Can You Visit Curaçao Without a Car?
Yes — but you need to choose where you stay very carefully.
Curaçao is a small island but it is not particularly walkable outside of Willemstad. The best beaches are spread across the island and public transport is limited. If you stay in the wrong area without a car, you will spend a lot of money on taxis or miss out on the best the island has to offer.
The good news is that if you base yourself in the right neighborhood, you can have a great trip without a car — as long as you supplement with tours and day trips.
This guide covers the best areas to stay, and exactly how to make the most of your trip without renting a car.
The Honest Truth About Getting Around Without a Car
Before we get into the best areas, let's be direct: Curaçao is significantly easier to explore with a car. Rental prices start from $57 per day all-inclusive, which for most visitors works out cheaper than taking taxis everywhere.
If you are on the fence, it is worth reconsidering.
But if you have decided to go car-free — here is how to make it work.
Best Areas to Stay Without a Car
1. Willemstad — Best for Walkability
Willemstad is the only truly walkable area on the island. The UNESCO-listed city center has colorful colonial architecture, restaurants, bars, markets, and shops all within walking distance. The Queen Emma floating bridge, the Handelskade waterfront, and the Rif Fort are all on foot.
The downside: the best beaches are not within walking distance from Willemstad. You will need tours or taxis to reach them.
Best for: city lovers, culture seekers, and first-time visitors who want a central base.
2. Jan Thiel — Best for Beach Access
Jan Thiel is a resort area on the southeast coast with a beach, restaurants, and bars all within walking distance of most hotels. It is one of the few areas outside Willemstad where you can walk to the water.
Jan Thiel Beach has a lively atmosphere, water sports, and good snorkeling. It is also the departure point for most Klein Curaçao day trips — so if that is on your list, staying here means you can walk to the boat.
Best for: beach lovers and families who want easy water access without a car.
3. Mambo Beach / Seaquarium Beach — Best for Atmosphere
Seaquarium Beach is a long stretch of beach on the southeast coast lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports operators. Everything is within walking distance along the beach strip.
It has a more lively, social atmosphere than Jan Thiel. Good for travelers who want beach access, food options, and nightlife all in one area.
Best for: solo travelers, couples, and groups who want a social beach base.
4. Banda Abou / West Coast — Not Recommended Without a Car
The west coast has the most beautiful beaches on the island — Grote Knip, Cas Abao, Playa Lagun. But staying here without a car is not practical. There are no walkable amenities and taxis from this area are expensive.
If the west coast beaches are your priority, either rent a car or base yourself in Willemstad and join a guided beach tour.
How to See the Whole Island Without a Car
If you are staying in Willemstad or Jan Thiel, you can still see most of the island through organized tours. This is actually how many visitors prefer to do it — no parking stress, no navigation, and a local guide who knows the best spots.
The best tours to book if you are going car-free:
Klein Curaçao day trip — the number one experience on the island, boat departs from Jan Thiel
West coast beach tour — visits Grote Knip, Cas Abao, and hidden beaches
Jeep island tour — covers the entire island in one day including Christoffel National Park
Willemstad walking tour — best way to explore the capital with a local guide
Sunset catamaran cruise — departs from various points along the coast
Still Thinking About Renting a Car?
If this article has made you reconsider, that is completely understandable. A rental car gives you the freedom to reach every beach on the island on your own schedule — and at $57 per day all-inclusive it is often cheaper than people expect.
Final Word
Going car-free in Curaçao is possible — but it requires choosing the right base and supplementing with tours. Willemstad and Jan Thiel are your best options. Book your key experiences in advance, especially Klein Curaçao, and you will have a great trip.
And if you change your mind about the car — prices start from $57 per day with no hidden costs.
Have questions about getting around Curaçao without a car? Drop them in the comments below.