If you’re looking for ways to experience Curaçao like a local, then look no further. We gathered the 5 best ways to really feel like you’re living on Curaçao; like someone who’s been here forever. Walk in the footsteps of the locals on the island and experience Curaçao through their knowing eyes.
Go Beach-Hopping
Want to experience Curaçao like a local? Start with beach-hopping. One of the coolest activities locals do is beach-hopping. We place a cooler in the trunk with ice and refreshing drinks, some munchies for on the road, and a happy playlist to set the mood. Travel along the west coast, starting at Westpunt, and take a plunge at every accessible free beach you find on your way. This way you get to experience every beach and get a brief introduction to what every beach offers.
Barbecue at the Beach
On weekends, many local families will go to a public beach in Banda Bou and set up their barbecue for a good grill. An abundance of food and snacks—often made according to a family recipe—work their magic to calm the beach appetite, while the drinks go around a la minute. It’s a tradition that will give you the ultimate island-pleasure. Even if you can’t get your hands on a big barbecue, many supermarkets sell little disposable barbecues that you can use. Buy a small cooler, fill it with ice (you can buy small or half bags of ice at every minimarket), and your favorite beer or drink. Go to a free beach early in the morning and set up your barbecue somewhere safe. Many supermarkets even sell ready-made meat and salad for grilling. All you must do it grill it and enjoy. If you want to experience Curaçao like a local, then this one is a must-do.
Local Beats & ‘Ambiente’
Going out to enjoy some live music might not be your first thought when you think about a way to experience Curaçao like a local, but that’s exactly what makes it special. ‘Ambiente’ is the local word for conviviality. One thing that is very popular on Curaçao is to have live entertainment at restaurants or cafés. You will see young and old moving their way to the dance floor to dance a song or two. It’s a party to watch, and if you can swing your hips from left to right then you’re always welcome to join. A favorite spot of many is Friday Nights at Riffort or Saturdays at Zanzibar. The entertainment and the ‘ambiente’ is always top-notch and a pleasure for locals and tourists. No one get left behind! You’ll see kids dancing around, some visitors moving their hips to the wrong beat, others stealing the show, while the shy bob their heads up and down. But, in the end, everyone has a good time.
