CURAÇAO ITINERARY: HOW TO SPEND 5 AMAZING DAYS ON THE ISLAND

Take one step onto Curaçao, and you’re immediately welcomed with a warm island breeze and soft layer of humidity that says, “You’re on vacation now.” There are five days of exploration ahead in this Curaçao itinerary and we’ve laid out a few good ways to spend them: discovering art and history, swimming and exploring tropical marine life, indulging in delicious and varying cuisines, soaking in some R&R and more.

If you’re planning a vacation to the Caribbean, this ABC island will surprise and delight. It may not be as well-known as others in the region, but it offers the same feeling, plus an undiscovered charm that’s worth exploring.

Here’s the ultimate Curaçao itinerary for a trip filled with culture, food, and true island vibes.

Day 1: The perfect beginning to your Curaçao itinerary

About a fifteen-minute cab ride from the airport, you’ll find the beautiful Marriott Beach Resort, your home for the next week. Expect a glass of prosecco upon entering and an ocean view. Once you get checked in, throw on your bathing suit and go for a dip in the ocean (or one of the two pools) right outside your room. It’ll put you in the vacation mindset right away and kick off your Curaçao itinerary on the perfect note.

Although the hotel has four dining options, it’s worth venturing off-property to explore the island if you have the energy. Just a seven-minute drive away is Mondi Beach Club, a vibrant ocean-front restaurant with cabanas, live music, and a seafood-focused menu from island-born chef Justin Niessen.

Day 2: Live like a local

Today is all about learning about the people of Curaçao. You’ll start with breakfast at Serka Tanchi, a cozy and inviting restaurant that’s made to feel like you’re hanging out in your family’s living room. Order any of the fresh juices, the Alaskan omelet, and the most delicious banana bread you’ll ever eat.

Just down the road is the cultural centre of Landhuis Bloemhof, which brings together the art, history, and nature that make up the island. Contemporary artists are welcome to exhibit their pieces where sculptor and writer May Henriquez once worked as a pioneer for women in the Curaçao artist community. The beautiful grounds offer endless kilometres of trails to walk through alongside tropical vegetation and art installations.This highlight is definitely worth adding to your Curaçao travel plan.

As the day heats up, stop for a drink and snack in the colourful UNESCO heritage site of Kura Hulanda Village. Pop in a few stores and look at the locally-made goods, like lionfish jewelry at Lionfish Caribbean.

Once you're back at your hotel, you'll want to rest up for a night on the town. There are so many restaurants and bars throughout the capital city of Willemstad, we suggest an early start. Must-visits include Netto Bar, the oldest bar in Curaçao, for a shot of green rum; Swinging Old Lady Brewery for an appetizer and freshly brewed beer while taking in an unobstructed view of both the iconic Handelskade backdrop & the Queen Emma Bridge (made up from pontoon boats); and Mosa Caña Bar & Kitchen for a feast of Latin/Caribbean fusion food. Between the setting sun, live music, and array of delicious food and drinks, it'll be a night you won't soon forget.

Day 3: It’s adventure time

Rent a car and drive to the western part of the island to start off your day with a history lesson at the traditional adobe house of Kas di Pal’i Maishi. You’ll learn about Afro-Curaçaoan heritage and how the rural population lived until the mid-1900s.This stop is a highlight on any Curaçao itinerary, especially for travelers interested in local culture.

While spending time on this side of the island you can stop at one of the 35+ captivating beaches that Curaçao has to offer, like Cas Abao or Playa Lagun, and join in on a sea bobbing experience with Bearded Butlers. Grab an underwater scooter and get ready to swim with fish, turtles, and other sea life with a guide that will take you to hidden gems along the ocean floor.

If you need some fuel for the rest of the day, stop for lunch at Restaurant Kultura Kòrsou, located in Hofi Mango park that you can walk around after for views of beautiful trees, fresh fruit, and even peacocks.

Day 4: Catch the island vibes

Today is all about restoring your body and soul, and it starts with a traditional breakfast of fried and stuffed cornmeal pancakes at Johnnycake Box. Take yours to go and head to Caracasbaai to enjoy overlooking the water. This is where you can ask Elly Sambo from Universal Alchemist to meet you for a tarot card reading, an aromatherapy workshop, or oceanside meditation.

Spend the rest of the day choosing your own adventure: enjoy a loungey afternoon by the beach at Zanzibar or walk around downtown Willemstad to see stunning street art and have an authentic Curaçao lunch at the Plasa Bieu. You can’t go wrong eating from any of the six stalls; we promise any wait in line is worth it. Try the goat stew or fresh fried snapper—and the pumpkin pancake for dessert is a must.

Make your night easy with dinner at the hotel. Drinks and bites at the Salty Iguana will put you right on the water for your last night in paradise.

Day 5: Wrapping up your Curaçao itinerary

It’s time to pack up and go, but not without one last swim. Towel off and head to the hotel breakfast buffet at the C-Spice to fuel up for your journey home.

As your Curaçao itinerary comes to an end, try not to get depressed as you head to the airport—and how could you with steel drums playing live just through security—you just discovered one of the Caribbean’s hidden gems, and we know you’ll be back.