A first-time guide to Curaçao

When compared to other islands in the Caribbean, Curaçao is a tough one to beat. Once you step outside the airport and the warm breeze gently brushes your face, be assured that this trip will be one you’ll be thinking about for a long time.

With lovely beaches, easy-going and friendly vibes, colorful neighborhoods, delicious and fresh seafood, the C of the ABC islands is a treasure chest full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Curaçao is one of the more affordable islands in the Caribbean, attracting young and seasoned travelers alike who enjoy the dushi island life (dushi is Papiamento and while there is no literal translation, it’s a synonym for the good things in life, great food, and simply having a good time).

Plan and budget for your first trip to Curaçao – and probably not your last – with this guide. 

When should I go to Curaçao?

Thanks to its geographical location in the Leeward Antilles, Curaçao is a great place to visit just about any time of the year. There is no rainy season, and the island is usually pretty dry year-round. The hottest months to hit the beaches are from May until September. While July, August and September are prone to hurricanes and storms in other parts of the Caribbean, traveling to Curaçao during that time is usually safe as the island is located south of the Hurricane Belt. That doesn’t mean that there won’t be any storms, but not a single hurricane has hit the island since the US National Hurricane Center started its database.

November and February are my favorite times of the year to visit Curaçao. The weather is a bit cooler but still hot, with an average of 29°C (84°F). It’s not full-on high season, so prices tend to be reasonable. Christmas and Easter can get pretty busy, so reserve well ahead to secure good accommodations and a rental car, as they can get booked up at this time.

Great events take place throughout the year, most noteworthy are Carnival (in 2025 end of February/early March), KLM Curaçao Marathon in late November, North Sea Jazz Festival (usually August) and celebrating the new year at Pietermaai Pagara XXL.

How much time should I spend in Curaçao?

No mater how much time you’ve allocated for your trip to Curaçao, you’ll know as soon as you step off the plane that it is too little. And even after weeks on the island, you’ll still find out about corners,…