Colorful Curaçao: 5 Reasons to Visit This Dutch Caribbean Island
From the pastel-colored buildings to incredible beaches and cuisine, here are our top five reasons to visit the Caribbean island of Curacao!
I’d seen the pictures of downtown Curaçao, with its Easter egg-colored buildings along the waterside, but until you’ve been there in person, you won’t believe how cheerful and vibrant this tropical island is. There are plenty of things to do in Curaçao, and with its location 40 miles from South America — between Aruba and Bonaire — this multi-cultural destination is also one of the “ABC” islands, meaning it’s safely out of the path of most hurricanes. Here are five fantastic reasons to give it a look. And a visit!
#1: It’s easier than ever to get there.
In 2024, Delta Airlines began non-stop flights from Atlanta to Curaçao. Right now, the flights are weekly, but later in November, they’ll become daily, offering a convenient 9:45 am flight from Georgia’s capital city and arriving at 2:45 pm to begin island time. Other Southeastern non-stop flights take off from Charlotte and Miami. Talk about easier travel!
#2: Downtown Willemstad is an architect-lover’s dream (and it’s highly Instagrammable, too!).
The Baroque-style architecture on the buildings in Curaçao offers a touch of Amsterdam, with Dutch gables, tile roofs, and cobblestone streets, so it’s no wonder it was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also notice that this Dutch-influenced island has streets and neighborhood names that seem to pop out of The Netherlands, such as the colorful Pietermaai district. However, other cultures mix in seamlessly to give Curaçao a vibe like no other.
Best known for its colorful buildings, the island’s waterfront area is worth exploring on foot to check out its colorful murals and artsy districts. Next, cross over the Queen Emma bridge (a floating pontoon version that opens up to allow boats through) and enjoy a cocktail made with the island’s signature blue liqueur, aptly named Curaçao.
#3: There are incredible beaches.
Curaçao’s year-round sunny weather and limestone cliffs make it a beach-lover’s dream. Its 35 beaches include some well-known snorkeling and dive sites, such as Tugboat (my favorite), a sunken ship with various bright fish swimming through the old boat. The Dive Center at Lions Dive Beach Resort has on-site scuba and snorkeling instructions and trips through PADI-certified facilities — plus some reefs close to shore.
#4: The local cuisine is fresh and adventuresome.
The island’s melting pot of cultures (think Dutch, South American, Caribbean, German, African, and English, for starters) makes for a unique blend of flavors. Most meals will be al fresco — better to feel the warm breezes floating by.
A few I tried and liked on a recent trip were Mosa Cana Bar & Kitchen, with its small plates and cocktails; Saint Tropez Ocean Club, a sophisticated setting along the ocean; Number Ten for breakfast, a charming spot surrounded by trees and birds and Caleo Crudos & Parilla, offering grilled specialties in the artsy Kura Hulanda Village. And be on the lookout for food trucks along the way!
#5: You’ll find wellness opportunities galore.
Head to the island’s western side for some self-care and “green” experiences. Get your steps in at Hofi Mango, originally a mango plantation and now home to thousand-year-old mango trees, an old sugar mill, an on-site distillery, and a place to be at peace among the trees. Walk up the steps to the sculpture “Hands of God” and see magnificent views of the island (make sure to get a mango drink on your way out).
Afterward, stop in for lunch and a spa treatment at 8 Experience Curaçao … you’ll be enchanted with the infinity pool, oceanside massages, and overall Zen vibe.
Enjoy your travels!
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