Renting a car in Curaçao is the best way to explore the island freely. Whether you want to discover the secluded beaches of Westpoint or spend a day shopping in Punda – with a rental car of Cura Explore determine your own pace.
Here’s what you need to know about driving in Curaçao: from speed limits to parking rules and navigation tips.
🛣️ Roads on Curaçao: what to expect?
Curaçao’s roads are generally passable, but can have some holes and potholes here and there – especially outside of town. Around Willemstad the roads are paved and well maintained, but towards Westpunt they can be a bit rougher. A regular passenger car is sufficient in 90% of cases, but for adventurous routes or unpaved beach roads, an SUV is recommended.
🚦 Speed limits
Curaçao has clear speed limits:
- Inside built-up areas: 40 km/h
- Outside built-up areas: 60-80 km/h
- On the Road to West Point (the main road): mostly 80 km/h
Note that speed signs are scarce, so adhere to these general guidelines.
📍 Navigation: what works best?
Navigating Curaçao is easy with the right apps. Signage is limited, so a good digital map is essential.
✅ Recommended:
- Google Maps
Very accurate on Curacao. Keep in mind that some small beaches or unpaved roads are not always recognized.
Maps.me
Works offline and sometimes includes more details of local beaches, hiking trails or minor roads.
📱 Pair with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto:
Nearly all Cura Explore rental cars are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Connect your phone with a USB cable or wirelessly (depending on the model), and you’ll navigate safely and hands-free.🔧 Tip: Download Curaçao maps in advance via Google Maps or Maps.me, so you’ll be well prepared even without mobile data.
🅿️ Parking on Curacao: where and how?
Parking is easy and often free in most places. Still, there are some things to watch out for:
In Willemstad (Punda and Otrobanda):
- There is paid parking via a parking meter or via the “Curaçao Parking” app (iOS & Android).
- Rates are around 1 Nafl per 30 minutes.
- Paid parking usually applies from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays.
At beaches:
- Almost all beaches have free parking.
- Watch your belongings: do not leave valuables in the car.
Shopping malls & supermarkets:
- Parking is free and widely available here.
⚠️ Additional tips for safe driving on Curacao
- Traffic circles: traffic on the traffic circle has no priority unless otherwise indicated – pay close attention to the signs!
- Refueling: you pay in advance at the cash register. Ask for “full” (fill up).
- Speed cameras: there are almost none, but police checks do occur – especially on alcohol consumption and seat belts.
- Lighting: when it rains, turn on your low beams. Fog lights and high beams are considered a nuisance.
Why ride with Cura Explore?
✔ Modern, well-maintained cars
✔ Android Auto & Apple CarPlay available as standard
✔ Personalized service and local tips at pickup
✔ Flexible pick-up and drop-off times, including at your accommodation or airport
✔ All-risk insurance possible for worry-free driving
✔ 24/7 roadside assistance service throughout Curaçao
In short: driving on Curaçao is the ideal way to really get to know the island. With Cura Explore you are well prepared – safe, comfortable and fully prepared.👉 Book your rental car today and experience the freedom of Curaçao on four wheels!
