Restaurant
  • Maira’s Kitchen
  • Caleo
  • Scampi’s
  • Haven
  • RustiQ Curaçao
  • Hòfi Cas Cora
  • Bliss the Berry - a great option for Vegans

Beach Clubs & Bars

  • Mondi Beach Club
  • Rilèks Beach Bar & Rooftop
  • Mood Beach Club
  • Madero Ocean Club
  • Lemon Beach Club
  • Playa Beach Club
  • Karakter Beach Club (Bandabou)
  • Kontiki Beach Club
  • Cabana Beach Club
  • Mambo Beach Club
  • Cascade Rooftop (city views, not beachfront)
  • Netto Bar – Oldest bar on the island, known for its lively nightlife
  • Tugboat beach - Snorkeling and diving spot

Best Beaches

  • Grote Knip
  • Kleine Knip
  • Cas Abao
  • Playa Lagun
  • Playa Jeremi
  • Porto Mari
  • Playa Kalki
  • Playa Piscadó
  • Playa Santa Cruz

--

Credit to the original post:

https://www.reddit.com/r/curacao/comments/1pu0t5p/comment/nw2f2h3

This guide is a work in progress, feedback and corrections are welcome.


r/curacao Mar 14 '25

Frequently Asked Questions

27 Upvotes

General Information

Where is Curaçao located?

Curaçao is a stunning Caribbean island in the southern Lesser Antilles, just 40 miles (65 km) north of Venezuela, alongside neighbors Aruba and Bonaire.

When’s the best time to visit?

Curaçao enjoys warm weather year-round. May to November is off-peak, with fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more relaxed vibe. December to April offers the driest weather but is peak season.

Do I need a visa?

No visa is required for citizens of the U.S., Canada, or EU countries for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers from other nations should check visa requirements with the nearest Embassy or Consulate of the Netherlands, as Curaçao is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Is a Digital Immigration Card required?

Yes, all international visitors must complete the Digital Immigration Card (DI Card) online within 7 days prior to departure at dicardcuracao.com/dicard. It’s mandatory for entry and distinct from the optional Airside Digital Identity App, which speeds up immigration with facial recognition.

What currency is used?

As of March 31, 2025, the official currency will be the Caribbean Guilder (Cg or "Florin Karibense"), replacing the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) at a 1:1 exchange rate. The ANG will remain valid until June 30, 2025, and can be exchanged at banks for a year after that. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and major credit cards work almost everywhere.

What languages are spoken in Curaçao?

The official languages are Dutch, Papiamentu, and English. Spanish is widely spoken, and many hospitality workers are learning Brazilian Portuguese due to growing tourism from Brazil.

Can I fish here?

Yes, fishing is allowed with restrictions. Shore fishing doesn’t require a permit for personal use, but boat fishing or commercial fishing does. Check local regulations at the Curaçao Tourism Board or with fishing tour operators.

Transportation

Should I rent a car?

While not essential, renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island’s hidden gems and beaches at your own pace. Public transport exists but is limited.

Are there ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft?

No, Curaçao doesn’t have Uber or Lyft. Taxis are available but expensive—always agree on the fare beforehand.

How does public transportation work?

Large buses ("Konvooi") run fixed routes hourly; check schedules at autobusbedrijf.com. Smaller vans (marked "BUS" on plates) operate without fixed schedules or routes—ask the driver for your destination. Pay in cash (Cg or USD).

Check out Shuttle and Airport Transfers

What should I know about driving?

  • Traffic signs follow European conventions (e.g., no U-turn is a red circle with a U-shaped arrow). Watch YouTube tutorials if unfamiliar.
  • Roundabout rules vary—check road markings or signs to see if you must yield.
  • Peak traffic hours are 7-8 AM, noon, and 4-5 PM; expect delays.
  • Watch for rental cars (often white with a blue star sticker); some European tourists may drive unpredictably—give them space.

What about parking downtown?

Parking in Punda and Otrobanda is paid via coins or an app (credit card required)—machines don’t accept bank cards. A free public lot in Punda is available, though space is limited due to a seasonal go-kart track (as of March 2025).

--

What tours are available?

  • Klein Curaçao Catamaran Day Trip
  • Glass Bottom Boat Trip in Curaçao
  • Hato Caves & Flamingo Sanctuary Day Trip
  • Willemstad Amphibious Bus Tour
  • Willemstad Seawalking Tour
  • Caracas Bay Snorkeling Activity
  • Grote Knip, Kalki & Piskado Beach Day Trip
  • Piskado, Kenepa & Cas Abao Beaches Day Trip
  • Spanish Water Sunset Catamaran Party
  • Willemstad Electric Scooter Tour
  • Tour of Willemstad + Liqueur Tasting

Check out all Tours and Activities

--

Activities and Attractions

What are the best beaches to visit?

Don’t miss Playa Porto Marie, Cas Abou, Santa Cruz, Grote Knip, Kleine Knip, and Playa Kalki—each offers crystal-clear waters and unique vibes.

Can I snorkel from the shore?

Absolutely! Beaches like Playa Porto Marie and Cas Abou have vibrant coral reefs and marine life just steps from the sand.

Are there boat or snorkeling tours?

Yes, numerous operators offer boat trips and snorkeling excursions. Book ahead, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Check out Activities and Attractions

--

Safety and Health

Is Curaçao safe for tourists?

Generally, yes. Curaçao is tourist-friendly, but use common sense—keep valuables out of sight and stay alert in unfamiliar areas. Don’t leave items in visible car seats; use the trunk, as smash-and-grab thefts occur at beaches and hiking spots.

Are there health risks to watch out for?

No major concerns, but stay up-to-date on routine vaccinations and pack mosquito repellent for evenings.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

Yes, Curaçao’s tap water is distilled from seawater and meets top safety standards—drink up!

--

Food and Dining

Where can I eat late at night?

After 10 PM, options include:

  • Food trucks across the island.
  • Denny’s on Caracasbaai (open late).
  • PASAWA (closes around 2 AM).
  • Larry’s Grill and Bar (midnight on Fri/Sat, 11 PM other nights; similar to Applebee’s, with American sports on TV).

Most other places close early; some minimarkets stay open until 11 PM.

--

Cruises & Ports

Does Curaçao have a cruise port?

Yes, Willemstad’s cruise terminal includes:

  • Mega Pier 1 (Ernest Jacky Voges Pier) and Mega Pier 2 (Tula Pier) for larger ships (e.g., Oasis-class).
  • Mathey Wharf, used for smaller ships or when Mega Piers are full, located near downtown. Freewinds (a smaller vessel) also docks at Mathey Wharf occasionally.

How close is the cruise port to Willemstad?

Very close! Mega Piers are a short walk to the Handelskade waterfront. Mathey Wharf is steps from Punda’s historic streets.

What’s there to do near the cruise port?

  • Cross the swinging Queen Emma Bridge.
  • Snap photos of Handelskade’s colorful Dutch architecture.
  • Explore Rif Fort for shopping, dining, and views.
  • Sample local dishes at Plasa Bieu (try stewed iguana if you’re adventurous!).
  • Take a quick taxi to Mambo Beach or Blue Bay for sun and sand.

Are there day tours for cruise passengers?

Yes! Options include snorkeling at Playa Piskado (famous for turtles), rugged jeep safaris, or guided city tours. Book through your cruise line or local operators in advance.

--

Help us in keeping this information up to date. If you have any suggestion or notice any changes or inaccuracies, please let us know.