Curaçao: Turquoise Water, Beautiful Beaches, and Three Very Different Hyatt Experiences
“Traveling leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” Ibn Battuta
6/7/202617 min read
We spent two weeks in Curaçao and completely fell in love with the island's crystal clear turquoise water, laid back atmosphere, and easygoing lifestyle. Unlike some Caribbean islands that feel built entirely around cruise tourism, Curaçao feels authentic. It has its own personality, culture, and rhythm.
Pronounced 'Cure-ah-sow,' this Dutch Caribbean island sits just 40 miles north of Venezuela and is known for having some of the clearest water in the Caribbean. You will notice the Dutch influence immediately in the architecture, road signs, and colorful waterfront buildings. The island was an important trading center for centuries and today blends Dutch, Caribbean, Latin American, and African influences into something uniquely Curaçaoan.
For the first week, we rented a car, which we highly recommend. Traffic is easy to navigate, roads are generally in good condition, and having your own transportation allows you to explore the island's many beaches and attractions at your own pace.
We recommend R&R Car Rental. They will deliver the vehicle directly to your hotel and pick it up when you are finished. Rates start around $38 per day, making it one of the best values on the island. Request the Pink Devil as your car. No locals will mess with you when driving this beast.
If you are visiting from a cruise ship or simply need transportation to and from the airport, we recommend Naomi. She speaks good English, has a clean air-conditioned van, and was always professional, reliable, and honest. She can be reached via WhatsApp at +599 9 664 4031. In addition to airport transfers, Naomi can be hired for half-day island tours lasting four to five hours and can take you to beaches, hotels, shopping areas, and many of the island's most popular attractions. We found this to be a much more affordable option than booking through many of the organized tour companies, while still providing the flexibility to customize your day and travel at your own pace.
During our stay, we were based at Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino. The resort sits on a beautiful stretch of waterfront with incredible sunset views. If you book an ocean view room, you will enjoy waking up to some of the bluest water we have seen anywhere in the Caribbean.
Unfortunately, that was also the only reason we would stay there.
Dreams is connected to two additional Hyatt Inclusive Collection properties, Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa and Il Mare. Guests staying at Zoëtry and Il Mare give you access to Dreams.
After several disappointing meals and service experiences at Dreams, if we weren’t at the beach, we found ourselves spending almost all of our time at Zoëtry.
If we return to Curaçao, we would stay at Zoëtry without hesitation.
Zoëtry is an intimate luxury resort with only 72 suites surrounded by tropical gardens. There are no crowds, no loud pool parties, and no need to wake up at sunrise to claim a chair with a towel and then disappear for three hours. It is quiet, peaceful, and focused on service. One unexpected benefit of the smaller size is how easy it is to get to know other guests. Over the course of our stay, we met several wonderful like-minded travelers, including a great couple from Maryland and another fun couple from Canada. The Canadian gentleman did his best to personally deplete the resort's supply of Grey Goose vodka, a mission he appeared to take very seriously. We were also pleasantly surprised to learn that such good people can, in fact, come from north of the border. With so few guests on property, conversations happen naturally around the pool, at the bar, and during meals, creating a much more personal and welcoming atmosphere than you typically find at larger resorts.
The property is led by Manager Jermany, who could frequently be seen walking the grounds, talking with guests, and ensuring everything was operating smoothly. That leadership was noticeable throughout the resort.
Fernando, the Food and Beverage Manager, may be one of the hardest-working people on the island. He was constantly moving between restaurants, checking on guests, ensuring food quality, and helping his staff. If something wasn't right, he fixed it before you even had a chance to mention it.
The bar team was equally impressive. Jeison (Jason) took care of us almost too well, if such a thing exists. Elysha, Christopher, and Ingo consistently crafted some of the best coffee and cocktails we had during our entire stay.
At Bloom Restaurant, Sylvia from Ecuador quickly became our favorite server. Breakfast and dinner were always a pleasure because of her friendly personality and attention to detail.
The culinary team consistently exceeded expectations. Pork belly, octopus, shrimp dishes, filet mignon, and fresh catch-of-the-day specials were all excellent. Unlike some all-inclusive resorts where every meal starts to feel the same, we genuinely looked forward to dining each evening.
The entertainment team at Zoëtry also deserves recognition. Unlike some resorts where you only see the activity staff when they are trying to get you to play pool volleyball, this team was constantly engaged with guests. Rayion seemed to be everywhere at once. One minute he was setting up for a morning yoga class, the next he was organizing arts and crafts, and later he was hosting afternoon tea. We are still not entirely convinced there were not actually three of him. The entire team did a fantastic job creating activities that were enjoyable without ever feeling pushy or disruptive to the peaceful atmosphere that makes Zoëtry special.
Il Mare offers a completely different experience. This adults-only property features just 52 suites and has a modern, contemporary design centered around the waterfront. Opened in 2024, it is the newest of the three affiliated properties and feels fresh and upscale throughout. The resort is made up of individual pod-style suites that are spread across the property, giving it a boutique feel rather than the traditional hotel layout. Every room includes butler service, and the infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea is stunning. If you decide to stay here, pay close attention when booking your room category. Some rooms face directly toward the water and offer spectacular Caribbean views, while others overlook the sand and are less beautiful. Trust us, you want the water view. The combination of modern design, personalized service, and intimate atmosphere creates a very upscale experience that many travelers will appreciate. Now, let's talk about our favorite places around the island.
Willemstad
The capital city of Willemstad is what you see on virtually every postcard from Curaçao. The colorful waterfront buildings lining Handelskade date back centuries and are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city became a major trading center during the Dutch colonial period, and many of the brightly colored buildings reflect Dutch architectural styles adapted to the Caribbean climate.
The downtown area is extremely walkable and filled with restaurants, shops, museums, and photo opportunities. Parking is available, but most meters require coins. We recommend obtaining change from your hotel or purchasing parking tokens at one of the local shops.
Make sure you venture beyond the main streets. Some of the most beautiful architecture and hidden courtyards are found a block or two away from the crowds.
One of the city's most famous attractions is the Queen Emma Bridge, often called the "Swinging Old Lady." This floating pedestrian bridge swings open several times each day to allow ships to pass through the harbor.
For people watching, grab a seat at Iguana Café along the waterfront and enjoy the view.
Cas Abao Beach
Cas Abao was our favorite beach on the island, and we visited twice.
The water is exactly what people imagine when they think of the Caribbean. Crystal clear, turquoise, calm, and absolutely beautiful.
Entry costs $6 per vehicle Monday through Saturday and $7 on Sundays. Beach chairs are only $3 each, and food and drinks are reasonably priced.
Arrive before 11:30 AM because it gets busy, and the shaded spots fill quickly.
Snorkel gear, and diving equipment are available for rent. While the coral and marine life are not spectacular throughout the entire bay, there are some excellent snorkeling areas near the rocky sections.
Water shoes are highly recommended due to coral and rocks near portions of the shoreline.
They also offer beachfront massages from a stand located near the center of the beach. Nothing says vacation quite like listening to waves while someone fixes the damage caused by airline seats and cruise ship mattresses.
Tugboat Beach
Tugboat Beach was one of our favorite snorkeling locations on the island.
There is no entry fee, and beach chairs rent for approximately $8.
The beach has a laid back, slightly hippie vibe and is known for the sunken tugboat located just offshore. This area is also part of an active coral restoration project, making it one of the better snorkeling experiences on the island.
You can rent snorkeling and diving equipment on-site, and local artists frequently host driftwood painting workshops throughout the day.
Just above Tugboat beach sits the Quarantine House, originally used to isolate sailors arriving with suspected illnesses before they could enter Willemstad. The building still stands today and offers another fantastic viewpoint overlooking Tugboat Beach and the surrounding coastline.
While you're in the area, visit nearby Fort Beekenburg.
Built in 1703, the fort helped protect Spanish Water Bay from potential attacks. Visitors can climb to the top of the fort for incredible views of the coastline and surrounding water.
Kokomo Beach
Kokomo Beach may be one of the most photographed beaches on Curaçao.
Entry is free if you simply want to visit and take pictures. The famous overwater swing has become an Instagram favorite, and for good reason.
Food is somewhat expensive, but the atmosphere is fun, lively, and worth experiencing at least once.
Beach chairs are available for rent, and the water is beautiful.
Playa Grandi (Playa Piskadó)
If you want to see sea turtles, this is your beach.
Local fishermen clean their catch nearby, which attracts both turtles and pelicans looking for an easy meal.
One local gentleman (termed used loosely) helps visitors spot turtles by throwing fish guts in the water to bring them closer for photographs in exchange for tips.
You will see plenty of turtles here, but remember that touching them is both illegal and harmful. Sea turtles are protected species, and touching them can transfer bacteria, disrupt natural behaviors, and create unnecessary stress.
The beach itself is rocky, so water shoes are highly recommended.
Two chairs and an umbrella typically rent for around $15. Parking is free, and there are two separate parking areas available.
The restroom costs $1 to use, but showers are free if you rent beach chairs.
Flamingo Habitat
One of the best places to see flamingos on Curaçao is the Flamingo Habitat near Sint Michiel.
Parking is free along the roadside, and you can often see dozens of flamingos feeding and resting in the shallow water.
We visited twice and were rewarded both times.
There is another location frequently mentioned online, but despite driving by twice, we never saw a single flamingo there.
We'll stick with the birds that actually showed up near Sint Michiel.
Overall Recommendation
Curaçao surprised us in all the right ways. The beaches were some of the most beautiful we have seen in the Caribbean, the water was unbelievably clear, and the island was easy to explore on our own.
Whether you spend your days snorkeling with sea turtles, relaxing at Cas Abao Beach, exploring the colorful streets of Willemstad, or enjoying one of Jeison’s cocktail at Zoëtry, there is something here for everyone.
Most importantly, Curaçao never felt rushed. It felt like an island that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the simple things.
If you are considering a trip to Curaçao and would like recommendations on where to stay, what beaches to visit, or how to avoid some of the mistakes we made, contact Tacks Travels. We would be happy to share our firsthand experiences and help you plan the perfect island getaway.
We spent two weeks in Curaçao and completely fell in love with the island's crystal clear turquoise water, laid back atmosphere, and easygoing lifestyle. Unlike some Caribbean islands that feel built entirely around cruise tourism, Curaçao feels authentic. It has its own personality, culture, and rhythm.
Pronounced 'Cure-ah-sow,' this Dutch Caribbean island sits just 40 miles north of Venezuela and is known for having some of the clearest water in the Caribbean. You will notice the Dutch influence immediately in the architecture, road signs, and colorful waterfront buildings. The island was an important trading center for centuries and today blends Dutch, Caribbean, Latin American, and African influences into something uniquely Curaçaoan.
For the first week, we rented a car, which we highly recommend. Traffic is easy to navigate, roads are generally in good condition, and having your own transportation allows you to explore the island's many beaches and attractions at your own pace.
We recommend R&R Car Rental. They will deliver the vehicle directly to your hotel and pick it up when you are finished. Rates start around $38 per day, making it one of the best values on the island. Request the Pink Devil as your car. No locals will mess with you when driving this beast.
If you are visiting from a cruise ship or simply need transportation to and from the airport, we recommend Naomi. She speaks good English, has a clean air-conditioned van, and was always professional, reliable, and honest. She can be reached via WhatsApp at +599 9 664 4031. In addition to airport transfers, Naomi can be hired for half-day island tours lasting four to five hours and can take you to beaches, hotels, shopping areas, and many of the island's most popular attractions. We found this to be a much more affordable option than booking through many of the organized tour companies, while still providing the flexibility to customize your day and travel at your own pace.
During our stay, we were based at Dreams Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino. The resort sits on a beautiful stretch of waterfront with incredible sunset views. If you book an ocean view room, you will enjoy waking up to some of the bluest water we have seen anywhere in the Caribbean.
Unfortunately, that was also the only reason we would stay there.
Dreams is connected to two additional Hyatt Inclusive Collection properties, Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa and Il Mare. Guests staying at Zoëtry and Il Mare give you access to Dreams.
After several disappointing meals and service experiences at Dreams, if we weren’t at the beach, we found ourselves spending almost all of our time at Zoëtry.
If we return to Curaçao, we would stay at Zoëtry without hesitation.
Zoëtry is an intimate luxury resort with only 72 suites surrounded by tropical gardens. There are no crowds, no loud pool parties, and no need to wake up at sunrise to claim a chair with a towel and then disappear for three hours. It is quiet, peaceful, and focused on service. One unexpected benefit of the smaller size is how easy it is to get to know other guests. Over the course of our stay, we met several wonderful like-minded travelers, including a great couple from Maryland and another fun couple from Canada. The Canadian gentleman did his best to personally deplete the resort's supply of Grey Goose vodka, a mission he appeared to take very seriously. We were also pleasantly surprised to learn that such good people can, in fact, come from north of the border. With so few guests on property, conversations happen naturally around the pool, at the bar, and during meals, creating a much more personal and welcoming atmosphere than you typically find at larger resorts.
The property is led by Manager Jermany, who could frequently be seen walking the grounds, talking with guests, and ensuring everything was operating smoothly. That leadership was noticeable throughout the resort.
Fernando, the Food and Beverage Manager, may be one of the hardest-working people on the island. He was constantly moving between restaurants, checking on guests, ensuring food quality, and helping his staff. If something wasn't right, he fixed it before you even had a chance to mention it.
The bar team was equally impressive. Jeison (Jason) took care of us almost too well, if such a thing exists. Elysha, Christopher, and Ingo consistently crafted some of the best coffee and cocktails we had during our entire stay.
At Bloom Restaurant, Sylvia from Ecuador quickly became our favorite server. Breakfast and dinner were always a pleasure because of her friendly personality and attention to detail.
The culinary team consistently exceeded expectations. Pork belly, octopus, shrimp dishes, filet mignon, and fresh catch-of-the-day specials were all excellent. Unlike some all-inclusive resorts where every meal starts to feel the same, we genuinely looked forward to dining each evening.
The entertainment team at Zoëtry also deserves recognition. Unlike some resorts where you only see the activity staff when they are trying to get you to play pool volleyball, this team was constantly engaged with guests. Rayion seemed to be everywhere at once. One minute he was setting up for a morning yoga class, the next he was organizing arts and crafts, and later he was hosting afternoon tea. We are still not entirely convinced there were not actually three of him. The entire team did a fantastic job creating activities that were enjoyable without ever feeling pushy or disruptive to the peaceful atmosphere that makes Zoëtry special.
Il Mare offers a completely different experience. This adults-only property features just 52 suites and has a modern, contemporary design centered around the waterfront. Opened in 2024, it is the newest of the three affiliated properties and feels fresh and upscale throughout. The resort is made up of individual pod-style suites that are spread across the property, giving it a boutique feel rather than the traditional hotel layout. Every room includes butler service, and the infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea is stunning. If you decide to stay here, pay close attention when booking your room category. Some rooms face directly toward the water and offer spectacular Caribbean views, while others overlook the sand and are less beautiful. Trust us, you want the water view. The combination of modern design, personalized service, and intimate atmosphere creates a very upscale experience that many travelers will appreciate. Now, let's talk about our favorite places around the island.
Willemstad
The capital city of Willemstad is what you see on virtually every postcard from Curaçao. The colorful waterfront buildings lining Handelskade date back centuries and are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city became a major trading center during the Dutch colonial period, and many of the brightly colored buildings reflect Dutch architectural styles adapted to the Caribbean climate.
The downtown area is extremely walkable and filled with restaurants, shops, museums, and photo opportunities. Parking is available, but most meters require coins. We recommend obtaining change from your hotel or purchasing parking tokens at one of the local shops.
Make sure you venture beyond the main streets. Some of the most beautiful architecture and hidden courtyards are found a block or two away from the crowds.
One of the city's most famous attractions is the Queen Emma Bridge, often called the "Swinging Old Lady." This floating pedestrian bridge swings open several times each day to allow ships to pass through the harbor.
For people watching, grab a seat at Iguana Café along the waterfront and enjoy the view.
Cas Abao Beach
Cas Abao was our favorite beach on the island, and we visited twice.
The water is exactly what people imagine when they think of the Caribbean. Crystal clear, turquoise, calm, and absolutely beautiful.
Entry costs $6 per vehicle Monday through Saturday and $7 on Sundays. Beach chairs are only $3 each, and food and drinks are reasonably priced.
Arrive before 11:30 AM because it gets busy, and the shaded spots fill quickly.
Snorkel gear, and diving equipment are available for rent. While the coral and marine life are not spectacular throughout the entire bay, there are some excellent snorkeling areas near the rocky sections.
Water shoes are highly recommended due to coral and rocks near portions of the shoreline.
They also offer beachfront massages from a stand located near the center of the beach. Nothing says vacation quite like listening to waves while someone fixes the damage caused by airline seats and cruise ship mattresses.
Tugboat Beach
Tugboat Beach was one of our favorite snorkeling locations on the island.
There is no entry fee, and beach chairs rent for approximately $8.
The beach has a laid back, slightly hippie vibe and is known for the sunken tugboat located just offshore. This area is also part of an active coral restoration project, making it one of the better snorkeling experiences on the island.
You can rent snorkeling and diving equipment on-site, and local artists frequently host driftwood painting workshops throughout the day.
Just above Tugboat beach sits the Quarantine House, originally used to isolate sailors arriving with suspected illnesses before they could enter Willemstad. The building still stands today and offers another fantastic viewpoint overlooking Tugboat Beach and the surrounding coastline.
While you're in the area, visit nearby Fort Beekenburg.
Built in 1703, the fort helped protect Spanish Water Bay from potential attacks. Visitors can climb to the top of the fort for incredible views of the coastline and surrounding water.
Kokomo Beach
Kokomo Beach may be one of the most photographed beaches on Curaçao.
Entry is free if you simply want to visit and take pictures. The famous overwater swing has become an Instagram favorite, and for good reason.
Food is somewhat expensive, but the atmosphere is fun, lively, and worth experiencing at least once.
Beach chairs are available for rent, and the water is beautiful.
Playa Grandi (Playa Piskadó)
If you want to see sea turtles, this is your beach.
Local fishermen clean their catch nearby, which attracts both turtles and pelicans looking for an easy meal.
One local gentleman (termed used loosely) helps visitors spot turtles by throwing fish guts in the water to bring them closer for photographs in exchange for tips.
You will see plenty of turtles here, but remember that touching them is both illegal and harmful. Sea turtles are protected species, and touching them can transfer bacteria, disrupt natural behaviors, and create unnecessary stress.
The beach itself is rocky, so water shoes are highly recommended.
Two chairs and an umbrella typically rent for around $15. Parking is free, and there are two separate parking areas available.
The restroom costs $1 to use, but showers are free if you rent beach chairs.
Flamingo Habitat
One of the best places to see flamingos on Curaçao is the Flamingo Habitat near Sint Michiel.
Parking is free along the roadside, and you can often see dozens of flamingos feeding and resting in the shallow water.
We visited twice and were rewarded both times.
There is another location frequently mentioned online, but despite driving by twice, we never saw a single flamingo there.
We'll stick with the birds that actually showed up near Sint Michiel.
Overall Recommendation
Curaçao surprised us in all the right ways. The beaches were some of the most beautiful we have seen in the Caribbean, the water was unbelievably clear, and the island was easy to explore on our own.
Whether you spend your days snorkeling with sea turtles, relaxing at Cas Abao Beach, exploring the colorful streets of Willemstad, or enjoying one of Jeison’s cocktail at Zoëtry, there is something here for everyone.
Most importantly, Curaçao never felt rushed. It felt like an island that encourages you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the simple things.
If you are considering a trip to Curaçao and would like recommendations on where to stay, what beaches to visit, or how to avoid some of the mistakes we made, contact Tacks Travels. We would be happy to share our firsthand experiences and help you plan the perfect island getaway.
info@allinglobaltravel.com