Curacao is simply the perfect Caribbean destination for your child’s first beach vacation. Beyond the long sunny days and pristine beaches, you’ll also find natural wonders, family attractions, friendly, welcoming people and all within easy, quick access to many major cities along the east coast.
Best yet, Curacao, one of the ABC Dutch Caribbean islands which also includes Aruba and Bonaire, has plenty to offer adults and doesn’t feel like “Disney by the sea,” at all.
This is where to stay, eat, drink and wander in this small slice of paradise.
Stay Here
The Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa and Casino is an ideal base for families to explore the island. The beach here features a seawall which creates a calm bay to swim, snorkel, kayak, or try out stand up paddleboarding. Little ones will feel safe and gain confidence in the ocean without large waves to knock them off balance.
Don’t worry, there are still lots of opportunities for the adults to relax as the Sunscape has an amazing kids’ program, called “The Explorers Club.” Here kids aged 3-12 can play, cook, paint, spend time at the beach, watch movies and have campouts. All kids camp staff are Red Cross CPR certified and experienced carers.
Once the kids are registered, you’ll be given a beeper and if they need you or miss you, you’ll get an alert. While they are busy being entertained you can head to the casino, enjoy an uninterrupted meal, or simply soak up the sun and relax. For older kids, there is Core Zone, where teens can hang out, play video games, sing karaoke and try out a range of sports.
Upgrade to the Sun Club and experience quicker check-in, VIP services, larger accommodations, private pools and lounges and daily room service.
Eat Here
The Sunscape resort has four a la carte restaurants to choose from as well as a buffet and a cafe, there’s even daily ice cream!
Book a table at Himitsu, the Asian inspired restaurant for the lively demonstrations at teppanyaki tables or enjoy a romantic beachside dining experience at the Oceana restaurant and bar.
However, if you feel like exploring a little further afield, leave the resort and visit the capital of Willemstad. The hotel offers free shuttle bus services here daily so you can check out the shops, cross the Queen Emma floating pontoon bridge, see the fort, and enjoy the street art of Otrobanda.
Book a table at the popular restaurant Rozendaels which has a pretty garden and serves up fresh fish and local dishes.
Wander Here
For something just a little different for kids and adults to both enjoy, make a visit to the Hato Caves, located just a 12-minute drive from the airport.
You’ll be led underground by your tour guide who will explain the ancient history of the 300,000-year-old cave system and point out interesting features. The cave is well paved and very safe, although be warned that you do need to first negotiate the 49 steps before getting to the cave entrance. There’s also a cactus garden to explore and a food and drink stand for refreshments.
It’s your choice; you can get out and about exploring the island, snorkel with turtles, sample some barbecued iguana, discover remote coves or spend your vacation trying out the many activities at your resort. Whatever you choose, a vacation in Curacao will leave the whole family smiling.
For more information and to plan your Curacao vacation visit the Curacao tourism board website.
