Island Hopping in the Caribbean: A Journey to the ABC Islands

1. Curaçao

Quick Facts:

1. Capital: Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture.
2. Language: Dutch is the official language, but Papiamentu, English, and Spanish are also widely spoken.
3. Diving Destination: Curaçao is famous for its clear waters and numerous diving spots, including the popular “Blue Room” underwater cave.
4. Carnival: The island hosts one of the largest and most vibrant Carnival celebrations in the Caribbean, featuring parades, music, and dance.
5. Liquor Origin: Curaçao is known for its blue liqueur, “Blue Curaçao,” made from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit native to the island.

How to Get to Curaçao from Aruba

• After arriving in Aruba, the best way to travel to Curaçao is by air. The flight from Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport to Curaçao International Airport (Hato Airport, CUR) takes about 30-40 minutes. Several regional airlines, such as Divi Divi Air and EZAir, offer daily flights between Aruba and Curaçao. These flights are quick and provide stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
• There are currently no regular ferry services between Aruba and Curaçao, so flying remains the most efficient and practical option.

Hotel Recommendation: City Suites & Beach Hotel

• Stay at City Suites & Beach Hotel in Willemstad’s vibrant Pietermaai District, just a short drive from popular attractions like Mambo Beach and the Curaçao Sea Aquarium, both within a 10-minute reach. This beachside hotel is also conveniently located 7.1 miles (11.4 km) from Jan Thiel Beach and 9.7 miles (15.7 km) from Blue Bay.
• Enjoy the scenic views from the hotel’s terrace, and take advantage of amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi and on-site shopping. Additional features include tour and ticket assistance, as well as a picnic area for outdoor relaxation.

Local Attractions in Curaçao

Willemstad and Handelskade

Explore the vibrant capital city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful Dutch colonial architecture, charming waterfront, and lively markets.

Christoffel National Park

Discover Curaçao’s largest national park, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and stunning views from Mount Christoffel, the island’s highest peak.

Restaurant Recommendation: Fort Nassau

• Located on a historic hilltop fort overlooking Willemstad, Fort Nassau offers a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the island and the harbor. This restaurant is housed in a 17th-century fort, adding a sense of history and charm to your meal. Fort Nassau specializes in international cuisine with a Caribbean twist, featuring dishes such as tenderloin with local spices, fresh seafood, and gourmet salads. The ambiance is elegant yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot for both romantic dinners and special occasions. The combination of exquisite food, stunning views, and a historic setting makes Fort Nassau a standout dining destination in Curaçao.

2. Bonaire

Quick Facts:

1. Capital: Kralendijk, a quaint town with colorful buildings and a relaxed island atmosphere.
2. Diving and Snorkeling: Bonaire is renowned as one of the top diving destinations in the world due to its well-preserved coral reefs and abundant marine life.
3. Flamingo Sanctuary: Bonaire is home to one of the Caribbean’s largest flamingo populations, with the Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary being a notable spot.
4. National Park: The Washington Slagbaai National Park covers 20% of the island and is a hotspot for wildlife, hiking, and bird-watching.
5. Windsurfing Spot: Lac Bay on the east coast is a world-class location for windsurfing, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.

How to Get to Bonaire from Curaçao

• To travel from Curaçao to Bonaire, the most efficient method is by air. The flight from Curaçao International Airport to Bonaire’s Flamingo International Airport (BON) takes approximately 20-25 minutes. Regional airlines, including Divi Divi Air and EZAir, operate several daily flights between the two islands. This short flight offers beautiful aerial views of the Caribbean and is the fastest way to get between Curaçao and Bonaire.
• Occasionally, there are ferry services between Curaçao and Bonaire, but they are infrequent and less reliable than flying. For most travelers, a flight is the preferred and more time-effective option.

Hotel Recommendation: Delfins Beach Resort

• Stay at Delfins Beach Resort in Kralendijk and enjoy a prime waterfront location, just a 2-minute walk from Leeward Antilles and a 12-minute stroll from Bachelor’s Beach. This 4-star resort is conveniently situated 3.6 miles (5.8 km) from Pink Beach and 5.3 miles (8.5 km) from Lac Bay Beach.
• Spend your day relaxing on the resort’s private beach or enjoy other leisure activities, such as swimming in the outdoor pool. Additional amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services to enhance your stay.

Local Attractions in Bonaire

Klein Bonaire

Visit this uninhabited island just off Bonaire’s coast, renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exceptional snorkeling and diving spots.

Washington Slagbaai National Park

A haven for nature enthusiasts, this park features rugged landscapes, hiking trails, secluded beaches, and diverse wildlife, including flamingos and iguanas.

Restaurant Recommendation: Brass Boer

• Brass Boer, located at the Delfins Beach Resort in Kralendijk, is a must-visit culinary destination on Bonaire. Owned by Michelin-starred Dutch chefs Jonnie and Thérèse Boer, this upscale restaurant offers a creative menu that brings together local flavors with innovative culinary techniques. Diners can enjoy exquisite dishes like freshly prepared seafood, tender meats, and unique desserts, all presented with artistic flair. The open-air setting by the water provides a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience, blending fine dining with the island’s laid-back charm.

3. Aruba

Quick Facts

1. Capital: Oranjestad, known for its Dutch colonial architecture, shopping, and vibrant nightlife.
2. Beaches: Aruba is famous for its pristine, white-sand beaches, such as Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, regularly ranked among the best in the world.
3. Arikok National Park: Covers nearly 20% of the island, featuring unique rock formations, caves, and indigenous wildlife.
4. Dry Climate: Aruba has a dry, arid climate with minimal rainfall, setting it apart from many other Caribbean islands with more tropical climates.
5. Tourism Hub: Aruba is a popular tourist destination, especially for Americans, with direct flights from major U.S. cities and a significant focus on hospitality and resorts.

How to Get to Aruba from Canada

• To travel from Canada to Aruba, the most convenient option is to fly directly to Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) from major Canadian cities. Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Sunwing offer direct flights from cities such as Toronto and Montreal, especially during the high season (from November to April). The direct flight from Toronto to Aruba takes around 5 to 6 hours.
• For those flying from other Canadian cities, you can opt for a connecting flight through major U.S. hubs like Miami, New York, or Atlanta. Many airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue, operate regular flights to Aruba from these cities.

Hotel Recommendation: Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino

• Stay at the Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino in Oranjestad and enjoy a prime location in a bustling shopping district, just a 4-minute walk from the pristine sands of Eagle Beach and a short 4-minute drive from Paseo Herencia Shopping Mall. This beachfront hotel is also conveniently situated 3.2 miles (5.2 km) from Aruba Town Hall and 4.7 miles (7.5 km) from Arashi Beach.
• Indulge in relaxation at the full-service spa, offering a variety of massages, body treatments, and facials. Before heading out for an exciting evening at the casino, unwind in one of the three outdoor swimming pools or two spa tubs. The hotel also features complimentary Wi-Fi, concierge services, and on-site gift shops and newsstands. With a complimentary beach shuttle, getting to the surf and sand has never been easier.

Local Attractions in Aruba

Eagle Beach

Relax on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and famous fofoti trees.

Arikok National Park

Explore Aruba’s diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to limestone caves, including the popular Natural Pool and ancient Arawak rock art sites.

Restaurant Recommendation: The Flying Fishbone

• The Flying Fishbone in Savaneta, a short drive from Oranjestad, is one of Aruba’s most unique dining experiences. Known for its “toes in the sand” dining concept, this beachfront restaurant allows guests to enjoy their meals right at the water’s edge. The menu features a range of seafood dishes, such as grilled lobster, shrimp scampi, and fresh catch of the day, as well as meat and vegetarian options. With its romantic setting, where you can watch the sunset while dining, The Flying Fishbone is perfect for couples looking for a memorable evening out.

Ready to embark on your own Caribbean adventure? At Waterviews Travel , we specialize in self-guided tours that let you experience these stunning destinations at your own pace. Contact us today at service@waterviewstravel.com or call 1-800-735-9790  to start planning your unforgettable journey through the Caribbean!

Photo Credits: Pixabay Photos. E&Os excluded.