Island Activities

The island has many good beaches, not to mention clear blue water; however, a lot of the beaches on the southeast coast (even the hotel beaches) are a bit rocky. The softer, whiter beaches are on the west coast.

Excellent diving has always been a draw in Curaçao, and a fair percentage of travelers are drawn by the teeming reefs and good shore-diving possibilities.

Day sails are the most popular way to enjoy the water if you don't dive, and all of them offer opportunities for good snorkeling.

Both sides of Willemstad—Punda and the revitalized Otrobanda—offer the shore-bound plenty to occupy their time, making it well worth your while to check out the local sights and do some shopping.

Do stop for a bite to eat at one of the many great restaurants.

By night, you can gamble in a few casinos or check out some of the lively bars and dance clubs.

Festivals and Events

The year's big event is Carnival, which concludes on Ash Wednesday; it's among the Caribbean's best parties and is beginning to draw visitors in larger numbers.

The Curaçao International Jazz Festival is held in May.

The Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival occurs in early September and features international stars of jazz and pop. Past performers include John Legend, Simply Red, and George Benson.

The Heiniken Regatta Curaçao features exciting boat races and musical events in November.