Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao

ESSENCE's exclusive guide on how to see, taste and experience the hottest destinations in Black travel. 
Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao
Photo Credit: @curioustides
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

All Caribbean islands are not created equal. Seeing one doesn’t exempt you from seeing the 27 others. Every island has its own vibe and distinct flavor, which is why the Caribbean circuit is so popular amongst Black travelers.

While it may not be as popular as some of its Caribbean Sea cousins, the Dutch ruled country of Curaçao is an island that Black travelers should not sleep on. From colorful streets filled with friendly locals to picturesque views and delicious cuisine, if a visit to Curaçao isn’t already on your list, it should be.

Article continues after video.

Curaçao native Jeandra (@curioustides) can’t get enough of showing off the beauty of her beloved homeland, and with each photo she posts on her Instagram feed, she makes us fall deeper in love with Curaçao.

01
Welcome to Curaçao
Part of the Netherlands Antilles (also known as the ABC-Islands) which includes Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao is an island in the southwestern Caribbean and serves as a cultural melting pot with over 65 nationalities living within its borders. If you want to save a few coins, try visiting during off-peak season (May – November) when prices are low and flights are affordable.
Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao
Photo Credit: @curioustides
02
Home Away From Home
There are plenty of great vacation home rentals and resorts to choose from in Curaçao. From the Renaissance and Santa Barbara Beach hotels to romantic all-inclusives like Baoase, you’ll have no trouble finding a picturesque home away from home for your getaway – and at a reasonable price!
Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao
Photo Credit: Baoase
03
Fresh Flavors
In Curaçao the myriad of cultures means there are a variety of delicious eats to try, many of which involve fresh fruits and seafood. Head to small local restaurants like Seaside Terrace to try Lionfish, snapper, and conch, caught-daily. Also, be sure not to leave the island without grabbing a Batido or two. The icy Spanish milkshake/smoothie is perfect for staying cool while exploring.
Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao
Photo Credit: @curioustides
04
Underwater Adventures
The clear blue waters off the coast of Curaçao are gorgeous to look at, but underneath the subtle waves lie an even more mesmerizing adventure. Spend the day exploring the famous shipwrecks located just beneath the surface like the popular “Tugboat” dive site.
Black Travel Vibes: Get into the Vibrant Island of Curaçao
Getty Images
TOPICS:  Black Travel Moment of the Day travel travel guide