Plan your trip to Curaçao the right way
Curaçao is a dream destination with beautiful beaches, rich culture, and a relaxed Caribbean vibe. However, planning your vacation isn’t always as easy as it seems. Many travelers make the same mistakes when choosing a hotel in Curaçao, booking flights, or determining the right location.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve outlined the five biggest mistakes people make when booking a vacation to Curaçao—and how you can avoid them.
Booking an all-inclusive hotel in Curaçao and missing the real experience
An all-inclusive hotel in Curaçao sounds ideal—unlimited food, drinks, and entertainment. However, staying at an all-inclusive resort often means missing out on the best parts of the island.
Curaçao has amazing local restaurants, vibrant markets, and hidden beaches. By staying in a resort, you limit your options and miss the true atmosphere of the island.
What can you do instead?
- Choose a smaller hotel in Curaçao where you have more freedom to explore the island.
- Dine at local hotspots like Plasa Bieu in Willemstad or a cozy beachfront restaurant.
- Rent a car and discover Playa Lagun, Cas Abao Beach, and the western coast.
Want to truly experience Curaçao? Skip the all-inclusive hotel and enjoy the local culture and hospitality.
2. Thinking that every hotel in Curaçao has a private beach
Not every hotel in Curaçao has a private beach. Many hotels are located in the city or near public beaches, which means you might need to pay extra for access to popular beaches.
What can you do instead?
- Want a hotel with a private beach in Curaçao? Make sure to check in advance if your hotel actually has one.
- Visit beautiful public beaches like Playa Kenepa and Cas Abao.
- Consider a hotel with both a pool and beach access for the best of both worlds.
3. Waiting for a last-minute Curaçao deal (not a smart plan!)
Many people think they can save a lot with a last-minute deal to Curaçao. However, last-minute offers to Curaçao are rare, especially during peak season. Hotels, flights, and car rentals quickly get booked up, leaving you with fewer options and ultimately higher costs.
What can you do instead?
- Book at least 3 to 6 months in advance for the best prices and availability.
- Avoid traveling during peak season (December to April) if you're looking for cheaper options.
- Look for early booking discounts rather than last-minute deals.
By planning ahead, you'll have more choices and a more affordable vacation.
4. Booking your flight to Curaçao too late and paying more
Flights to Curaçao can become expensive if you don’t book them at the right time. Many travelers make the mistake of booking their flights too late or on expensive travel dates.
What can you do instead?
- Book your flights to Curaçao at least 3-5 months in advance for the best price.
- Avoid flying on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), when tickets are often more expensive.
- Use price comparison tools and set up price alerts to keep track of deals.
- Flying from the Netherlands? Look for direct flights to Curaçao for the best connections.
5. Not taking a boat trip to Klein Curaçao (a big missed opportunity!)
Many travelers miss one of the most beautiful experiences by not taking a boat trip to Klein Curaçao. This uninhabited island is only 25 km from Curaçao and offers white sand, crystal-clear waters, and an iconic lighthouse. It is also one of the best places to snorkel with sea turtles.
What can you do instead?
- Book a boat trip to Klein Curaçao and spend the day in this paradise.
- Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, and a snorkel set.
- Leave early in the morning to make the most of your day.
A visit to Klein Curaçao is a must-do during your vacation in Curaçao. Don't miss out on this unique experience!
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Curaçao is easy, but making the right choices will determine how special your experience will be.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Don’t book an all-inclusive hotel in Curaçao—you’ll miss out on the true island experience.
- Not every hotel in Curaçao has a private beach—check before booking.
- Don’t rely on a last-minute Curaçao deal—book early for the best prices.
- Plan your flights to Curaçao wisely—book well in advance and avoid peak travel days.
- Visit Klein Curaçao—it’s one of the most breathtaking spots on the island.
Looking for an authentic, relaxing vacation where you can truly discover Curaçao? Choose a hotel that gives you the freedom to explore the island and immerse yourself in the local culture.