It’s official—Curaçao is having its second.
According to Google Flights’ 2025 Summer Travel Trends, Curaçao is the #1 trending worldwide vacation spot for American vacationers this summer time. That’s not simply hype—this island is breaking information, including new flights, unveiling brand-new resorts, and drawing severe consideration from vacationers who need one thing extra than simply one other seaside getaway.
As somebody who’s been to Aruba (and cherished it!), it looks like Curaçao is a contemporary tackle the Caribbean.
I’m hopefully headed there this November to see what all the thrill is about—and after digging into all the pieces this colourful Dutch-Caribbean island gives, I can see why it’s blowing up.
What’s Fueling Curaçao’s Boom?
In the primary few months of 2025 alone, practically 60,000 U.S. vacationers landed in Curaçao—a 30% soar from final 12 months. For the primary time ever, Americans formally outnumbered European guests. The island isn’t simply trending, it’s remodeling.
Here’s what’s driving that momentum:
New nonstops: American Airlines simply introduced weekly nonstop flights from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Curaçao, beginning this December. This opens up the Midwest to direct island escapes—no extra layovers!
Hotel development: New resorts just like the boutique Art Hotel in Pietermaai are upping the posh sport. Existing favorites like Baoase, Avila Beach Hotel, and Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort are increasing and renovating too.
Sustainable tourism: In partnership with Sustainable Travel International, the island is finding out its “tourism carrying capacity” to ensure its development doesn’t compromise what makes it particular. So whereas Curaçao’s getting extra well-liked, it’s additionally being intentional—and that issues.
Aruba vs. Curaçao: What’s Different?
Since I’ve been to Aruba and am planning to move to Curaçao, right here’s my take after plenty of analysis and speaking to individuals who have been to each:
FunctionArubaCuraçaoBeachesLong, large, tourist-packedHidden coves, locals’ favoritesCultureVery AmericanizedRich Dutch/Caribbean fusionSnorkeling/DivingGoodPhenomenalFood sceneMostly resorts, some native eatsStreet meals + elevated cuisineVibeEasy, familiarAdventurous, genuine
Curaçao feels extra actual—with vibrant neighborhoods like Pietermaai, a colourful UNESCO-listed capital (Willemstad), and wild nationwide parks begging to be explored.
Where To Stay (With Prices)
There’s one thing right here for each fashion—and finances:
Luxury: Sandals Royal Curaçao ($600–$1,200/evening) – All-inclusive with gorgeous views and severe pampering.
Upscale appeal: Avila Beach Hotel ($200–$350/evening) – Historic, beachfront, and newly renovated.
Boutique stylish: BijBlauw in Pietermaai ($150–$250/evening) – A favourite for sundown drinks by the ocean.
Budget-friendly Airbnb: Starting round $50/evening. If you lease a automotive, you’ll be able to keep close to a few of the greatest uncrowded seashores.
What To Do in Curaçao
Whether you’re a seaside bum or a cultural explorer, you’ll be spoiled for selection.
Beach-hop like a neighborhood
Grote Knip – Free and photogenic. (2nd picture on this article)
Cas Abao – rentable loungers, a bar, and gentle white sand.
Playa Piskado – Swim with sea turtles totally free (simply deliver a snorkel).
Klein Curaçao – Remote, gorgeous day journey (~$100+ for boat excursions).
Explore Willemstad
Wander colourful colonial streets, cross the Queen Emma floating bridge, and seize a chunk at a sidewalk café. Check out the Kura Hulanda Museum for a robust have a look at the island’s African heritage.
Snorkel & Dive
Shore dives at Tugboat Beach, Mushroom Forest, or the Blue Room are world-class. Two-tank dives run about $90, and lots of websites are straightforward to entry and not using a boat.
Get outdoorsy
Hike up Mount Christoffel, go off-roading in Shete Boka National Park, or spot flamingos at Jan Kok.
Where To Eat (And What To Try)
Curaçao’s meals scene is numerous, flavorful, and reasonably priced if you realize the place to look:
Local eats: Plasa Bieu – A meals corridor the place you may get goat stew, contemporary fish, or pumpkin pancakes for $10–$15.
Street meals: Late-night meals vehicles (aka Truki Pans) are the place the locals eat. Look for BBQ ribs or lionfish burgers.
Splurge-worthy: Fort Nassau – Incredible hilltop views with superb eating (~$75+ per individual). Or go barefoot luxe at Baoase Culinary Beach for a romantic evening out.
Must-tries: Keshi Yena (spiced meat baked in cheese), pastechi, lionfish ceviche, and regionally distilled Blue Curaçao.
What Will Flights Cost?
Travel TypeDaily Budget (not incl. flights)Budget$60–$80Mid-range$150–$200Luxury$300+
Flights from main U.S. cities common $400–$600 round-trip. Thanks to new routes just like the upcoming Chicago–Curaçao nonstop, it’s getting even simpler (and sometimes cheaper) to get there.
What are you ready for?
Curaçao is colourful, cultural, and downright cool—and it’s now not only a secret amongst divers or Dutch vacationers. With new airlift, upgraded resorts, and recognition from Google as the highest trending journey vacation spot, this Caribbean gem is moving into the highlight.
So when you’ve been to Aruba and are prepared for one thing that feels extra genuine—with higher snorkeling, extra tradition, and a splash of European aptitude—Curaçao is looking.
And I’ll be there this fall, soaking all of it in.
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This article initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed here are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, permitted or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included inside the submit.