Discover Curaçao: Road Trips, Itineraries & Attractions

Discover Curaçao: A Colorful Caribbean Escape

Welcome to Curaçao – the hidden gem of the Dutch Caribbean! Nestled just off the coast of Venezuela, Curaçao is a vibrant island bursting with colorful colonial architecture, crystal-clear waters, and a melting pot of cultures. Whether you're a beach lover, history buff, foodie, or nightlife enthusiast, Curaçao has something unforgettable waiting for you.

Best Day Trips by Car

  • 1. East → West Island Road Trip

    Route: Jan Thiel → Willemstad → Sint Willibrordus → Playa Kenepa Grandi → Playa Lagun → Playa Forti → Westpunt
    Distance: ~60 km (one-way)
    Highlights: Morning coffee at Jan Thiel, explore downtown Willemstad (Queen Emma Bridge, Punda), stop in Sint Willibrordus (look for flamingos), then beach-hop the dramatic western coast. End your day with a sunset at Playa Forti.
    Google Maps route: Jan Thiel Beach → Westpunt via Willemstad


    2. Coastal Nature Loop (West Coast Adventure)

    Route: Willemstad → Shete Boka NP → Christoffel Park → Grote Knip/Cas Abao → Return via Westpunt
    Distance: ~110 km round-trip
    Highlights: Start in Willemstad, drive along Weg naar Westpunt (scenic), visit rugged sea caves at Shete Boka National Park (~38 km, ~42 min), hike in Christoffel Park, and swim/snorkel at Cas Abao or Grote Knip.
    Google Maps route: Willemstad → Shete Boka → Christoffel → Cas Abao → Willemstad


    3. Cultural & Coastal Route

    Route: Jan Thiel → Landhuis Chobolobo → Punda & Otrobanda → Sint Michiel → Boca Sami → Blue Bay → Return
    Distance: ~60 km round-trip
    Highlights: Start with a Blue Curaçao distillery tour, enjoy colonial charm in Punda/Otrobanda (Kura Hulanda Museum), drive to fishing village Sint Michiel, and finish with drinks at Blue Bay Beach.
    Google Maps route: Jan Thiel → Blue Bay via Willemstad


    4. East Coast & Spanish Water Loop

    Route: Willemstad → Santa Barbara → Spaanse Water → Jan Thiel → Caracasbaai → Return
    Distance: ~40 km round-trip
    Highlights: Pass through Spanish Water Bay with its mangroves, visit Santa Barbara area (snorkeling/hiking), enjoy the Tugboat Wreck in Caracasbaai, and relax or lunch at Jan Thiel Beach.
    Google Maps route: Willemstad → Jan Thiel via Spanish Water


    🚘 Pro Tip for Visitors

    • Download offline maps before heading out — signage is often limited in remote areas 

    • For each route, highlight travel time and pit stops, making it easy for your customers to personalize their trip.

    • Embed each Google Maps link as a button or clickable line (“View route in Google Maps”) directly in your site.

Book Your Car Today with Flex Car Rental Curaçao

Make the most of your trip by booking your rental car today. From compact cars to SUVs, Flex Car Rental Curaçao offers reliable, affordable vehicles so you can explore every corner of the island with ease.

What to Do in Curaçao

From exploring rugged coastlines to diving among coral reefs, the island offers endless adventures:

  • Snorkeling & Diving: Explore the world-renowned reefs at Playa Kalki, the Blue Room, or the famous Tugboat Wreck.

  • Beach Hopping: Visit postcard-perfect spots like Cas Abao, Playa Kenepa Grandi, and Jan Thiel Beach.

  • Cultural Tours: Wander through Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the pastel-colored buildings of Punda and Otrobanda.

  • Outdoor Adventures: Hike up Christoffel Mountain, explore Shete Boka National Park, or kayak through the mangroves of Spanish Water.

Where to Eat in Curaçao

Curaçao's cuisine is as diverse as its culture – blending Caribbean, Dutch, Latin, and Creole influences:

  • Local Flavors: Try authentic dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese), stoba (stew), or pastechi at Plasa Bieu in Willemstad.

  • Beachfront Dining: Enjoy oceanfront meals at Karakter, Zest Beach Café, or The Pier.

  • Trendy Eats: Head to Number Ten for brunch or De Gouverneur for a romantic dinner with a view of the harbor.

Travel Tips

  • Rent a car for maximum flexibility – Curaçao’s best beaches, nature parks, and local spots are spread out across the island. Renting a car is the easiest way to explore at your own pace.

  • Use Google Maps or download offline maps – GPS is reliable, but signal may drop in rural areas. Offline maps help you find hidden beaches and lesser-known attractions.

  • Drive safely and stay alert – People drive on the right-hand side. Watch for speed bumps, scooters, and animals crossing in the countryside.

  • Learn and respect the local culture – Greet people with a smile and try simple Papiamentu phrases like “Bon dia” (good morning) or “Danki” (thank you).

  • Protect yourself from the sun – The Caribbean sun is strong all year. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay cool and hydrated.

  • Try local food – Visit spots like Plasa Bieu in Willemstad to try Curaçaoan favorites like keshi yena, stoba, and pastechi.

  • Avoid crowded times – Plan visits to popular beaches like Mambo Beach or Playa Kenepa on non-cruise ship days for a more relaxed experience.

  • Secure your belongings – Curaçao is generally safe, but avoid leaving valuables in your car or unattended on the beach.

  • Use local currency or U.S. dollars – The Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG) is the official currency, but U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere. Carry small bills for local vendors.

  • Respect nature and marine life – Don’t touch coral when snorkeling, stay on marked trails, and help keep beaches and parks clean.