Curaçao is an island that is often overlooked in the Caribbean, but after experiencing it firsthand, it deserves a spot on any traveler’s list. From December 9-14, 2024, two Senior Travel Advisors, Jody Mahoney and Amy Collins, explored the island, staying at three resorts, touring four additional properties, and experiencing some of the best excursions and dining options available.

Curaçao is not a typical all-inclusive destination—it is best suited for travelers who enjoy culture, history, food, and adventure. Those who want to fully experience the island will find that renting a car is the best way to explore, particularly since many of the best beaches are on the west coast, away from the resort areas.'

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Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort

Best for: Families and couples seeking a modern, oceanfront resort close to town.

This recently renovated resort offers spacious rooms, multiple pools, and a large beach, though the water entrance can be rocky. The resort provides daily snorkeling tours on its private coral reef. One drawback is the potential for noise from events held in the on-site ballroom. Guests who prioritize relaxation should avoid booking rooms near this area.

The resort promotes sustainability by providing reusable water bottles at check-in. It also features a relaxed atmosphere with live music in the evenings. However, one design flaw is the lack of storage space in the bedroom, as all shelving is located in the bathroom, which may be inconvenient for families.

Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa

Best for: Adults seeking a quiet, wellness-focused retreat.

This 72-room boutique resort offers a tranquil, tropical setting. Rooms are spacious, with an open-concept design and direct pool access for select categories. Although the resort is not beachfront, guests can take a golf cart to Dreams Curaçao for beach access.

Zoëtry Curaçao is ideal for those seeking a peaceful environment, but with only two restaurants on-site, guests staying for longer periods may need to explore off-property dining options.

Sandals Royal Curaçao

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and golfers looking for a modern, all-inclusive experience.

As one of Sandals’ newer resorts, this property features a large, modern layout with multiple pools and a variety of room categories, including rondovals and butler bungalows, some of which include a Mini Cooper rental for a day. The main beach is set apart from the pools, creating a more secluded atmosphere.

With 11 restaurants, including food trucks, the resort offers diverse dining options. The double infinity pool overlooking the ocean is a standout feature. The resort is well-suited for those who want a mix of relaxation and activities.

Additional Resort Tours

Beyond the properties where they stayed, the travel advisors also toured:

Renaissance Wind Creek – Best for cruise passengers due to its proximity to the port, but the lack of a true beach and disappointing dining options make it less appealing.
Mangrove Beach Corendon Resort (Hilton Curio) – Currently on a "Do Not Sell" list due to poor service and maintenance issues.
Kontiki Beach Resort – A good option for travelers seeking a vibrant beach club atmosphere near Mambo Beach. Not all-inclusive but offers a lively nightlife scene.
Baoase Luxury Resort – An exclusive, high-end property ideal for romantic getaways. Day passes are available for $230 per person, including lunch and access to the beach and pool.

Activities and Excursions

A guided tour of downtown Willemstad provided insight into the island’s four main districts: Otrobanda (port area), the Jewish Quarter, Punda (colorful buildings and shopping), and Pietermaii (reminiscent of the French Quarter in New Orleans). A new Marriott Autograph Collection property, Piermont, is set to open in Pietermaii in 2026.

The most memorable day was spent exploring the west side of the island, which is known for its lush landscape and some of the best beaches in Curaçao. Shete Boka National Park offered dramatic ocean views with crashing waves and sea caves. Visitors often beach-hop along the coast, as there are 37 beaches on the island, 26 of which are located on the west side.

A visit to the Senior & Co Distillery, home of the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, provided a look at the island’s distilling history. Free tours are offered three times daily, but it is best to visit when cruise ships are not in port.

While staying at Sandals, the group was treated to a half-day catamaran snorkeling excursion with Island Routes, stopping at an offshore reef and a sunken ship near an oil rig. While marine life was present, the snorkeling experience did not include sightings of sea turtles or other standout creatures.

Who is Curaçao Best For?

Adventure seekers looking for snorkeling, scuba diving, or UTV tours.
History and culture lovers interested in the island’s Dutch influence, museums, and historic sites.
Food enthusiasts who want to experience Curaçao’s diverse culinary scene, which includes over 70 restaurants.
Luxury travelers seeking high-end accommodations at properties such as Baoase, Sandals, or the upcoming Piermont.
Families and honeymooners who want a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Curaçao offers a unique mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, making it one of the most well-rounded destinations in the Caribbean.

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Exploring All That Curaçao Has to Offer