Curaçao
Curaçao is the Caribbean island of your dreams—vibrant, colorful, and full of culture. Nestled in the southern Caribbean, this unique destination blends European charm with island soul, thanks to its rich mix of over 55 nationalities. From the pastel-hued buildings of Willemstad’s Handelskade to the street art of Otrobanda, Curaçao is alive with history and creativity.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, Willemstad’s four districts each bring their own personality, while the island’s food scene is a delicious reflection of its cultural diversity—think beach bars, fine dining, food trucks, and everything in between.
With over 35 stunning beaches like Cas Abao and Kleine Knip, Curaçao is a paradise for water lovers. Snorkeling, diving, flyboarding, and boat trips let you explore the island’s crystal-clear waters, while land activities include museums, hiking, golf, spas, and more.
Festivals like Carnival and the North Sea Jazz Festival keep the rhythm alive year-round. Whether you’re after laid-back vibes or adrenaline-filled fun, Curaçao offers an unforgettable experience where every moment feels like magic. Visit our website.
Dining
Curaçao’s culinary scene is as colorful and diverse as the island itself. With over 55 nationalities calling it home, the island has developed a truly global kitchen where Caribbean flair meets international flavor. Influenced by its rich history and multicultural roots, Curaçao offers everything from quick bites at roadside food trucks to refined dining experiences in oceanfront restaurants.
Whether you’re in the mood for a Dutch pancake breakfast, a Spanish tapas lunch, or an Asian-Caribbean fusion dinner, you’ll find it all within just a few blocks. Chinese, Italian, Indonesian, African, and Latin American influences are also woven into the island’s food landscape, creating a deliciously eclectic mix.
Of course, no visit to Curaçao is complete without sampling some of its authentic local dishes. Must-tries include Kabritu Stoba, a hearty goat stew simmered with spices; Yuana, a surprisingly tasty stewed iguana; and Keshi Yená, a savory dish made with cheese stuffed with spiced meat, vegetables, and olives. During the holidays, locals enjoy Ayaka, a spiced meat mixture wrapped in cornmeal dough and banana leaves—similar to a tamale.
Every meal in Curaçao tells a story, offering visitors a chance to savor the island’s history, heritage, and warm hospitality one bite at a time.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: Papiamentu, English, Dutch and Spanish
Banking & Banking Hours: Several banks operate in Curaçao, including local institutions and international banks with regional presence. Major players include Maduro & Curiel’s Bank (MCB), Banco di Caribe, and RBC Royal Bank. Additionally, Scotiabank has a presence in Curaçao through its affiliation with MCB, offering a range of banking services. Most banks are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm or 4:00 pm at the latest; there are multiple ATMs available 24/7.
Currency: *New Caribbean Guilder (XCG) as of March 31, 2025. The Netherlands-Antillean Guilder, abbreviated as ANG, will continue to be accepted up until March 31, 2026. Fixed exchange rate of US$1 = 1.77 XCG. The USD is widely accepted.
Climate: Perfect year-round weather, with temperatures between 77-80˚F; the island is situated outside of the hurricane belt so there is no hurricane season.
Dress Code: In Curaçao, the general dress code is casual and relaxed, especially during the day. Light, breathable clothing like shorts, tank tops, sundresses, and sandals are perfectly fine.However, for some fancier restaurants or late-night clubs, a more “dressy casual” or “resort elegant” attire might be expected, meaning no flip-flops, shorts, or sportswear.
Driving: If you plan to really get around and explore the Island, renting a car at one of the many car rental agencies is the best option. There are no ride-sharing services in Curaçao. Valid Canadian driver’s licenses are accepted.
Electricity: Curaçao standard current outlets provide 110-130 Volt at 50Hz. The standard plug type is a two-pin ‘Type A’ power plug as used in the US. Some devices are designed to operate at both 110V and 220V, but please check in advance. Adaptors may be required – it is best to check with your hotel directly.
Time Zone: Curaçao is situated in Atlantic Standard Time (GMT -4). Curaçao does not observe Daylight Savings time.
Activities
Curaçao is packed with adventure, culture, and natural beauty—both above and below the sea. Start your journey in Willemstad, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where over 700 historic buildings showcase vibrant architecture and rich heritage. Explore local art galleries, museums, and the charming Kurá Hulanda Village with its cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes.
For land-based adventures, hike or bike through the island’s rugged landscapes, explore Christoffel Park, visit aloe and mango plantations, or unwind at a spa. Golfers can tee off at one of three scenic courses.
Underwater, Curaçao is a diver’s paradise with over 70 dive sites and some of the healthiest marine ecosystems in the Caribbean. From beginner-friendly shores to advanced reef dives, there’s something for every level—with plenty of PADI-certified dive resorts to choose from.
Not into diving? Try snorkeling, paddleboarding, or jet skiing—or simply relax on one of the island’s 35 sun-kissed beaches. Located outside the Hurricane Belt and with warm waters year-round, Curaçao is the perfect escape for sunseekers and adventurers alike. Learn more.
Travel Essentials
Flight Information
Traveling from the U.S. to Curaçao is convenient, with direct flights available from several major cities.
- American Airlines: offers nonstop flights from Miami, Charlotte, Dallas…and now Chicago!
- JetBlue Airways: operates daily non stop flights from New York (JFK)
- United Airlines: offers a weekly non stop flight from Newark (EWR)
- Delta Airlines: operates direct non stop flights from Atlanta.
For more information on other flights to Curaçao, click HERE.
Entry Requirements for Americans
Americans do not require a visa (for stays up to 90 days in a 180-day period) but must have a valid passport for at least six months after the date you expect to leave Curaçao. Passports cannot be more than 10 years old. You must have proof of a return or onward ticket as well as proof of valid health insurance. You may be asked for proof of the purpose of your stay.
If you wish to stay longer than 90 days, a tourist extension application must be completed. There is a fee for this service which must be paid before submitting the application. Please visit Curaçao’s Immigration requirements for the application as well as additional details on extended stays.
You must fill out the Digital Immigration Card Digital Immigration Card. This is a mandatory card for all visitors. For additional information visit our FAQs page.
For more information, contact your Travel Advisor or follow this link: US State Department/Curaçao
Getting Married
To commence the marriage process, it is necessary to submit a formal written request jointly signed by both parties to the municipality, indicating the intention to marry.
Additionally, two preferred dates and times for the wedding ceremony should be proposed, along with:
- Birth certificates containing the full names of parents.
- An international declaration confirming single status, issued by the civil registry of the home country.
- If you are divorced or widowed, please bring a copy of the certificate of divorce or death of the spouse plus a certified apostille. The certification must be carried out by the embassy of the Netherlands in your country of residence.
All documentation must be issued within six months before the wedding date. Should a witness be desired, they must be at least 21 years old, with full name, address, and date of birth provided for registration, accompanied by a current passport copy. Assistance with temporary residency arrangements can be facilitated by the wedding planner if necessary. Photocopies of passports for all involved parties are required, ensuring that all documentation provided is original, recent, and legally certified “Apostille”.
Send your letter and documents to:
Burgerlijke Stand
Attn. Hoofd afdeling Huwelijken
Roodeweg 42
For questions, call: 011-599-9-434-1600 or email: info.bsbv@gobiernu.cw
Cultural/Annual Events
Buzzing with vibrant cultural events, there is always something exciting to discover in Curaçao! Here are four annual events to consider when planning your visit.
- The highlight of the year in Curaçao is Carnival. The festive mix of music, theatre, street parties, art, culture, history and folklore bring a new vibrancy to the island. Starting in January and lasting two months, Carnival culminates in the streets of Willemstad with a big parade in February.
- Starting March and April, Curaçao comes alive for the Seú Harvest Festival. Seú is the biggest annual celebration on island and celebrates the successful harvesting of produce back in the day.
- A new island tradition, the Kaya Kaya Street Festival celebrates the cleanup and beautification of the Ser’i Otrobanda neighborhood. In the months leading up to the festival, the community gathers together to transform the neighborhood with art, murals, culture and more.
- The marquee music event of the Caribbean, the North Sea Jazz Festival is a must-see. Thousands of music fans attend the festival every year to hear big names like Marc Anthony and Seal as well as some of the island’s best homegrown talent.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of Curaçao observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Monday, February 16, 2026 – Carnival Monday
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, April 27, 2026 – King’s Birthday
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Labour Day
Thursday, May 14, 2026 – Ascension Day
Sunday, May 24, 2026 – Whit Sunday
Thursday, July 2, 2026 – Flag Day/Dia di Himno I Bandera
Saturday, October 10, 2026 – Curaçao Day (Dia di Korsou)
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Medical Information
Curaçao has 2 local hospitals. Curaçao Medical Center is the largest hospital in Curaçao with an extensive emergency room and the only intensive care unit on the island. The Antillean Adventist Hospital also offer a wide range of medical services and specialists.
In case of an emergency the attending doctor or EMT will be able to make an informed decision on the best hospital to send you to if necessary.
Curaçao’s medical services are on par with North American and European medical services and able to work with any international health insurance company.
Curaçao Medical Center – Public hospital
Address: J.H.J. Hamelbergweg, Willemstad
Telephone: +(5999) 745-0000
Website
Advent Hospital – Private clinic
Address: Groot Davelaarweg 1, Willemstad
Telephone: +(5999) 737-0611
Website
Emergency numbers
Ambulance: 912
Police: 911
Fire department: 911
Coast guard: 913
Pharmacies
In Curaçao, pharmacies are called “botika” and you’ll find one in almost every neighborhood. They sell over-the-counter medicines as well as prescription medicines. If you urgently need medicine after hours, there are always at least 2 botikas open for emergencies. These are called “Botika na Warda” and your hotel’s front desk will be able to help you with finding the pharmacy on duty.
FOR EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
Centro Dental Mahaai
Phone: +5999 737-0285
Tandarts Curaçao
Phone: +5999 462-5620
Dental Clinic Curaçao
Phone: +5999 724-2324
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is a hyperbaric chamber in Curaçao, at the Curaçao Medical Centre. Learn More.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline is aware of any special needs travel prior to departure from the United States.
Airport Services
Hato International Airport (CUR):
- Accessible parking
- Accessible restrooms with wheelchair access
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the airline counters
- Elevators and ramps
- Sunflower Lanyard link for hidden disabilities
Transportation & Activities:
Companies like Carin Cares | Thuiszorg op maat and Joseph Cares (Email: info@josephcares.com) can assist with special needs; should a specialist be required, they will be able to arrange for your care through an MD or hospital.
Facilities like dialysis machines are available but must be arranged in advance.
Much of downtown Willemstad as well as many of the popular beaches and attractions are accessible by wheelchair, with some notable exceptions like Playa Grote Knip, Shete Boka National Park, and Christoffel Mountain.
For Accessibility information at hotels located in Curaçao, please consult the hotel’s individual websites.
