Curacao Travel Tips: 10 Things to Know Before Your Vacation

Planning your dream vacation to the colorful Caribbean island of Curacao? Smart move. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant culture, and year-round sunshine, this hidden gem of the Caribbean is full of unforgettable experiences.

If you are wondering what to know before going to Curacao, you are in the right place. These 10 Curacao travel tips will help you – from practical must-haves, cultural insights to top things to pack for a Caribbean trip. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fifth, this Curacao travel guide has you covered.

1. Do I need a car in Curacao? Yes and here’s why

Your best Curacao travel guide advice: always rent a car

Let’s kick off with one of the most important Curacao travel tips: rent a car. If you’ve ever asked yourself, ‘do I need a car in Curacao?’ The answer is YES! Public transportation is limited and taxis are expensive — a five-minute trip can cost more than an entire day of car rental. With your own car, you’ll have the freedom to explore hidden beaches, local eateries, and off-the-beaten-path sights at your own pace. Bonus tip: Book early, especially during high season. And yes—driving is on the right side of the road. If you're looking for what to know before going to Curacao, this tip is key: having a car gives you access to parts of the island you’d otherwise miss. Any good Curacao travel guide will recommend this first.

2. What to Know Before Going to Curacao: Learn Basic Papiamentu

Speak like a local with those essential words

Papiamentu is the native language of Curacao, blending Spanish, Dutch, Portuguese, and African influences. While most locals speak English fluently, using a few Papiamentu words is a sign of respect and is always appreciated.

Here are your essentials:

Bon dia – Good morning,

Bon tardi – Good afternoon

Bon nochi – Good night

Danki – Thank you

Bonus: Mi ta stima bo – I love you (just in case, you never know...).

Curacao travel tips aren’t just about where to go – they are about how to connect, too. One thing many people want to know is what to know before going to Curacao in terms of language. Learning even a few basics goes a long way.

3. Island Life Tip: Embrace “Curacao Time”

What to know before going to Curacao: timing is flexible

If you're used to life in the fast lane, Curacao is your gentle wake-up call. Things move slower here—and that's the whole point. Don’t stress if your food takes a while or someone shows up late. The relaxed island vibe is part of the charm. One of the best Curacao travel tips? Let go of your schedule, you’re on Caribbean time now.

4. Curacao Travel Tips for Staying Safe in the Sun

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often

The sun in Curacao is no joke. Protect your skin (and our coral reefs) with reef-safe sunscreen. Keep reapplying, especially after swimming or snorkeling in the crystal blue waters. This is one of those Curacao travel tips that your future self (and the planet) will thank you for.

5. Download Google Maps Offline for Navigation

Avoid getting lost in Curacao’s lesser known areas

Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable on the island, especially if you're road-tripping to remote beaches. [Download Curacao on Google Maps here] before you arrive so you can navigate without stress. This is one of the smartest Curacao travel tips to avoid getting lost on those spontaneous sunset drives.

6. Currency Tips: What to Know About Paying in Curacao

Why small cash and local currency go a long way

Tipping culture in Curacao is chill, but very much appreciated. Whether someone helps you carry your groceries or fills up your tank at the gas station, a small tip goes a long way. US dollars are accepted in most places. However local currency (XCG) is usually better for small transactions. Bonus tip: Some spots give better prices when you pay in the local currency XCG.

7. What Plug Do I Need in Curacao?

Stay powered up during your island stay

Curacao uses 110–130V electricity (Type A/B plugs, like the U.S.), but newer hotels and apartments may have 220V sockets too. Be safe, not sorry. Bring a universal adapter. It’s one of those Curacao travel tips that sounds basic, but can save you from hassle.

8. Pack Mosquito Spray

Don’t let bites ruin your beach nights

Ah, the mosquitoes… Those tiny, relentless creatures that seem to appear out of nowhere, especially after a refreshing rain or as the sun sets. Protect yourself with a high-quality mosquito repellent. This spray bottle can save your evenings, your sleep and your skin.

9. What to Pack? Your Minimalist Curacao Packing List

The only three essentials you really need to bring

We’ve all been there - whether it’s you, your mom, or your uncle - stressing about the vacation. "Do we have everything?" The packing list goes on and on, clothes everywhere, and the suitcase seems to grow bigger by the minute. But here’s the thing: stop stressing, you are heading to the Caribbean!

When it comes down to it, there are only three things on your Curacao packing list that really matter:

Passport – Because without it, you're not going anywhere.

Health insurance – Smart travelers know this one. Don’t leave home without it.

Debit or credit card – You’ll need some way to pay for all those island cocktails and souvenirs, right?

Seriously, once you’ve got these three, you’re good to go. The rest? You can figure out once you land and let the island vibes take over.

10. Final Curacao Travel Tips Before You Go: Fill Out Your Digital Immigration Card

Curacao entry requirements made simple

Make sure to fill out your Digital Immigration Card (E.D. Card) before your trip. It’s a required entry form for all visitors and helps you breeze through airport immigration. You can submit it online up to 7 days before arrival. Complete your Digital Immigration Card here

You’re Ready to Go: Make the Most of Your Curacao Adventure

Final thoughts to kick off your Caribbean trip

From renting a car to reef-friendly sunscreen, these Curacao travel tips are designed to help you relax, explore, and enjoy every moment. Whether you're snorkeling with sea turtles, wandering through Willemstad's colorful streets, or savoring a fresh fish BBQ at a local beach, Curacao is ready to welcome you. If you've been wondering what to know before going to Curacao, you're now well-prepared.

Need more inspiration? Check this out for even more local tips and highlights.