Curacao Guidebook

Quick facts

• Currency: The local currency is the guilder, but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, and cards are common.
• Language: Dutch, Papiamentu, and Spanish are spoken, and English is widely understood in tourist areas.
• Time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (UTC-4). Curacao does not use daylight saving time.
• Power outlets: Type A/B, about 110-127V. Visitors from North America can use their usual plugs.
• Tipping: 10-15% is customary. A service charge is sometimes included, so check your bill.

When to go

Curacao is dry and sunny for most of the year, and lies outside the main hurricane belt.

December-April is the busiest and most expensive period.

The island is breezy all year, and the water stays warm and good for snorkelling and diving.

What to pack

• Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• Swimwear, a snorkel mask, and a quick-dry towel.
• Water shoes for rocky beaches and entries.
• A refillable water bottle, and shoes for hikes in the parks.

Getting there & around

• From the airport: Curacao International Airport (CUR) is about 12 km from Willemstad. Taxis run on regulated rates, and you should confirm the fare before you set off.
• Rental car: A car is the best way to reach the west coast beaches and the national parks.
• Buses: Public buses serve Willemstad and some of the island, but are less practical for beach hopping.
• On foot: Punda and Otrobanda in Willemstad are compact and walkable, and the pontoon bridge links them.

Good to know before you go

• Some beaches charge an entrance fee or sell sunbed rentals, so carry some cash.
• Do not leave valuables in a parked car, even at a scenic beach.
• Christoffel National Park and Shete Boka open early, and the hike up Christoffel is best done in the morning.
• Tap water is safe to drink, and the island is generally safe for visitors.

Neighborhoods to know

• Punda: The colourful historic center on the east side of the harbour, with the Handelskade and the floating market.
• Otrobanda: The other side of the harbour, reached by the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge.
• The west coast: Quieter beaches, small coves, and snorkelling spots.

Don't miss in Curacao

• Handelskade and the Queen Emma Bridge: Pastel gabled houses and a floating bridge that swings open for ships.
• Hato Caves: Limestone caverns near the airport.
• Christoffel National Park and Shete Boka: A hike and a rugged coast.
• Klein Curacao and Grote Knip: A boat day to a tiny island, and the island's most photographed beach.