The Ultimate 7-Day Curaçao Itinerary for Families (2024)

What to Know About Curacao

Geographically, Curacao sits pretty in the southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. It’s part of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) which are known for their arid climates—meaning less chance of your vacation getting rained out.

What sets Curacao apart from other Caribbean destinations? Well, for starters, it’s not overrun by tourists. The island offers a more genuine, laid-back experience. You will find few all-inclusives here, and no beaches lined with massive resorts.

Then there’s the snorkeling—rocky coves, small bays, and thriving reefs make it a snorkeler’s paradise.

And don’t forget affordability; whether you’re going for a luxury boutique hotel or a budget-friendly stay, Curacao offers excellent value for your money.

Finally, let’s talk culture! Curacao is a melting pot, with influences ranging from Dutch colonial history to African heritage. The island’s capital, Willemstad, feels like a slice of Amsterdam with a tropical twist, thanks to its colorful buildings and European vibe. This unique blend is also reflected in the local language, Papiamentu, a Creole mix of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and African dialects.

Weather in Curacao

The year-round gorgeous weather is a big selling point for Curaçao!

Located outside the traditional Caribbean hurricane zone, Curaçao offers a weather advantage that’s hard to beat. While other islands are stocking up on storm supplies from June to November, Curaçao is enjoying its usual sunny, dry climate with temperatures averaging around 86°F (30°C).

This means you can plan your family getaway to Curacao any month of the year — without the added stress of worrying about the weather.

That said, during the summer months, the heat can feel quite stifling in Curacao, as there is less wind from August to October. If you’re waiting for a breeze to cool you down, you may not find it during the day, and shade and water will be critical.

The Ultimate 7-Day Curaçao Itinerary for Families (2024)

FAQs

How many days is enough for Curaçao? ›

How long should I stay in Curacao? That said, with even just 4 days in Curacao, you could have a wonderful getaway. A shorter trip would likely focus on Willemstad and Curacao's beach resorts. A longer trip, such as one week in Curacao or more, gives you more time to get out and explore the island's more remote ends.

Is Curaçao good for families? ›

The island is a tropical paradise for everyone who visits, and that includes families with children. Quite a few beaches along the island's shores are friendly and have waters calm enough for kids to swim in, but you'll also find specialty attractions created just for children.

What should I be careful of in Curaçao? ›

Crime rate: Crime in Curacao mostly affects the local residents; tourists need only worry about petty theft and car theft. Dangerous areas: Tourists should stay away from Stone Rich, Koraal Specht, Otrobanda, Marie Pampoen, Seru di Kandela, and Kanga—all of them located in the capital.

What is the best part of Curaçao to stay? ›

10 Best Towns and Resorts in Curacao
  • Willemstad. Visit the capital. ...
  • Jan Thiel. Enjoy the sun, sea, and dining. ...
  • See also. 10 Best Things to Do for Couples in Curacao. ...
  • Sabana Westpunt. Find fun in the water. ...
  • Piscadera. Relax at a resort on a bay. ...
  • Sint Michiel. Check out a quaint fishing village. ...
  • Soto. ...
  • Sint Willibrordus.

Is it better to go to Aruba or Curaçao? ›

Visitor Attractions. Aruba sees four times more visitors than Curaçao. That's partly down to better air connections to North America, and the appeal of its longer, wider beaches. Given Aruba's beautiful beaches, it has little need of extra attractions.

Is it easy to get around Curaçao without a car? ›

The easiest way to get around in Curaçao is by car. The island isn't very big but beaches and attractions are spread out across the island and walking or biking in the day's heat is very taxing. Alternatively you can use public transport which you'll find in the form of buses.

Are Americans welcome in Curacao? ›

U.S. citizens are allowed to stay in Curaçao without a visa or permit for a maximum consecutive period of six months each calendar year. If you want to stay longer than 180 days, or if you want to work, you must apply for a residence permit.

Is it safe to walk around Curacao at night? ›

Going out at night:

But remember to stay on the main streets while you venture out by foot at night. Be sure to stay in well-lit and lively areas. If you decide to have a drink, know your limits. It's never good to be intoxicated and venture in an unfamiliar area.

Is it OK to drink the water in Curacao? ›

Not only is Curaçao's water safe to drink, it is of the finest quality. Around 1890, American wind turbines were imported to Curaçao for irrigation of the land. In 1928, a seawater distillery for production of drinking water was put into production.

What are the downsides of Curaçao? ›

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs in Curaçao. Residential break-ins and theft from vehicles, hotel rooms and rental units also take place. Crime typically increases during annual celebrations such as Carnival, which takes place from January to March.

What can I not bring to Curaçao? ›

Customs restriction in Curaçao are similar to just about everwhere else in the world. Prescription drugs, particularly if they contain narcotics, should be clearly marked. Unlike in the Netherlands, possession of even the smallest amount of marijuana or other illegal drugs is a serious offense.

Can you swim in the ocean in Curaçao? ›

Although Curaçao's beaches are inferior to Aruba's, there are nearly 40 of them, ranging from hotel sands to secluded coves. The northwest coast's rugged waters make swimming difficult, but the more tranquil waters of the west coast have sheltered bays that are good for swimming and snorkeling.

Is it worth it to do all inclusive in Curaçao? ›

Don't book an all-inclusive hotel in Curacao.

Curacao offers plenty of great restaurants and bars in the most breathtaking locations. Eating freshly caught fish while watching the sunset with your bare feet on the beach – that's Curacao. Discover the island!

Is it expensive in Curaçao? ›

Overall, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500 per day in Curaçao, depending on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to do.

Is Willemstad Curaçao walkable? ›

Experience Curaçao's historic downtown Willemstad on your own by strolling through the town center with this architectural walking guide.

What is the cheapest month to go to Curaçao? ›

To get the best flight booking experience when out and about, download the app and search for plane tickets to Curacao whenever you want. Flexible on when you travel? The cheapest month to fly to Curacao is July.

What's the best time to go to Curaçao? ›

High season in Curaçao, like the rest of the Caribbean, is December to April, a time that tends to bring warm weather and less rain after December. The best time to go to Curaçao is arguably January to April, when there's less rain and steady trade winds take the edge off the heat.

How long can you stay in Curaçao as a tourist? ›

Generally, tourists holding a valid passport may enter Curaçao without a written permit and remain with us for a period of maximum 30 consecutive days, with a maximum of 90 days in a 180-day period.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Terence Hammes MD

Last Updated:

Views: 6503

Rating: 4.9 / 5 (69 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Terence Hammes MD

Birthday: 1992-04-11

Address: Suite 408 9446 Mercy Mews, West Roxie, CT 04904

Phone: +50312511349175

Job: Product Consulting Liaison

Hobby: Jogging, Motor sports, Nordic skating, Jigsaw puzzles, Bird watching, Nordic skating, Sculpting

Introduction: My name is Terence Hammes MD, I am a inexpensive, energetic, jolly, faithful, cheerful, proud, rich person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.