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Where to Stay in Curacao: 5 Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Curacao: 5 Areas & Hotels

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Heading to Curaçao and stuck on where to stay? We’ll point you in the right direction.

Curaçao is an island full of contrasts—colorful colonial streets, lively beach clubs, sleepy fishing villages, and rugged national parks. With so many unique areas to choose from, figuring out where to stay can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. That’s where we come in!

We’ve explored Curaçao more times than we can count, staying everywhere from boutique hotels in the city to eco-resorts and beachfront villas. With the inside scoop on the best neighborhoods and stays, we’ll help you pick the perfect base for your trip. So, grab your flip-flops, and let’s find your spot in paradise!

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

Canons and colored buildings in Curacao

This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Curacao is Willemstad Punda! With colorful colonial-style buildings, amazing restaurants, and seaside views, what’s not to love about this area?

We recommend staying at Scuba Lodge & Suites. It offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!

Where to Stay in Curacao Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Curacao

Bailey-relaxes-on-a-beach-in-Curacao
If you’re after a beach getaway, Jan Thiel is your best choice
Bailey-snorkeling-in-Curacao
Sint Michiel has the best snorkeling on Curacao

We love how each neighborhood of Curaçao has its own personality, from the colorful streets of Willemstad to the quiet fishing villages and hidden northern beaches. Staying in different parts of the island gives you a completely different experience—whether it’s being steps from historic sites, waking up to the sound of waves, or enjoying the slower rhythm of local life.

Getting around is easiest with a rental car, though taxis and buses can work if you’re staying closer to Willemstad. Whether you’re here for diving and snorkeling, a cultural city break, or a peaceful beach escape, there’s a corner of Curaçao that’s the perfect fit for your trip.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas and hotels to stay in Curaçao:

  • Willemstad Punda – Perfect for first-time visitors, this colorful, historic heart of Willemstad is filled with pastel facades, lively squares, and Curaçao’s most iconic sights. Scuba Lodge & Suites pairs boutique charm with oceanfront views, offering cozy rooms, apartments, and an infinity pool in restored UNESCO-listed buildings.
  • Willemstad Otrabanda – Great for travelers who want culture without the crowds, this laid-back side of Willemstad blends history, street art, and local life just across the bridge from Punda. For modern comfort with pools, a private beach club, and a casino right on the waterfront, Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort delivers effortlessly.
  • Jan Thiel – Best for beach lovers and nightlife seekers, this lively coastal hub mixes white sand, turquoise waters, and plenty of dining and entertainment just 15 minutes from Willemstad. Morena Resort is an eco-friendly escape with spacious villas, tropical gardens, and easy access to Jan Thiel Beach.
  • Sint Michiel – For those seeking peace and authenticity, this fishing village offers a slower pace with snorkeling, hiking, and local seafood dinners by the bay. With private beach access, an 18-hole golf course, and family-friendly villas in a scenic setting, Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort offers a well-rounded island stay.
  • Sabana Westpunt – Perfect for repeat visitors and nature enthusiasts, this remote northern corner of Curaçao is home to hidden beaches, coral reefs, and nearby national parks. Bed & Bike Westpunt is a budget-friendly stay with a pool, free bikes, and simple rooms just steps from Playa Kalki.

Important Tip

Multiple Curacao trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Curacao accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

Where to Stay in Curacao

Willemstad Punda

Colorful buildings on the waterfront of Curacao
The Handelskade waterfront
Queen Emma Bridge in Curacao
Queen Emma Bridge

Colorful, lively, and full of history—Punda is the beating heart of Willemstad and one of the best areas to base yourself in Curaçao. This is the part of town where you’ll find the island’s most iconic sights, like the pastel-painted Handelskade waterfront, the floating Queen Emma Bridge, and Fort Amsterdam. 

Punda is perfect for first-time visitors who want to be in the middle of it all. It’s buzzing with shops, open-air cafes, and restaurants where you can sample everything from Dutch pancakes to fresh Caribbean seafood.

This city is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means every stroll through its streets feels like walking through history. The architecture is stunning, blending European influences with Caribbean charm. 

During the day, you can wander through art galleries, shop at boutiques, or stop by the Floating Market for fresh produce brought in by Venezuelan vendors. By night, Punda’s squares and waterfront come alive with music, drinks, and great people-watching.

While it’s not the quietest part of Curaçao, the energy here is infectious. If you want to be close to culture, nightlife, and picture-perfect scenery, Punda is hard to beat.

Pros

  • Central location with easy access to historic landmarks and attractions
  • Vibrant dining, shopping, and nightlife scene
  • Full of color, culture, and charm

Cons

  • Can feel crowded, especially when cruise ships dock
  • Hotels tend to be more expensive than in quieter areas
  • Less relaxing compared to beachside neighborhoods

Curacao Avila Beach Hotel – $$$

Curacao Avila Beach Hotel in Curacao 1 (1)
Photo credit: Curacao Avila Beach Hotel

Curacao Avila Beach Hotel is a beachfront classic that combines luxury with island charm, just five minutes from central Willemstad. With two private beaches, a pool with ocean views, and a full-service spa, it’s easy to see why this is one of the island’s top stays. 

Guests can start their mornings with a generous breakfast buffet at Avila Café, spend the afternoon diving or snorkeling, and end the evening with fresh seafood and live jazz at the hotel’s famous Blues Restaurant. The property also has a modern fitness center, and golf is nearby if you want to mix in some sport with your beach time. 

Rooms are spacious and elegant, many with sea-view balconies, making this an ideal choice for couples or anyone looking to splurge on comfort. Rates typically range from $200 to $700 USD per night. 

Scuba Lodge & Suites – $$

Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites in Curacao
Photo credit: Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites

Scuba Lodge & Suites is a boutique oceanfront hotel that perfectly balances comfort, history, and value in the heart of Punda. Housed in five beautifully restored UNESCO-listed buildings, the property feels both stylish and authentic. 

Guests can choose from cozy rooms or spacious apartments with full kitchens and sea-view terraces—ideal if you want a bit more independence during your stay. The hotel has two pools, including an infinity pool that overlooks the Caribbean, and the on-site restaurant and oceanfront bar are favorites for both guests and locals. 

Divers will love the on-site dive shop and lessons, while everyone else can enjoy relaxing massages, easy access to the beach, and exploring Willemstad just steps away. Rooms typically go for about $140 to $320 USD per night, making this a fantastic value for couples or small families who want character without compromising on comfort. 

Elements Hotel & Shops Curaçao – $

Elements Hotel & Shops in Curacao
Photo credit: Elements Hotel & Shops

If you’re looking for a modern yet affordable stay in the heart of Punda, Elements Hotel & Shops Curaçao is a fantastic choice. This boutique-style property features a rooftop pool with sweeping views, a lively sun terrace, and even live music nights at its bar and restaurant. 

The location couldn’t be better—you’re just steps from Playa Marichi Beach and a short stroll to the Queen Emma Bridge, with shops and dining all around. Rooms are bright and contemporary, with air-conditioning, private balconies, and comfy beds that guests rave about. 

Breakfast is available daily, and the on-site dining options serve everything from Caribbean flavors to international favorites. With rates usually starting at around $90 to $240 USD per night, this spot offers incredible value for travelers who want convenience and amenities without splurging. 

Willemstad Otrabanda

Willemstad Otrabanda in Curacao
Willemstad Otrabanda is a great laid-back area

Otrobanda, which literally means “the other side,” sits across the Queen Emma Bridge from Punda and offers a more laid-back, local flavor of Willemstad. While Punda may get most of the attention with its colorful waterfront, Otrobanda is equally rich in history and charm—just with a more relaxed pace and often at a friendlier price point.

This neighborhood is perfect for travelers who want central access to all of Willemstad’s attractions but prefer a quieter base. It’s filled with narrow streets lined with historic houses, vibrant street art, and small cafes where you’ll often find more locals than tourists. Otrobanda is also home to the impressive Rif Fort, a historic 19th-century fortress now housing shops, restaurants, and bars with ocean views.

One of the biggest highlights here is the Kura Hulanda Museum, which tells the powerful story of the transatlantic slave trade and Curaçao’s role in it. From here, you can still easily walk across the floating bridge to enjoy Punda’s buzz, but then retreat to a neighborhood that feels more authentic and unhurried.

Otrobanda is a fantastic choice for culture lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a balance between convenience and a more local vibe.

Pros

  • More affordable accommodations than Punda, while still central
  • Rich in history, street art, and local culture
  • Easy access to Punda via the Queen Emma Bridge

Cons

  • Quieter nightlife compared to Punda
  • Some streets can feel less polished or tourist-friendly
  • Limited beachfront access within the neighborhood

The Rif At Mangrove Beach – $$$

The Rif At Mangrove Beach in Curacao
Photo credit: The Rif At Mangrove Beach

For a five-star all-inclusive stay right on the sand, The Rif At Mangrove Beach is hard to top. This resort features its own private beach, multiple pools, and lush tropical gardens, all just minutes from the Queen Emma Bridge. 

Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dining options, with five restaurants serving everything from Caribbean seafood to Mexican and Turkish cuisine, plus lively bars and a daily breakfast buffet. The rooms are spacious and modern, many with balconies and stunning sea views. 

Whether you’re looking to relax at the pool with a drink, dive into Curaçao’s underwater world, or unwind at the fitness center, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. With all-inclusive rates typically ranging from $400 to $1,000 USD per night, this is a fantastic choice for couples or families wanting a luxurious, stress-free escape. 

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort – $$

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort in Curacao
Photo credit: Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort

Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort is a stylish waterfront property that offers the perfect balance of comfort, entertainment, and value in Otrobanda. Guests here enjoy access to a private beach club, a saltwater infinity pool, and a freshwater pool—all just steps from the Queen Emma Bridge!

The resort also features a lively casino, a fitness center, and four restaurants, including the popular Infinity Beach Bar and even a Starbucks kiosk for your morning coffee fix. Rooms are modern and well-equipped, with balconies, flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, and plush robes and slippers for extra comfort. 

Guests love the comfy beds and great location, right beside a shopping mall filled with dining and entertainment options. With nightly rates typically ranging from $220 to $600 USD, this resort is a great option for couples or families who want more amenities without venturing into luxury prices. 

Harbor Hotel & Casino Curacao – $

Harbor Hotel Curacao in Curacao 1
Photo credit: Harbor Hotel Curacao
Harbor Hotel Curacao in Curacao
Photo credit: Harbor Hotel Curacao

Harbor Hotel & Casino Curacao is a wallet-friendly option in Otrobanda that doesn’t skimp on comfort or amenities. The property offers bright, air-conditioned rooms with modern touches like streaming services, minibars, and even sea-view balconies in upgraded options. Guests can spend their downtime at the outdoor pool, relax on the sun terrace, or try their luck at the on-site casino. 

The hotel also features a restaurant serving international dishes, a poolside bar, and convenient extras like a fitness center and free private parking. Its location is a major highlight—just a short walk from Playa Marichi and only minutes from the Queen Emma Bridge, making it easy to explore both Otrobanda and Punda. 

With rates typically ranging from $100 to $270 USD per night, this is a solid choice for couples or travelers looking for an affordable base with plenty of amenities. 

Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your trip? Check out our 5-Day Curacao Itinerary for our favorite activities, restaurants, beaches, and more!

Jan Thiel

Daniel-at-the-beach-drinking-a-beer-in Curacao
Beach life is the best life
Jan Thiel bay in Curacao
Jan Thiel Bay

If your dream Curaçao trip includes waking up by the beach, spending your days on soft white sand, and ending them with sunset drinks, Jan Thiel is the place to be! This area is home to one of the island’s most popular beaches, with a lively vibe that attracts both travelers and locals. Just a 15-minute drive from Willemstad, Jan Thiel combines the convenience of being close to the capital with the laid-back atmosphere of a resort community.

Jan Thiel Beach itself is the main draw here—think turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or paddleboarding, plus plenty of beach clubs and restaurants right on the sand. By night, the area transforms into a social hub, with music, dining, and nightlife spilling out onto the beachfront. 

Beyond the beach, you can explore nature trails in Jan Thiel Salt Flats, a protected area where flamingos are often spotted.

This neighborhood is best for beach lovers, couples, and families who want easy access to both relaxation and entertainment. It’s polished, fun, and a little more upscale compared to Willemstad, making it one of the top choices for those seeking a beach-focused stay without being far from the city.

Pros

  • Beautiful beach with great swimming and snorkeling
  • Vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, and restaurants
  • Close to Willemstad, yet it feels like a resort getaway

Cons

  • Can get crowded, especially on weekends
  • Accommodation prices tend to be higher
  • More touristy and less local charm than other areas

Papagayo Beach Resort – $$$

Papagayo Beach Resort in Curacao
Photo credit: Papagayo Beach Resort

Papagayo Beach Resort is a standout choice for a luxurious beach getaway in Jan Thiel. Just a three-minute walk from Jan Thiel Beach, the resort offers spacious tropical-style villas surrounded by lush gardens and an outdoor pool. 

Each villa is fully equipped with a kitchen, airy living space, and private porch, with some featuring ocean views—perfect for families or groups who want both comfort and independence. Guests also have access to the Papagayo Beach Plaza across the street, which includes a beach club, gym, spa, casino, shops, and restaurants. 

The resort’s restaurant serves a mix of local and international cuisine, and the kids’ club makes it an excellent pick for families traveling with children. With nightly rates usually ranging from $230 to $480 USD, Papagayo Beach Resort combines style, convenience, and top-notch facilities in one of Curaçao’s most popular beach areas. 

Morena Resort – $$

Morena Resort Curacao in Curacao
Photo credit: Morena Resort Curacao

For travelers who want comfort with a conscience, Morena Resort is a fantastic choice in Jan Thiel. This eco-friendly property features villas and apartments designed with natural wood accents, private terraces, and fully equipped kitchens—ideal if you’d like the option to self-cater. 

The resort is car-free, with guests transported around in charming Dutch-style carriages, adding to its unique character. Surrounded by tropical gardens, the resort boasts three outdoor pools, a spa, and two on-site restaurants, including Fuego, which offers show cooking and a mix of local and international dishes. 

Jan Thiel Beach is just a short five-minute walk away, making it easy to split your time between relaxing at the resort and enjoying Curaçao’s most popular stretch of sand. Nightly rates for one and two-bedroom apartments typically range from $170 to $400 USD, with larger apartments also available at higher rates. 

Adonai Hotel Boutique – $

Adonai Hotel Boutique in Curacao
Photo credit: Adonai Hotel Boutique

Adonai Hotel Boutique is a cozy, affordable stay in Jan Thiel with plenty of thoughtful extras to make your trip stress-free. Guests are welcomed with a tropical breakfast, a drink, and even a free shuttle to the supermarket—a nice touch if you’re planning to self-cater!

Rooms are simple but cheerful, with bright décor, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms, while some also feature kitchenettes and pool views. The hotel has a small outdoor pool and terrace for relaxing, plus a communal kitchen and lounge where guests often gather. 

Its location is a big advantage! You’re within a 10-minute walk of restaurants, shops, and a casino, and Jan Thiel Beach is just a short drive away. With nightly rates usually ranging from $100 to $230 USD, Adonai Hotel Boutique is a great option for couples or budget-conscious travelers who still want comfort and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Sint Michel

Daniel-snorkels-in-the-water-of-Curacao
The snorkeling is some of the best in Curacao!
Christoffel National Park in Curacao
The coastline of Christoffel National Park

For a quieter and more local side of Curaçao, head to Sint Michiel. Known to locals as “Boca Sami,” this fishing village sits on the island’s west coast and offers a totally different vibe from the lively beach clubs of Jan Thiel or the bustle of Willemstad. Here, life moves slower—fishing boats line the bay, kids play along the shoreline, and evenings are for simple seafood dinners by the water.

Sint Michiel is perfect for travelers who want peace and authenticity, with easy access to outdoor adventures. The area is home to Boca Sami Beach, a small, quiet spot that’s great for a low-key swim, but the real draw is what’s nearby.

Divers and snorkelers love the reefs off the coast, and hikers head to the trails of the Christoffel National Park or the scenic climb up Sint Michiel Mountain for panoramic views.

Because it’s more residential, you won’t find as many hotels or restaurants here, but that’s part of the charm. It’s a place to relax, slow down, and connect with Curaçao’s local side, making it a great choice for repeat visitors or anyone who prefers nature over nightlife.

Pros

  • Peaceful, local atmosphere away from tourist crowds
  • Great for hiking, snorkeling, and diving nearby
  • Offers an authentic glimpse of Curaçao life

Cons

  • Limited dining and hotel options
  • Not ideal for nightlife seekers
  • Beaches are smaller and less polished than Jan Thiel

Bayside Boutique Hotel – Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort – $$$

Bayside Boutique Hotel - Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort in Curacao 1
Photo credit: Bayside Boutique Hotel – Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort
Bayside Boutique Hotel - Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort in Curacao
Photo credit: Bayside Boutique Hotel – Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort

Bayside Boutique Hotel offers a stylish yet relaxed stay within the Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort, one of Curaçao’s most scenic coastal areas. Guests have access to a private beach and discounted rates at the resort’s 18-hole golf course, making it a top choice for both beach lovers and golfers. 

Rooms are modern and comfortable, with flat-screen TVs, seating areas, and some featuring sea-view balconies. The hotel also has plenty of amenities to keep your stay stress-free, including a restaurant, bar, fitness center, and outdoor pool. 

Water sports like snorkeling and diving are available right off the resort’s beach, while Willemstad’s colorful center is just a 10-minute drive away. With rates typically ranging from $180 to $700+ USD per night, Bayside Boutique Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and recreation in a relaxed seaside setting.

Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort – $$

Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort in Curacao
Photo credit: Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort

Blue Bay Curaçao Golf & Beach Resort combines the best of beachside living and world-class golf on a former plantation turned scenic 18-hole course. Guests enjoy direct access to a private beach, two swimming pools, and a PADI five-star dive school for snorkeling or diving right offshore.

Accommodations range from modern apartments to spacious villas, all featuring fully equipped kitchens, air-conditioning, and private terraces or balconies. Some units offer direct pool access or even private pools, making them ideal for both families and couples.

Dining is easy with two restaurants and a beach bar on-site, while the Plantation House hosts the front desk, Pro Shop, and sweeping views over the resort. Rates generally run from $160 to $500 USD per night, offering a mix of value and luxury.

Blue Bay Lodges – $

Blue Bay Lodges in Curacao
Photo credit: Blue Bay Lodges

Blue Bay Lodges offers a laid-back stay within the Blue Bay Resort, just a 10-minute walk from the beach. The property is made up of spacious studio-style lodges with kitchenettes, dining areas, and private terraces, giving guests a comfortable home base with plenty of privacy.

Each studio comes with air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV, along with modern touches like accent walls and white bedding for a bright, airy feel. Guests can take advantage of on-site amenities, including two lighted tennis courts, water sports, and a dive shop offering lessons and gear rental.

Dining is convenient with four restaurants on the resort grounds, including beachfront AzZuro, which serves meals all day. With rates starting around $130 to $250 USD per night, Blue Bay Lodges is a great value choice for couples or families looking to stay close to the beach while enjoying resort-style perks.

Sabana Westpunt

Playa Kalki in Sabana Westpunt Curacao
Playa Kalki

For a remote and unspoiled side of Curaçao, head to Sabana Westpunt. Tucked at the island’s far northwest end, this quiet village feels worlds away from Willemstad’s colorful streets or Jan Thiel’s bustling beach clubs. Life here is slow and simple, with sleepy roads winding past hills, small eateries, and some of Curaçao’s most secluded stretches of sand.

Sabana Westpunt is especially popular with travelers returning to the island who want to experience Curaçao beyond the usual hotspots. The beaches are the main attraction—Playa Kalki, Playa Forti, and Grote Knip are all within easy reach, each offering crystal-clear water and fewer crowds than the more developed south coast. These spots are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or snorkeling right off the shore.

For divers, the coral reefs and underwater cliffs near Westpunt are some of the island’s most beautiful, while nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Christoffel National Park and Shete Boka National Park.

You won’t find much in the way of nightlife or large resorts here, but that’s exactly what makes Westpunt appealing. It’s a corner of Curaçao for those seeking peace, nature, and hidden beaches.

Pros

  • Quiet and peaceful, far from tourist areas
  • Easy access to secluded beaches and national parks
  • Excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities

Cons

  • Limited nightlife and dining options
  • Few hotel choices compared to Willemstad or Jan Thiel
  • Remote location requires a car for convenience

Bed & Bike Westpunt – $$

Bed & Bike Curacao in Curacao
Photo credit: Bed & Bike Curacao
Bed & Bike Curacao in Curacao 1
Photo credit: Bed & Bike Curacao

Bed & Bike Westpunt is a cozy, budget-friendly stay set just steps from Playa Kalki, one of Westpunt’s most beautiful beaches. Guests can choose from simple but comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and terraces overlooking the gardens. Some rooms come with dining areas and kitchen amenities, while dorm options make it a great pick for solo travelers.

The property has everything you need for a relaxed stay in Curaçao’s quiet north, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant and bar. Free bikes are available for exploring the area, and scuba diving, hiking, and national parks are all close by.

With rates starting at around $120 to $250 USD for private rooms and just $60 USD for dorm beds, Bed & Bike Westpunt offers excellent value in one of the island’s most peaceful corners.

Nos Krusero Apartments – $

Nos Krusero Apartments in Curacao
Photo credit: Nos Krusero Apartments

Nos Krusero Apartments is a budget-friendly option just steps from Playa Kalki, making it ideal for travelers who want a self-catered stay near the water. The property offers simple apartments with air-conditioning, private terraces, and kitchens equipped with everything you need, including a stove, oven, fridge, and microwave. Some units even feature ocean views for a little extra charm.

Guests can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy free Wi-Fi, and take advantage of on-site parking. Diving and snorkeling are easy to arrange through nearby Go West Diving, while Christoffel National Park is just a 10-minute drive away for hiking and nature outings. A small supermarket and the well-known Jaanchies restaurant are also close at hand.

With nightly rates starting around $90 USD for studios and ranging up to $200 USD for larger apartments, Nos Krusero is a great choice for couples or families looking for space, convenience, and affordability in Curaçao’s peaceful north.

Top Activities to do in Curacao

Shete-Boca-National-Park-seen-on-a-private-tour-in-Willemstad Curacao
The famous blowhole in Shete Boca National Park
Bailey-sits-ont-he-side-rail-of-the-Catamaran-soaking-up-the-views-and-sun-on-a-tour-from-Curacao
I can see Klein Curacao from the boat!

Now that you’ve picked out your favorite area and preferred hotel, you can start filling in your itinerary! Whether you’re into relaxing on the beach or exploring the rugged side of the island, there is plenty to do in Curacao. Here are a few of our favorite activities that you can’t miss!

  • Visit Klein Curacao – This relaxing catamaran trip takes you to a stunning island just off of Curacao. Klein Curacao is arguably the prettiest beach I’ve been to, and you can enjoy the open bar, BBQ, and totally relaxed Caribbean vibes!
  • Explore Shete Boca National Park – Get your adrenaline pumping on this beach safari tour to Shete Boca National Park! Riding a 4×4 through the rugged terrain was a blast, and we enjoyed secluded beach views, snorkeling with turtles, and taking in the views.
  • Take a discovery dive – If you’ve been curious about scuba diving, this discovery dive is the perfect way to dip your toes into the activity, without committing to the certification course! The expert instructors give an introduction to the sport, then you go underwater under their careful supervision to see Curacao beneath the surface.
  • Aquafari Adventure – For a unique and easy underwater adventure, this aquafari scooter tour is it! Ride a self-propelled submersible scooter for 30 minutes and take in the stunning marine life views, all without getting your hair wet.
  • Full island tour – Maximize your time and see all of Curacao on this private full island tour! We had so much fun exploring the colorful streets of Willemstad, the secluded northern beaches, the ever-popular Jan Thiel area, and more. All the while, we learned about the unique history and charm of the island from our amazing guide!

Related Read: For even more epic activities, see our full guide on the top things to do in Curacao here!

Renting a Car in the Caribbean

Driving on a road beside the beach in the Caribbean

Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!

We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean

  • Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
  • Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
  • Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
  • Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
  • Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.

What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
  • An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
  • Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading!

Bailey-and-Daniel-posing-for-a-picture-on-a-sand-bar-with-turquise-blue-water-around-them-Curacao
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Curacao is truly a dream travel destination, but choosing the right place to stay is essential! We love how diverse this island is, whether you want to be close to the top sights and nightlife, have a beachfront stay, or enjoy a quieter area – you can find it here. Be sure to book your favorite hotel in advance so you don’t miss out!

Before you take off, check out the rest of our Caribbean blogs! We love the Caribbean Islands and visit as often as we can, so we have a lot of resources to share with fellow beach enthusiasts, including more where to stay guides, vacation itineraries, and top things to do. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your next trip – cheers!

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