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Curacao, often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbor Aruba, is a hidden gem in the Dutch Caribbean. Unlike other Caribbean islands, Curacao provides a more urban and cultural experience alongside the typical beach vacation, with a unique blend of European and Afro-Caribbean cultures that create a distinct and vibrant experience.
Curacao’s capital city, Willemstad, has colorful architecture, European vibes, and historical charm. The rest of the island offers endless activities: beach hopping, snorkeling with sea turtles, beach hopping, hiking, ostrich farms, cave systems, an aquarium, and more! Families will appreciate Curacao’s mix of activities – you could easily spend two weeks here and not get bored. In short, Curacao is a great destination for families looking for more than just a beach flop.
You won’t find many mega resorts in Curacao – yet another reason we love it. Instead, Curacao offers a wide range of boutique accommodations, from affordable eco lodges to one of our favorite small luxury resorts – and a few great options for apartment-style rooms for families. Again, something for everyone.
And the icing on the cake: Curacao is outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe choice for travel year-round.
On our scouting trip to Mango Tree, we split our stay between two completely different hotels. We started at an affordable boutique hotel in downtown Willemstad – with pops of color everywhere, a restaurant with a playground, and a killer view of the ocean. And we ended our trip with the island’s top luxury boutique resort, which had the most comfortable beach chairs imaginable. We would return to both hotels in a heartbeat, highlighting for us that there’s a hotel match for every family in Curacao – and we can help you find yours.
– Lee, Mango Tree Founder
Colorful, pastel-colored architecture in the capital Willemstad and world-class snorkeling, particularly at its small, rocky beaches and coral reefs.
Dutch is the official language, but you’ll also hear English, Spanish, and Papiamento spoken across the island.
The Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted, and credit cards can be used throughout the island.
Curacao is a mid-sized Caribbean island at 171 square miles, about the same size as Maui. The island combines a lively urban feel in Willemstad with quieter, off-the-beaten-path beaches and natural landscapes. Its Dutch-Caribbean charm is balanced with a laid-back, welcoming attitude.
Curacao’s roads are well-paved, and driving is relatively straightforward. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island’s beaches, natural parks, and attractions. If you prefer not to drive, taxis are easy to come by through an app called 24-7 Taxi Curacao, or arranged through your hotel.
The best family-friendly hotels are clustered around Willemstad, providing easy access to the city’s restaurants, shopping, and activities. If you want an off-the-beaten path experience and closer to nature, ask us about a neat villa we recommend on Curacao’s quieter west end.
Peak Season: November to March.
Shoulder Season: April to October
No Go: There isn’t one! Curacao is outside the hurricane zone with great weather all year round, making it one of our favorite Caribbean destinations for summer travel.
Fly directly to Curacao’s Hato International Airport (CUR) with flights available from major U.S. cities like Miami, New York, Charlotte, and Atlanta. You’ll be about 25-30 minutes from most hotels once you arrive.
If you’re coming from other parts of the Caribbean or the ABC islands, you can take a quick hopper flight on local airlines like EZ Air or Divi Divi Air from nearby Aruba or Bonaire
Choose Curacao for stunning cove beaches, phenomenal snorkeling from the beach, and endless activities. Head to Curacao with kids for a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation – more than just a resort beach vacation. A few bonuses for families.
You could spend dozens of hours researching your trip. Or you could have a family travel expert curate your personalized itinerary. What’s stopping you?
*Please note that some of the suggested actives are affiliate links. We only recommend activities that we know and trust.
* Please note that some of these product links are affiliate links, but we only recommend products we would use on our own travels.
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Britt, Family of 3, Spring Break 2024
Frenchie, Family of 4, Spring Break 2024
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