Where Can You Find Color in Curaçao?

Bon Biní! As the largest of the ABC Islands, Curaçao brings color to life through various ways. From the iconic architecture in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad, to the over 30 beaches with beautiful nature, Curaçao is a living rainbow to explore. They wish everyone welcome at Dushi Kòrsou (Sweet Curaçao). Its culture of over 55 nationalities spark a kaleidoscope of people who wish you Bon Biní (Welcome!).

Where is Curaçao and How Can I Get There?

Located in the Southern Caribbean right on the edge of the hurricane zone, you will find many ways to reach Curaçao. Flying in will bring you through the Curaçao International Airport (CUR). Select airlines fly from major hubs throughout the United States. You can also reach the island from an inter-island flight from Bonaire or Aruba. The cruise terminal is also a common launching point into the island. Cruises dock right into downtown Willemstad, with only a five to fifteen minute walk to get you to the colorful city. A private transfer or tour is our luxury recommendation here at CARTE ATLAS to really get your port day started.

Will there be drinking water?

Curaçao has safe drinking water that does come from the tap due to their extensive desalination programs. If you are still anxious, just use bottled waters found with your cruise, hotel, or at a local market.

Is Curaçao Safe to Visit?

CARTE ATLAS advises all travelers to become aware of the International Travel Advisory Map from the U.S. Department of State. This map lists out the levels of travel. As of the publication of this blog post, the island of Curaçao carries a Level 1 “exercise normal precaution” advisory from the U.S. State Department. Once you are educated on the level, you can decide if you wish to visit where a million overnight voyagers do each and every year.

Where are the Natural Colors of Curaçao?

The island has a beauty to it that seems untested. With over 30 sandy beaches and plenty of water activities to choose from, the white sands and blue waters pair so well here. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen and your sun hat as we dive into the colors of nature here on Curaçao.

You will find plenty of beach hideaways to choose from. Cas Abao is great for the whole family while Daaibooi Beach has a small fisherman’s cove near its cliffside. Two of the most popular beaches are Playa Kenepa Grandi and Playa Kenepa Chiki which over coves and palm trees for shade. The Sea Aquarium Beach is named so because it has the Curaçao Sea Aquarium right next to it! You may find one of the five sea turtle species that swim around the island.

For activities on land, try your hand at golf with three courses to select from (all are 18 hole). Hiking and Biking also have a home here, and provide a great way to explore this island’s natural beauty. You may even find a jeep tour into the heart of the island, giving you a real feel what Curaçao has to offer.

Water activities are plentiful here just as on the other ABC islands. With snorkeling and dive sights very close to reach, getting in the bright blue waters couldn’t be easier. The Coral Restoration Foundation Curaçao works hard to ensure a strong reef life for the future divers of tomorrow. And with minimal rainfall, snorkeling gives clear views of the underwater life. Windsurfing, Kite Surfing, Flyboarding, Kayaking, Boat Tours, SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) and more are always an option.

What Makes the Colors of Willemstad Famous?

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Willemstad is divided into districts, connected by a bridge. You will likely dock into the city Otrobanda district of Willemstad if you plan to visit on a cruise. Let’s find out how to explore the districts, and what you absolutely won’t want to miss on your visit.

What are the Colorful Districts of Willemstad?

The eastern district of Punda has narrow streets and an extremely Dutch feel as it was the headquarters for Dutch merchants. You will find both the Old Market and New Market to shop and delight in local flavors. Dutch Jewish culture can be explored at the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue (Snoa) and is the oldest synagogue still utilized today in the western hemisphere! Punda Vibes is a Thursday night event where the city comes alive with a festival flair. You will need to cross a bridge or take a ferry to reach (keep reading to see how!).

Otrobanda is the western side and was started when, well, Punda ran out of space! It saw an influx of Afro-Caribbean peoples when slavery was abolished, and contains a more windy street grid than the orderly Punda. A walking tour may be best to get your bearings and be sure to check out the Curaçao Museum for the history buffs in your group. Kurá Hulanda museum gives moving exhibits on slavery while hosting one of the largest collections in African art.

You will also find the districts of Pietermaai and Scharloo. The district of Pietermaai has a similar path of Otrobanda, and today it has an artistic “boho” vibe. Enjoy the colorful vibes of the district as you explore the art. Scharloo used to be a farming sector but is now known for large mansions that used to house the elite of the island. Today they house cafes, art galleries and more! It is also home to the Curaçao Maritime Museum where you can explore the over 500 years of nautical history that is a part of the island.

Why are the Three Bridges “Royal” in Willemstad?

What you cannot miss when you visit Willemstad is the three bridges, or the Three Queens. Each is named after a Queen of the Netherlands and connects the districts of Punda and Otrobanda. Queen Emma is known as the “Swinging Bridge” and is one of the oldest (but is remolded continuously). Should it be too windy to cross, free ferries are there to help service. Queen Juliana is the tallest bridge in the Caribbean that even oil tankers can sail beneath her. Queen Wilhelmina used to be a drawbridge until it was destroyed, and a new bridge was inaugurated in the early 2000s.

Can You Find Culinary Color in the Food of Curaçao?

When you have 55,000 nationalities, the colors of food really come alive. You will find a charcuterie board of flavor from Dutch, Afro-Caribbean, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, Asian, as well as North American influences. Curaçao has had Spanish rulers, Dutch merchants, Venezuelan and Indian workers, and a strong Portuguese Jewish community. Each has brought their flavor to the island.

You may find Karni stobá (Beef) or Kabritu Stobá (Goat) which are stews rich in flavor. The Koredor area of Willemstad has fresh fish served right from the fishermen. And do not forget to stop by a Snèks (Snack Bar) which are all around the island. You may find pastechis (Savory Pastries) or Saté Ku Batata (Chicken Skewers with fries). I am a huge fan of chicken skewers!

Another moment you might have is seeing public barbecuing on select public beaches. Palapas and picnic tables are all around you as the smells of the BBQ waft in the air mixed with the salty sea air. Truk’i pan (bread trucks) will start to pop up as sunset begins to land. Late night snacks include chicken, steak, and of course, BBQ! You will always find a soup or a salad as well.

How Colorful Is The Curaçao Culture?

Music and Art from those 55,000 nationalities blend together so well. From Carnival to Murals, and Dance to Song, the biggest colors might be what you hear instead of what you see. The important piece is to try to find what speaks to you, and then embrace it. Let’s see what colorful culture there is!

Music continues to be at the heart of Curaçao. Carnival is the highlight of the scene and occurs from January until March/April depending on Ash Wednesday. The Grand Parade is a festival of colors, sights and sounds is the main event of the festival. You may experience Tumba, which means “Drum” in Bantu and Mandinka. Influenced by Latin Jazz and Afro-Caribbean sounds, you will find a Tumba King and Queen crowning at Carnival. The music of Seú will come alive on Easter Monday as a parade through Willemstad occurs. If you enjoy the Blues, seek out Tambú, which was inspired by slaves expressing their suppression through song. You will find instruments often found on farms and clapping accompany the music. And for Jazz lovers, the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival is for you and it takes place in the summertime.

When you think of Curaçao, the Art likely pops into your mind with the colors of Willemstad. You will also find plenty of art galleries throughout the island. Yubi Kirindongo transforms trash into art. Nena Sanchez creates art through the natural views of the island. Francis Sling has created an “Art Cave” Gallery to explore and enjoy. And if you enjoy making your own art, Serena’s Art Factory allows you to make your own Chichi Dolls. The dolls, which are classic brightly colored female sculptures, represent the “big sister” to look up to. They are the perfect Curaçao momento.

Will I See The Pride Flag Colors in Curaçao?

Yes! As a welcoming place, Curaçao will see the LGBTQ+ Community as a wonderful community. You will find the Curaçao Pride happening in either June or September. There are a number of resorts that are proud members of LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Diversity training and education programs. You will also find Gay Friendly and Queer Owned businesses around Willemstad and beyond. That Dushi “Sweet” Life is a part of Curaçao and absolutely extends to the Queer Community!

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