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Your Options for Getting Around Curaçao
There are four ways to get around the island. Let's go through each one honestly.
Option 1 — Rental Car ✅ Best Option
This is hands down the best way to explore Curaçao. The island is 60km long, the best beaches are spread across the west coast, and a rental car gives you total freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want.
Average prices:
Compact car: $35–$55 per day
SUV: $60–$90 per day
For most travelers, a compact car is more than enough. Roads are paved and easy to navigate.
Pros:
Total freedom
Cheapest per-beach option
Go at your own pace
Easy to park
Cons:
You need a valid driver's license
Book in advance during high season
Option 2 — Taxi 🚕 Expensive
Taxis are available but expensive. There are no meters — prices are fixed per route and negotiated upfront.
Typical taxi prices:
Airport → Willemstad: $40–$50
Willemstad → Grote Knip: $60–$80 one way
Willemstad → Cas Abao: $50–$70 one way
Willemstad → Jan Thiel: $25–$35
The problem: one taxi ride to the beach costs roughly the same as a full day car rental. If you visit more than one beach per day, taxis become extremely expensive very quickly.
Best for: airport transfers and late night rides only
Option 3 — Public Bus 🚌 Very Limited
Curaçao has a public bus system called Konvooi, but it is extremely limited. Buses mainly run between Willemstad neighborhoods and do not go to most tourist beaches.
Pros:
Very cheap ($1–$2 per ride)
Cons:
No service to most beaches
Infrequent and unreliable schedules
Not suitable for tourists wanting to explore
Best for: getting around central Willemstad only
Option 4 — Scooter or ATV 🛵 Fun but Limited
Some rental companies offer scooters and ATVs. Fun for short rides around Willemstad but not practical for a full day of beach hopping. Storage is limited and long rides become uncomfortable.
Pros:
Fun experience
Cheaper than a car
Cons:
No storage for beach gear
Uncomfortable on longer rides
Not suitable for multiple passengers
Best for: a fun afternoon ride, not serious exploring
The Real Cost Comparison
Here's what a typical beach day costs with each option:
Transport | Cost for 2 beaches | Freedom |
|---|---|---|
Rental car | $35–$55 total | ✅ Full |
Taxi x2 | $120–$160 total | ❌ None |
Bus | Not possible | ❌ None |
The numbers speak for themselves. A rental car pays for itself after one beach visit.
Tips for Renting a Car in Curaçao
Book online in advance — airport walk-in prices are significantly higher
Compact car is enough — roads are paved and easy to navigate
Check insurance coverage — ask what is included before signing
Inspect the car — photograph all existing damage before driving off
Fill up before returning — gas stations near the airport are expensive
My Honest Recommendation
If you are visiting Curaçao for more than 2 days and want to see the real island — rent a car. It is cheaper than taxis, gives you total freedom, and is the only way to reach the most beautiful beaches.
Questions about getting around Curaçao? Drop them in the comments below.