which island is better to visit aruba or curacao

Caribbean Uncovered

Aruba vs Curaçao: Which is better in 2024

Aruba vs Curaçao, which is better for your next vacation? We’ll look at everything you need to know about these two islands. From beaches to safety and off-roading adventures to nitty-gritty logistics. Let’s find out where you’ll be going next!

Overall, Aruba is best for vacationers wanting to relax at the beach with the convenience of all the resorts, restaurants, and nightlife. Curacao is better for exploring the mountainous terrain and searching for off-the-beaten-path beaches and coves.

Booking travel soon? Here are my favorite reputable Caribbean resources – Book your villas a vrbo.com – Find tours at viator.com – Find hotels at booking.com – Find the best deals for rental cars at Discover Cars

Aruba vs Curacao: Which is better for your next vacation?

When it comes to deciding between Aruba and Curaçao, each destination has its own distinctive charm. Aruba’s long stretches of beaches, shimmering waters, and bustling nightlife make it a favorite among visitors looking for an exciting getaway.

On the other hand, Curaçao offers travelers an opportunity to explore a less touristy island with a genuine Caribbean feel.

Its mountainous terrain provides plenty of activities for adventurers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach city or an exciting escape into the great outdoors, both Aruba and Curaçao have something special to offer!

Aruba vs Curaçao: About each island 

Currency in aruba and curaçao.

The official local currency of Aruba and Curaçao is the Aruban Guilder (AWG), also called the Florin.

AWG’s exchange rate is fixed to the US dollar at a price of 1 USD = 1.80 AWG. However, US dollars are accepted throughout both islands and are accessible at ATMs!

It should be noted that you should keep some cash on hand during your stay at either island. Many taxis only take cash (USD is fine) – avoid being stuck without a ride!

The official languages of Aruba and Curacao are Papiamento and Dutch , but most Arubans speak multiple languages. Additionally, almost everyone on the island will speak English, so no need to worry about language barriers on either island.

Who are they owned by? 

Aruba is “owned” by the Dutch , and has been a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands for over 200 years. Curaçao has been its own country since 2010 and belonged to the Netherlands before that.

You’ll find that both territories have similar cultures, but still offer very different experiences!

Do you need a passport to visit Aruba or Curacao?

To visit Aruba or Curaçao, you must have a U.S. passport valid for the duration of your stay. The country also requires a completed Embarkation and Disembarkation Card (ED-Card) upon arrival and a return or onward ticket.

There are many Caribbean islands that don’t require a passport, like the US Virgin Islands. But, if you’re visiting Aruba or Curaçao, you’ll want to make sure your passport is up-to-date!

Aruba vs Curacao: Which island is safer?

Both islands are safe, but if you have to compare, Aruba would be somewhat safer . Standard precautionary measures are a good idea for any island. There are a few important things to avoid in Aruba and Curacao:

• not leaving your valuables unattended
• using common sense, especially at night or in secluded areas
• keeping cars and hotel room doors locked at all times

Violent crime rates on Aruba are low compared to any other island in the Caribbean, making nonviolent theft the biggest concern.

But even theft isn’t that common. However, one is always cautioned to use common sense about avoiding bad neighborhoods and hiding valuables.

Additionally, the food and drinking water in Aruba are relatively safe to consume compared with other Caribbean islands.

Aruba vs Curacao: Which is safer? Both are safe, but Aruba has a slight advantage in safety

Aruba vs Curacao: Who has better beaches?

Aruba and Curaçao both have white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. You won’t be disappointed with either location, but there are differences. 

Aruba has beaches that are long and wide. Aruba is considered to have the more famous beaches when comparing the two.

However, while Curaçao’s beaches are typically smaller, they are also more secluded! Often, you’ll find these hidden gems in coves and bays throughout the island. Curaçao is also known for its many bays.

So, if you like adventuring off the beaten path, Curaçao is a great option to explore these hidden beaches throughout the island. 

Aruba vs Curacao: Who has better beaches? Aruba for relaxing, Curacao for off-path exploring

Who has better weather?

These two ABC islands are both famously known for being located off the hurricane belt.

So, you can’t go wrong visiting any time of year! In the summers, the temperatures can get quite high reaching 90 degrees F or higher, but the ocean waters are perfect for spending days swimming and snorkeling.

Hurricane season isn’t a problem on these islands. So, they’re two of the best Caribbean islands to visit in October or August , which is known to be the worst time to visit on most islands.

What is rainy season in Aruba , though? Rainy season in Aruba , Bonaire , and Curacao runs from September to December. However, these months still see less than 3 inches of rain on average! That’s unheard of for many Caribbean islands.

Aruba vs Curacao: Who has better weather? The weather is the same and you can’t go wrong any time of year!

Which is easier to get to?

It’s easier to book a direct flight to Aruba from the U.S.  Aruba has more direct flights from U.S. airports than Curaçao. So, if you’re looking for quick, convenient flights, Aruba is easier to get to.

Most tourists in Aruba are American. This increases flight options and also cuts costs, making it cheaper to fly into Aruba.

Direct flights to Queen Beatrix International Airport in Aruba from the US 

•  New York
•  Boston 
• Philadelphia

Direct flights to Curaçao International Airport from the US 

•   New York
•   Miami

Aruba vs Curacao: Which is easier to get to? Aruba

Which is easier to get around?

It’s easier to get around Aruba than Curaçao. Aruba is smaller and easier to navigate. It’s also more developed. However, you’ll still want a 4-wheel-drive vehicle for some parts of the island.

Curaçao is also relatively easy to get around, but it is bigger than Aruba. Notably, Curaçao’s capital city of Willemstad can be confusing to navigate, especially for first-time visitors.

Note that there is no Uber in Aruba or Curacao, only taxis.

Curacao vs Aruba: Which is easier to get around Aruba

Aruba vs Curacao: Which island is bigger?

Curaçao is larger (444 km2 / 171 sq mi) than Aruba (180 km2 / 69 sq mi).

Although Aruba is smaller than Curaçao, Aruba has a lot more visitors making it more crowded. Luckily, Aruba is well equipped to handle the number of tourists.

Not to worry though, both islands have plenty to do for every type of traveler!

Which island is larger? Curacao

Differences in landscape 

Aruba is flatter with a desert landscape while Curaçao is more mountainous and greener.

You’ll find everything along the coastlines of both islands, from smooth to rocky to steep. The rocky areas on the northern coast of Curaçao are more rugged and can be risky, so beware when hiking around!

There are awesome ATV tours in Aruba for off-road adventure s to explore the harder terrain – and they are more than worth it!

Which is better for island hopping

Unfortunately, it’s not easy to island hop by water in Aruba or Curacao. While they are near in distance, the waters in between are rough. Too rough for small boats, and ferry services no longer run through.

This may be surprising, but not uncommon. Even Cayman Islands doesn’t have ferries that operate between islands. St Thomas and USVI are also uniquely known for easy island hopping by ferries, unlike Aruba .

There are local flights through EZ Air BV, Jet Air, and Divi Divi Air. The hopper flights are only 25 minutes long. This includes hopping between Aruba, Bonaire , and Curacao.

Which is better for island hopping? You can take hopper planes to each, but neither is ideal for hopping by water.

Island hopping is much better in Turks and Caicos vs Aruba

Aruba vs Curacao: Nightlife

Aruba has a better variety of nightlife options. It’s a smaller island than Curaçao, but has more tourists – and those tourists like to party! Palm Beach and Eagle Beach along with the city of Oranjestad offer a variety of nightlife dance clubs and casinos to relaxing beachfront lounges.

Curaçao is larger but much more serene. With its coves and beaches and smaller crowds, it’s not a party town. But don’t let that deceive you, Curaçao still has a lively nightlife, mostly centered around its capital city of Willemstad.

Who has better nightlife, Aruba or Curacao? Aruba is well-known for its nightlife

Dining in Curaçao and Aruba

Both come from a Dutch Caribbean island heritage, so the food is similar! The national or most popular food in Curaçao and in Aruba is keshi yena.

Keshi yena is a mix of meat (typically spiced chicken meat), olives, pickled onions, and plums baked in a cheese rind. Finish off with a coconut candy or Dutch chocolate for dessert!

On Curaçao, you can enjoy their funchi, stroopwafels, and karni stoba. Karni stoba is a traditional Caribbean dish made of marinated chunks of beef with peppers, garlic, onions, tomatoes, chili peppers, soy sauce, and nutmeg.

Aruba is also famous for its beachfront dining. The Flying Fishbone gives you the unique opportunity to dine with your feet in the ocean!

Aruba vs Curaçao: Things to do 

National parks, arikok national park in aruba.

The Arikok National Park is 7,907 acres and home to a long list of natural wonders, animal species, plant life, and rare gems indigenous to the island. It’s a great place to spend the entire day taking in the stunning scenery.

You’ll be able to observe the wildlife, Indian rock drawings, unique land formations, and explore the caves. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. Or, hop on a popular Jeep or ATV tour and enjoy the ride!

Christoffel National Park and Shete Boka National Park

Curaçao has two national parks, Christoffel National Park and Shete Boka National Park (a total of over 12,000 acres).

Christoffel National Park is the larger of the two parks on Curaçao. It’s a challenging hike to climb to the top of Christoffel Mountain, and it will take 2-3 hours depending on where you start.

The hike through the rugged landscape will reward you with a number of natural formations including a bird’s eye view of the island at the top of the mountain.

Tours are also available at Christoffel National Park (hiking, safari, sunset, and more). 

At Shete Boka National Park, you will see the inlets (“boka”) that comprise the park with spectacular views of the coastline. In addition to the inlets, there is the natural bridge of Boka Wandomi and the Boka Tabla cave. The Shete Boka National Park is also a protected nesting area for sea turtles.

Which is better for snorkeling and diving

Both Aruba and Curaçao offer spectacular snorkeling adventures, but Curaçao gets the win for a few reasons. 

Curaçao has a wide range of snorkeling options from sheer numbers to shipwrecks to coral reefs and more. Furthermore, you’re more likely to be able to walk in from the beach. 

Aruba has great snorkeling and dive sites as well, but you may need to take a snorkel tour to get to these locations. Aruba also has a lot more tourists in general which could affect the experience.

Based on these factors, Curaçao is the better island for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Who has better snorkeling, Aruba or Curacao? Curacao

Read Aruba vs Belize for even better snorkeling and diving at the Belize Barrier Reef

Notable attractions

• California Lighthouse, where you can now make reservations for two to dine at the top during sunset.
• The protected fofiti tree.
• A variety of unique naturally formed structures like the natural bridge and cave pool.  
• Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations
• Explore Baby Beach

Both islands are filled with notable attractions making the visits worthwhile and memorable.

Unique Things to do in Aruba and Curacao

1. ayo and casibari rock formations: aruba.

Aruba may be flat but the huge boulders of the formations stand out. You can hike and explore the Ayo and Casibari Rock Formations which will also give you brilliant views of the island.

Go see the Ayo Rock Formations if you’re interested in history, nature, and culture. Visit the Casibari Rock Formations where you can ultimately enjoy the BBQ Bar & Grill during your active and relaxing exploration.

2. Pedernales Wreck: Aruba

The SS Pedernales tanker was torpedoed and sunk by a German U-boat in World War II and its center portion still remains submerged off the shore of Palm Beach, only 25 feet below sea level. It’s the perfect spot for novice divers!

3. Casino at Hyatt Regency: Aruba

The casino is located at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino along Palm Beach. There are enough gaming tables and slot machines to test your luck!

4. Scuba Diving: Curaçao

Scuba dive at Blauwbaai or Porto Mari where you can walk right in from the beach (and there are many others.

5. Playa Lagun: Curaçao

Playa Lagun is in a cove and is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving . The water’s calm. The coral reef is magnificent. And to top it off, the sea life is thriving. Keep your eye out for some island favorite sea turtles.

6. Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue: Curaçao

The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel synagogue in Curaçao was consecrated in 1732. It is the oldest synagogue (olso called “snoa”) in continuous use in the Americas with roots that can be traced back to the Iberian peninsula of the 1500s.

It is one of the island’s prime historical monuments with its unique architecture and lavish adornments. The sandy floors muffled the sounds of their illegal worship during the times of the Inquisition. Visit the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel synagogue where Jewish history and ritual meet Curaçao’s cultural history and monuments.

7. Hike the famous Rio Ricon Park: Curacao

Find gorgeous panoramic views throughout hikes for all levels in the Rio Rincon Park in Curacao.

Where to Stay in Aruba

• Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort in Aruba (Adults only) ⭐9.6/10
• Avila Beach Resort in Curacao ⭐ 8.8/10
• Penthouse by Eagle Beach ⭐ 5/5

FAQ: Which island is better?

What are the differences between aruba and curacao.

Overall, Aruba has more tourism and development. This makes it the more commercialized island of the two. Curacao is untouched and secluded. There is much to be discovered on this picturesque island!

Is it cheaper to go to Curacao or Aruba?

It is cheaper to fly to Aruba than to Curaçao. Aruba has more direct flights from U.S. airports, offering cheaper options. Curaçao has fewer flight options making it a little more costly to fly into. However, Aruba does have more tourists so the prices will be a little more costly in Aruba including the activities to the food. Things will generally be a bit more affordable in Curaçao.

Can you do a day trip from Aruba to Curaçao?

You can take a day trip from Aruba to Curacao. There are airlines that operate frequently between Aruba to Curaçao on a daily basis, and the flight time is only 30 minutes.

Which ABC island is the best?

All three islands make outstanding vacations but here are some highlights: Aruba is the best choice overall for the beaches, activities, and nightlife. Though all the islands are generally safe, Aruba would be the best choice for “safest.”

Bonaire is the best choice for the most relaxing vacation. Bonaire is also best for its selection of diving and its beautiful reefs. Curaçao would be the best choice for beautiful beaches and for more challenging adventures since it has rockier terrain. Curaçao will also provide the most authentic Caribbean experience.

Summary of Curaçao vs Aruba: Which is better?

Hopefully, these comparisons help you choose whether Aruba or Curacao is better for your next vacation!

Looking for a smaller island with plenty to do from the water activities and the beaches to the nightlife? Then Aruba is the better option. Looking for a larger island with fewer tourists with beautiful beaches and great hiking and an overall more relaxing vibe? Then Curaçao is for you.

More posts you might be interested in

• St Maarten vs St Thomas
• Is Noord Aruba safe?
• Aruba vs St Thomas
• Aruba Jeep Tours
• Aruba vs St Lucia
• Honeymoon Itinerary in Aruba
• Aruba vs Bahamas
• Rainy Season in Aruba
• Sunset Sails in Aruba
• Is Cozumel Worth Visiting
• Is Grand Cayman Safe

Rachel is passionate about encouraging you to stop waiting and start exploring. After over a decade of traveling through the Caribbean islands, Rachel is sharing all of her secrets. She's passionate about sharing her expert Caribbean travel tips with you to make planning your trip as easy as lying on the beach.

Similar Posts

St Thomas vs Turks and Caicos: Which Island is Better in 2024

Anguilla vs Turks and Caicos: Which is Better in 2024

15 Best Aruba Resorts for Honeymoon 2024

13 best resorts on eagle beach aruba for 2024, is bermuda in the caribbean, which is better eagle beach or palm beach aruba (2024).

Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

Aruba vs Curaçao: Which Dutch Caribbean island should you choose?

If you’re looking for the best information on whether to visit Aruba vs Curaçao, then you’ve come to the right place. Both islands are breathtaking and perfect holiday destinations – but, there’s always going to be one island that probably fits your ideal travel plans a little bit better than the other. And that’s what I’m here for. You’re welcome. Whether Aruba is better than Curaçao – or the other way around – depends on you. The island that is nearest to Aruba is Curaçao and after that Bonaire. Mainland Venezuela is very close to all ABC islands.

Aruba or Curaçao: Which is the better pick for your trip?

Is there ever a Caribbean island that is the wrong choice to visit? No – absolutely not. This article on Aruba vs Curaçao is not a competition as both are incredible. But, there might be an island that you have a preference for. Maybe you prefer to visit a smaller or larger island – or like a more mountainous area as opposed to pretty flat land.

The Dutch Caribbean islands of Aruba and Curaçao are both beautiful, each with its unique charm and allure. If you’re seeking a tropical paradise with a touch of European influence due to The Netherlands’ colonial past, these islands are perfect. In this guide, I’ll dive a bit deeper into the differences between Aruba and Curaçao, helping you make an informed choice for your next Dutch Caribbean adventure.

1. Geography, climate and location

One of the primary factors that differentiate Aruba and Curaçao is their climate. Aruba boasts a more arid climate with consistently warm temperatures and low rainfall throughout the year. On the other hand, Curaçao experiences a semi-arid climate with slightly more precipitation but still enjoys plenty of sunshine.

To understand the distinctions between Aruba and Curaçao, it’s crucial to start with their geography and location. Aruba and Curaçao are both part of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean Sea, but they vary significantly in size, shape, and proximity to the mainland. Aruba is a petite, flat island located about 29 kilometres off the coast of Venezuela, while Curaçao is larger and situated approximately 80 kilometres east of Aruba.

The  best time to travel to Curaçao depends on your wishes. From February until June you will see almost no rainfall.  But, if you prefer the warmest temperatures, then you need to visit Curaçao from May until October. The months when there is the most precipitation in Curaçao are October, November and December. 

The best time to travel to Aruba is from January until April. If you prefer to visit Aruba when the island is at its hottest, then you can visit anywhere from June until August. But, there is still rainfall during that time (the short, but heavy kind). Most rain in Aruba falls in October, November and December, but it’s truly not as bad as it sounds. It’s again the short, but heavy kind and that is honestly perfectly fine.

Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao very rarely deal with hurricanes. The hurricane season of the Caribbean starts on the 1st of June until the 30th of November. The islands lay south of the hurricane belt, which is honestly fantastic.

Situated just 29 kilometres off the Venezuelan coast, it’s part of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean Sea. Aruba’s predominantly flat terrain spans approximately 180 square kilometres. Contrasting with typical Caribbean islands, it lacks towering mountains – its  highest ‘mountain’  is the only 188 meters high Jamanota. Aruba does offer a stunning landscape adorned with pristine beaches, like the world-famous Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. Its arid climate, characterised by abundant sunshine and low rainfall, enhances its appeal, making Aruba a haven for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts.

When comparing Aruba vs. Curaçao, the geography of Curaçao reveals its unique charm. Spanning approximately 444 square kilometres, it’s way larger than Aruba. Curaçao’s terrain can be pretty hilly as well as flat (depending on where you are). The highest point of Curaçao , Mount Christoffel (or Seru Christoffel), reaches around 372 meters. Also located in the southern Caribbean Sea, about 80 kilometres east of Aruba, Curaçao has a semi-arid climate, providing a pleasant blend of sunshine and moderate rainfall. This diverse geography contributes to Curaçao’s appeal, offering travellers a larger canvas to explore, from its vibrant capital Willemstad to its captivating beaches and scenic landscapes.

2. Cultural influences

Aruba boasts a rich cultural tapestry with a prominent thread of  indigenous influences . The island’s history is marked by the presence of the Arawak people, who inhabited the region long before European colonisation (first the Spanish, later the Dutch). Because many Arawak populated the island, the Dutch colonisers didn’t use as many African slaves as on the other islands. Today, their legacy can be seen in Aruba’s art, music, language use and even its cuisine. And, there are even petroglyphs from the Arawak that you can visit. These indigenous cultural elements blend seamlessly with mainly Dutch and Latin American influences as well as African influences, creating a vibrant and unique culture that is more than worth diving into. Most people from Aruba are descended from the Arawak, but the last full Arawak unfortunately passed at the end of the 19th century.

In Curaçao you can find a beautiful and  interesting blend of African and European cultural influences , making it a vibrant destination to travel to. Due to colonisation, the island’s identity is home to music, dance and religious practices that came from enslaved Africans. The most European influence you’re able to spot in Curaçao is in the island’s stunning architecture. Combine the warm and welcoming soul of the island with its influences and you’re sure headed towards a culturally rich island.

3. Language and communication

When it comes to languages and communication there is hardly any difference between Aruba vs Curaçao- and that’s a good thing.

Even if you’re monolingual, then Aruba is still a great island to visit. People from Aruba are well known for their multilingualism, with people easily speaking four to five languages. Dutch and Papiamento are the official languages of Aruba, but Papiamento is generally used the most and understood the most. Papiamento is a blend of Arawakan, Dutch, African, Spanish and Portuguese influences. English and Spanish are also languages that most people tend to understand.

Curaçao has three official languages: Dutch, Papiamento and English. Papiamento is – just like in Aruba – the most popular with most locals. Just like in Aruba, people often also speak Spanish. So if you’re worried about your language skills, then you don’t have any problems in Curaçao, but also not in Aruba.

4. Visitors and tourist attractions

Aruba vs Curaçao: It’s not an easy decision to make, but sometimes you simply have to choose. In this part, I will talk to you about the main visitors of both of the Dutch islands – as well as some of the things that the islands are known for and their popular sights and things to do.

Aruba gets around 2 million tourists a year and with a population of around 106,000, that means that Aruba  has 18 tourists per inhabitant . Aruba is on average more popular with US Americans, which you will also see at tourist attractions, but also in how the island has developed itself. It also has a bit of a US American atmosphere in quite some tourist areas, as that’s what the people who work in tourism cater to.

The main tourist attractions in Aruba are its stunning beaches. Even though Aruba is a relatively small island, its climate has created the most spectacular beaches everywhere you look in this piece of paradise.

Besides its beaches, Aruba is also known for the Arikok National Park, the colourful flamingos on Renaissance Island, its capital city Oranjestad, the shipwrecks of SS Antilla (and more; Aruba is perfect for shipwreck diving!) and the two beautiful lighthouses. It’s at parts more of a romantic island, but at the same time, if you compare the nightlife of Aruba vs Curaçao, Aruba has a very centralised and bustling nightlife with tons of clubs and also lots of casinos.

Curaçao gets around 500,000 tourists a year and with a population of roughly 155,000, it has  less than 3 tourists per inhabitant . Generally, most tourists are Dutch, but the percentage of Dutch people is decreasing. The number of North American visitors has increased by at least 40 per cent in the last few years. And, Curaçao is also getting more popular with people from the Caribbean and South America.

As Curaçao only gets a small fraction of the tourists that Aruba gets – and has a way larger island – Curaçao is a lot wilder. You will be able to explore hidden bays and secret spots easily when you drive across the island. Or take a tour with one of the local tour companies and get local insight, while being alone in a magical place. Curaçao is a great island to visit if you like change: the island has so many different things to do and see that it keeps you busy.

The island of Curaçao is like I said a great mix. You have incredible dive locations with a lot of natural diversity, amazing beaches and also great nightlife. The clubs and bars are more spread out over Curaçao with each having a different atmospheres making it less central than on Aruba. But because the island is the larger one, there are also more day trips that you can take that will show you another side of the island.

The most visited attractions in Curaçao are its capital Willemstad, as well as the lighthouses on the island and its beaches. Besides that, you’ve got the small, but stunning island of Klein Curaçao nearby as a great day trip. Or, perhaps you want to explore the stunning world underwater and go diving. The main difference between Aruba vs Curaçao when it comes to diving is what you’ll see underwater and where you’ll start your trip. For wreck diving, you have to visit Aruba.

5. Which Caribbean island is more expensive?

This is for me one of the most important things to know when booking a trip to a destination. In general:  Aruba is the most expensive  out of the two. It gets the most visitors and things are simply more expensive on Aruba and cheaper on Curaçao. Flight tickets (depending on where you come from) are often cheaper for Curaçao than Aruba as well. The cheapest months to visit either Aruba or Curaçao are either May or June – or October and November. 

Accommodation-wise, you have everything on both islands that you can want: from resorts to small homestays to hotels and apartments. It all depends on your preference, but Aruba is again in general the most expensive island out of the two. 

HELP OTHERS DISCOVER THESE BEAUTIFUL PLACES! PIN THIS TO YOUR TRAVEL PINTEREST BOARDS!

I hope this travel blog about Aruba vs Curaçao has helped you make a more informed decision on which island you’d prefer to visit. Which island is better, Aruba or Curaçao completely depends on your preferences. Enjoy your trip!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Aruba vs Curacao: Which Dutch Caribbean Island Is Better?

By: Author Leah Shoup

Posted on Published: February 10, 2024

Sitting just 75 miles (120 km) apart, both of Aruba and Curaçao offer a unique blend of agreeable climates, beautiful white sand beaches, and various water activities. Plus, they both sit below the hurricane belt, meaning great weather year-round! However, most people don’t have the time to visit both in one trip.

With this in mind, in this comprehensive guide, I’ll compare Aruba vs. Curaçao, covering factors such as geography, hotels, beaches, diving opportunities, and more. After all, I’ve been to both islands multiple times, so I feel I’m equipped to help you make the best decision between the two!

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product or book a stay through these links at no extra cost to you.

Beaches in Aruba are public, while many of Curaçao’s beaches are private.

As a direct comparison, most of the Curaçao beaches are private and linked to specific hotels and resorts. In this case, guests pay a small fee to access perks like beach chairs and snorkel shops. Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Cas Abao, Playa Kenepa Grandi, Playa PortoMari, Playa Grandi, and Mambo Beach.

Aruba has long stretches of beach, while Curaçao’s beaches are generally smaller.

Comparatively, Curaçao’s beaches often smaller, more secluded, and cove-like in shape. Of course, you can find longer beaches too, like Cas Abao. Or, another option is to take a day trip to Klein Curaçao , a remote beach with crystal-clear water.

Read More: What to Pack for an Aruba Vacation

Aruba attracts American visitors, while Curaçao welcomes mainly Dutch tourists.

For a less crowded experience, consider traveling to Curaçao, especially during peak U.S. tourism seasons like spring break, Easter, or winter break. Given that most visitors in Curaçao are Dutch, the crowds are generally lighter outside European holidays.

Aruba feels much more “touristy” than Curaçao.

Despite its touristy feel, Aruba’s convenience for U.S. travelers makes it an excellent choice for honeymoons, family vacations, or first-time travelers. Think about what you want to get out of your trip–Aruba offers a relaxing beach getaway, while Curaçao is ideal for those seeking culture and history.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Flamingo Beach

Aruba is home to the famous Flamingo Beach.

Aruba’s unique attraction, Flamingo Beach , is exclusive to guests of the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. Known for vibrant pink flamingos freely roaming the shoreline, it offers a must-see experience for tourists and honeymooners seeking a one-of-a-kind beach encounter.

While Curaçao doesn’t have a beach with flamingos, it does offer the unique opportunity to take a boat trip to Klein Curaçao. This small, uninhabited tropical island is home to a gorgeous white beach, crystal-clear waters, and a spectacular reef for snorkeling. Plus, it’s only accessible only by boat, so you won’t encounter crowds!

Curaçao is more budget-friendly than Aruba.

On the other hand, Curacao is slightly more affordable, offering a better range of accommodations outside of just resorts. With this in mind, those looking to stretch their vacation budget a little further, may prefer traveling to Curaçao.

High-rise hotels and all-inclusive resorts are more common in Aruba, and low-rise and boutique hotels are popular in Curaçao.

By comparison, most people visiting Curaçao stay in Willemstad, allowing them to reach the beaches easily and explore the charming capital city . Most resorts and hotels on the island are along the west coast, with the more prominent beach resorts located in Willemstad.

You’ll find more remote and quieter properties as you go north up the West Coast. For example, Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort , Avila Beach Hotel , and LionsDive Beach Resort tend to be among the most popular options for first-time visitors.

Curaçao has the more impressive capital city: Willemstad.

I also recommend visiting the Kura Hulanda Museum while here or taking the time to explore local markets and boutique shops. As you visit both cities, it’s pretty easy to tell that Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while Oranjestad is not.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are more accessible in Curaçao.

Our favorite snorkeling spots here include Playa Lagun, Grote Knip, Klein Knip, Tugboat Beach, and Klein Curaçao, while popular dive sites you won’t want to miss are Watamula, Mushroom Forest, Booby Trap, Paradise, and Tugboat.

Aruba’s most popular snorkeling locations, including Arashi Beach, Mangel Halto, and Catalina Cove, can be limited thanks to constant trade winds. However, Aruba is ideal for windsurfing, parasailing, and kitesurfing. Key dive sites here are mainly shipwrecks, like the Antilla Wreck and Pedernales Wreck.

Interestingly, if you compare all three ABC islands, Bonaire would be the overall winner for best snorkeling, diving, and marine life. In fact, Bonaire National Marine Park is considered one of the top shore diving locations in the world.

Aruba and Curaçao both have fantastic national parks.

Meanwhile, Curaçao’s largest national park is Christoffel National Park, where top activities include hiking Christoffel Mountain, going on a jeep safari tour , and visiting the Savonet Museum. Roi Rincon Park in Willemstad is another great option for shorter hikes!

Read More: Best Caribbean Islands in December

There are more daily flights from the U.S. to Aruba.

Depending on your location, flying to Aruba may be more straightforward. For instance, daily direct options are available to Aruba from various U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Boston, New York, Miami, and Washington D.C., with airlines like American, Delta, and United.

The Aruba Airport has pre-clearance for passengers traveling to the U.S.

When flying back home from Aruba, this airport offers a major advantage for American travelers: it has its own section for U.S. flights. Therefore, you actually pass through U.S. Customs & Border Protection before boarding your flight home.

Getting re-entry out of the way before actually taking off on your flight saves a ton of time! Once you land in the United States, you proceed directly to the baggage claim instead of going through customs again.

Read More: Travel Tips for Visiting Aruba

Is Aruba or Curacao better?

Choosing the best Dutch Caribbean island will probably vary from person to person. Nonetheless, you may want to keep the following factors into account when making your decision: 

No matter which island you choose, we’re sure you’ll have a fantastic vacation. Remember that if you’re still having trouble deciding, it is possible to visit Aruba, Curaçao, and even Bonaire on a Dutch Caribbean cruise.

Did you enjoy this post? Please share it on Pinterest!

This article was initially published in April 2019 and has since been updated.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Saturday 3rd of December 2022

Great article. Do you have an opinion on traveling from Curacao to Aruba to catch a direct flight to the USA for a return trip? How much extra immigration time might this take? Have you ever heard of anyone doing this? We have visited Aruba twice before and had a wonderful time so we don’t feel the need to stay there but would like to take advantage of this direct flight. Thanks

Martina from Travel Done Clever

Wednesday 18th of May 2022

Thank you very much for a detailed article - now we finally know, which island is more suitable for us! Even though Aruba has stunning beaches, Curacao seems to be a hidden gem with no crowds, smaller beaches and excellent snorkeling sites. But we might split our 2 weeks between both island to explore Aruba for a few days too!

Friday 29th of January 2021

Thank you SO much for this article that I desperately needed! Two follow up questions- besides a possible extra flight is there a large price difference in the two islands? Also- if you had five days at each island would you do that or spend all 10 days at one island? Thank you!

Hi Cara! So glad my article could help. I would say prices are pretty similar. As far as the second question, I would spend 5 days on each island and see both :)

Friday 19th of June 2020

We have been to Curaçao and love the European feel. Much less of a party atmosphere.

Aruba vs Curaçao: Which Dutch Caribbean Island Is Right for You?

Aruba and Curacao are part of what is known as the ABC islands. They’re located off the coast of Venezuela in the very southern part of the Caribbean.

There are three islands that make up the ABC group are Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. All of these islands are territories of the Netherlands and are, therefore, Dutch Caribbean islands.

Bonaire is not as developed as Aruba and Curacao and is much less popular than the other two islands, so here we’ll focus just on the differences and similarities between Aruba and Curacao.

There are some direct flights to Bonaire from Curacao or Aruba, but it’s more difficult and less frequently visited.

While they’re in the same family, it’s not super easy to visit one of the islands from the other. There is no ferry that runs between the islands, so you must fly.

There are direct flights that are short and only about 35 minutes, so if you have the opportunity to take direct flights, you definitely should go this route.

That is if you decide to visit both islands.

What Are The Similarities Aruba And Curacao?

The first major similarity between Aruba and Curacao is that they’re both territories of the Netherlands.

They’re both Dutch Caribbean destinations and have a Dutch heritage in common, for one thing.

The ease of accessing each of these countries is also similar.

Flights take roughly the same amount of time and cost about the same whether you’re going to Aruba or Curacao, though there are more flight options for visiting Aruba.

They are also both popular cruise destinations in the Caribbean .

Who Has Better Culture? Curacao Wins

Starting with the culture, both islands are Dutch, but Curacao has more of a distinguished culture than Aruba.

Aruba is more popular among tourists, and it tends to feel more touristy. You’ll find American restaurants, chains, lots of people speaking Spanish, and a lot less Dutch.

Whereas in Curacao, more Dutch transplants live here, so you’ll hear a lot more of the Dutch language.

• Curacao is also more charming when it comes to architecture with bright, colorful colonial buildings
• Willemstad is also a UNESCO world heritage site.

The capital city of Willemstad, Curacao, is much nicer than the capital city of Oranjestad, Aruba.

Willemstad is bright and colorful and looks like Amsterdam. It’s also lively and a great place to walk around.

Oranjestad is very touristy, and it does have colorful buildings, but it doesn’t feel as European or cultural as Willemstad does.

Which Island Is Has More Tourists? Aruba Wins

Aruba is smaller than Curacao but has almost twice as many visitors. It has a much more developed tourism industry and more amenities than Curacao.

Aruba wins because there are more direct flights into the country, if you like more off-the-beaten-path places, stick to Curacao.

Which Island Has Better Landscape? Both

This depends on what you are looking for.

The landscape of the islands is also quite different.

Aruba is flat and desert-like, with cacti growing all over the island, while Curacao is mountainous and much greener, but still covered with cacti growing everywhere.

Both these Caribbean islands are relatively dry, so not full of lush jungle greenier that you are used to.

What Island Has Better Beaches? Aruba Wins

Both islands have incredible, mesmerizing, unbeatable beaches in the Caribbean. It doesn’t get much better than the soft, powdery sand and turquoise waters of these islands.

However, Aruba’s beaches tend to be nicer than Curacao’s beaches.

The reason Aruba’s beaches tend to be better than Curacao’s is that the beaches tend to be longer in Aruba, while Curacao has shorter beaches.

The long beaches allow it to feel much more expansive and open. You can also find a private spot all of your own when the beach is much larger.

However, both have gorgeous white sand beaches, and the two islands are both great places to visit and relax.

Grab your beach chairs and get ready for a gorgeous day on the white sand beaches.

The Best Beaches on Aruba Island include Eagle Beach, Baby Beach, and Palm Beach.

The Best Beaches on Curacao is Playa Kenepa Beach and Playa Lagun .

Both Aruba and Curacao have the prettiest white sand and the starkest turquoise waters, it doesn’t get much better.

Which Is Easier To Get Around? Aruba Wins

It’s much easier to get around Aruba than it is in Curacao.

You’ll want to rent a car or an ATV in Aruba if you plan to travel around the island because you’ll save more money than taking a taxi.

You can get used to the streets pretty quickly with a map and find your way around easily and safely.

Curacao is much more difficult to get around. The Capital has a ton of one-way streets that make it super difficult to get around if you’re not familiar with the area.

Hopefully, you have a passenger who is a good guide in helping you find your way around the city. If you plan to venture outside of the capital, you’ll have better luck getting around because you won’t be boggled down by confusing one-way streets.

Just be sure to plan your drive ahead of time, be prepared, and give yourself time because you may take wrong turns along the way and you don’t want to be in a rush.

Once you’re out of the capital city, the streets are comparable to those in Aruba. You won’t have any problem driving around.

Which Island Is Safer? Aruba Wins

Aruba or Curacao are both fairly safe places to visit.

There is always petty crime and risk wherever you go, and whenever you’re traveling, but these islands are pretty similar in safety and are overall safe compared to other places in the world you could visit.

Aruba tends to be slightly safer than Curacao. Curacao has more minor incidents, including car break-ins. Car break-ins and petty theft are the two most common petty crimes on the islands.

Both are relatively safe Caribbean Islands .

Which Island Is More Remote? Curacao Wins

Curacao is much more remote. The island is larger than Aruba, and it’s much less crowded because it receives almost half the number of visitors that Aruba does.

Curacao is a bit more difficult to fly into. There are fewer direct flights to the Curaçao International Airport than there is the Queen Beatrix International Airport in Aruba.

There is also a lot more cruise ship traffic in Aruba than in Curacao, which also leads to more tourists.

If you want to choose the island with the least amount of people so you can enjoy the most natural beauty, Curacao is your best bet.

Which Island Has Better Scuba Diving and Snorkeling? Curacao Wins

Aruba vs Curacao is pretty comparable when it comes to scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.

However, Curacao is the better choice for snorkeling and scuba diving because there are many places you can do it right from the white sand shoreline.

Another reason is that Aruba is windier than Curacao, so the water can often be a bit rougher, which decreases the clarity when snorkeling.

The best places to scuba dive in Curacao include Curacao Marine Park and Tugboat Beach . The best dive sites in Aruba are the wrecks of the SS Antilla and the Jane Sea , and snorkeling is great at Catalina Cove and Arashi Beach.

Both Aruba and Curacao have coral reefs, but Curacao has better opportunities overall to see unique sea life.

On both Aruba and Curacao, you have the opportunity to see marine life at various diving sites, snorkeling spots, and coral reefs.

You’ll spot colorful and unique underwater life and maybe even sea turtles if you’re lucky.

Which Island Has Better Windsurfing? Aruba Wins

The winds in Aruba both hurt and helped the water activity conditions. Because of the wind, it is a great spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Parasailing and surfing are also popular water sports in Aruba.

Which Island Has Better Hiking? Curacao Wins

Both Aruba and Curacao have great hiking and are beautiful places to explore. There are national parks on both islands.

If you visit Aruba, be sure to check out Arikok National Park, which covers almost 20% of the island. Here, you’ll find deserts, rocks, caves, and more.

In Curacao for national parks, Christoffel National Park is a must-visit. It’s mountainous and forested, and Mt. Christoffel is the highest point on the island, so it offers great views of the beautiful beaches and Blue Bay.

There is more to explore in Curacao making it our winner.

Which Island Has Better Nightlife? Aruba Wins

Aruba has a lively nightlife and more nighttime establishments than Curacao. Aruba has many more people visiting the island, and it’s a smaller island, so the nightlife area is more congested.

Making it a great spot if you want to party. Curacao is more laid back and has fewer tourists and therefore gets less rowdy.

Aruba is known for its nightclubs, music venues, and cocktail lounges. Curacao has a young crowd and especially attracts young Europeans.

The nightlife in Curacao is great, too, but it’s different than it is in Aruba.

Which Island Has Better Food? Curacao Wins

The food in Curacao is more authentic and Dutch because the cultural influence is stronger here. If you’re looking for more traditional food, this is the island to choose from.

Whereas Aruba caters more to American tourists. Both islands have unique flares to their food scene, but if we had to choose Curacao is the winner.

Which Island Is More Affordable? Curacao

Aruba is a little more expensive than Curacao when it comes to dining, transportation, etc. This is something to keep in mind when you’re choosing which island to visit.

It’s not a huge cost difference, but it can make a difference to your budget.

Your budget can vary drastically depending on which kind of traveler you are. Whether you’re a budget traveler or a luxury traveler will make a huge difference.

It will also make a difference if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort where your meals and drinks are included.

Curacao is a bit cheaper than Aruba, which is another thing to consider. The restaurants, taxis, and grocery stores are more affordable than they are in Aruba. It’s not a huge difference in cost, but it does save you some money.

What Time Of Year Is Best To Visit These Caribbean Islands?

Aruba or Curacao are great places to visit in the Caribbean any time of year. They’re known for their warm weather and mild conditions.

In general, the weather in Curacao is better than the weather in Aruba. Both places have great sunny, warm weather, but Aruba is extremely windy.

The island is mostly flat, and there are trade winds going across it constantly. The wind does give you a nice break from the heat, but if you have long hair, it will constantly be knotted or in your face, and it can get a bit annoying at times.

Another general thing to consider is that Aruba and Curacao are outside of the hurricane belt, so you don’t have to worry about hurricane season.

Making these Caribbean islands great in August . You also don’t have to worry about heavy rain storms. It does rain during the wet season, but it’s not as intense as on other islands in the Caribbean.

The ultimate best time of year to visit Aruba and Curacao is from February to June when it’s warm and has the least chance of rain. Though, again, any time of year is good for these islands.

Curaçao vs Aruba: Which Is The Better Choice?

Aruba or Curacao are both amazing choices when picking an island in the Caribbean.

It’s honestly quite difficult to say which island is better because they both have their pros and cons. For both being in the ABC family of islands, part of the Netherlands, and not located that far apart, they’re both similar and very different, which is quite interesting.

Let’s go over some of the findings one more time before making a decision on the better island:

• Culture: Curacao is more traditionally Dutch than Aruba
• Beaches: Aruba has better beaches, they’re longer, and Curacaos beaches are mostly located in coves
• Safety: Aruba is a bit safer than Curacao
• Scuba Diving & Snorkeling: Curacao has better conditions than Aruba
• Nightlife: Aruba has more exciting nightlife than Curacao
• Weather: Curacao is less windy than Aruba

As you can see, the results are 50/50, which tends almost always to be the case when trying to decide the better of these two islands.

It all comes down to personal preference and what the most important factors are to you when considering where you want to spend your vacation.

Now that you have all the facts, which island is better? Aruba vs Curacao? The choice is yours.

Where to Stay in Aruba

Aruba is the more developed island of the two. Here you’ll find more all-inclusive resorts.

Some of the best all-inclusive resorts and hotels in Aruba include Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa, Hotel Riu Palace Aruba, and Aruba Ocean Villas, to name a few.

Depending on what type of accommodation you’re looking for, from hostels, hotels, and resorts, to all-inclusive stays, there are numerous options to choose from.

Where To Stay In Curacao

Curacao has fewer all-inclusive resorts compared to Aruba and more boutique hotels.

Some of the best beach resorts in Curacao include Sunscape Curacao Resort, the newly opened Sandals Royal Curacao, and Dreams Curacao Resort.

Sandals is a very popular all-inclusive resort company, and there is a location on Curacao Island but not Aruba.

If you want to visit Curacao, these are some of the best places you can stay, to name a few. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly options, there are many other places available.

Conclusions On Arbua vs Curacao

As you can see both islands will make a great choice for a vacation. In the end, it depends on what you are looking for out of your holiday and what is most important to you.

But we hope this list helped you make your decision on where you should take your next vacation.

Related Content

• Best Tropical Vacations
• Packing List For Tropical Vacation
• Best Caribbean Islands In July

Related Posts

Top 12 Safest Tropical Vacations In The World

Best Cuba Travel Tips and Advice

10 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit In October

Celebrity Blog

• Special Occasions
• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

Curaçao vs. Aruba: Which Should You Visit?

By Kieran Meeke

Last updated: February 6th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

When comparing Aruba vs. Curaçao, you’ll see they are both part of the Dutch ABC Islands (the “B” is Bonaire), just off the Caribbean coast of Venezuela. That gives them similarities, but there are also many things to set them apart.

Most of the differences between Aruba and Curaçao can be explained by their geography. Aruba is the smaller island at 70 sq miles, while Curaçao is more than twice as large, and further from the mainland.

Perhaps surprisingly, this small variation gives these neighbors their own distinct character, even down to the weather. Fortunately, they are so linked that it’s simple to visit both, saving you from having to choose Aruba over Curaçao—or vice versa.

Geography, Climate & Location

Beach in Aruba

With its tallest point barely 600 feet high, Aruba is a relatively flat island. Curaçao is much hillier, with a highest point in Christoffelberg at 1,220 ft.

Aruba has an arid climate with low rainfall, while Curaçao sees slightly more rain, making it semi-arid. The aloes for which Aruba is famous for require no irrigation, while Curaçao’s bitter oranges have adapted to the aridity.

Both islands are outside the so-called hurricane belt, but can still be affected by tropical storms; travel in October and November and you may encounter some rain, which clears the air.

Any rain on either island arrives in short-lived bursts from October, and into December. These quick showers are often a welcome break from the heat, with warm temperatures otherwise being a constant.

With so little rainfall, almost all the freshwater used on both islands is distilled from seawater. This produces what’s said to be the best quality drinking water in the Caribbean.

Eagle Beach, Aruba

The prevailing northeast trade winds give many trees on both islands a distinctive bend to the southwest. The weather-twisted fofoti and divi-divi trees on both islands must be among the most photographed in the Caribbean.

That wind hits the flatter Aruba more strongly than Curaçao, with its protective hills. Windsurfers love Aruba for this, although beginners prefer the more sheltered neighbor.

Curaçao has a population of around 150,000, a large part of whom live in the capital, Willemstad. Aruba’s population of 125,000 live mostly around Oranjestad, and San Nicolaas.

Aruba’s aridity comes into its own where the land meets the sea in long, idyllic white sand beaches. Sun-worshippers will not want to leave gems such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.

Eagle Beach’s much-photographed pair of fofoti trees are a major landmark. Palm Beach is busier, but has the same pure white sand and aquamarine water.

Arashi Beach, Aruba

One of the quieter beaches on Aruba is Arashi, near the California Lighthouse. It’s popular with snorkelers, and beginner surfers, for its mild currents, clear water, and abundant marine life.

Boca Catalina, Aruba

Another popular spot for snorkeling in Aruba is Boca Catalina, a small cove near Arashi Beach. A German shipwreck in the bay, the Antilla, is also an attraction for divers—although it’s a bit too far out, and too deep for inexperienced snorkelers.

Curaçao, in contrast, has 230 miles of coastline, against the smaller neighbor Aruba’s 40 miles. That’s room for 38 beaches in Curaçao in total, but the better ones are mostly found along the south coast in small coves.

Mambo Beach, Curaçao

A notable exception is the long man-made stretch of Mambo Beach, just a few miles outside Willemstad. Popular for water sports, it is backed by a boulevard full of restaurants, bars, and shopping.

Knip Beach, Curaçao

Among those smaller ones, a standout is Knip Beach, split into Grote (Big) Knip, and Kleine (Little) Knip. This is a good place to snorkel in Curaçao , although it’s a long swim out to the reef.

So essentially, if you’re weighing up the idea of Aruba vs Curaçao and beach life is a priority, you can’t go wrong with either.

Curaçao Underwater Marine Park

There is great scuba diving on both islands, with Aruba notable for its wrecks, as well as some of the best reefs in the Caribbean . Curaçao has more variety, including plenty of excellent shore dives.

Curaçao Underwater Marine Park covers 12 miles along the southeast coast. It offers a choice of 11 dive sites, including several sunken wrecks.

Unable to choose, many divers take in not only both islands, but also Bonaire. It does seem a shame to visit the A&C but not the B of the ABC islands if exploring the underwater world is your dream.

Dutch pancakes

You might not expect much difference between the food on two small islands, both part of the same chain with the same Dutch background. Indeed, a fusion of Dutch, Spanish, Caribbean, European, and American cuisine is a constant on Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.

However, the more-visited Aruba has a stronger American and Dutch feel to its food. Curaçao’s cuisine shows more of a Spanish and Portuguese influence.

That said, the national dish in Curaçao, and Aruba is keshi yena , a cheese dish showing their joint Dutch heritage. It’s a hearty ball of cheese ( kaas in Dutch, from which comes the word keshi ) stuffed with spiced meat, then steamed or baked.

You’ll also enjoy discovering Dutch pancakes, if you’re not already a fan. One of the best things to do in Aruba is to sample your way around the island’s pancake outlets.

Blue Curaçao

Traveling around Curaçao, you’ll notice its laraha (bitter orange) trees. Their oil is an essential ingredient in the famous Blue Curaçao liqueur, and triple sec, but also in Belgian witbier.

These trees were introduced by the Spanish but lack of water meant they did not prosper, and began to run wild. It was centuries later before it was realized how flavorful their skins had become.

In short, both islands have exciting cuisine to discover and you’ll leave either pleased that you’ve tried something new.

Read: Best Food in Aruba

Natural Attractions

Casibari Rock Formation, Aruba

Reached on foot, horseback or by 4×4, Aruba’s Conchi Natural Pool is a calm swimming pond surrounded by rugged coastal rocks. Surf sometimes breaks into the pool, adding to the thrill of the adventure.

The Casibari Rock Formation is a set of huge boulders from the top of which you can enjoy surprisingly big views over the flat Aruban landscape. There is a popular hiking trail, and an even more popular  BBQ shack to relax in.

Arikok National Park, Aruba

One of the best places to visit in Aruba , Arikok National Park takes up almost 20 percent of the island, and is best explored on a 4WD tour, or on horseback. You’ll see the desert-like interior, covered in cacti, and a wild stretch of coastline.

Although Curaçao is much larger than Aruba, it has fewer visitors, so it’s much easier to find a wild corner. Near the rugged western point of the island is Shete Boka National Park, where waves crash into a spectacular series of coral sea caves.

Hato Cave, Curaçao

Hato Cave, on the north coast near the airport, is an ancient coral limestone cave. Its rock formations include one in the form of a Madonna, and it’s also home to a flock of long-nose bats.

History & Culture

Willemstad, Curaçao

Aruba (along with Curaçao) was “discovered” by the Spanish in 1499 but the lack of water meant it was mostly used as a source of Amerindian slaves. Spanish rule came to an end in 1636 when the Dutch seized Aruba and Curaçao during their Eighty Years’ War with Spain.

With its large natural harbor, Curaçao had a more troubled history. It became a centre of the Dutch slave trade, and was seized several times by the British before finally returning to Dutch rule in 1815.

Aruba and Curaçao are now two of the four constituent countries of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Netherlands itself, and the island of Sint Maarten are the other two parts.

You can see the Dutch influence in the architecture of each island, from farmhouses to government buildings. You’re also going to hear lots of Dutch (and Spanish) around you, but visitors will have no trouble as English is very widely spoken.

Oranjestad, Aruba

A guided tour of Aruba’s pretty capital, Oranjestad, will introduce you to its long and interesting history. The pastel-colored buildings, many with Dutch-style gables, are a delight.

The Historical Museum in Fort Zoutman, and the National Archaeological Museum, whose building dates to 1929, are other sites for those interested in history. Fort Zoutman was built in 1798, making it the oldest structure on the island.

California Lighthouse, Aruba

Aruba’s California Lighthouse is the island’s most historic monument, and tallest structure. It stands near Arashi Beach and has wonderful views of the island.

Bushiribana Gold Mill is now a picturesque ruin. Standing in the middle of Aruba, it was the site of a short-lived 1824 gold rush.

Curaçao, with its larger settlements, has more obvious history to see. The Historic Area of Willemstad dates to 1634, and its buildings show strong Dutch but also Spanish and Portuguese influences.

This area of the capital is part of a Unesco World Heritage Site. Protected by Fort Amsterdam, it is the Caribbean’s best surviving example of European colonial history.

Fort Amsterdam was designed to defend Curaçao from the Spanish, who kept trying to take the island back. The picturesque yellow building, now used for government offices, houses a small museum.

Pietermaai District, Curaçao

Pietermaai District, the “SoHo of Curaçao”, has shops, bars, restaurants, and history. Founded in the 18th century, it preserves many buildings reflecting its long history.

At the Curaçao Museum, you can find out more about the island’s past. Set in a former military hospital, the museum has a strong emphasis on art and culture center.

Visitor Attractions

Curaçao Sea Aquarium

Aruba sees four times more visitors than Curaçao. That’s partly down to better air connections to North America, and the appeal of its longer, wider beaches.

Given Aruba’s beautiful beaches, it has little need of extra attractions. The much larger Curaçao has more things to do generally, with the capital of Willemstad being the center for many.

The aloe features on Aruba’s coast of arms, and Aruba Aloe has been making its products since 1890. It is one of the few companies in the world that grows, harvests, and processes its own aloe.

De Palm Island, Aruba

De Palm Island is an idyllic private island off the coast of Aruba with a water park and coral reef to explore. Its flock of pink Chilean flamingos and Cuban flamingos is a unique sight in this region.

There’s more wonders of nature at Aruba’s Butterfly Farm. The farm has hundreds of species from around the world that you can photograph to your heart’s content.

Landhuis Chobolobo Estate, Curaçao

Given that there are more things to do in Curaçao beyond the beach, you need to plan your time. You know you’ve arrived on the island when you visit Landhuis Chobolobo Estate, built as a country retreat for a wealthy 19th-century merchant. It’s now the home of the famous Blue Curaçao distillery, making a guided tour and tasting a unique must-do.

Floating market in Willemstad, Curaçao

The floating market on Willemstad’s waterfront sees colorful boats from Venezuela mooring up to sell their fresh produce. Photographers love the boats, and the fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables.

The modern Queen Juliana Bridge in Willemstad is the tallest bridge in the Caribbean. There are great views from the walkway of the capital, and the rest of Curaçao.

Ostrich Farm, Curaçao

One of the biggest breeding farms outside Africa, Curaçao’s Ostrich Farm lets you see, photograph, and even ride an ostrich. Its Zambezi restaurant offers African and international cuisine, including ostrich burgers.

Curaçao Sea Aquarium, near Mambo Beach extends out to the coral reef, letting you see marine life in a very natural setting. A highlight is the tours by semi-submarine, or glass-bottom boats.

Read: Aruba Travel Tips

Still can’t decide between Aruba and Curaçao? Then visiting both is the answer. Browse our Caribbean itineraries and you’ll find the perfect cruise to help your dream become reality.

Kieran Meeke

Kieran is a freelance travel writer who has lived and worked in 12 different countries, on every continent except Antarctica. He now spends his time between Kerry, Ireland, and Granada, Spain, while writing for newspapers and websites worldwide.

Related Itineraries

Grand Cayman, Aruba & Curacao

• 8 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

Aruba, Curacao & Bonaire

• 9 nights ON CELEBRITY ECLIPSE

Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

• 8 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND

Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire

• 9 nights ON CELEBRITY ASCENT

Boston to Fort Lauderdale

• 10 nights ON CELEBRITY ECLIPSE
• DEPARTING FROM BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Related Articles

12 Best Hikes in Puerto Rico

17 Unique Things to Do in Key West

13 Best Places to Go Snorkeling in St. Croix

12 Best Beaches in St. Lucia

Cabo Vs. Cancun: Which One Is Best for Your Next Vacation?

14 Best Caribbean Coral Reefs to Explore 

Best Beaches in Barbados

10 Best Beaches in St. Croix

14 Best Spots for Snorkeling in The Bahamas

The 17 Best Beaches in the Mediterranean

12 Stunning French Beach Towns to Visit

The Ultimate Kuala Lumpur Food Guide

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

I would like to receive electronic Promotional messages from Celebrity Cruises Inc. You can unsubscribe at anytime. Please view our Privacy Policy .

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

Aruba vs Curacao: Which Island Should You Visit?

by Asdghik Ashley Melkonian

Table of Contents

What are the similarities between Aruba vs Curacao?

What are the differences between aruba vs curacao, which island is easier to reach, aruba vs. curacao: which island has better weather, safety in curacao and aruba, beaches in aruba, beaches in curacao, activities in aruba, activities in curacao, accommodation costs, food & drink prices, transportation costs, hotels & resorts in aruba, hotels & resorts in curacao, best restaurants in aruba, best restaurants in curacao, overall verdict: which should you visit.

If you’re planning a Caribbean vacation, you may be considering two popular destinations: Aruba vs Curacao. Both islands offer stunning beaches, exciting attractions, and plenty of activities to keep your family entertained. But which one is right for you? This guide will compare the two destinations and help you decide which one is the best fit for your vacation.

What Should You Expect From Each Island?

Aruba is a small island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. It’s known for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and sunny climate. It’s a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and sailing excursions, as well as relaxing beach days.

The island is home to dozens of resorts and restaurants that cater to tourists’ needs. There are also plenty of attractions to explore, such as the historic Dutch colonial-style buildings in the capital city of Oranjestad and the natural beauty of Arikok National Park.

Curacao is also located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just north of Aruba. This Dutch island is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and great snorkeling and diving locations. While there are plenty of resorts and restaurants to choose from, the island also offers plenty of opportunities for exploration.

You can explore the historic Dutch colonial architecture in Willemstad, visit the Hato Caves, or take a trip to Christoffel National Park. There are also plenty of museums and art galleries to explore.

When comparing Aruba and Curacao, there are a few similarities. Both islands offer stunning beaches, plenty of resorts and restaurants, and exciting things to do. They both have vibrant cultures that reflect their Dutch colonial heritage. And the weather is fairly similar—both islands get an average of around eight hours of sunshine each day, although Curacao tends to be a bit windier than Aruba.

One of the main differences between Aruba and Curacao is the landscape. While both islands have white sand beaches, Aruba’s coastline is much flatter while Curacao has more rugged terrain with hills and valleys. The island of Curacao is also larger than Aruba, which means there’s more to explore and discover.

Curacao is also known for its vibrant culture and nightlife, while Aruba has a more laid-back atmosphere. The prices for food and drinks in Curacao tend to be higher than what you’ll find in Aruba. And while both islands have plenty of activities and attractions, Curacao tends to be more focused on history and culture, while Aruba is better suited for beach days and water sports.

Where are Aruba and Curacao Located?

Aruba is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Colombia and Venezuela. Curacao is also located in the southern Caribbean Sea, but it lies further north than Aruba. Both islands are part of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao).

Both islands are easily accessible from the US, with regular direct flights from major cities such as Miami and New York. Aruba is a bit closer to the US, though, so flights tend to be shorter and usually slightly more affordable.

Both islands have warm temperatures year-round, making them great destinations for beach vacations. Aruba’s temperatures are typically a few degrees warmer than Curacao’s, but the difference is usually only about two to three degrees Fahrenheit.

Rainfall is also similar on both islands – Aruba averages 23 inches of rainfall per year, while Curacao receives an average of 25 inches annually.

Both Caribbean islands are safe for travelers , with a low crime rate. However, it is important to take common-sense precautions when visiting either destination. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Which Has Better Beaches?

Both islands are known for their beautiful beaches, making it difficult to choose a clear winner in this category.

Aruba’s beaches are known for their soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. They also tend to be more sheltered from the wind than Curacao’s.

Curacao is home to some of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking beaches, with a rugged coastline featuring caves and hidden coves. The beaches here tend to be less crowded than Aruba’s, making them ideal for those seeking a more private experience.

Aruba’s Eagle Beach is one of the most stunning destinations on the island and features sparkling white sand and crystal-clear waters. Other popular beaches include Palm Beach, Manchebo Beach, and Baby Beach.

Klein Curacao is a small island off the coast of Curacao and is known for its stunning beaches. Other popular beaches in Curacao include Mambo Beach, Cas Abou Beach, Playa Lagun, and Playa Kalki.

Related : Bora Bora vs The Maldives

Aruba vs. Curacao: Activities & Things To Do

Both Aruba and Curacao have plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an exciting adventure, there’s something for everyone.

In Aruba, visitors can take a tour of Arikok National Park, explore the shops and restaurants of Oranjestad, relax on the beach, or go snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters. There are also plenty of water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding.

• Exploring the Natural Pool: Also known as “Conchi,” this natural pool is nestled in the rocky terrain of Aruba’s east coast. It’s surrounded by volcanic rocks and is an excellent spot for snorkeling.
• Visiting the California Lighthouse: This iconic landmark offers panoramic views of the island’s western coastline. It’s a great spot for watching the sunset.
• Touring the Aruba Aloe Factory: Learn about the island’s aloe industry, which dates back to 1890. The factory offers guided tours that provide insights into the aloe cultivation process.
• Hiking in Arikok National Park: Covering nearly 20% of Aruba, the park offers opportunities to see native flora and fauna, ancient cave paintings, and beautiful natural formations.
• ATV Tours: For adrenaline junkies, renting an ATV and exploring the island’s backroads and desert landscapes is a must-do.
• Butterfly Farm: A tropical oasis that houses hundreds of exotic butterflies from around the world. An ideal spot for a family visit.
• Donkey Sanctuary: Spend time meeting and feeding donkeys at this animal rescue center. It’s a great place for animal lovers of all ages.
• Deep Sea Fishing: Aruba’s waters are teeming with a variety of fish, making it a popular spot for deep-sea fishing.
• Golfing: For golf enthusiasts, Aruba hosts world-class golf courses, including the famous Tierra Del Sol.
• Shopping in Oranjestad: The city is home to a wide array of shops selling everything from designer fashion to locally made crafts.

In Curacao, visitors can explore the colorful streets of Willemstad, take a day trip to Klein Curacao, visit the Hato Caves, or explore Christoffel National Park. There are also plenty of water sports like kayaking, sailing, and deep-sea fishing.

• Visiting the Curacao Sea Aquarium : This interactive aquarium is one of the island’s top attractions, offering an up-close look at a variety of marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and more.
• Exploring Fort Nassau : Offering panoramic views of Willemstad and the harbor, this historic fort also features a restaurant where guests can enjoy dinner with a view.
• Discovering the Blue Room : Also known as “The Cave”, this is an underwater grotto that’s one of the best snorkeling spots in Curacao.
• Touring the Chobolobo Liqueur Factory : Learn about the production of Curacao’s famous Blue Liqueur, with the opportunity to sample different flavors.
• Hiking in Christoffel National Park : Home to local flora and fauna, the park provides a range of hiking trails, including a challenging route up to the highest point on the island.
• Curacao Ostrich Farm : One of the biggest ostrich farms outside Africa, it offers an opportunity to feed and even ride these fascinating birds.
• Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue : Visit the oldest continually used synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to 1732.
• Shopping at Floating Market : A unique market where vendors from Venezuela sell fresh produce and other goods from their boats.
• Museum Kura Hulanda : This anthropological museum provides a deep dive into the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its impact on Curacao.
• Tugboat Beach : A popular spot for snorkeling, famed for the sunken tugboat wreck that lies just a few meters offshore.
• Dining in Willemstad : Enjoy local and international cuisines in the colorful, UNESCO-listed capital city.

Related : Beach Vacation Packing List

Prices & Trip Costs: Which one is more affordable?

When it comes to trip costs, both islands offer reasonably priced accommodations and activities. However, Curacao tends to be more expensive than Aruba when it comes to food and drinks. While the cost of hotel prices are comparable, you may find that renting a car in Curacao is slightly more expensive than in Aruba.

In both Aruba and Curacao, accommodation costs can vary greatly depending on the type of lodging you opt for. On average, a night in a mid-range hotel in Aruba costs around $150-$200, while in Curacao, the average is around $100-$150. Note that these prices can increase during the peak tourist season and decrease during the off-peak season.

Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by the vast array of dining options available in both Aruba and Curacao. In Aruba, a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around $15-$20, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant costs around $70. In contrast, Curacao is slightly more expensive, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around $20-$25, and a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant coming in at around $80-$100.

Transportation costs are an important factor to consider when comparing Aruba vs. Curacao. In Aruba, a one-way ticket on local transport costs around $2, while a monthly pass costs about $60. Taxi start rates are around $7, with an additional $3 per kilometer. In Curacao, a one-way ticket on local transport costs about $1.50, and taxi start rates are around $6, with an additional $2 per kilometer. Car rental prices in Curacao can be slightly higher than in Aruba, with an average daily rate of $40-$60 compared to Aruba’s $30-$50.

Related : The Maldives of Mexico – Bacalar Lagoon

Hotels & Resorts in Aruba & Curacao

For the ultimate island vacation, both Aruba and Curacao have a range of luxurious hotels and resorts to choose from.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba : Located on Palm Beach, this 5-star property offers a stunning beachfront resort experience. Guests can enjoy an array of facilities including a private beach, two outdoor pools, and multiple restaurants.
• Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino : A luxurious resort located on Palm Beach offering guests a range of activities from golf to kayaking. Facilities include six swimming pools, a fitness center, and a spa.
• Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba : This adults-only resort offers a romantic escape. Private balconies overlook the beach and amenities include two oceanfront pools, a spa, restaurants, and bars.
• Holiday Inn Resort Aruba : Ideal for families or groups of friends, this resort offers spacious rooms with private balconies overlooking the sea or gardens. There’s an outdoor pool, kid’s club, and onsite dining options available.
• Renaissance Curacao Resort & Casino : Located in the capital Willemstad, this hotel boasts an infinity pool, spa, and a range of onsite restaurants. Guests can also enjoy complimentary access to the nearby Cas Abou beach.
• Papagayo Beach Resort Curacao : This family-friendly resort offers 4-star accommodation near Mambo Beach. Facilities include swimming pools, a kid’s club, a fitness center, and tennis courts.
• Avila Beach Hotel Curacao : This upscale resort offers a blend of Dutch colonial architecture and contemporary comfort. It features two private beaches, two restaurants, and a full-service spa. Its convenient location in Willemstad allows guests easy access to explore the local shops and historical sites.
• Lions Dive Beach Resort Curacao : This eco-friendly, 4-star resort is located directly in the National Curacao Underwater Park. It is a popular choice for families, thanks to its four swimming pools. The resort also offers a range of dining options, including the beachfront restaurant Hemingway and the popular Piazza ice cream and espresso bar.

Curacao vs Aruba: Food & Restaurants

Both Aruba and Curacao offer fantastic opportunities for food lovers. From casual beachside eateries to fine-dining establishments, each island has something unique to offer.

Dining in Aruba

Aruban cuisine is a mix of Caribbean, Latin American, and Dutch influences. Popular dishes include the national dish keshi yena (a cheesy stew), pan bati (corn meal pancakes) and stoba (goat stew). There are also plenty of seafood restaurants offering fresh catches such as grouper, snapper, kingfish, and wahoo. Visit the outdoor markets located around Aruba’s capital Oranjestad for delicious sandwiches and snacks prepared with local ingredients.

• Papiamento Restaurant : An iconic dining destination in Aruba that serves local and international dishes. Housed in a 126-year-old “Cunucu” (Aruban farm) house, it is renowned for its friendly service and atmospheric setting.
• Flying Fishbone : This innovative eatery offers a unique dining experience with tables set directly on the beach. Famous for its fresh seafood and stunning sunset views.
• Barefoot Restaurant : A relaxed, beachfront restaurant known for its blend of Caribbean and international cuisine. Diners can enjoy their meals barefoot in the sand, truly embracing the island vibe.
• Screaming Eagle : Offering a French-fusion menu, this chic restaurant is often dubbed the “best dining experience in the Caribbean.” Also known for its extensive wine list and unique dining option of ‘dinner in bed’.

Dining in Curacao

Curacao is the perfect destination for those who love seafood. Dishes like kadushi cactus soup and sopi maise (corn soup) are popular staples, while fresh catches such as grouper, snapper, kingfish and wahoo are readily available at local restaurants. The colorful capital of Willemstad is home to many excellent dining establishments, offering a range of cuisines from French to Fusion.

• Fort Nassau : This restaurant, located in an old fort, provides panoramic views of the harbor along with a menu of international and Caribbean cuisine. It’s famous for its lobster thermidor and exquisite desserts.
• Jaanchie’s Restaurant: A staple in Curacao for over 60 years, Jaanchie’s serves traditional cuisine in a charming setting. Known for its goat stew and freshly caught mahi-mahi, it’s a must-visit for those who want to sample authentic Curacaoan food.
• Restaurant & Café Gouverneur : Situated in a beautifully restored colonial house in Willemstad, it offers a mix of Caribbean and international dishes. The deconstructed apple pie is a popular dessert choice.
• Kome : A contemporary eatery where food is considered an art form. It offers a diverse menu inspired by flavors from around the world, with dishes like red snapper ceviche and duck confit tacos.

Both Aruba and Curacao are great destinations for a Caribbean vacation. Both islands offer stunning beaches, plenty of activities, and easy access from the US. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference – if you’re looking for a more relaxed beach vacation with plenty of water sports, then Aruba is probably your best bet. If you want a destination with more nightlife and culture to explore, then Curacao might be the perfect choice.

Curacao Vs. Aruba – Where Should You Choose for Your Vacation?

With so many holiday-perfect islands in the Caribbean, it can be difficult to make up your mind on where to go. Two options that easily come to mind when planning a vacation are Curacao vs. Aruba. Both islands are known for their picturesque beaches, rich culture, music, carnivals, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals. But with only a few vacation days to spend, you’d want to choose the best place to visit.

Curacao is twice the size of Aruba, with a coastline that stretches over 226 miles. The Island is known for its smaller cove-like beaches, hidden bays, and coral reefs that make it a paradise for diving and snorkeling. Despite its small size, Aruba has a more American feel and receives almost double the visitors than Curacao.

The Island is famous for long stretches of pristine white sand beaches, entertaining nightlife, and flamingos.

Torn Between Curacao and Aruba?

This Curacao vs. Aruba quiz was designed by locals to remove all doubts…so you don’t blow your life savings on the wrong vacation!

Curacao and Aruba are both territories of the Netherlands. As a result, they have similar cultural heritage. Both islands lie outside the hurricane belt and offer warm weather all year round.

Despite their similarities, Curacao and Aruba have differences in beaches, landscape, activities, attractions, nightlife, accommodation, etc. This article will highlight these differences to help you decide your vacation type.

Curacao Vs. Aruba: The Comparison

Although you only need a 20-minute flight to connect both neighboring islands, Curacao and Aruba offer visitors diversity.

They might appear similar at first glance, but each Island has notable differences, and it makes sense to understand these differences before choosing which island to visit.

That said, here’s a section dedicated to comparing different elements of the two islands. Let’s go!

Curacao Overview

Curacao is a beautiful island country in the Caribbean sea. It became a constituent of the Kingdom of Netherlands in 2010 and is one of the six Caribbean islands that are part of the Kingdom. However, the Island is an independent country. It handles all its internal affairs, while the Kingdom handles matters such as defense, foreign affairs, and extradition.

Curacao enjoys warm tropical temperatures averaging 28°C (76F). September brings the highest temperatures, rarely exceeding 32°C (90F). The Island’s official languages are Papiamentu (a blend of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and English), Dutch, and English. However, the influx of immigrants has made languages like Portuguese, Spanish, German, and French popular on the Island.

About Aruba

Aruba is also a member constituent of the Kingdom of the Netherlands as far back as 1815. It became an independent country in 1986. Aruba now handles its domestic affairs while the Kingdom handles external matters such as defense, extradition, and more. 

Visitors to Aruba are guaranteed warm tropical temperatures averaging 27°C (82F). The official languages spoken on the Island are Papiamentu and Dutch. Other unofficial languages are English and Spanish.

Both Curacao and Aruba have plenty of pristine white sand beaches surrounding sparkling turquoise water. However, these beaches differ in looks and features. 

Most of the beaches in Curacao are private and are mainly part of a beach resort. You will need to pay for entry if you are not staying in the resort. However, they have beach chairs, clean bathrooms, restaurants and bars, and shops to get gear for diving and snorkeling. The beaches here are small, secluded bays that resemble coves. Famous beaches in Curacao include Playa Kenepa, Playa Lagun, Cas Abao, Grote Knip, Blue Bay, and Mambo. 

Most of the beaches in Aruba are public, and you will need to pack your snacks, drinks, beach chairs, and gear for snorkeling and diving. They are also more extensive, with long stretches of coastlines, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The best beaches in Aruba are Eagle, Baby, Palm, Arashi, Surfside, Mango, Boca Catalina, etc.

Both islands display a rich cultural heritage with carnival celebrations, parades, singing, dancing, and colorful costumes. However, Curacao has a stronger Dutch culture and feels more European when compared to Aruba. Willemstad, the capital, is home to a UNESCO world heritage site, Handelskade. It preserved its Dutch colonial heritage with colorful architecture, Amsterdam canal houses, local markets, and boutique shops. 

Aruba has a more American feel because it caters more to tourists (over 80% of tourists to Aruba are North Americans). Oranjestad, the capital, has more of a Hispanic influence in architecture, music, and food. It has several strip malls, shopping centers, fast food chains, and high-rise buildings, all combining to give it the city feel. 

The Curacao landscape has more cliffs, hills, and mountains, which makes it a hiker’s haven. For example, the Christoffel Park Reserve Mountain is 372 meters high, and climbing to the summit will show you a breathtaking view of the Island. Other beautiful spots allow you to soak up the beauty of the island while enjoying your favorite mountain sports. 

Aruba’s landscape is flat and desert-like with rocks. The vegetation is primarily cacti and divi-divi trees. Not far away, you’d find gleaming white sand beaches shaded by towering palm trees overlooking the Azure sea. The small island features a dramatic variation of landscapes that’s echoed by an equal variation of attractions to keep tourists fixated throughout their stay. 

Curacao and Aruba are tropical islands with warm and sunny weather throughout the year. However, there’s notable differences in temperature. Curacao’s climate is a gentle breeze, while Aruba is windy due to trade winds that blow hard. 

Both islands experience rainfall during hurricane season. Since they both lie outside the hurricane belt, you don’t have to worry about hurricanes.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Curacao is mainly family-owned low-rise resorts and boutique hotels. Some of the best choices include the famous Avila Beach Hotel and KenTiki Beach Resort.

Aruba receives more tourists and accommodation is readily available. Options are mainly high-rise hotel chains and resorts. Popular hotel chains include the Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Marriott Resort, Stellaris Casino, etc.

Whichever location you choose, we advise knowing the available accommodation options and their exact prices to enable you to plan your vacation more efficiently. Nonetheless, both locations have housing options for any budget, so it shouldn’t be too difficult finding what suits your budget. 

There are more direct flights from major US cities to Aruba. You can only get direct flights to Curacao from New York, Miami, and Charlotte. However, there are layover flights to Curaçao from other cities in the US.

You can travel to Aruba from Boston, New York, Miami, Washington DC, Atlanta, etc. Another advantage Aruba has is the section for US Customs and Border Protection at Queen Beatrix International Airport.

When traveling back after your vacation, it will be better to go through customs there than at home airports. You can go straight to baggage claim instead of joining the long customs queues when you arrive home.

Transportation

From the airport in Aruba, taxis are available to get you to your destination. The taxis are not metered, so every standard location has a fixed price. Rental cars are also available for tourists, and they are quite affordable for the distance they travel.

On the waterways, there are private boat charters – no public water transportation – to other islands. The cheapest transportation option is the Aruba bus. They serve every district on a schedule every day of the week.

Curacao has all options of transportation as Aruba. However, public transport is not as reliable as Aruba’s. The taxis in Curacao are easily recognized because they are marked. You should note that they are unmetered, and even though the fares are fixed, it can change when the number of passengers exceeds four.

Main Attractions

Aruba, starting from its capital, Oranjestad, offers tourists ship cruises from its port. It also has several family-friendly activities like a visit to one or more of the butterfly beaches. Aruba has the most beautiful and inviting beaches. If you’re one for the outdoors, the Arikok National Park should be on your list of places to visit.

You will find the Ayo Boulder, designed with Indian paintings, a sight to behold. The dunes, a landscape covered with cacti, are all part of its appeal.

One of the amazing trips you can make in Curacao is to the hidden cave, the Blue Room cave , accessible by the ocean, the Blue Room. Many plantations, different white sand beaches, one of them the Grote Knip, and the Queen Emma Bridge are a few of the attractions you will find in Curacao.

Activities for Kids

Kids love beaches, but they can also get bored easily. Both Aruba and Curacao will provide your kids with more to do than stroll, run, or play on the white sands of their beaches.

In Aruba, they can get familiar with animals like donkeys in the Donkey sanctuary or ride horses at the Gold Mine Ranch Horseback Riding Tours . 

They can also visit the Ostrich Farm to see how the orange-necked birds live. The Butterfly Farm is another excellent place to visit for kids. 

The Aruba Surf and Paddle School are suitable for kids willing to try paddling for the first time.

Curacao has the Curacao Sea Aquarium , a great place for kids to learn more about sea life. The Hato Caves are a perfect place to spawn tales about dragons and other mystery creatures for kids’ entertainment.

The Curacao Ostrich Farm is also a sight to behold for them. They will get to see about 200 ostriches, Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs, and emus with a tour guide. They also have a dolphin academy; your kids will enjoy swimming with dolphins.

Water Sports

Scuba diving and snorkeling are better in Curacao. The Island has several diving sites that include coral reefs and shipwrecks. In addition, you can access these sites from the shore, unlike Aruba, where you would have to take a boat out to the water before diving. Curacao Marine Park, Paradise Beach, Snake Bay, Watamula, Mushroom Forest, Tugboat, and more are the best places for diving and snorkeling.

Aruba’s windy weather makes the water rougher and bad for snorkeling. However, the winds are advantageous for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and parasailing. The wrecks of SS Antilla, Jane Sea, and Plane wrecks are good sites for diving in Aruba.

Tours and Excursions

Curacao provides some of the most exotic tours and excursions. The Christoffel National Park is the largest on the Island and home to several species of wildlife. You will come across several slave plantations and species of birds of prey. Curacao provides several underwater tours, such as swimming with sea turtles and walking on the sea floor with coral fish. Non-scuba divers can enjoy the Aquafari tour, which is a fun way to breathe underwater while riding a scooter with a bell-shaped helmet.

You can visit Aruba’s private Island of Renaissance to see the famous pink flamingos. In addition, the Arikok National Park occupies 20% of the Aruba and consists of deserts, ancient fountain caves, and cacti clusters. You will come across the Bushiribana gold mine, where you can mine some gold or visit the Aruba Ostrich Farm. There are natural wonders, such as natural bridges and rock formations. One example is the Tripod Natural Bridge, three naturally formed bridges connecting.

Dining on both islands centers on fresh seafood with Dutch influence. For example, the Keshi Yena is a dish in Curacao and Aruba. It is a large cheese baked with chicken or any other type of meat, depending on your preference. 

Curacao has more fine dining options with a more traditional Dutch influence.

The lack of all-inclusive hotel deals allows visitors to experience the regional cuisine. The Island also has a unique blue liqueur made from native fruits.

Aruba caters more to North American tourists.

The food has more Latin American influence with a mixture of Dutch and Caribbean. The Island also has a lot more fast food chains than its counterpart.

In Aruba, the Keshi yena is one to try as it promises a spicy mixture of baked chicken and beef. Their bean fritters, Cala , is another one to try. When it comes to drinks, as it is with most Caribbean communities, a little dose of rum accompanies it.

Curacao is especially known for its orange-flavored rum.

Foods you should try include the Bitterballen, a flavored meatball whose filling is usually veal, and sometimes vegetables. The Keshi yena is another cuisine to try, as is Fuchi or Tutu.

Nightlife and Entertainment

There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs on both islands. Curacao’s nightlife has a more laid-back and relaxing atmosphere. Entertainment across the Island is a mix of Latin and Dutch Caribbean.

Aruba is popularly nicknamed the Las Vegas of the Caribbean. The hotel strip comprises nightclubs, restaurants, bars, and casinos. You can easily walk around and not require car rental services. The party vibe in Aruba is more cosmopolitan, with open-air party buses.

It is relatively safe to visit both Caribbean islands.

Like other destinations, you should avoid late-night walks in the dark or carrying packages for strangers. Keep copies of your ID in your suitcase or locked up if your hotel has a safe.

Aruba is one of the safest destinations for tourists in the Caribbean.

It has a low petty and violent crime rate. However, it is prudent that you guard your valuables.

In Curacao, you need to be a little more watchful.

We suggest staying off the back streets at night ; they can be a bit sketchy after dark. Focus on where you’re headed and avoid using your map on the streets of Punda; it could send an obvious message to unfriendly locals.

In Curacao, car break-ins are common, and you shouldn’t leave any valuables in the car. These break-ins are so common that locals advise keeping cars unlocked and windows down. Doing this gives the impression that there’s nothing of value inside.

Affordability

Even though Curacao is relatively cheaper than Aruba, several factors determine the general price points. For example, there are more daily flights from major US cities to Aruba; hence, flight tickets to Aruba cost less.

On the other hand, Curacao has cheaper accommodation that fits every budget, unlike Aruba. Furthermore, Curacao has larger grocery stores where groceries are more affordable than the mini markets of Aruba.

Average Cost of a 7-day Trip to Curacao

The average cost of a 7-day trip to Curacao is between $2456-$2806 per person. This cost covers all expenses, including flight tickets, accommodation, local transportation, food, and activities.

• Flight Tickets : Round trip flight fares from major US cities cost between $650-$1000. Ticket costs depend on whether you visit Curacao during peak or shoulder. Flight costs may also be slightly higher or lower depending on airline and several other factors. If you’re traveling on a budget, explore all the available options to know what suits your budget best.
• Accommodation : Curacao has a range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. The average cost of a hostel is $40, while 2-3 star hotels cost about $74 per night. Luxury hotels cost $250 per night for one person.
• Local Transportation : Car rental services offer a better means of moving around than public transportation and taxis. The average daily cost of a car rental is $50. Other transportation options like public buses and water taxis exist, but are limited to certain parts of the island.
• Food : Dining is somewhat cheaper in Curacao. The average cost of breakfast and lunch is $7-$12, while dinner comes in at $19. Several restaurants offer local and intercontinental dishes, so you can choose based on personal preference.
• Activities : Curacao has plenty of activities, from history museums to exotic tours and excursions. The average cost of entrance into a museum is $25, while tours start at $100 and above.

Average Cost of a 7-day Trip to Aruba

A 7-day trip to Aruba is between $2690-$3040 per person. Below is a breakdown of each cost. 

• Flight Tickets : A round-trip flight fare from major cities in the United States is between $450-$800 per person. Airfares are cheaper because several airlines fly into Aruba from the US daily. Another factor that affects flight tickets depends on whether you travel during peak season and if you book your ticket in advance.
• Accommodation : Aruba has a lot of hotels because of the number of tourists it receives annually. The average daily cost of lodging per person is $100 for regular hotels and $500 for luxury hotels.
• Local Transportation : Moving around Aruba is easy, and car rentals are the best option for traveling off the beaten path. The average car rental cost is $45 daily, with gas inclusive.
• Food : The average breakfast and lunch costs are $15 and $25, respectively. Dinner is more expensive and costs about $35 daily.
• Activities : The average cost of activities starts from $80 and goes above $100 for tours and cruises.

BONUS: Best Affordable Hotels

Aruba may have some of the most luxe resorts and hotels, but you can also find cheap and affordable hotels. The Aruba Bed & Beach in Pos Chikito should be on your list if you’re on a budget.

For an affordable bed and breakfast facility, we recommend Club Arias Bed & Breakfast in Savaneta. Aruba Bed & Beach also offers breakfast.

In Curacao, the Scuba Lodge is one of the best options for anyone on a budget. Other options include the Ritz Village Hotel , Curacao Airport Hotel , and Curacao Suites Hotel .

Curacao Vs. Aruba: Which Should You Choose

Curacao and Aruba are beautiful Caribbean countries, and you should visit both with enough time and resources. However, your choice of either Island depends on the vacation you want.

Curacao is a larger island; you need enough time to explore the country. Suppose you are looking for a more authentic Dutch culture with colorful architecture and rich history. In that case, Curacao is the best option. On the other hand, Aruba is a relaxing beach getaway for beachgoers because of its long stretches of coastline. It is better developed with tourist amenities and has a more American feel with its high-rise buildings.

Furthermore, Curacao is a sweet haven for honeymooners with its tranquil nature, secluded coves, and beaches. Budget travelers have better options in Curacao. In contrast, Aruba’s busier nature is preferable for families. 

Again, we recommend touring both cities, but if you must choose, then review factors like costs and what you want to find in each location. This way, you can choose the best location that suits your style and budget. 

Final Thoughts: Aruba Vs. Curacao

There you have it; everything you need to know about vacationing in Curaçao and Aruba. Both countries are similar with their white sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes.

Whatever your decision, you are guaranteed to enjoy the tropical weather and warm beaches. Just enjoy you have a book where you can journal your everyday experience. 

I've been everywhere, man. Crossed the deserts bare, man. I've breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel, I've had my share, man. I've been everywhere!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Aruba vs Curacao: Which Caribbean Island is Best for Your Vacation?

Are you planning on visiting the Dutch Caribbean but having difficulty choosing between Aruba and Curacao? If so, you’ve come to the right place, as this post will help you decide which one is more suitable to visit based on your preference.

Aruba and Curacao are both fantastic cities with their unique features. They’re both situated close to each other and are part of the ABC Island (Aruba Bonaire Curacao) in the Dutch Caribbean.

• Fiji vs. Bora Bora? Which of These Islands is Best…
• 17 Best & Fun Things to Do in Merritt Island, Florida
• Is South Padre Island Safe for Travel? What Visitors…

It’s even possible to visit both locations in a single visit, but since most people may not have time, and enough money, a decision on which is better would help them plan their trip better.

Aruba and Curacao have similar climates and beautiful white sand beaches, but that’s the only similarity between them, as they differ in many other aspects.

Table of Contents

Aruba vs. Curacao: Which Caribbean Island is Best for Your Vacation

Deciding which Caribbean island is best depends on your preference, as both islands have a unique charm. Visitors looking for an exciting getaway would prefer Aruba because of its long stretches of beaches, bustling nightlife, and shimmering waters.

Conversely, Curacao is better for travelers who need a calm and less touristy place to experience the Caribbean. 

Aruba and Curacao are touristy locations with white sand beaches and calm waters, but that’s the only similarity, as their beaches differ in many aspects.

Beaches in Aruba are long and wide, and Aruba also has more popular beaches than the other two ABC islands.

On the other hand, beaches in Curacao are usually small and secluded. Curacao stands out for its numerous bay, and most beaches on the island lie in coves and bays.

Almost all Aruba beaches are public and free to visit. Famous beaches on the island include Baby Beach, Palm Beach, and Eagle Beach. 

Visiting public beaches is lovely because you don’t have to pay for access, but you must also remember that you’ll have to bring your food, snacks, and drinks.

The majority of the beaches in Curacao are private, which implies that you’ll have to pay an entry fee to gain access. The advantage of these fees is that they come with additional perks like access to bars and restaurants, snorkel shops, and beach chairs. Deciding on which island has the best beach is wholly based on preference.

Aruba and Curacao are located off the hurricane belt and experience similar weather conditions.

Both islands are lovely regardless of the time you decide to visit. Temperatures are usually high during summer, but that’s not an issue, as the ocean waters are there to keep you cool.

These islands experience rainfall from September to December, but that’s not an issue as both islands experience less than 3 inches of rain on average! An amount unheard of for many Caribbean islands.

Moving Around

When navigating through both islands, Aruba seems to have a slight advantage since it’s smaller. In addition, Aruba is a little more developed than Curacao, but you’ll still need a 4-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate most parts of the island.

Curacao, on the other hand, is more extensive and may be a bit confusing to navigate for first-time visitors. Also, Aruba and Curacao don’t have Ubeds; only taxis work here.

For nightlife lovers, you’ll want to know which island is better. For nightlife rating, Aruba seems to be a better choice than Curacao. 

Although smaller than Curacao, Aruba has more tourists who love to party. You can check out Palm and Eagle Beach in Aruba for recommendations on places to visit in the dark.

Though much more extensive, Curacao is a bit reserved and not a party island. The crowd here is small, but some places in Curacao still have a vibrant nightlife. 

Regarding food, there isn’t much distinction between the islands. Since Aruba and Curacao come from a Dutch Caribbean island heritage, their food is very similar.

Curacao and Aruba are both famous for Keshi yena- a mix of chicken meat, pickled onions, olives, and plums baked in a cheese rind. You can also finish off your day with coconut candy or Dutch chocolate.

In Curacao, you can also try other tasty dishes like stroopwafels and their signature karni soba- a traditional Caribbean dish of garlic and tomatoes, Onions, soy sauce, nutmeg, and marinated chunks of beef. Aruba, on the other hand, is famous for its beachfront dining style. 

Snorkeling and Diving

Aruba and Curacao have top-notch snorkeling adventures but snorkeling in Curacao is slightly more preferred in Curacao than in Aruba.

You’ll find many snorkeling options at Curacao, from shipwrecks to sheer numbers, coral reefs, and much more.

Aruba also has unique snorkeling locations, but you may need to take a snorkel tour to arrive at these locations. Aruba is more populated than Curacao, and this also affects the experience.

Affordability

Affordability is one of the significant factors to consider when planning a travel adventure. When talking about affordability, Curacao is a bit less expensive than Aruba. 

Aruba is the most expensive island among the ABC islands. Therefore, when planning a trip to Aruba, you’ll need to come prepared, as a vacation here tends to cost more than other islands.

The prices for taxis, dining, groceries, and accommodation is very high in Aruba compared to Curacao.

Curacao usually has a reputation as a less touristy destination; thus, you don’t need to have a fortune to live here. Living in Curacao is affordable, with lots of options for all budgets.

Curacao has something for everyone, from beachside bungalows to luxurious resorts. Curacao is the ideal spot for you if you plan for a calm budget. On the other hand, if you need something extravagant, Aruba has got you covered.

High-valued hotels and exotic resorts are the trends in Aruba, while low-rise and boutique hotels are famous in Curacao.

Which Island is Better Between Aruba and Curacao

The answer to the better between Aruba and Curacao would depend on a person’s preference. While Aruba is more commercialized and has more touristic attributes, Curacao is secluded and reserved.

So the answer would depend on your kind of person and the things you prefer. For example, you may pick Aruba if you need a vibrant city with bustling nightlife and fun activities. But if you love calm and secluded places, you’ll love Curacao.

Which ABC Island is the Best?

All three ABC islands are excellent tourist locations, each with unique features and fun life. However, if you need help deciding which of the three islands best suits your taste, here’s something to bear in mind:

Aruba is a beautiful island with beaches, fun activities, and nightlife. It’s also believed to be the safest among all three islands.

Bonaire, on the other hand, is ideal for travelers who need a place to relax. Bonaire Islands stand out for its soft Sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

Curacao is ideal for those who need a calm and secluded area to relax. Also, it’s best for beautiful beaches and challenging adventures as it has rockier terrain.

Is Flying to Curacao Cheaper than Aruba

The distance and amount would depend solely on your flying location. For example, if you’re flying from the U.S. airport, you’ll find going to Aruba cheaper than Curacao.

There is a more direct flight to Aruba in the U.S. airport than in Curacao, which has fewer flights.

Can You Make a Day Trip From Aruba to Curaçao?

A day trip from Aruba to Curacao is possible as you’ll find different airlines operating between Aruba and Curacao daily. Flight time from Aruba to Curacao is about 30 minutes.

Both Aruba and Curacao are fantastic locations to visit. The choice of which is better depends on your preference and taste. While it is touristy and experiences a more significant influx of tourists, Curacao, on the other hand, is calm and secluded.

Related Posts

20 best shopping spots in punta cana, 22 best & fun things to do in logan, oh, 10 best & fun things to do in sturgeon bay, wi.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Trinidad and Tobago
• US Virgin Islands
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• The Netherlands
• The Philippines
• United Arab Emirates
• Bucket List
• Budget Travel
• Expat Guide
• Solo Travel
• Travel Stories
• Beauty + Fashion
• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Jetset Jansen

Travel Blogger

Aruba vs Curacao: Which Caribbean Island is Better?

By Ashley   |    Updated On: May 4, 2024   |   68 Comments

This post may be sponsored or contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link.

Deep down in the southern part of the Caribbean , just off the coast of Venezuela, lies the ABC islands, which consist of Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. These three islands are also apart of the Dutch Caribbean and are island territories of The Netherlands , which is why my Dutch husband wanted to go here. We only managed to get to 2 out of 3, but the debate was on: Aruba vs Curacao.

The two islands seem close on a map but there are no ferries running between the islands and the ocean is too rough for smaller boats. The only way to get between Aruba and Curacao is to take a flight or visit both islands as part of a cruise. Flights from Aruba to Curacao are a short 35 minutes, so if you have the time to visit both islands in one trip, definitely do so. But if you only have a few days, I’d pick one or the other so you don’t waste time in transit.

At first glance, you would assume Aruba and Curacao would be fairly similar, being that they are both island destinations for diving, have pretty beaches and are Dutch. And they are similar in that sense, but these two islands also have some pretty noticeable differences.

Aruba vs Curacao

So, which island is better, Aruba vs Curacao? My husband and I had the debate for several days. Both islands have their pros and cons, so let’s break it down.

Getting there: Tie

Aruba and Curacao are easily accessible islands with direct flights to both Dutch Caribbean islands from South Florida. Flight costs are about the same and the flights to each are roughly 3 hours. For Aruba, you’ll be flying into the Queen Beatrix International Airport and for Curacao, you’ll fly into Curacao (Hato) International Airport.

Getting around: Aruba wins

Both islands are a decent size and renting a car is 100% necessary because cabs are expensive (even though they are regulated). Plus, if you don’t know how much your taxi should be with the regulations, you’re likely to get ripped off. 

Aruba is easy to get around with a map and once you drive around for a bit, you find your way. It’s also a smaller island so it is much easier to get out and explore pretty thoroughly on your own. However, you will need a 4×4 if you want to go ALL over the island, since a lot of the island is the rocky/sandy terrain of the national park. 

Curacao, on the other hand, is an absolute train wreck of a labyrinth of one-way streets. It is essential to have someone on google maps constantly routing you and even then, one-way streets will pop up and you will be thrown on a loop road unable to get back where you need to be because there are so many one-ways.

To be fair, that’s mostly describing the capital. Once you’re out of the city, it’s very easy going. But going into the main part of the capital is an adventure if you aren’t familiar with it.

Affordability: Curacao wins

This one is up for debate but we found Aruba to be more expensive than Curacao. Almost every restaurant we found around the city center was minimum $20 per person, usually more.

Any taxi from the airport to a hotel or region was around $28 (again, they are regulated but steep if you aren’t going within the main city and we definitely got ripped off by our first one). The mini markets in Aruba are WAY too expensive. Stop in for a few beers and a bag of chips and you’ll end up spending $25.

We stayed a bit outside Willemstad in Curacao and were able to find places to eat for less. We also found larger grocery stores that had more normal prices, so we were able to pick up breakfast and lunch supplies.

READ MORE: Aruba on a Budget

Beaches: Aruba wins

Although Curacao has some pretty beaches, Aruba has better beaches. The main difference between the beaches in Aruba and Curacao are that Aruba’s beaches are longer and cover more coastline while beaches in Curacao are typically smaller. Even so, you’ll find white sand and glistening turquoise water on both islands, so you can’t go wrong.

Eagle Beach is the longest and one of the most popular beaches in Aruba with fofoti trees on the beach that grow in the direction of the wind. It’s also a popular place to stay since there are many hotels along the beach. Baby Beach in Aruba is absolutely gorgeous. It’s in a little cove so the water is still and incredibly blue. Each beach we drove to was very scenic and had glistening turquoise water.

Curacao’s front runner for me is Playa Kenepa. When you arrive, you walk up to an overlook that has a view into the turquoise cove. It really is a gorgeous view. The sand is white, the water blue and it’s just a great place to spend the afternoon.

Weather: Curacao wins

Curacao is sunny with warm/hot temperatures and is a bit breezy. Aruba is sunny with warm/hot temperatures and is EXTREMELY WINDY. Like, wind all the time. Aruba has trade winds going across the mostly-flat island constantly. My long hair was in a constant knot and I often felt grimy from dirt being blown around. Though it does give a nice reprieve from the heat.

The good news is that both Aruba and Curacao sit outside of the hurricane belt, so you don’t need to worry about hurricanes or a heavy rainy season. Not to say that it doesn’t rain at all–you’re more likely to see rain in the fall or winter months, but it isn’t necessarily something to plan your trip around.

Dutch Influence: Curacao wins

As I stated before, my husband is Dutch and was really homesick when we planned our visit here. So he was really looking forward to experiencing some Dutch culture.

While we expected to find a heavy Dutch influence on Aruba, that just wasn’t the case. Yes, there are Dutch people living there and some people do speak Dutch but Spanish was heard way more. The mini marts/food stores mostly had Asian names and there were too many American restaurant chains. Aruba is definitely a little more touristy.

Curacao was incredibly charming. In Willemstad, you can find brightly colored colonial buildings alongside the water that resemble the buildings alongside the canals in Amsterdam. It also tends to be a popular place for Dutch transplants since the island is bigger and known for its popular bars and clubs.

So you’ll hear more people speaking Dutch and find more places with Dutch delicacies. My husband was very excited to find more of his people here and to converse in his native language again.

Capitals: Curacao wins

In the Aruba vs Curacao debate, Willemstad, Curacao easily wins for capital cities. Like I said before, this is where you will find the colorful buildings that look like Amsterdam (though Amsterdam’s building are mostly monochromatic). The town is lively and fun to walk around. There are shops, restaurants, history, the Queen Emma bridge, markets, etc. It’s touristy without feeling too touristy.

Oranjestad, Aruba was a bit of a disappointment. The main part of the city seemed built for cruise ship traffic. The expensive shops and expensive restaurants just screamed cruise traffic or “tourist trap” to me.

The pedestrian street that they do have was completely empty when we went. And I’ve been to other islands with shopping areas like that–that are only lively if cruises come in. It does have the colorful buildings in Oranjestad, but we didn’t really know where to go or what to do.

Landscape: Aruba wins

Aruba has a very desert-like landscape. It’s very dry with lots of dirt and lots of cacti. There’s not much vegetation besides cacti and divi divi trees. Curacao did not have as many cacti and a lot of the plants and trees were dried up and dying to me. It still had some very pretty areas but driving through was just ok. To me, Aruba was a little more interesting to see as there were fields of cacti all across the island.

Safety: Aruba wins

In general, Aruba has nice people living there. Everyone seems very laid back and you don’t feel the need to lock up your belongings in safes. People reassured us that our things would be fine and left alone. We met some friendly locals at Carnaval who told us some tips for visiting and even invited us to ride horses with them, and we did!

We met them at their ranch and went horseback riding through the cacti at sunset. The paths took us through the desert landscape and we eventually ended up at a secluded beach.

For Curacao, we felt like we needed to be more watchful. Though we didn’t have any problems, the vibe was a bit different here. The first thing people told us when we arrived was to NEVER leave anything in our car. Then they told us to keep it unlocked with the windows down because apparently break-ins are common. We were warned several times and this was a common topic on forums as well.

Cruise Ports: Curacao Wins

Cruises aren’t necessarily my thing, but because of the popularity of Caribbean cruises, it’s a valid topic to mention. Especially since Aruba and Curacao both are cruise destinations. In fact, Fodor’s mentions Oranjestad, Aruba as one of the 11 busiest cruise ports .  

Though Aruba gets more traffic, the area around the cruise port is very geared towards tourism. The long streets are filled with shops and nice hotels. There are gift shops and luxury, designer boutiques…it definitely caters to a certain crowd.

The cruise port in Curacao is in Willemstad and puts you within walking distance of the old, Colonial buildings. While it still has shops and things, it’s a little less Americanized. Some of the shops are located inside Rif Fort which is a historic fort built in 1828. You can walk along the Queen Emma Bridge and of course shop the main streets. It just has a different feel and you can explore the history of the island on your stop, while Aruba feels more of just a shopping port. 

When it comes to Aruba vs Curacao as a cruise stop, Curacao wins for sure in my opinion. It of course depends on what type of cruiser you are and what you like to do, but…you can shop luxury goods in the mall at home.

Flamingos: Aruba Wins

I know you’ve seen the pictures of pink flamingos on a beautiful, tropical beach. Those pictures happen to be from Aruba. But a little context behind the pictures–flamingos aren’t actually native to Aruba.

They can be found on the private island owned by the Renaissance Hotel. There are 6 flamingos that are permanent residents there, possibly because their wings are clipped (no one really seems to know what the story is and why they stay there).

Curacao on the other hand has a lot of Flamingos in the wild. But it certainly isn’t the picturesque setting of a tropical beach. They can likely be found in St. Willibrordus salt pans and a few other lagoon-type places. While it’s neat to see them in their natural habitat, it is pretty far away. It’s hard to get a good look at them and to take any good photos, you’ll need a zoom lens and a tripod. It’s also not the most scenic of places.

This one is a bit subjective. I don’t really know if Aruba’s flamingos had their wings clipped or not. They could be rescued or there could be some other story behind it. If it was a rescue situation, Aruba wins for allowing up-close encounters and because of the setting. Flamingos eating out of your hand on a gorgeous beach is hard to beat.

So…which island is better Aruba vs Curacao?

If you’ve kept track, you’ll notice that it’s a tie, which is why my husband and I debated this for so long. There are a few more topics I could add but they are a little more specific or hard for me to answer. Such as:

I had good seafood on both islands. Aruba has a popular seafood restaurant called Zeerover where you can pick freshly caught fish and they’ll cook it right up for you. You can also find traditional Dutch food on both islands, which is definitely worth trying. However, we didn’t eat at too many hot spots for me to be able to get a clear winner.

Snorkeling/Diving

Curacao seems to have more spots for snorkeling and definitely more shore diving/snorkeling. Aruba was where I originally wanted to dive as they have a 400 ft wreck (The Antilla) and a few plane wreck dives, but it didn’t work out.

Instead we dove in Curacao and did the tugboat wreck and some reefs. I’ve read on numerous blogs that most people prefer Curacao over Aruba for diving, which I was a bit surprised by (and if the option is there–most said Bonaire wins overall).

Note: If you plan on diving in Aruba or Curacao, make sure you plan your trip with enough time to do so! As a general rule, you should wait 24 hours after diving to board a flight.

If we’re adding Carnaval to the Aruba vs Curacao debate, I think Curacao would win this one as well. We only attended Carnaval in Aruba (so I can’t accurately judge) but apparently the parade and celebration in Curacao is much, much bigger than Aruba.

We had a great time celebrating Carnaval in Aruba and the costumes were fantastic. For my first time experiencing a Carnaval celebration–I had a lot of fun. But we did hear that Curacao has bigger celebrations and a bigger parade.

So who wins: Aruba vs Curacao??

This is the debate people! Even after I’ve weighed out both sides, I keep going back and forth. Frankly, it depends on what is most important to you.

Aruba and Curacao are beautiful islands and both are worth visiting. Curacao might be the better island for you if you have a little more time to explore and want more of the tropical Dutch vibe. If you want a relaxing beach getaway, then Aruba might be the better island for you.

I would easily return to both of these islands. Curacao-for the culture, beautiful buildings and beaches. Aruba-for the beaches, landscape and laid-back vibe of the island (and to finally dive there!).

If you still need help deciding, read on to find out more about each island below!

Already know which Caribbean island is for you? Check out these island guides to start planning your trip!

• Aruba: The Island Guide to Aruba
• Curacao: Curacao Island: A Beautiful Caribbean Paradise

Aruba Island

The first and smallest of the three islands is Aruba. Aruba island is a fun and beautiful island to visit. Because of its size, it’s easy to get around and explore. It has some areas that are built up for tourism, especially around the cruise port. And in general, Aruba is pretty ‘Americanized’. Though it’s the smallest island, it receives nearly twice as many tourists than Curacao does–with around 80% of those coming from the United States.

Landscape-wise, it has an interesting terrain that was pretty unexpected. Instead of tropical palm trees, it has a rocky, desert-y landscape with lots of cacti. You’ll even come across giant cacti! The weather is pretty consistent year round, which makes it an ideal getaway if you’re looking for a tropical escape.

It’s also home to Divi Divi trees and fofoti trees, which all point southwest due to the trade winds and act as a natural compass. It’s great for people who have no sense of direction! (me).

Update: Evidently the Divi Divi trees often get mixed up with the Fofoti Tree! While they look very similar, their trunks grow a bit differently. They both point southwest because of the wind but Divi Divi trees are found across the island, while Fofoti trees are found on the beach.

Another interesting fact about Aruba is that about 20% of the island is a National Park. The Arikok National Park has a rocky coastline and natural pools to explore. To explore this part thoroughly, you’ll want to rent a suitable car or you can get on a tour through the park.

For the most part, Aruba is a pretty flat island. There’s lots of pretty beaches and beautiful scenery here. It was hard to pick a favorite spot because the water was pretty all over.

How many days do you need in Aruba?

Spending 3-5 days in Aruba is enough time to have a relaxing beach getaway, but you could easily spend a week here. 3 days is on the shorter end–it allows you to get some beach time, but you won’t be able to explore as thoroughly. 5 days in Aruba is a great amount of time to relax and explore, and 7 days will allow you to explore at your leisure and have plenty of time to experience the island.

Curacao Island

In the middle of Aruba and Bonaire is Curacao. The island of Curacao is the largest of the ABC islands and twice as large as Aruba. Though ironically, it gets about half the visitors of Aruba and some 60%+ of those visitors are only there for one day on a cruise excursion.

This island also has a desert-like landscape inland and definitely beautiful beaches as well. The landscape is more mountainous with a popular mountain hike to Mt. Christoffel, the highest point on Curacao. It’s hard to beat mountainous islands, especially when it comes to photography.

Curacao has a strong Dutch culture and is sort of like the tropical version of Amsterdam. The buildings are brightly colored in the capital city with the same Dutch colonial look. It’s a very colorful island and is fun to explore. 

You’ll find a few more Dutch comforts here like Albert Heijn, the popular grocery store chain in The Netherlands, and stands selling raw herring–a Dutch delicacy served with chopped onions.

How many days do you need in Curacao?

Since Curacao is a larger island, you’ll want to have a little more time to explore here. 3 days will allow you to see the highlights but isn’t a lot of time to explore further. Spending 5-7 days in Curacao is the perfect amount of time to explore the island and have some time to relax.

Check out some other great Caribbean islands to visit!

PIN IT FOR LATER

Have you been to these islands? What do you think: Aruba vs Curacao?

Related Travel

Reader Interactions

June 15, 2023 at 5:50 pm

I loved your post about the differences between Aruba and Curacao. My husband and I go to Aruba every year. We love how safe and laid-back it is, but we also love that the water there is so purified. We were told Aruba has the second largest desalination plant in the world. Also, instead of taxis, Aruba has a public bus system that travels nearly all around the island for a few dollars, so it’s inexpensive to go downtown or to the mall. It’s true that it’s VERY windy, but I keep my long hair up in a bun or ponytail or braids, but we like the wind because it’s a warm wind and we don’t feel as sweaty. We do plan on visiting Curacao one of these days, so your critique of that island is very beneficial for me. Thank you!

June 16, 2023 at 11:18 am

Thanks for reading! Aruba is a great island. Great tip for the bus! We didn’t use it because we had a car but glad to know it’s easy to use!

January 16, 2023 at 2:19 am

I like the idea of biking more than I do cars and taxis. Is this feasible? And the exercise, of course, I really need. I might even consider moving there, but sadly, a long shot. 🙁 Thank you for your ear. Tom

January 17, 2023 at 1:11 pm

Hi Tom, I think you could definitely bike (and walk) within the capital cities and some of the more populated areas, and just opt for a car/taxi when you want to go some place further. Aruba is about 20 miles long and Curacao almost double that, so Aruba is smaller to navigate.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join the Community

Aruba vs. Curacao: Which Island is the Best for Your Vacation?

Are you dreaming of the Caribbean? Many travelers wonder if Aruba or Curacao is best, read on to find out!

Are you having difficulty choosing between Aruba and Curacao for your next vacation in the Dutch Caribbean? While both islands have their own distinct features, one may stand out as more suitable for you based on your preferences.

This post will provide a comparison between Aruba and Curacao based on factors such as cost, weather, food, culture, transportation, and geography.

Based on my extensive study of both islands, having visited both, and booked numerous clients on vacations to both, I will suggest which island may be best for different types of travelers, including couples, families, and travelers on a budget.

⭐️ Why choose? See both Aruba AND Curaçao on a Caribbean Cruise! ✔️ Check for deals here

Aruba vs. Curacao: Which Island Is Better?

It is undeniable that Aruba and Curacao are picturesque destinations that offer clear waters, beaches with white sand, and warm temperatures throughout the year.

However, these two islands have notable distinctions which may help determine which one is more suitable for you.

If you’re seeking a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of options for activities, Aruba would be a better choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a more calm and easy-going vacation, Curacao would be a better fit.

Costs & Prices

Compared to other Caribbean islands, both Aruba and Curacao are relatively expensive. Due to higher costs in accommodations, dining, and activities, Aruba is more expensive than Curacao. Curacao, on the other hand, is less touristy and offers more reasonable prices in general.

Both Aruba and Curacao have a hot, sunny climate with year-round temperatures averaging around 82°F (28°C).

Aruba is known for its constant trade winds, which can make the island feel cooler than it is, while Curacao is less windy.

Both islands are outside the hurricane belt, making them a great destination for travelers looking to avoid hurricane season.

Both Aruba and Curacao offer a blend of Caribbean and international cuisine, with plenty of fresh seafood and local specialties.

Aruba has more international restaurants, while Curacao has a more traditional local cuisine.

Prices for food are generally higher in Aruba than in Curacao.

Aruba is a unique melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Arawak Indians, Dutch settlers, Spanish colonists, and African slaves. As such, it offers a fascinating cultural experience to travelers.

From the colorful festivals and lively music scene to the traditional cuisine and local artisans selling handmade crafts in downtown Oranjestad, there are plenty of ways to explore Aruba’s culture.

Travelers looking for a unique cultural experience should definitely add Curacao to their list. The island is home to a rich and vibrant culture that blends the influences of Europe, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

The local cuisine offers an array of flavors from around the world while music and art reflect its multicultural heritage. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Fort Beekenburg or take part in traditional festivals like Kaseko Day which celebrates Curacao’s African-Caribbean roots with parades, dancing, and drumming.

Transportation

Aruba is a smaller island, and getting around is relatively easy. Taxis and buses are readily available, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Curacao is larger, and it’s recommended that visitors rent a car to explore the island fully.

However, taxis and buses are also available, and there are plenty of guided tours available as well.

Geography & Landscape

Aruba is a desert island, with a rocky landscape and sparse vegetation. The island is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

The contrast between the soft white sand and turquoise waters vs the arid desert and cacti is quite striking.

Curacao, on the other hand, has a more varied landscape, with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and colorful buildings.

The island is also known for its underwater scenery, with excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.

Aruba vs Curacao: Which is Better to Visit in 2023

Choosing between Aruba and Curacao for a vacation can be difficult, but considering who you will be traveling with and your travel style can help clarify which option is best!

Which Island has the best Beaches: Aruba or Curacao

When it comes to beaches, both Aruba and Curacao boast some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the Caribbean.

Aruba’s beaches are known for their powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, while Curacao’s beaches are more secluded and boast vibrant coral reefs that attract snorkelers and divers.

Best beaches in Aruba : Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Baby Beach

Best beaches in Curacao : Grote Knip, Cas Abao, Playa Jeremi

➡️ We went cliff jumping at Playa Forti in Curacao and it was SO much fun!

⭐️WINNER: ARUBA HAS THE BEST BEACHES⭐️

With powdery white sand and crystal clear waters, Aruba easily has some of the best beaches in the world. The beach boys didn’t write a song about it for no reason!

Which has Better Nightlife: Aruba or Curacao

Aruba is the place to go if you’re seeking a lively nightlife experience. It’s renowned for being home to a thriving nightlife scene featuring numerous bars, nightclubs, and casinos.

In contrast, Curacao has a relaxed atmosphere and fewer options for nightlife. However, there are still some excellent places worth exploring.

Best bars in Aruba : Gusto Nightclub, Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill, Kukoo Kunuku Party Bus

Best bars in Curacao : Omundo Restaurant & Lounge, Bermuda Bar, Miles Jazz Cafe

⭐️WINNER: ARUBA HAS THE BEST NIGHTLIFE⭐️

Aruba offers a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and casinos. With a bustling atmosphere, visitors can experience an array of options to choose from when it comes to entertainment.

Which is better for a Family Vacation: Aruba vs Curacao

Both Aruba and Curacao are great for family vacations, but if you’re looking for a more kid-friendly island, Aruba is the better choice. Aruba has more family-friendly resorts , activities, and attractions that will keep the little ones entertained.

In Aruba, we rode UTVs through Arikok National Park with our teen boys and had an absolute blast!

Curacao has fewer options, but still plenty to offer families . There are plenty of beaches, parks, and cultural attractions to explore.

We swam with turtles, cliff jumped, saw flamingos, and went to the National Park with teens and they loved Curacao!

Best activities for families in Aruba : The Butterfly Farm, Arikok National Park, Donkey Sanctuary

Best activities for families in Curacao : Sea Aquarium, Shete Boka National Park, Fort Amsterdam

Best family resorts in Aruba : Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort , Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Best family resorts in Curacao : Curacao Marriott Beach Resort , Avila Beach Hotel , Kontiki Beach Resort Curaçao .

⭐️WINNER: ARUBA IS THE BEST FOR FAMILIES⭐️

Aruba offers plenty of safe, and exciting adventures for families. Whether you are looking for pure relaxation or exploration, you can find it in Aruba.

Which is best for a Romantic Getaway: Aruba or Curacao?

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, both Aruba and Curacao have plenty of options.

However, Aruba’s luxurious resorts and romantic atmosphere make it the perfect choice for couples looking to indulge in some romance.

Best romantic resorts in Aruba : Barceló Aruba , Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino ,

Best romantic resorts in Curacao : Zoetry Curaçao Resort & Spa , Sandals Royal Curacao, Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

⭐️WINNER: ARUBA IS THE MOST ROMANTIC⭐️

Aruba is one of the leading honeymoon destinations in the world and for good reason. Spending your days strolling along pristine beaches and luxurious resorts makes this an easy choice.

Which island is the most Budget-Friendly: Aruba or Curacao

If you want to go on a vacation without spending too much money, Curacao is a good option. You can find inexpensive places to stay and eat there, and there are also many activities you can do for free.

Aruba can be more expensive, but with thorough research, it’s still possible to find affordable options.

Best budget stays in Aruba : Paradera Park Aruba , Wonders Boutique Hotel , Coconut Inn

Best budget stays in Curacao : Curaçao Airport Hotel , Pietermaai Boutique Hotel , First Curacao Hostel

⭐️WINNER: CURACAO IS THE MOST BUDGET-FRIENDLY⭐️

Curacao is a great budget-friendly destination for travelers looking to save on expenses. It offers more affordable accommodations and dining options than Aruba, as well as plenty of free activities like swimming with turtles, cliff jumping, and visiting Shete Boka National Park.

Which is Better for Avoiding Crowds: Aruba or Curacao?

If you want to avoid crowds and have a more authentic experience, Curacao is the better choice.

Aruba is a popular tourist destination, and it can get crowded during peak season.

Curacao, on the other hand, has fewer visitors and a more laid-back atmosphere. Curacao is less touristy, and you’ll have the opportunity to interact with locals and experience the island’s culture.

Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations in Aruba : Alto Vista Chapel, Boskruin Beach, Baby Natural Beach

Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Locations in Curacao : Playa Piskado, Santa Cruz, Director’s Bay

⭐️WINNER: CURACAO IS BEST FOR AVOIDING CROWDS⭐️

If you looking for some peace and quiet, Curacao is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. Curacao has fewer visitors than Aruba, so you can explore off-the-beaten-path locations without being overwhelmed by crowds.

Getting to Aruba and Curacao

Aruba and Curacao are both located in the southern Caribbean Sea and are a part of the chain of islands known as ABC Islands. The island Bonaire makes the B in the chain.

Aruba and Curacao are 113 km (70.2 miles) apart from one another.

Which is Easiest to get to: Aruba or Curacao

From the United States, there are more flights available to Aruba than Curacao which makes it “easier”, if not less expensive to get to Aruba than to Curacao.

How to get to Aruba

It is easy to get to Aruba from the United States. There are many flights available, so you can find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Most flights to Aruba are non-stop from Miami, Florida. Other popular destinations with direct flights to Aruba include New York City, Newark, and Atlanta.

➡️ Check Flights to Aruba or Curacao Here

How to get to Curacao

Getting to Curacao is a little more complicated than getting to Aruba. While there are direct flights from the United States, they are less frequent than those to Aruba.

The most popular direct flights to Curacao are from Miami, Atlanta, and Charlotte. Other options include New York City and Newark, but these flights tend to be more expensive.

⭐️WINNER: ARUBA IS THE EASIEST TO GET TO⭐️

Given the number of flights available and their timing, Aruba is the easiest to get to. There are many direct flights from US cities, so you can find one that fits your schedule and budget.

How to get from Aruba to Curacao

The best way to go between the islands of Aruba and Curacao is to fly. Flights are inexpensive and take approximately 30 minutes.

Cruising to Aruba or Curacao

Another way to visit both Aruba and Curacao is on a Caribbean Cruise. We visited both islands a few years ago on a Carnival cruise.

The itinerary was fantastic- Miami, Princess Cay, Grand Turk , Aruba, and Curacao! It was one of our favorite cruises.

Getting Around Aruba and Curacao

Which is easier to get around: aruba or curacao.

Aruba Transportation :

Exploring Aruba as a tourist is easy and accessible. With modern roads and efficient transportation, you can get around the island quickly and safely. Whether you’re looking to rent a car or take public transportation, there are plenty of options available for getting around on this happy island.

The island of Aruba is only 70 square miles, and is super easy to explore!

Driving in Aruba is on the right side of the road and road signs are listed in km/h. You aren’t allowed to pump your own gas, so be sure and wait for an attendant to come and help you.

Rental Cars in Aruba: You can easily pick up a rental car right at the airport when you arrive in Aruba.

I suggest renting a jeep here, so you can explore the desert side of the island as well as take the top off and enjoy the breeze! You could also rent a scooter or motorcycle!

To drive in Aruba you need an international driver’s license, or a state driver’s license that has been valid for at least 2 years.

➡️ Be sure and rent your car in advance! You can do that here.

Boat Charters in Aruba: For a fun and unique way to explore the island, and the area around it, consider chartering a boat.

➡️ Check out this Boat Charter!

Public Transportation in Aruba: The transportation service by bus between downtown Oranjestad and the resort areas is affordable and dependable.

The Arubus is a bus that runs daily along the hotel strip. The bus service operates every 15 minutes from 5:45 a.m. until 6 p.m. From 6 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., there is a bus every 40 minutes.

➡️ You can see the bus schedule here

Airport Transportation in Aruba: If you plan on staying close to your resort during your vacation you could easily just get a ride from the airport to the hotel and back.

➡️ This is the most recommended shuttle to get from the airport to the hotel strip.

Walkability: If you do not plan on leaving the hotel strip, you can walk most anywhere you need to go as far as beaches, restaurants, and shopping. If you want to explore more of the island, you’ll need another form of transportation.

Curacao Transportation

Getting around Curacao’s island is quite convenient as modern roads and efficient transportation make it easily accessible for exploration.

Whether you’re looking to rent a car or take public transportation, there are plenty of options available for getting around this Caribbean paradise.

As with Aruba, drivers in Curacao drive on the right, and speed signs are in km/h.

Rental Cars in Curacao: You can easily rent a car in Curacao right at the airport. Be sure and book ahead to ensure you have one available.

➡️ Book your rental car in Curacao by clicking here

Public Transportation in Curacao: Buses and other forms of public transportation are very few and far between. The best way to get around is by renting a car or hiring a taxi.

Taxi fares are per taxi in Curacao and NOT per person.

Airport Transportation in Curacao: If you don’t want to drive, you’ll want to book a shuttle from the airport to get to your hotel. After that, you can rent taxis, or book private tours to see the island.

➡️ This is the best Shuttle from the airport

Walkability: Curacao is not very walkable, with the exception of right downtown, you’ll want a vehicle to get around the island.

⭐️WINNER- ARUBA IS THE EASIEST TO GET AROUND⭐️

With an excellent bus system and numerous shuttles along the hotel strip, Aruba is the easiest of the 2 islands to get around on your own.

Best Things to Do in Aruba

✔ Go to the Beach! (obviously). There are so many to choose from. Take your pick of white sand beaches and gentle waters, or more rugged beauty on the other side of the island.

✔️ Visit Arikok National Park. The best way to do this is on a UTV or Jeep tour. We booked this UTV tour and had an excellent experience.

✔️ Visit the Butterfly Farm. Take your time and visit hundreds of beautiful butterflies. You’ll want to make reservations in advance .

✔️ Donkey Sanctuary. A great place to visit if you’re looking for something a little different!

✔️ Take a snorkeling trip. Aruba, just like other parts of the Caribbean, has a diverse range of marine life living in its blue waters. There are many tours available that will take you out to explore the underwater world.

✔️ Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory, Museum, and Store. Aruba is the perfect place to purchase all things, Aloe! I bought chapstick in Aruba from the Aloe store and it is my all-time favorite!

Best Things to Do in Curacao

✔️ Visit the Queen Emma floating pontoon bridge. I know that looking at a bridge doesn’t sound exciting, but this one is fun! The bridge separates the two sides of the city of Willemstad. The pontoon bridge swings open to allow boats to cross the channel. You can walk across it, and even stand on it while it’s swinging open and closed! It is especially pretty at night.

✔️ Visit the beaches! It wouldn’t be a Caribbean vacay without a bit of beach time.

✔️Visit Willemstad, the capital city of Curacao. This charming historic city is filled with colorful colonial-style buildings and monuments, as well as some great shopping!

✔️Visit the Curacao Liqueur Factory. Here you can take a guided tour of the liqueur factory to learn how it’s made and even get to sample some unique flavors.

✔️ Book a private tour of the island and customize your day to your liking. We used this tour company and had a wonderful time !

✔️ Shete Boka. Don’t miss this! It’s my absolute favorite part of Curacao. This rugged National Park is absolutely breathtaking. Be sure and visit Boka Pistol, a natural blowhole!

Aruba vs Curacao: Which is the best island to visit?

As you can see, both Aruba and Curacao offer incredible experiences, so which is better might come down to a matter of opinion.

On paper, it would look like Aruba is better, but I personally love Curacao more! That being said, my husband prefers Aruba!

Both Aruba and Curacao are fantastic vacation destinations, with plenty to offer travelers looking for sun, sand, and relaxation.

If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere with lots of activities, Aruba is the better choice.

However, if you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation with a local flavor, Curacao may be the way to go.

Similar Posts

Aruba in One Day: Aruba UTV Tour Review (Aruba ATV Review)

How To Get To The Virgin Gorda Baths In 2024

10 Things to do in Mahogany Bay: Roatan Cruise Port

Sloths and Monkeys: The Best Mahogony Bay Excursion

The Perfect 4 Day Puerto Rico Itinerary: The Ultimate Island Experience

The 9 Best Resorts in Puerto Rico for Adults

Aruba vs. Curacao

Two of the most stunning islands in the South Caribbean are Aruba and Curacao . While both of these destinations have their own unique charm, they’re equally wonderful. 

When it comes to choosing between the two of them for a vacation, it can be quite tough. If you’re torn between Aruba vs. Curacao, read on to help you find out which destination is the perfect pick for you.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Overview

When you look at a map, you’ll see that Aruba and Curacao are located close to one another. They’re actually two of the “ABC islands,” a collection of Netherlands territories located in the southern Caribbean that is composed of Aruba, Bonaire , and Curacao.

These islands are situated just outside of the hurricane zone, making them excellent Caribbean vacation spots at any time of year. Boasting bright white sands and crystal clear waters, Aruba and Curacao are both perfect for soaking up the sun or partaking in watersports.

As both of these Islands are Dutch territories, they have very similar cultures and histories, they feature the same style of colorful architecture, and the locals are all very friendly and welcoming.

While these two island territories are extremely similar, there are still a number of differences between the two that can help travelers decide which is the perfect destination for them.

Aruba and Curacao both offer warm weather all year round, but while Curacao enjoys light breezes, Aruba experiences stronger winds . You’ll also be happy to know that both islands have relatively low crime rates, and people are generally friendly and welcoming.

While Aruba is smaller than Curacao, it actually gets almost twice as many visitors, meaning more tourism and larger crowds. This has led to it having a more Americanized vibe, whereas Curacao feels more Dutch.

Aruba also has a more flat, desert-like landscape, with plenty of cacti and rocks, whereas Curacao is more mountainous and green. When it comes to their beaches, both are beautiful, but the ones in Aruba are generally a little nicer.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Beaches

While both islands boast soft white sands and bright blue waters, it’s generally said that Aruba’s beaches are the best of the two. However, this doesn’t mean that those in Curacao are anything short of spectacular.

The beaches in Aruba are typically long stretches of sand which are open to the public and easy to access. In contrast, many of the beaches in Curacao are smaller, private, and are found in coves rather than along a picturesque stretch.

Some of the best beaches in Aruba are:

• Arashi Beach
• Mango Halto Beach
• Hadicurari Beach
• Rodger’s Beach
• Surfside Beach
• Eagle Beach
• Malmok Beach
• Boca Catalina
• Druif Beach

Some of the best beaches in Curacao are:

• Playa Lagun
• Playa Grandi
• Grote Knip Beach
• Mambo Beach
• Playa Jeremi

If you are into scuba diving and snorkeling, you will probably prefer Curacao due to its numerous dive opportunities. There are not only wrecks to explore but also a variety of vibrant coral reefs. Aruba does offer a range of good dive sites, though, such as the wrecks of the SS Antilla and the Jane Sea, plus a few airplanes. 

If you’re interested in watersports such as surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and parasailing, then Aruba is the best choice as it is more windy and has rougher waters.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Dining

One great aspect of a vacation is always the amazing foods you’re able to discover, so you’ll be pleased to know that both Aruba and Curacao boast a variety of delicious dishes. Curacao’s food takes a little more influence from Dutch cuisine, but you can find Dutch dishes on both islands. Both islands are popular for their fresh seafood. 

Both islands offer a range of casual eateries as well as gourmet restaurants. Despite its small size, however, Aruba actually has more than 250 restaurants, which offer a huge range of cuisines. 

If you’re visiting Curacao, be sure to try the blue Curacao liqueur, which is made from a fruit that only grows on this island.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Nightlife

If you’re looking for a fun-filled party getaway , then choose Aruba, where there’s a party vibe every night. With numerous nightclubs, music venues, bars, and cocktail lounges, you can dance the night away. There’s even a Kukoo Kunuku party bus!

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vacation, both islands offer beach bars where you can relax and watch the sunset. You can find casinos on both Aruba and Curacao, as well.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Accommodations

As Aruba is more developed than Curacao and welcomes many more tourists, you’ll be able to find a huge variety of high-rise resorts dotted along the beaches of this island plus plenty of all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels.

Curacao has a smaller selection of places to stay, but this doesn’t make the accommodations any less impressive. In addition to boutique hotels and low-rise resorts, it also has adults-only and family all-inclusive resorts.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Aruba, here are some options:

• Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
• Holiday Inn Aruba Beach Resort and Casino
• Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
• Hotel Riu Palace Aruba
• Divi Village Golf and Beach Resort
• Aruba Ocean Villas
• Tamarijn Aruba All-Inclusive Resort 

For a Curacao getaway, check out these choices:

• Sandals Royal Curacao
• Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino
• Dreams Curacao Resort

Aruba vs. Curacao: Cost

One factor that must be considered when planning any trip is the cost. If you’re traveling on a budget then Curacao is likely to be the best choice for you. 

Aruba is actually considered to be one of the most expensive islands to visit in the Caribbean. Vacations here can come with quite a high price tag, with taxis and transport, accommodations, activities, shopping, and eating out all at a higher price point than the equivalent in Curacao.

In contrast, Curacao is a relatively cheaper destination and is a good choice for travelers on any budget. Accommodations range from beachside bungalows to luxurious resorts, so you can get the most for your money here.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Safety

If you’re concerned about your safety in Aruba or Curacao, you’ll be pleased to know that both of these destinations have relatively low crime rates.

That said, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind when traveling:

• Keep your belongings locked away securely.
• When leaving your resort, travel in pairs or groups, and only take organized tours with trusted operators.
• Do not walk around alone at night.
• Do not accept drinks from strangers and keep your eyes on your drink at all times when in bars or nightclubs.
• Avoid wearing expensive clothing or jewelry and don’t carry a lot of cash when out and about. 

Aruba vs. Curacao: Final Verdict

Overall, both Aruba and Curacao have plenty on offer for tourists to enjoy, be it delicious food, beautiful beaches, nice weather year-round, and a variety of luxurious boutique hotels and resorts, as well as plenty to see and do. There is a lot to enjoy in both of these destinations.

When choosing which is the best option for you, there’s really no clear winner, as it comes down to your specific holiday type and budget, who you’re traveling with, and what activities you’re hoping to enjoy.

For more help deciding which destination is best for you, or with planning your dream Caribbean getaway, head on over to our Contact Us page to get in touch with one of our trusted travel advisors.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Visit Oyster on Facebook!
• Visit Oyster on Pinterest!
• Visit Oyster on Instagram!
• Visit Oyster on Twitter!
• Subscribe to stay up to date!

Yes, send me expert tips and deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• Subtract one room 1 Rooms Add one room
• Subtract one adult 2 Adults Add one adult

Aruba, Bonaire, or Curacao: Which of these Safe Caribbean Islands Is Right for You?

See recent posts by Sandra MacGregor

If you’re looking for a safe Caribbean destination with breathtaking beaches and a sunny clime, no doubt the islands of Aruba , Bonaire , and Curacao are all worthy contenders. This delightful south Caribbean trio, lying off the north coast of Venezuela, is often referred to collectively as the “ABC” islands because of their close proximity and their shared Dutch colonial history. Each island offers welcoming warm weather (thank you trade winds), gorgeous beaches, and a friendly vibe. Each island also has its own unique personality, so read on to find out which one of the ABC idyllic escapes is best for your vacation needs.

Check out our guide to the safest islands in the Caribbean . 

Getting to Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Beach at the Divi Aruba All Inclusive

Lying just 15 miles off the coast of South America, Aruba is the closest island to Venezuela, Curacao is approximately 40 miles from Venezuela, and Bonaire is the farthest, at 50 miles away from the coast. American, Canadian, Caribbean and most EU and South American citizens will need a passport (but not a visa to visit) the islands as long as the stay is 30 days or less. If you decide to stay longer, you can apply for an extension of up to 180 days.

Aruba : Out of the trifecta, Aruba is the most developed and touristed island, which also makes it the easiest to get to thanks to an abundance of flights . Airlines like Jet Blue, Delta, and American Airlines fly frequently to Aruba and you can easily get non-stop flights from cities like New York, Toronto, Boston, and Chicago, as well as some European and South American destinations. If you fancy going on a cruise, Aruba is an incredibly popular port of call for cruise ships so you’ll have lots of options if you want to arrive by sea. To get around locally, you can take buses, taxies (which offer fixed pricing) and might even consider renting a car, though the bus service is reliable. You can pick from several daily, 30-minute flights if you want to add a couple days in Bonaire or Curacao to your itinerary.

Bonaire : Perhaps surprisingly, given that the destination is off most tourists’ radars, there are some direct flights several times a week to Bonaire with carriers like American Airlines, Delta and Air Canada from cities like Newark, Houston, Atlanta and Toronto. KLM offers some direct flights from Europe to Bonaire. At just over 100 square miles, the diminutive island is easy to get around by rental car or even by bike. Fixed rate taxis are also available.

Curacao : Being less touristed, there are fewer flights to Curacao than to Aruba, though you can still get some direct or one-stopover-only flights from carriers like Air Canada, KLM, and American Airlines from Miami, Toronto, Newark, Caracas and Amsterdam. In a testament to the destination’s growing popularity, United Airlines just started direct flights to the island in December of 2019. Local bus service is less reliable in Curacao, so if you want to explore the island, you should consider renting a car. While most of the island’s taxis are supposed to be metered or have set fares, there have been reports of unmetered taxis with unpredictable pricing.

Weather in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Beach at the Sunscape Curacao Resort Spa & Casino – Curacao/Oyster

One of the most appealing features of all three ABC islands is that they lie outside of the hurricane belt, making them a reliable retreat any time of year with little risk of a tropical storm. The trio also shares the same sun-drenched, uniform weather with hot temperatures that range between 84 and 90 degrees throughout the year. Rainfall is equally as predictable with only intermittent rainfall reaching its highest average of about 3.5 inches in the months of November and December. This lack of rain gives the islands a dry, desert-like climate but steady, pleasantly cooling trade winds from the northeast (most noticeable on Aruba) help cut the heat.

Safety in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

The ABC Islands are among the safest in the Caribbean. The U.S. Department of State has given them only a Level 1 warning (the lowest possible) to “exercise normal precautions” when visiting. Violent crime is almost unheard of on the islands and there are only minimal reports of petty crime and theft. Unlike many other popular sun-and-surf destinations, the standard of living tends to be quite good with less overall disparity between the have and have-nots, which helps keep crime against tourists at bay.

Hotels in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Beach at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino/Oyster

Aruba : Of the trio, Aruba offers the most variety when it comes to hotel choices. There are amenity-rich beachfront resorts, family-friendly properties, charming B&Bs, couples-only properties, and contemporary casino hotels like the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino . Most accommodation is centered around the northeast side of the island. The most popular area to stay is known as the high-rise hotel district, located on beautiful Palm Beach — but it can get crowded. Aruba’s low-rise hotel district on Eagle Beach, about midway between Oranjestad and Palm Beach, still offers resorts and casinos but is less tourist heavy and has a slightly more intimate feeling. If you want to have easy access to shopping and a plethora of restaurants, stay in the capital city of Oranjestad.

Pricing for Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

Bonaire : The island does not have a highly developed tourism infrastructure (though that’s part of its allure) so your accommodation choices will be much more limited, with most located in the capital port city of Kralendijk. You’ll find small budget hotels, larger resorts, a couple of more upscale offerings and even a hotel with a casino (the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort and Casino ). Many hotels cater to divers with dive shops and equipment rentals on site. On Bonaire , you won’t find any of the massive, amenity-laden resorts you would on the other two ABC islands, and all-inclusive resorts are rare.

Pricing for Divi Flamingo Beach Resort & Casino

Curacao : Though less touristed than Aruba, Curacao is the largest of the ABC islands and as such also features lots of accommodation options. There are some all-inclusive properties (though definitely not the selection you’ll find on Aruba), boutique and beach hotels, and even some casino hotels like the Sunscape Curacao Resort Spa & Casino . Many visitors elect to stay near the beachfront capital city of Willemstad to immerse themselves in the city’s captivating European-meets-the-Caribbean ambience. Those looking to focus on the best snorkeling or diving generally choose to stay on the west coast of Curacao. To get away from the main tourist area, go to the northwestern tip, which also has beaches and good diving options.

Pricing for Sunscape Curacao Resort Spa & Casino

Activities in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Beach at the Plaza Resort Bonaire/Oyster

Though they share the same weather, Dutch colonial history, and West Indies roots, the character of each ABC island is incredibly distinct, with each showcasing a different atmosphere and activities.

Aruba : Cosmopolitan Aruba is southern Caribbean’s biggest tourist mecca. If you’re looking for a vacation that is as much about activities, cuisine, and nightlife as it is about relaxing on breathtaking beaches, Aruba is for you. Thanks to its dominant trade winds, the island’s got bragging rights when it comes to water sports like windsurfing , parasailing, and kitesurfing. Shipwreck diving is another big draw, with the SS Antilla among the most coveted dives in the Caribbean. As to indoor activities, gambling is legal in Aruba so casinos are a popular pastime here. The food scene on Aruba is acclaimed, running the gamut from hole-in-the-wall street food, to high-end restaurants highlighting an inimitable mix of Dutch, South American and Caribbean fare.

Bonaire : Bonaire’s off-the-beaten-path feel attracts independent, adventure-oriented travelers who like to explore under-appreciated destinations. You won’t have access to the same culture, shopping, and nightlife as you would on the other two islands but what you will have is some of the most acclaimed scuba diving in the world. Surrounded on all sides by reef teeming with nearly 500 varieties of fish, Bonaire is often ranked as the Caribbean’s top spot for off-shore diving, as well as boat diving. The island is also ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts. A favorite spot for diving and snorkeling is the Bonaire National Marine Park , the Caribbean’s first official marine park. On the north tip of the island is the surprisingly large ecological reserve, Washington Slagbaai National Park , which is a top choice for hiking and biking.

Curacao : Do a deep-dive into Dutch colonial culture on Curacao. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the vibrant colonial buildings in the capital city of Willemstad are amazingly eye catching. Learn about the island’s slave history at Museum Kurá Hulanda and walk the length of floating pontoon Queen Emma Bridge. Though not as urbane as Aruba, Curacao nonetheless has lots to offer in terms of nightlife and shopping. Check out bustling Mambo Beach Boulevard in Willemstad, which is filled with shops, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Yes, that iconic blue liqueur does indeed come from Curacao, and you can learn about its auspicious beginnings at Landhuis Chobolobo distillery . Curacao also has a reputation for superb diving and snorkeling, second only to Bonaire.

Beaches in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao

Beach at the Hilton Curacao/Oyster

Aruba : All three of the ABC islands have plenty to offer those searching for cerulean seas and sun-soaked beaches but overall, Aruba, with its awe-inspiring and expansive sandy shoreline, has the most inviting beaches. The island’s most beloved is Palm Beach just on the outskirts of Oranjestad. It’s renown for is soft, white sand, smooth waters and seemingly endless shoreline. Nearby is Palm Beach, which also hosts some of Aruba’s largest and most luxe resorts. These two beaches are good if you want a suntanning spot with convenient access to restaurants and watersports. For something more secluded head south to Baby Beach, so named for its shallow, smooth waters. Flamingo beach, home to a handful of the rather ungainly pink birds can be hard to get to because it’s actually on a private island owned by Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino and guests not staying at the property have to pay $125 to purchase a pass.

Bonaire : Though beautiful, Bonaire’s beaches are generally not as easily accessible as Aruba’s and Curacao’s. They tend to have a very narrow shoreline with somewhat rockier terrain than the other two islands though they offer serene, largely uncrowded spots for sun worshipping. Take a water taxi out to Klein Bonaire (meaning Little Bonaire in Dutch), an uninhabited islet just offshore from Kralendijk; it’s No Name Beach is a perfect secluded sanctuary with snorkeling just a few feet from shore. Boka Slagbaai in Slagbaai National Park has a large, powdery white sand beach and calm waters.

Curacao : With nearly 40 beaches, Curacao wins for variety. This island’s swaths of sand are generally much smaller than Aruba’s and frequently don’t feature the same extensive choice of amenities, but you’re much more likely to share the surf with locals. The liveliest is Willemstad’s man-made Mambo Beach, where you can easily indulge in a meal or a water activity in-between tanning session s. Favourited by families and snorkelers, shallow Playa Lagun is nestled in a protected bay hugged by craggy cliffs.

Our Top Pick for a Hotel in Aruba: Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club

The Aerial Pool at the Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club/Oyster

The upscale and lively Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club is located in the island’s popular high-rise district on sprawling Palm Beach. One of three massive, oceanfront Marriott resorts, the family-friendly property is safe with clean rooms. Comfortable rooms feature kitchenettes and balconies with island-inspired decor. Many of the one-, two- and three-bedrooms villas come with full kitchens. Key amenities include a series of pools with a Lazy River, a waterslide, and a large, modern fitness center. Though the on-site restaurant’s food selection is limited, there are lots of good restaurants nearby.

Pricing for Marriott's Aruba Surf Club

Our Top Pick for a Hotel in Bonaire: Harbour Village Beach Club

Beach at the Harbour Village Beach Club/Oyster

One of Bonaire’s more high-end offerings, Harbour Village Beach Club’s clean, airy rooms feature welcome touches like Nespresso machines and clawfoot bathtubs. Set on a private beach complete with lounge chairs and hammocks, it also has a full-service dive shop, a contemporary fitness centre and a spa. At night, enjoy the nautically-themed restaurant overlooking the sea, which is lit up at night. During the day, take advantage of the dive shop and enjoy diving or snorkeling just off shore.

Pricing for Harbour Village Beach Club

Our Top Pick for a Hotel in Curacao: Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort

Beach at the Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao/Oyster

The large 350-room luxury Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort is as frequented by couples as it is by families thanks to amenities like an indulgent spa, a tennis center, three pools, and a kids’ club. Golf lovers will appreciate the 18-hole golf course with ample ocean views. The serene, sandy beach complete with a protected swimming lagoon is a standout.

Pricing for Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort, Curacao

You’ll Also Like:

• The 8 Safest Travel Destinations in the Caribbean Right Now
• 12 Things You Should Know Before Traveling to Aruba 
• 5 Caribbean Islands Generally Not Hit by Hurricanes

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission.

Top Stories

• Travel Tips

Top 11 Las Vegas Hotels on the Strip for Every Type of Traveler

By Christina Vercelletto

• Sweepstakes

Win a Trip to St. Maarten

By Caroline Morse Teel

• Group Tours

How to Choose a Group Tour That You Won’t Hate

By Kelsey Blodget

Where to Go Instead of Mexico: 7 Alternative Vacation Ideas

By Michele Tymann

9 Hot Tropical Destinations to Visit in the Fall

By Katherine Alex Beaven

Aruba vs Bonaire vs Curaçao: Which Dutch Caribbean Island for Vacation?

Aruba , Bonaire, and Curaçao , often referred to as the ABC islands, are three popular destinations in the Dutch Caribbean that offer distinct vacation experiences. Each island has its unique charm, activities, and atmosphere, making them attractive to different types of travelers. Let’s compare these three islands to help you decide which suits your vacation preferences the best.

Geographical Overview

Aruba: Located just north of Venezuela, Aruba is the most western island of the group. It is known for its dry, sunny weather, broad sandy beaches, and gentle surf. Cacti-covered hills and a rocky, wind-swept northeastern coast characterize the island’s landscape.

Bonaire: Situated east of Aruba and Curaçao, Bonaire is known for its pioneering role in preserving marine environments. It’s a flat, riverless island with some of the Caribbean’s most spectacular diving and snorkeling spots.

Curaçao: The largest and most populous of the three, Curaçao lies between Aruba and Bonaire. It features diverse landscapes, from idyllic beaches to rugged cliffs. The capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colorful colonial architecture.

Cultural and Historical Aspects

Aruba: Aruba’s culture is a blend of the indigenous Caquetio Indian, African, and European influences. Its history can be explored in museums, architecture, and festivals. The island’s Dutch colonial past is visible, but its multi-ethnic community includes over 90 nationalities.

Bonaire: Bonaire’s culture is deeply rooted in its African and Amerindian heritage, significantly influenced by the Dutch colonial era. It’s less commercialized than its neighbors, offering a more authentic Caribbean experience. The island is known for its traditional music and dance.

Curaçao: Curaçao represents a melting pot of over 50 cultures, reflected in its vibrant art, music, and cuisine. The island’s rich history is evident in Willemstad’s colonial architecture and several museums. Curaçao celebrates its cultural diversity with numerous festivals throughout the year.

Beaches and Natural Beauty

Aruba: Aruba is famed for its stunning palm-fringed beaches, like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. The island’s southwestern coast offers calm, turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.

Bonaire: Unlike Aruba and Curaçao, Bonaire is not known for its typical sandy beaches. Its coastline is predominantly rocky but has a few hidden gems like Te Amo Beach. Bonaire’s main attraction is underwater, with pristine coral reefs and abundant marine life.

Curaçao: Curaçao boasts various beaches, from secluded coves to lively beach clubs. Playa Knip and Cas Abao Beach are among the most beautiful. The island’s rugged northern coast and Christoffel National Park offer hiking and wildlife viewing.

Activities and Experiences

Aruba: Ideal for families and couples, Aruba offers a mix of activities ranging from water sports to desert off-roading. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and luxury shopping.

Bonaire: Bonaire is a paradise for nature lovers, especially divers and snorkelers. The island’s commitment to conservation makes it one of the world’s top sustainable eco-tourism destinations. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are also popular due to the constant trade winds.

Curaçao: Curaçao caters to different interests, from beach lounging to exploring cultural sites. Diving and snorkeling are excellent, and the island also offers hiking, mountain biking, and bird-watching opportunities.

Culinary Scene

Aruba: Aruba’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population. The island offers a variety of dining options, from local seafood joints to high-end international restaurants.

Bonaire: Bonaire’s cuisine is a mix of Caribbean, Latin American, and Dutch influences. Fresh seafood is a staple, and the island is known for its relaxed, casual eateries.

Curaçao: Culinary enthusiasts will enjoy Curaçao’s blend of flavors, which includes Creole, Dutch, and Indonesian influences. The island also produces its famous Blue Curaçao liqueur.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Aruba: Easily accessible by air from various international destinations, Aruba offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.

Bonaire: Bonaire is accessible via flights from North America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands . The island offers a mix of hotels, resorts, and private rentals, focusing on eco-friendly options.

Curaçao: Curaçao is well-connected by air and offers a wide variety of lodging options, including boutique hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and vacation apartments.

Aruba vs Bonaire vs Curaçao

Choosing between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao depends on what you seek in a vacation. Aruba is your go-to if you prefer a lively atmosphere with stunning beaches and plenty of activities. Bonaire is ideal for an eco-conscious, tranquil getaway with world-class diving. If you’re interested in a mix of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and beautiful beaches, Curaçao is a perfect choice. Each island offers a unique slice of paradise in the Dutch Caribbean, ensuring an unforgettable vacation experience.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alexandrea Sumuel Groves is a nationally syndicated travel writer and founder of the Wander With Alex travel blog. Her work has appeared on MSN, YAHOO!, Euronews, and FOX, ABC, and NBC affiliates across the United States. 

Alex travels to experience, eat, explore, and occasionally escape! She collaborates with destinations, vacation property management companies, and hospitality technology firms to provide her readers with exclusive insights and information.

Aruba vs Curacao: Which Caribbean Island is Better?

Aruba and Curacao are two of the three “ABC islands,” which are all territories of the Netherlands located in the southern Caribbean off the coast of Venezuela (the third is Bonaire). Given this, you might assume that there isn’t much difference between Curacao and Aruba. However, while there are some similarities, there are definite differences.

If you’re thinking about traveling to this part of the Caribbean and trying to decide between Aruba and Curacao, you’ve come to the right place! This article will compare Aruba and Curacao; we’ll tell you all you need to know about the similarities and differences between Curacao and Aruba so you can choose the best Caribbean island for your honeymoon or romantic retreat.

What are the similarities between Aruba and Curacao?

Both Curacao and Aruba are gorgeous islands that lie outside the hurricane zone and offer excellent weather most of the time, so they are both great year-round Caribbean destinations. Aruba and Curacao both feature stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, and have plenty of watersports.

Since both islands are Dutch territories, they have a similar heritage and cultural vibe. Locals are friendly and offer warm hospitality, and the architecture is colorful.

What’s the difference between Aruba and Curacao?

Aruba is smaller than Curacao, but has more visitors (almost twice as much). Because it has such a well-developed tourism industry, you will find more amenities aimed at travelers here, including beach facilities and tour operators.

You will also find larger crowds on Aruba. Curacao is much less crowded due to its lower numbers of tourists and larger size. Curacao is the largest of the three ABC islands. Aruba is easy to explore since it’s so small.

While Aruba is flat and has a desert-like interior landscape with cacti and rocks, Curacao has mountains and a green interior, although it also features cacti. Both islands have rocky areas and cliffs along some coastlines.

The weather on both Aruba and Curacao is good all year, with warm (occasionally hot) temperatures and plenty of sunshine. However, while Curacao has breezes, Aruba’s trade winds blow a bit harder.

Curacao has beautiful beaches, but the beaches on Aruba are said to be better. (See “Curacao vs. Aruba: Beaches” below for details.)

Because most of the tourists in Aruba come from North America and it gets so many more tourists than Curacao, Aruba is more developed and tends to feel somewhat “Americanized.” Curacao is said to have more of a Dutch feel. Most tourists to Curacao are European, and many residents are Dutch. Curacao is a bit more affordable than Aruba.

While both islands have low crime rates and Curacao is perfectly safe to visit , it tends to have more minor incidents like car break-ins. The people on both islands are very friendly and welcoming.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Getting There

Aruba is somewhat easier to get to from the United States, with more daily flights offered. There are direct flights to Aruba from Miami, Atlanta, Boston, Washington DC, New York, and more. There are direct flights to Curacao from several major airports, however, including Miami, Charlotte, and New York, as well as flights from multiple other airports.

When it’s time to leave, U.S. visitors will have an easier time in Aruba, since its airport has a separate area for flights to the United States that allows you to go through customs there, rather than having to do it once you land in the U.S.

You can also visit Curacao and Aruba on a cruise ship.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Getting Around

Aruba is easier to get around than Curacao. It’s smaller and easy to find your way around if you rent a car (although you will need 4-wheel drive in some areas).

Curacao’s streets are confusing to navigate within the capital city, since so many are one-way, but the rest of the island is pretty easy to figure out.

Renting a car is the best way to get around both Curacao and Aruba, as taxis are expensive.

Curacao vs. Aruba: Beaches and Watersports

One of the main things most people want to know is, does Aruba or Curacao have better beaches? While both islands have soft white sand beaches with vividly colored water, the general consensus is that Aruba has better beaches. However, if you honeymoon in Curacao , you will not be disappointed.

Beaches in Aruba tend to be long stretches of sand, while beaches in Curacao are smaller and often found in coves. Many beaches in Curacao are private, and some of the public ones are a bit isolated, while Aruba’s beaches are public and easy to access (except for two private islands). You can still go to the private beaches in Curacao, you’ll just need to pay a fee.

Some of the best beaches in Curacao are Cas Abao, Grote Knip Beach, Playa Lagun, Playa Jeremi, Blue Bay, Mambo Beach, and Playa Grandi. A unique thing to do in Curacao is to take a day trip to “Klein Curacao,” an offshore island with a completely unspoiled and beautiful beach.

Some of the best beaches in Aruba are Baby Beach, Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Arashi Beach, Druif Beach, Rodger’s Beach, Surfside Beach, Boca Catalina, Mango Halto Beach, Hadicurari Beach, and Malmok Beach.

Both Aruba and Curacao have a full array of watersports to enjoy, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more. When trying to choose between the two islands, many people wonder, is snorkeling better in Aruba or Curacao? And is scuba diving better in Curacao or Aruba?

The answer to these questions varies depending on who you ask, but many people say that scuba diving and snorkeling is better in Curacao than Aruba. There are more opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving from the shore in Curacao.

And although Aruba offers some great dive sites, like the wrecks of the SS Antilla and the Jane Sea as well as some airplanes, many people prefer to scuba dive in Curacao because of the variety of sites, ranging from wrecks to coral reefs. Top diving sites in Curacao include the Curacao Marine Park, Mushroom Forest, Watamula, Paradise, Snake Bay, Booby Trap, Klein Curacao, and Tugboat.

(However, if you are coming to this part of the Caribbean primarily for diving and/or snorkeling, you may want to consider Bonaire instead, as it has much better opportunities than either Aruba or Curacao.)

Because Aruba is windier, it often has rougher water that can negatively affect snorkelers. However, those winds make it a great spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, and parasailing.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Activities

Both Aruba and Curacao have plenty to offer in terms of things to do and charming capital cities, which feature Dutch colonial architecture and brightly colored buildings.

Curacao’s capital, Willemstad, is larger and has more of a Dutch feel to it. There is a lot to do in Willemstad, including visiting historical sites such as Fort Amsterdam, walking across the Queen Emma pontoon bridge, browsing local markets and shops, checking out local restaurants, and going to the Kura Hulanda Museum. Willemstad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, has a more touristy feel and can be full of cruise ship passengers, but there are also fun shops and restaurants here. Aruba tends to have more high-end boutiques than Curacao. Oranjestad also features the Historical Museum of Aruba, housed in a fort that was built in 1798. A free tram circles the city and provides a breezy way to get around.

A unique thing to do in Aruba is to take a submarine tour of the waters around the island.

A unique thing to do in Curacao is to visit the Curacao Sea Aquarium.

Gambling is legal on both Aruba and Curacao, so you can visit casinos on either island. There are more casinos in Aruba.

There is hiking on both islands, and both Aruba and Curacao have national parks you can explore. Aruba’s is larger; Arikok National Park covers almost 20 percent of the island. It has a wide variety of landscapes, including desert, rocks, and caves, and features an incredible Natural Pool by the sea that you can swim and snorkel in.

Christoffel National Park in Curacao is mountainous and forested; you can hike up Mt. Christoffel for views from the highest point on the island, as well as learn about the island’s history at the Savonet Museum in a former plantation. You can also take a safari tour. Roi Rincon Park has shaded hiking trails, caves, and rock formations.

Both Aruba and Curacao offer islands you can visit, but Aruba’s is private, home to the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Spa, and you have to pay a fee to visit if you’re not staying there. However, this island has Flamingo Beach, where you can feed and take selfies with flamingos!

Curacao’s island is Klein Curacao, a completely undeveloped and pristine island featuring a gorgeous beach surrounded by clear waters.

Interestingly, there are ostrich farms on both Aruba and Curacao that you can tour. And while you can visit and feed flamingos at Aruba’s private Flamingo Beach, those were imported to their private island by the hotel. On Curacao, there are native, wild flamingos roaming around.

Aruba also offers a donkey sanctuary and a butterfly farm.

Both Curacao and Aruba celebrate Carnival, which is a fun time to visit either island.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Dining

The food on both Aruba and Curacao is excellent and diverse. While Curacao has more traditional Dutch influence, you can find Dutch food both places. You can also find fantastic fresh seafood on both Aruba and Curacao.

Despite being a small island, Aruba has more than 250 restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisines, with plenty of fine dining options. There are gourmet restaurants as well as casual spots on Curacao as well. Foodies will not be disappointed on either island.

Unique to Curacao is the blue namesake liqueur made from a fruit that only grows here.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Nightlife

There’s more “life” in the nightlife on Aruba than on Curacao. Aruba has a party vibe, while Curacao is more laidback. If you like to go dancing, Aruba is the best choice for you. Aruba has lots of nightclubs, music venues, and cocktail lounges. Nightlife options in Aruba also include a variety of tours on the Kukoo Kunuku party bus.

If you like to watch the sunset from a beach bar, you can do that on both islands. You can also visit casinos for entertainment on both Aruba and Curacao.

Aruba vs. Curacao: Accommodations

Aruba is more developed than Curacao, since it gets so many more tourists. You’ll find a lot more high-rise resorts along the beach in Aruba, and more all-inclusive resorts here.

Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Aruba are the Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa , Holiday Inn Aruba Beach Resort and Casino , Hotel Riu Palace Aruba , Divi Village Golf and Beach Resort , Tamarijn Aruba All-Inclusive Resort , Aruba Ocean Villas , and the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino .

 Other top places to stay in Aruba include the Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino , the adults-only Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort , the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort , and the Ritz-Carlton .

Curacao has fewer and smaller places to stay, tending towards boutique hotels and low-rise resorts. However, it does have all-inclusive resorts . In fact, it has a Sandals adults-only all-inclusive resort—the newly opened Sandals Royal Curacao —while Aruba does not. Other top all-inclusive resorts in Curacao include Dreams Curacao Resort and Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino .

More of the best places to stay in Curacao, some of which have all-inclusive packages available, include the Avila Beach Hotel , Baoase Luxury Resort , and KonTiki Beach Resort .

So what do you think? Which is nicer Curacao or Aruba? We think it’s mainly a matter of personal taste. Does one island appeal to you more than the other? Let us know whether you would book your romantic vacation or honeymoon in Aruba or Curacao!

Ashley has always loved to explore new places and indulges her passion for travel whenever she can. She has been to 12 countries and 32 states so far.

Ashley has worked as a freelance writer for more than 20 years, specializing in the areas of travel, marketing, personal development, and the pursuit of happiness.

Favorite destinations include Sorrento and Capri, Italy; Haarlem, Netherlands; Paris; Sydney and K’gari, Australia; Rotorua and Waiheke Island, New Zealand; the American West; Palm Beach; the Florida Keys; and her hometown of New Orleans. Ashley has a goal of visiting every state plus many more international destinations.

Ready to get started?

Get the help of a seasoned travel advisor. We'll help you make the best choice for your vacation, guide you through the travel planning process, and support you until you are back home.

Working with a travel advisor

You don't know what you don't know.

We visit the resorts we recommend regularly, leveraging our unbiased expertise to meet or exceed your expectations. From round-trip airfare and transfers to accommodations at top-notch resorts, we handle it all. Let us be your trusted travel partner, aiming not just for a single sale but a lasting relationship.

There are so many details we work through seamlessly because we do this every day and know how to work everything out to give you an amazing experience.

Don't waste any more time researching online when you can talk to an expert

Our travel experts are here to help you plan the perfect vacation. With over 20 years of experience in all-inclusive travel, we customize vacations to suit your preferences, ensuring competitive pricing.

• We provide personalized customer service to guide you before, during, and after your trip. We handle issues directly, avoiding large, impersonal call centers.
• We'll match or beat any legitimate quote.
• We have access to the best prices, promotions, and possible rate adjustments if resort prices drop after your down payment.
• Our relationships and connections in travel allow our clients to get upgrades and perks at the resorts they stay at.

What people say about us

We worked with Mike to plan our perfect honeymoon in Greece — he was amazing the whole way through and put together a trip we will cherish for our lifetime.

He was thoughtful with our suggestions, and provided some of his own without every pushing us. He stayed within our budgetary means but made it feel like we had a budget twice the size. 

Dan and Michelle were such a joy to work with! They really made our trip and cruise successful. Based on our needs they were able to help us identify and schedule what side trips and activities would best suit our interests.

After this trip I will be using a travel agent for future vacations…just can’t wait for the next one they help us plan!

Honeymoon Always has been fantastic- our trips were 1000% better because of their help. The first time we used them we wanted to have a fun trip with some cultural experiences, good food, not too packed, and for a good price. It was fantastic and now we've used them for several trips in Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean. Each trip was so different but they were able to make each one special and unique to our needs.

Get In Touch

" * " indicates required fields

5 thoughts on “Aruba vs Curacao: Which Caribbean Island is Better?”

Aruba more friendly and safer

Curacao has more culture and is much more interesting for me. Aruba is your typical Miami summer vacation.

I do not fully agree with this article. I live on Curacao en go to Aruba occasionally, and the nightlife on Curacao a way bigger than on Aruba; Cabana, Mambo, Madeiro, St. Tropez, Zanzibar etc. You also forget to mention some high quality hotels that are Curacao, like Marriott, Papagayo and Chogogo.

It must have been a Aruba person who wrote this. Let me tell you something. Stop envying Curaçao and for your information I am a Kitician.

Recently visited Aruba for the first time and what I noticed and enjoyed the most was the sand is NEVER HOT. You can walk on the beach all day without burning your feet with hot sand.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• ABC Islands
• Aruba , Curacao

Aruba vs. Curacao

Table of Contents

Cosmopolitan and beautiful Aruba and laid-back and fascinating Curacao will always have strong cases as to why they’re the best choice for a Dutch Caribbean summer however, what will truly set them apart is the people. Whatever it is that you want to experience in the best of the Dutch Caribbean will help decide which is worth the roundtrip ticket.

All throughout Aruba’s history, names pop up representing the prominent features perceived by the long list of discoverers of the island. Names like Ora Oubao “Shell island”, Arubeira, Oruba “Well situated island”, Oibubia “Guided island”, Oirubae “Companion of Curaçao.” Perhaps it’s high time for you to discover something yourself.

Aruba has so many faces for you pilgrims of pleasure, in the same way that it has many names. Cruise on a catamaran, scuba and snorkel your way through reefs and shipwrecks, explore the inner lands on horseback or an All-Terrain Vehicle or on foot! So many things to do, so little time.

What Makes Aruba Unique?

Hurricane-free days.

The greatness of Aruba is not only from its vast reserves of fun-filled adventures and idyllic natural and man-made panoramas but also its seemingly steady serving of sunny skies and cool westward-blowing winds.

Not all tropical destinations, or countries for that matter, have the luxury of evading much of the Hurricane Belt’s yearly wrath. Its map coordinates, just south of the usual route of the “Belt,” add to Aruba’s ever-increasing list of positives. Of course, there’s always that off-chance. Nevertheless, you absolutely have to experience the weather!

Beautiful Unspoiled Beaches

Almost every beach in Aruba has a distinct signature that pops out from pictures and postcards. From fofoti trees arranged arbitrarily on the shoreline to secluded bays surrounded by imposing limestone bridges or coral-stone cliffs, there is one suited for every pose you can imagine.

Here is but a taste of what you can come across:

Hadicurari Beach

Famed previously known for its population of fishermen and their huts, Hadicurari has transformed into a paradise for play powered by wind. If you’re a windsurfer, kitesurfer, or parasailer, this beach has the right amount of high winds to make it your best playground yet.

And it’s not just the winds that are superb, the water has the right combination of shallow and calm to make other nonmotorized water sports enjoyable. Stand-up paddleboarding, anyone?

As part of the Arikok National Park, this place surely is off the beaten path. Nonetheless, its seclusion has its perks for you who seek serenity.

It may not be as glamorous and modernized with its beach of coral rocks and slabs scattered on the shore, but it promises you sands with a golden tinge, and the opportunity to jump off bluffs into the waiting natural pool below.

Rich and Infused Cuisine

No vacation is complete without sampling the destination’s delights in gastronomy. From quick snacks to full-course fine meals, the list of options is packed in Aruba.

Take to the streets and savor some pastechi drizzled with some locally sourced pica di papaya — nothing beats deep-fried pastries stuffed with choice meats and signature sauces smeared on top or perhaps pumped in after you take that first bite. And there’s bitterballen, the Dutch take on deep-fried meat-filled snacks.

If you’re not one for fried food, there are a ton of variations on stews and curries based on Asian, African, and Caribbean cooking. Some are light and cleansing, and some are thick and filling; there’s one for every palate.

And then to top it all off, sip on some Aruba Ariba (with your pinky raised?). Or maybe chug on a mug of some local Balashi beer. In the end, it doesn’t matter what you choose, they are all well-refined booze!

Interesting Mixed Culture

It sounds incredible that Aruba is a place that embraces over 90 nationalities — a harmonious relationship of mutual respect and trust. And as a result, the populace is very accommodating and it’s easy to get along with the locals.

At every point in your stay, you will feel a sense of belonging, with no language hurdles to jump over. You can communicate freely in English, Dutch, or Spanish. This will make navigating the secluded spots on the island easier. And if you can spare the effort, try a few words in Papiamento, it’ll certainly foster bonds with your guides if done right; you might even get in on a secret or two.

One of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets, Curacao is richly filled with history, natural and architectural beauty, cultural quirks, and a ton of fun under the sun. The “C” in the legendary ABC Islands of the Dutch Caribbean, this small island has consistently proven that sometimes you don’t need a big old famous name to be worthy of a following.

Underrated and often overlooked, Curacao is considered to be one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets due to its relatively quieter reputation. Despite having some of the most visit-worthy draws in all of the region, other nearby islands often get most of the spotlight. The island retains a comparatively well-preserved charm as well as the natural beauty that can certainly compete.

What Makes Curacao Unique?

The capital itself.

There is so much to say about Willemstad, on top of the myriads of various things you can do, and see in the historic city that has been designated as a World UNESCO Heritage Site. Thanks to the city’s historic importance and beauty the Curacaoan capital is one of the best highlights of your trip. Here are some of the top things you need to check out in the city:

Punda District and Colorful Handelskade

Punda is Willemstad’s first colonial settlement that used to serve as a hub for Dutch slave traders back in the dark days of slavery. Now, the district is the city’s distinct center that is quintessentially Euro-Caribbean. The area has significantly preserved all its colonial buildings that currently house boutiques, cafes and restaurants, art galleries, and more.

The district is also known for its cobblestoned alleys, and the cosmopolitan appeal it offers. Punda’s incredible aesthetic has made it to many people’s Instagram posts, and travel articles about Curacao. But if we’re talking about aesthetics, you better head down to the neighborhood of Handelskade.

Handelskade is probably the most stunning part of Punda, heck, even the entire city. The historic waterfront is home to vibrant houses and historic buildings along the harbor, an obvious nod to the island’s Dutch heritage. You can grab a seat at one of Handelskade’s many waterfront cafes and revel in the aesthetics and history of the place.

Culinary Delights

One curious thing about Willemstad and the entire island of Curacao’s culture is that it has a rich fusion of gastronomy with influences that come from as far as Asia, and Europe. When you go around many of Willemstad’s streets, eating in either food parks or fancy sit-down places you’ll be met with a vastly diverse menu.

From the dishes that originated from nearby Latin America, Caribbean and African styles of cooking, and Dutch European staples you can easily think you can eat anything here. Head down to Punda for its cafes, Otrobanda for its food stands, and the many bars and fancy restaurants in Pietermaai.

Curacao: apart from the obvious draws of its history, culture, and architecture, the island’s best draw has to be its beaches. All 38 of them. The thing with having so many beaches to offer on such a small island is that each one of them has something to offer to everyone. Curacao and all its beaches are criminally underrated.

From the bustling to the seemingly private, each of these beaches offers a unique experience, and you may find refuge in any of them beneath the legendary Caribbean sun. Kenepa Beach, Playa PortoMari, and Mambo Beach are among the most well-known. Plus, getting around isn’t difficult at all.

Curacao doesn’t only have its shores and beaches as its best aquatic features, go underwater you’ll be met with some of the best diving scenes in the Caribbean. There are plenty of reasons for people to drown on the island. Curacao features some of the world’s top diving sites, many of which are ideal for beginners. Off the Playa Porto Mari, you can go to Cas Abao and Porto Mari. The Booby Trap in the south is a great place to start for beginners.

You can also head to the Curacao Marine Park, the southwestern side of the island which is one large coral reef and marine park. When you’re in the region, you can either head to the Banda Abou National Park, the Central Curacao Underwater Park, or the Curacao Underwater Park. Dive locations on Curacao range from an easy shore dive to pristine coral bay dives to steep drop-offs, particularly in the southeast.

Hurricane-Free Weather All Year Long

It’s also worth noting that, unlike the rest of the Caribbean, the island is spared from hurricanes. This is because the island is located in the southern Caribbean, just a few kilometers from the dangerous Hurrican Belt. Because of the island’s location from the hurricane zone, it has bright and warm days all year, except for a few months when it rains a little.

It comes with everything you’ll need for a perfect tropical vacation. The natural splendor of the island has provided us with a profusion of locations and sights to see. You’ll never run out of things to be intrigued about, with its numerous dive and snorkeling locations, apparently endless beaches to sunbathe on, each one offering something different, a national park, and interesting animals.

Is Aruba or Curacao Better?

Two of the ABC Islands, Aruba, and Curacao have had their ranks remaining way up high in many travel lists because of their appealing draws that can compete against the entire Caribbean. however, despite their cultural and natural similarities, their subtle differences give way to competition. Yet at the end of the day, what settles them is a traveler’s wanderlust.

Thanks to their similar cultures, and weather, you can narrow down your decision-making factors into the beach, landscape, activities, and the overall vibe of each destination.

Aruba and Curacao both have stunning beaches, except that Curacao has more to offer, and Aruba, though fewer, has more picturesque beaches. If you’re more of a beach type of person, that can settle it.

Aruba offers plenty of activities that range from inland tours of its desert terrain, and watersports thanks to the tradewinds. However, Curacao’s abundance of marine parks makes it the best destination for snorkeling and diving, plus, the interior’s greenery also provides good scenery for wildlife exploring.

Overall, Aruba and Curacao have drawn that both set them apart and make them all the same, the key is to decide which vibe you’re going for. Aruba provides a more laid-back approach to vacation, while Curacao is more exciting, and colorful, literally. At the end of the day what you want to experience will decide which is which.

Is Aruba Bigger Than Curacao?

When it comes to the geographical size of the islands, Curacao is the larger island with a total landmass of 444 sq. km or 171 sq. mi, while Aruba is smaller with only 180 sq. km, or 69 sq mi. Population-wise, Curacao also has more inhabitants than Aruba. However, Aruba is often considered the busier one, thanks to its more cosmopolitan lifestyle, and a higher tourist count than Curacao.

Is Curacao Cheaper Than Aruba?

Curacao is unquestionably less expensive than Aruba. The latter is well-known for being one of the most costly islands in the Caribbean, dwarfing the Dutch Caribbean as a whole. If you’re on a budget and want to visit any of the ABC islands, Curacao or Bonaire are your best bets, with the latter being the cheapest. You can get a rough overview by comparing simples purchases.

An inexpensive meal in Aruba can set you back around 17 to 20 USD, while you can get the same meal for around 15 USD in Curacao. A simple bottle of water can cost 3 USD in Aruba, and 2 USD in Curacao. A one-way ticket for public transport is around 3 USD in Aruba, and 1 USD in Curacao. With this simple comparison, you can easily conclude how they differ. You can then decide how you want to budget your trip from here.

Cost of Living in Aruba vs. Curacao

When traveling to Aruba and Curacao it’s important to decide how many days you’re staying, and how much you could potentially spend in the day.

When visiting Aruba for a week, using average prices you should budget around an average daily cost of 260 USD per person and a week’s worth of budget of 2,000 USD. As for Curacao, you should budget roughly 200 to 250 USD per person per day and 1,500 to 1,800 USD for a week’s worth of expenses based on average pricing.

You can just double that if you’re traveling as a pair, but expect some discounts thanks to couple and group packages on tours and accommodations.

Crime in Aruba vs. Curacao

Both can be considered places to visit in many aspects, especially Aruba. Curacao on the other hand has always had a bad reputation ever since. Crimes such as theft and homicides have always overshadowed other nearby islands. Aruba’s problem when it comes to safety is theft, especially in areas outside the capital of Oranjestad.

Aruba vs. Curacao Beaches

When it comes to beaches, quality and quantity set Aruba and Curacao apart. Aruba only has a handful of beaches, but a lot of which are some of the most beautiful in the entire Caribbean. The islands have always been known for their beach scenes, from crowded yet scenic beaches, to quiet yet having stronger currents and waves perfect for watersports. Aruba is the best bet when you’re up for that proverbial Caribbean beach scene.

Curacao still has beautiful beaches, however, none are at par with Aruba’s. However, what Curacao lacks in scenery it makes up for in number. With a sheer 38 beaches all over the island, Curacao’s quantity card provides a more diverse experience for visitors. Each of these beaches offers something for every type of beach bum.

Diving in Aruba vs. Curacao

Curacao undoubtedly takes the bag when it comes to diving. With an abundance of marine parks, and diving and snorkeling sites, the island overshadows Aruba’s smaller diving scene. However, both islands, together with Bonaire offer some of the best diving sites in the entire Caribbean.

Both islands offer plenty of opportunities for diving, yet both possess rather distinct scenes. Curacao is big on coral reef diving, thanks to the myriad of marine parks that are protected from strong currents, with clear visibility and expansive to explore. Aruba, on the other hand, is big on wreckage diving. The area is speckled with wrecks perfect for enthusiasts, beginner to advanced.

Aruba vs. Curacao Nightlife

Due to its more cosmopolitan chic flavor, size, and well-heeled visitors, Aruba is a better nightlife destination than Curacao. With a vast array of bars, clubs, and casinos, an entertaining and interesting evening is always synonymous with Aruba. Curacao on the other hand offers a more relaxed, less noise, and more chill type of flow. The island offers a rather quiet approach to your nights, where you can delve into cafes, food stalls, and restaurants more at night.

About  | Contact  | Privacy Policy

Copyright © Loco Media

Comparison Aruba vs Curacao – Which is the Better Caribbean Trip?

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on April 14, 2024

Categories Aruba , Caribbean , Comparisons , Curaçao

Comparison Aruba vs Curacao – Both Dutch islands in the Caribbean, Aruba and Curacao share a lot of similarities with their beautiful blue waters. While both are Caribbean paradises, known as parts of the ABC islands , Aruba and Curacao have their distinctions.

For a more American-style beach getaway, you’ll likely prefer Aruba, while Curacao is more laidback and European. Let’s compare the two destinations and help pick the best trip for you. Read here Aruba vs Cancun and Curacao itinerary

Table of Contents

Comparing Aruba vs Curacao

While Aruba is your average American resort-style beach trip, Curacao has cove-like beaches and offers a more laid-back trip. Comparing Aruba and Curacao, Aruba gives you blue waters and long sandy white beaches with a hotel vibe while Curacao is a quieter beach trip but a more active vacation.

A family trip is easier in Aruba because of the resorts and beaches, while Curacao is more of a romantic couple getaway. Curacao has the advantage of having a beautiful underwater scene, so for snorkeling and scuba Curacao wins over Aruba . You can’t go wrong with either as they will both give you an exquisite vacation, however, Curacao is the winner for us .

Read here for more Curacao guides : Best eSIM for Tourists in Curacao , How to Go from Curacao Airport to Willemstad – All Ways , Best Food in Curacao to Try

Read more for Aruba Guides : Best eSIMS for Aruba

Where To Stay in Curacao and Aruba

You can access a dorm that can go up to  €18-30.  And while a hotel that is a double room in a budget can go up to  €90 .

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

Two of our favorite travel insurance:  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of  Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review  and the comparison  Heymondo vs Genki

Things to do in Aruba – Curacao vs Aruba

Things to do in aruba.

Aruba is a 21-mile-long country that sits in the Southern Caribbean, very close to South America. When visiting Aruba, you’ll most likely be flying into the country via its only international airport, Queen Beatrix International Airport, in Oranjestad.

You can easily expect some of the world’s best beaches in Aruba, just as in the rest of the Caribbean. Aruba is outside the typhoon belt, and with its arid climate, generally, any time of the year is a good time to visit the country.

Let’s look at Aruba’s best things to do in this Caribbean series.

Eagle Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Aruba, the Eagle Beach. A lot of resorts are here, but it’s definitely the place to be and see in Aruba. It’s one of the best beaches in the world, and you can’t deny it, once you see it. Make sure to not miss it.

Looking for the best travel backpack to bring to your trips, you can No products found.

Divi Divi Trees

The Divi Divi tree (or Watapana Tree) is the most unique thing in Aruba and is known as Aruba’s compass. Once you find the Divi Divi tree, you’ll know that it’s always pointing in the Southwestern direction. It’s one of the most unique things in Aruba, and definitely something to see!

Another beach in Aruba to see is Baby Beach or Klein Lagoon. It is a shallow, sheltered man-altered lagoon located in the Mangle Cora locality near the village of Seroe Colorado, on the southwest side of the southeast end of the island of Aruba. It is frequented by locals and tourists.

Hiking in the Arikok National Park

The beautiful Arikok National Park in Aruba comprises almost 20% of the island. Enjoy gorgeous vistas of Aruba’s rugged terrain, desert-like hills filled with tall cacti, and a breathtaking coastline, and protect native flora and fauna.

The National Park takes you on a memorable journey of the island’s past offering unique geological, cultural and historical sites. These can all be enjoyed and explored either on your own or during guided tours. A wide variety of educational and informative programs and fun activities are available.

Conchi Natural Pools

Experience true adventure at Aruba’s most remote, yet also most popular natural attraction, the famous Natural Pool.

In a unique rock formation, volcanic stone circles a small depression, creating a tranquil pool: Aruba’s Natural Pool.

On a deserted stretch of coastline, dramatic shows of water spraying over the rock occur on a regular basis as the tide rushes to shore. The unique natural pool is also known as ‘Conchi’ (bowl) or ‘Cura di Tortuga’ (Turtles Cove) and is located inside Aruba’s national park Arikok.

The location of the Pool is surrounded by some of Aruba’s most rugged terrain, so a visitor truly gets the feeling of having “discovered” something when they reach the site, by either foot, horseback or 4×4 vehicle. Because of the nature of the environment in this secluded area, the site is inaccessible by a regular car. Inexperienced drivers are encouraged to visit the pool on a Jeep Safari. During the day small snacks and drinks are sold at the top of the stairs that lead to the Natural Pool.

Quadiriki Caves

The Quadiriki Caves are located in Arikok National Park on the island of Aruba. There are three caves, which tourists commonly explore. The caves are located at the base of a limestone cliff. They contain Amerindian petroglyphs. The name of the caves is of Arawak origin

Scuba Diving in Punta Basora

One of the top areas for scuba diving in Aruba is Punta Basora . Punta Basora is the easternmost point of Aruba, from which a narrow reef stretches far out into the sea. On calm days, divers will see tuna, ballyhoo, eagle rays, stingrays, barracudas, dorados, hammerhead sharks, and hawksbill and loggerhead turtles pass by on their way around this point of the island.

Snorkeling in Tres Papi

Tres Trapi (meaning “three steps”) is a tiny sandy cove nestled in the rocky northwestern shore of Aruba. The 10-meter long beach is accessible by three rustic steps carved into the rock, after which the site has been named. Tres Trapi has white sand, a grey cliff, and pristine placid waters, where hundreds of red cushion starfish lay on the seafloor, making it one of the favorites and most photogenic snorkeling spots of the island

Palm Beach is a resort area on the northern coast of Aruba, a Dutch Caribbean island. It’s known for its calm waters and long sandy strip lined with bars and restaurants. To its south, the lush Bubali Bird Sanctuary has an observation tower and is home to herons and other migratory birds. Nearby is the Old Dutch Windmill, imported in the 1960s, and the Butterfly Farm, with free-flying butterflies in a jungle enclosure. 

Flamingos in Renaissance island / Renaissance Island / Flamingo Beach

Leave the cares of the world behind as you venture over to a private island complimentary to Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino guests. Renaissance Island features Aruba’s only private beaches and is just an 8-minute water taxi ride away. Here lies a true oasis with family-friendly beaches or beaches just for adults.

Pamper yourself at the private Spa Cove, play a game of beach tennis, sit down to the delicious lunch specials at Papagayo Bar & Grill or have a drink at our newly added Mangrove Beach Bar, or just lie back and let the sun caress you. A day on Renaissance Island is a day well spent.

Kitesurfing is a popular activity at this windy beach with waves, turquoise water & a serene vibe. Boca Grandi is a very popular location for this.

Boca Catalina

This small, secluded bay with a sandy white beach offers swimming & snorkeling

California Lighthouse

The California Lighthouse is a lighthouse located at Hudishibana near Arashi Beach and the Sasariwichi dunes on the northwest tip of Aruba. This lighthouse was named for the steamship California, which was wrecked nearby on September 23, 1891.

Wariruri Bridge

Wariruri  Beach is located at  Wariruri  Bay, a sandy cove surrounded by a rocky coastline consisting of limestone, worn out by the sea.

Tripod Bridge

Other gorgeous natural  bridges  can be found in the southern part of the island near Black Stone Beach where you’ll find a unique  tripod bridge .

Hiking in Aruba

Now, one of the most unique things in Aruba is that not only does it have amazing blue waters, it also has good hiking trails. Below are 3 of Aruba’s most popular hiking trails.

• Hooiberg Hiking Trail
• Arikok Mountain
• Alto Vista Trail

Dos Playa (two beaches) is  a pair of bordering coves carved out of the island’s limestone . One cove is a go-to for island surfers, with a broad white-sand beach for sunbathing or relaxing under the shade of the sea-grape trees.

Manchebo Beach

Manchebo Beach is  a wide stretch of beach on the most western point of the island (just after Eagle Beach), located in the low-rise hotel area in front of the Manchebo Beach Resort . The beach area offers a combination of exciting waves, due to converging currents, and calm waters.

Andicuri Beach

No-frills bay beach enclosed by coral cliffs, with powerful currents for bodyboarders

Mangel Halto

Mangel Halto is  a small beach located in Pos Chiquito , which you will find on your way to San Nicolas. The beach is surrounded by mangroves and is a favorite among locals for a relaxing day on the beach. Mangel Halto is also known as a perfect snorkeling and shore-diving spot due to the calm and shallow waters.

San Nicolas

San Nicolaas is 19 kilometers southeast of Oranjestad and is Aruba’s second-largest city. As of 2010, it has a population of 15,283, most of whom originate from the British Caribbean and the rest of the Caribbean

Fishing in Aruba

If we missed any more water activities, fishing is also possible in these local or tourist boats in Aruba! If it’s a big hobby of yours, don’t miss doing it in Aruba’s incredibly blue waters.

Tell us which Caribbean island you chose, and if you have more tips, let us know in the comments.

Things to do in Curacao

West coast curacao.

The west coast of Curacao is known for its beautiful beaches, fringed with palm forests and coral reefs. While in the West Coast, you can spend a day beach hopping and visiting popular beaches such as Piskado Beach, Kenepa Beach, and Porto Marie Beach . You can also stop to admire the natural wonders of the Shete Boka National Park , visit the Flamingo Sanctuary at St. Willibrodus, and dive in to swim and snorkel.

Check out Best Activities in Curacao!

What you can do on the West Coast of Curacao :

Shete Boka National Park

Shete Boka National Park is Curacao’s National Park, Shete Boka meaning 7 caves. You can visit here to watch how the waves clash with the rocky North Coast or visit some of the caves.

Cas Abao Beach

Cas Abao Beach is Curacao’s top and most popular beach not only in the Caribbean but in the whole world. Cas Abao beach is good for swimming and snorkeling. Just like what you’d expect in the Caribbean, Cas Abao has incredibly blue beaches and crystal clear waters, and sandy white sand.

Playa Kenepa

Playa Kenepa is Curacao’s electric blue beach, and arguably, one of the best beaches in Curacao, also in the whole Caribbean. Yes, the colors that you see are quite real.

Flamingo Sanctuary Sint Willibrordus

Passing by the Salt lake at St. Willibrodus, you see beautiful pink flamingos in their natural habitat – always an experience to not miss.

Playa Piskado or Playa Grandi

Playa Piskado is the perfect stop in West Curacao for snorkeling with sea turtles where you get to see them in their natural habitat.

Daaibooi Beach

Daaibooi Beach is surrounded by cliffs and incredibly blue waters. If you’re looking for loggerhead sea turtles, they are known to be seen here so make time to snorkel or swim on this beach.

Mambo Beach

Another of Curacao’s top beaches, Mambo Beach is known for water sports and other activities, with plenty of space to lounge around. There are also restaurants in this area.

Playa Lagun

Playa Lagun is quite popular in Curacao for divers, scuba and snorkelers, and there are beautiful rocky cliffs that surround it and make it even more picturesque. If you see on the clifftop, you’ll see a restaurant and apartment there, the only one with a very beautiful view. See the picture below.

Playa Porto Mari

Playa Porto Mari is another exquisite blue beach and the most popular starting point for a lot of scuba and snorkeling experiences in Curacao, West Area.

Director’s Bay Curacao

Off the beaten and secluded is not impossible in Curacao, and for this one, you can go and swim at the Director’s Bay .

Eastern Side of Curacao

Historic sights to see and things to do in curacao.

Discover the best that the Caribbean island of Curaçao has to offer aboard this full-day sightseeing tour. Walk around the historic areas of Willemstad and Scharloo, see where the original blue Curaçao liqueur is made, drive along the east side of the island, and much more.

Willemstad and Scharloo include the historic sights to see in Curacao. Curacao is a constituent of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and you can see some architectural buildings with this.

Authentic local food at the Old Market in downtown Willemstad

Visit Willemstad, check the historical sites, go and walk around and taste local and Western food. You can go and taste Curacao Liqueur as well. Don’t miss these!

Queen Emma Bridge

Stop at the Rif Fort to take pictures of the Queen Emma bridge or the floating Bridge.

Final Thoughts – Which is Better, Aruba vs Curacao?

If you reached this part of the article, you will already know which one wins for us. For an active and varied Caribbean trip with pristine blue beaches, historical sites, and beautiful snorkeling and scuba, Curacao is the winner for us .

For family vacations or American-vibe beach holidays with hotels and tequila and more nightlife options, you have to go for Aruba. Either way, you’ll have a fantastic vacation in the Caribbean. Hope you’ll enjoy and let us know if you have more advice to add, or if you have questions.

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer
• Curacao Tips
• Cancellation Policies

Avila Beach Hotel Curacao

A vacation to Aruba vs Curacao: the differences and similarities

It can be quite difficult to make a choice when it comes to a vacation to Aruba vs  Curacao . You only have a few vacation days to spend, so you better be sure that you’re enjoying them to the very max.  Both islands  have  perfect weather year-round , are  situated below the hurricane belt  and meet the most essential conditions of any tropical vacation: it is warm, sunny and the beaches are white. But of course, there is much more to it than that. It’s just a  20-minute flight  between Aruba and Curacao, but the neighboring islands are very different from each other. Also in terms as Coronavirus as Aruba has been  hit much harder by the COVID-19  virus than Curacao. If you have any doubts about which island would be a better fit for you then this overview is for you.

Beaches: Many secluded bays vs. Long beaches

A tropical island is not complete without white sandy beaches and a surrounding blue ocean. Both islands have plenty  of both, however, there are differences.  Aruba  has beaches that are long and stretched, while Curacao is known for its  many bays and secluded beaches .

Photo: Cas Abou beach on Curacao

You Might Also Like:

Direct flights from New York to Curacao

Nature: cliffs and hilly landscape vs. flat and more fruit-bearing trees.

Despite the dry climate there is no lack of trees on both Curacao and Aruba. There are many palm, mango and banana trees, especially on Aruba. Curacao has  more cliffs and hills  than Aruba, this is especially in the  Christoffel park  nature reserve. Here you will also find the 372-meter-high Christoffel mountain, where a real climb is needed to reach the summit (highly recommended!). On Aruba there are  two mountains : the peak of the Jamanota (188 meters) can be reached by car and the Hooiberg (165 meters) can be conquered via stairs.

Photo:  Divi Divi tree on Eagle Beach Aruba

Underwater: Easy accessible reef vs More shipwrecks

Curacao and Aruba are ideal for diving, both have breathtaking underwater worlds. Divers (both beginners and advanced) from all over the world come to Curacao and Aruba for that reason. On Curacao it’s very  easy to dive or snorkel  at the most beautiful spots; just walk in from the beach. On Aruba when diving you’re much more likely to  need a boat . Admittedly, there are more sites on Aruba to wreck dive– we sense a possible correlation.

Photo:  Curacao’s Mushroom forest

Bonus islands: One bounty island vs. Various commercialized islands

On one side of Aruba you will find not one but a number of smaller islands. Aruba has  multiple private islands  such as Aruba’s well-known Palm Island and Renaissance Island, which also have restaurants, bars and tourist attractions. Curacao’s little sister,  Klein Curacao , is an uninhabited and pristine bounty island off the coast of Curacao. It's a true paradise within paradise, and you can go there for a day trip with several boat companies.

Photo:  Renaissance island Aruba

Overall type of tourists: Europeans vs. North Americans

Aruba has more fame worldwide, and attracts more tourists from its neighboring island of Curacao. Aruba mostly welcomes tourists that are from  North America . Curacao is more of a hidden gem to the world, however greatly popular amongst  Dutch people  and increasingly known in other European countries. This also reflects in the street image. The people on Aruba mainly speak English and Spanish. On Curacao Dutch and Papiamento are the commonly spoken languages. Ultimately, there are  four widely spoken languages  on both Aruba and Curacao: Dutch, English,  Papiamento  and Spanish.

Photo:  American tourists on Aruba

Island vibe: Little Amsterdam vs. The Bahamas

Curacao has architecture that is similar to the Dutch with the famous Amsterdam canal houses, hence the UNESCO World Heritage site  Handelskade . There’s a  European vibe  on Curacao while Aruba feels more  American . In terms of tourism, Aruba is more massive than Curacao, where it’s generally  quieter . Visiting Curacao is like visiting little Amsterdam or the Netherlands in some sense but way warmer and with a lot less hours in a plane (when traveling from North America). Visiting Aruba is like visiting the  Bahamas , but without the hurricanes and more breezy weather.

Photo:  Curacao’s UNESCO World Heritage site Handelskade

Hotels & restaurants: Boutique hotels and culinary treat vs. All-inclusive high rise

The number of  hotel chains  is higher on Aruba than on Curacao, as well as the number of  all-inclusive hotels . The Curacao hotels – which more often than on Aruba are  family owned or boutique hotels  – mainly offers  low rise  hotels. Fast food chains are located on both islands, although Aruba has more of them. Curacao has more fine dining  restaurants , with top notch food. This is a great way to taste the absolute best of its  regional cuisine . This is also one of the reasons that there are a few hotels on Curacao that offer an All-inclusive package. The  restaurant density  is at its highest in the Pietermaai district.

Photo:  The well-known family owned Avila Beach Hotel on Curacao

Activities: Exclusive & Cultural vs. Crowded & Casinos

It wouldn’t be the Caribbean without festivities – luckily, both islands are exuberant. There are many organized (cultural)  events  and activities throughout the year, ranging from sport to art. In general, Curacao has more  culture and more focus on its heritage . This can be seen in daily life and the number of  museums . Many  activities  on Curacao are related to  nature . Aruba has a variety of tourist attractions; from  wild life to many casinos . Curacao receives a lot less tourists on a yearly basis and is larger (444 km2 / 171 sq mi) than the more compact and busier Aruba (180 km2 / 69 sq mi). Therefore, tours on Aruba can be crowded. Both islands are relatively small but there’s a lot to discover on both. Curacao and Aruba have plenty things to do!

Photo:  Substation Curacao

Nightlife: Different areas vs. One hotel strip

Aruba’s nightlife is fairly centralized near the  hotel strip . Thus, easy to walk and no rental car needed. The strip consists of many restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Aruba is also known for its many casinos. On Curacao, the nightlife is  more spread  out over the island with multiple popular areas with  different atmospheres and vibes  (Latin, Dutch, Caribbean, Authentic etc.).

Photo:  Bar Ayia Napa op Aruba

Share this article with a friend

You may also like:.

Up to date Flight Schedules: Non-stop flights to Curacao from USA & Canada

A Comprehensive Guide of all Flights to Curacao

Subscribe for more travel tips & offers.

To receive updates from Avila Beach Hotel about exclusive offers, please enter your details below.

" * " indicates required fields

Accommodations

• See All Rooms
• Rooms For Romance
• Rooms For Business

Discover Avila

• Eat & Drink

Plan Your Stay

• Plan Your Trip

T: +5999 - 788 1949 or 1-800-747-8162 (USA & Canada) [email protected]

Copyright © 2024 Avila Beach Hotel   | All Rights Reserved  | Privacy Policy | Website By AdeptPlus

+5999 - 788 1949

Send us a message via whatsapp:, http://wa.me/59997881949.

• View all rooms, suites & apartments
• Traveling with my partner
• Traveling with my family with kids
• Traveling with friends
• Traveling alone
• Most luxurious accommodations
• Most popular accommodations 
• Private Beaches
• Infinity Pool
• Cloud Nine Spa
• Avila Fitness Center
• In-Room Facilities
• Free Shuttle Service
• Budget Car Rental
• Walking Tour Punda & Otrobanda
• Octagon Museum
• E Mucha Interactive Workshops
• Water Activities
• Wellness Activities
• Meeting & Event Locations
• Britt Gift Shop
• Avila’s Interactive Art
• Meal Plans & Add-ons
• The Pen Restaurant & Terrace
• Blues Restaurant
• Schooner Bar
• Dinner on the Beach
• Location, Transportation & How to get here
• Virtual Tour
• Romance & Honeymoon
• Family Vacation
• Business Travel
• Meetings & Events
• Weddings & Ceremonies

A Guide to Accessible and Relaxing Getaways For Seniors

• Best Caribbean Islands to Visit for Seniors

For seniors looking for a relaxing yet engaging vacation, certain islands stand out for their accessibility, variety of leisure activities and serene environments. Here’s your guide to the best Caribbean islands to visit for seniors, each offering a blend of comfort, beauty and ease that make them perfect for a stress-free getaway.

1. Barbados

Barbados is renowned for its beautiful beaches, welcoming atmosphere and well-developed infrastructure, which makes it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit for seniors. The island offers a range of activities from tranquil gardens like the Hunte's Gardens to historic estates such as the St. Nicholas Abbey, which are easily accessible and provide guided tours. For those interested in a leisurely day on the sea, there are many calm boat tours available, including submarine trips that allow you to explore the underwater world without getting wet.

2. Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Grand Cayman is celebrated for its crystal-clear waters and remarkable coral reefs, making it ideal for seniors who enjoy nature without the need for strenuous activity. The famous Seven Mile Beach is a perfect spot for sunbathing or a gentle stroll along the soft white sands. The island is also home to the Cayman Turtle Centre, where visitors can learn about and interact with sea turtles in a safe, accessible setting. Additionally, the island offers numerous dining options with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea, ideal for a leisurely lunch or romantic dinner.

3. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

St. Thomas offers a wonderful combination of beautiful beaches and cultural experiences, making it one of the best Caribbean islands to visit for seniors. The island’s capital, Charlotte Amalie , has a rich history and is known for its Danish colonial architecture, accessible shopping and fine dining. For a scenic view of the island, seniors can take an accessible skyride to Paradise Point, which offers panoramic views of the harbor. The calm waters at Magens Bay Beach provide the perfect setting for a refreshing swim or snorkeling alongside tropical fish.

Aruba’s consistent sunny weather and friendly locals make it a welcoming destination for seniors. The island’s beaches, like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, offer easy access and plenty of amenities, including beachside restaurants and loungers. For a touch of adventure without the strain, there are jeep tours that explore the island’s natural wonders, such as the Arikok National Park, which can be enjoyed in comfort and safety. Aruba also boasts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, providing a taste of local life and celebration.

Curacao is known for its vibrant architecture, rich history and gentle beaches, which are ideal for seniors. The capital city, Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of colorful buildings and accessible museums like the Kura Hulanda Museum, which details the island’s diverse heritage. For those who enjoy marine life, the Curaçao Sea Aquarium offers opportunities to see marine species in accessible formats, including dolphin shows and feeding demonstrations. The island’s calm, clear waters are also perfect for gentle snorkeling excursions.

Antigua is famous for having 365 beaches, one for every day of the year. Its tranquil, clear waters make it a paradise for seniors seeking relaxation. The island offers boat tours around its picturesque harbors and historical sites like Nelson’s Dockyard provide accessible ways to delve into the island’s rich naval history. The gentle beaches of Antigua, like Dickenson Bay, offer easy access, making it effortless for seniors to enjoy the sea and sand.

Why Visit These Locations?

The best Caribbean islands to visit for seniors provide safe, accessible and engaging experiences that cater to those looking for a more relaxed pace without sacrificing the enjoyment and beauty of the Caribbean. Whether it’s strolling along a picturesque beach, exploring historical sites or enjoying a quiet boat ride, these islands offer the perfect combination of relaxation and gentle adventure.

Experience Best Caribbean Islands to Visit for Seniors with these sailings

Complete your adventure with these shore excursions