Curaçao, a Dutch Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela, is known for its pastel-colored colonial architecture, crystal-clear waters, and rich maritime history. Willemstad, its capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colorful buildings and iconic landmarks like the Queen Emma Bridge. The island’s diverse influences, from Dutch and Spanish to African and Portuguese, are reflected in its culture, language, and cuisine. Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Curaçao for a perfect stay in paradise.
Once a hub for trade and commerce, Curaçao’s history is deeply tied to its strategic location and colonial past. Today, remnants of its fortresses and historic sites stand alongside modern attractions.
Generally speaking, the best area to stay on Curaçao is Willemstad, the island’s historical and commercial center, home to landmarks such as the Kura Hulanda Museum and the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue.
Beyond the island’s famous beaches like Mambo and Knip, Curaçao has much to explore. For example, Christoffel National Park offers hiking trails leading to the island’s highest peak, while the Hato Caves reveal ancient petroglyphs and limestone formations. Meanwhile, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium provides an interactive look at marine life, and the floating market in Willemstad is known for its fresh produce, which is brought in daily by boat from the mainland.
In order to get to Curaçao, you can choose to travel by air or sea. The island is served by Hato International Airport, which offers flights to the US, Europe, and South America. On the other hand, Willemstad’s cruise port is another key entry point for visitors. Public transportation in Curaçao consists mainly of buses and taxis, though renting a car is the most efficient way to explore the island. Find cheap rental cars in Curaçao here.
Curaçao is relaxed but not dull. It has plenty of cultural sites and a nightlife scene that stays active without being overwhelming. The mix of Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American influences shapes everything from the architecture to the food and language.
What are the Best Areas to Stay in Curaçao?
Choosing from the best areas to stay in Curaçao depends on the type of experience you want. Willemstad is best for history and culture, while Jan Thiel offers a resort atmosphere with nightlife. Meanwhile, Blue Bay caters to those seeking a quieter beach retreat. Keep reading for more information on each town and beach area.
1. Willemstad
The most recommended area to stay on the island of Curaçao
Willemstad, the island’s capital, is one of the best areas to stay in Curaçao.
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is located on the island’s southern coast along Schottegat Bay. The city is divided into two main districts—Punda and Otrobanda—connected by the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge. Approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Hato International Airport, Willemstad is a hub of history, commerce, and culture.
Founded in 1634 by the Dutch, Willemstad became a key trading port in the Caribbean. Its colonial past is evident in the pastel-colored buildings that line its streets, many of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The city’s role as a commercial center helped shape its multicultural atmosphere, with influences from Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
One of the city’s main attractions is its UNESCO-listed historic center. Punda is known for landmarks such as the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue—the oldest synagogue in continuous use in the Americas—and the Fort Amsterdam complex, which now houses government offices. Otrobanda is home to the Kura Hulanda Museum, which explores the history of the transatlantic slave trade.
Willemstad has a lively nightlife scene, particularly in Pietermaai, where restored colonial buildings now house bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. Restaurants in both Punda and Otrobanda offer a mix of local and international cuisine, with waterfront dining available along the Handelskade.
Transportation in Willemstad is centered around public buses and taxis. Although the city is walkable, especially in Punda and Otrobanda, buses connect the downtown area with other neighborhoods and beaches. The Queen Emma Bridge allows pedestrians to move between the two districts, while cars use the Queen Juliana Bridge, which offers views of the harbor.
Hotels in Willemstad range from boutique guesthouses in historic buildings to larger resorts along the waterfront. Many accommodations are within walking distance of the city’s main attractions, making the area a convenient choice for both short and extended stays.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Willemstad
BijBlauw
BijBlauw is located on the seafront, a 10-minute walk from Willemstad’s Historical Center and 2.5 mi from Curaçao Sea Aquarium. It features stunning sea views, a garden and a free WiFi throughout.
2. Jan Thiel
The best location in Curaçao for luxury resorts
Jan Thiel is an exclusive resort area southwest of Willemstad.
Jan Thiel, located on the southeastern coast of Curaçao, is known for its beach, waterfront resorts, and outdoor activities. The area is about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from Willemstad and easily accessible by car or taxi. Its coastline features calm waters and sandy beaches, making it popular for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Jan Thiel Beach is the main attraction, offering beach clubs, sun loungers, and water sports rentals. The area is also home to several hiking and cycling trails, with scenic routes passing through salt flats where flamingos can often be spotted. Nearby, the Caracas Bay Peninsula has historic ruins, including Fort Beekenburg, built in the 18th century to defend the island against pirates.
The neighborhood’s dining scene includes beachfront restaurants serving seafood and Caribbean dishes. Bars and lounges along the shore stay open late, creating a laid-back nightlife atmosphere. For shopping, Jan Thiel has small boutiques and convenience stores, with larger shopping centers a short drive away in Willemstad.
Accommodations in Jan Thiel include beachfront resorts with swimming pools and private villas with ocean views. Many properties are within walking distance of the beach and local amenities, making the area a convenient choice for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Jan Thiel
Papagayo Beach Hotel
Located on Jan Thiel Beach, Papagayo Beach Hotel offers an on-site casino and spa. Rooms at the Papagayo feature free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen cable TV, a desk, a sofa, and a safe.
3. Blue Bay
The best location in Curaçao for couples & families
Blue Bay is known for its beach, golf course, and resorts.
Known for its beaches and hotels, Blue Bay is located about 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the city center and a short drive from Curaçao International Airport. It is one of the best areas to stay in Curaçao for luxury travelers in search of beaches and upscale resorts.
Blue Bay Beach is the area’s main attraction, with soft sand, clear water, and palm trees providing shade. The beach is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, with coral reefs and marine life close to the shore. The beach club offers sun loungers, water sports rentals, and beachfront dining.
The 18-hole Blue Bay Golf Course is set among rolling hills and ocean views, attracting golfers of all skill levels. The area also has hiking trails that wind through the surrounding hills and coastline, providing scenic viewpoints. For diving, the Blue Bay Wall dive site offers underwater cliffs and coral formations.
Accommodations in Blue Bay include beachfront villas, apartments, and resort-style condos, many with ocean views and direct beach access. The gated community provides amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and restaurants, creating a convenient and secure environment for travelers.
4. Sint Willibrordus
One of the best areas to stay in Curaçao
Located on the western coast of Curaçao, Sint Willibrordus is known for its natural beauty.
Sint Willibrordus is famous for its natural beauty, tranquil beaches, and wildlife. The area is about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from Willemstad and offers a quieter, more rural atmosphere. It’s surrounded by rolling hills, salt flats, and scenic coastal views, making it popular with nature lovers.
Playa Porto Mari is the main beach in Sint Willibrordus, known for its white sand, clear water, and coral reefs. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and diving, with marked underwater trails and diverse marine life. Nearby, Playa Daaibooi offers a more secluded setting, favored by locals for swimming and picnicking.
The area is home to the Jan Kok Salt Pans, where flamingos can often be seen feeding in the shallow water. The historic Jan Kok Plantation House, one of the oldest on the island, now serves as an art gallery featuring local artists. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the surrounding hills, providing scenic views of the coastline.
Accommodations in Sint Willibrordus range from beachfront villas to hillside cottages with panoramic views. Most properties are designed for relaxation, with spacious terraces and private pools. While the area has fewer restaurants and shops compared to Willemstad, several local eateries serve fresh seafood and traditional Caribbean dishes.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Sint Willibrordus
The Natural Curacao
The Natural Curacao is an optional resort located in Saint Willibrordus. It is environmentally friendly, with solar panels and water recycling. It offers spacious and modern accommodations, an outdoor swimming pool and a solarium.
5. Dorp Sint Michiel
The best location FOR A QUIET HOLIDAY IN Curaçao
Dorp Sint Michiel is a quiet fishing village away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas of Curaçao.
Dorp Sint Michiel, located just west of Willemstad, is a coastal village known for its relaxed atmosphere, fishing culture, and access to some of Curaçao’s best diving and snorkeling spots. The area is about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) from the capital, making it easy to reach while offering a quieter environment.
Boka Sami Beach is the main beach in Dorp Sint Michiel, and it is popular for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The nearby fishing pier is a local landmark, and fresh fish is often sold directly from the boats. The village is also close to the dive site known as Snake Bay, which features coral reefs and diverse marine life.
The surrounding hills offer hiking trails with coastline views and nearby salt flats, where flamingos can sometimes be spotted. Historical sites include the old fishing huts and remnants of colonial-era buildings. The area’s small local restaurants serve freshly caught seafood and traditional Caribbean dishes.
Accommodations in Dorp Sint Michiel range from beachfront apartments to vacation homes with ocean views. The village’s proximity to Willemstad and Curaçao International Airport makes it a convenient base for exploring the island.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Dorp Sint Michiel
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