Curaçao

Our Rating:

★★★★★

Curaçao: A Caribbean gem for a Sabbatical escape

If you’re looking for a sabbatical destination that offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure, Curaçao deserves a top spot on your list. With pastel-painted houses, clear turquoise water, and a relaxed atmosphere, this Dutch Caribbean island makes it easy to unwind. Whether you’re looking for quiet beach time, street food lunches, or a remote work base with warm weather, Curaçao fits the sabbatical brief.

Currency: Caribbean Guilder

Language: Dutch

Time Zone: GMT-4

Best time of year to visit

Best weather conditions between December and April

Accommodation

Willemstad: a peaceful base

Stay at Boutique Hotel Het Klooster
Boutique Hotel Het Klooster is one of those rare places that feels both central and tucked away. Set in a former monastery just outside the busy streets of Pietermaai, it’s a calm, affordable base with whitewashed walls, a courtyard pool, and breezy rooms. Morning coffee is best enjoyed in the shade of the palm trees, and from here, the city is just a short walk away. Renting a car is recommended to explore the island’s beaches and other attractions.

Food & Drinks

Local lunches & beachside drinks

Where to eat
Plasa Bieu – the go-to spot for classic local food. This indoor market hall in central Willemstad serves up home-style dishes like stoba (Caribbean stew), fried fish, funchi, and sides that change depending on who’s cooking that day. Grab a spot at a long table, order whatever looks good, and enjoy the no-frills atmosphere.

Where to drink
Zanzibar – On Saturdays, head east to Jan Thiel Beach for happy hour. From late afternoon into sunset, it turns into a laid-back meet-up spot with cold drinks, live music, and a friendly crowd of locals, Dutch expats, and long-stay travelers.

Activities

Explore Curaçao: from quiet beaches to local traditions

What to do
Kleine Knip – A peaceful beach with clear turquoise water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s less crowded than some of the island’s bigger beaches, which makes it ideal for a slower day.
Spaanse Water – The go-to spot for water sports. From wakeboarding to windsurfing, this lagoon offers steady conditions and plenty of options if you want to stay active on the water.
Carnaval – Held every February, this is Curaçao’s biggest event of the year. Expect colorful parades, costumes, and music that take over the streets.
Nieuwjaarsduik – On New Year’s Day, join the locals for a refreshing (and slightly crazy) dive into the sea to kick off the year.