Driving in Curaçao 2025 - Complete Guide: Rules, Roads & Tips

Good News for Visitors!

Driving in Curaçao is safe and easy! Right-hand drive (like USA), good roads, clear signs, and friendly locals. Perfect for exploring the island at your own pace. Rent a car today →

🚦 Basic Traffic Rules

Driving Basics

✅ Drive on RIGHT side (like USA)
✅ Speed limits: 40-60 km/h city, 80 km/h highway
✅ Seatbelts mandatory for all passengers
✅ No phone use while driving (hands-free OK)
✅ Right-of-way: Yield to traffic from right
✅ Roundabouts: Give way to traffic inside

Important Rules

🚫 Zero tolerance for drinking & driving
🚫 Children under 12 must sit in back seat
🚫 Honking only for safety (not impatience!)
🚫 Stopping on Queen Emma Bridge (traffic flows)
⚠️ Police checkpoints common on weekends
⚠️ Fines: $50-500+ depending on violation

📋 License & Insurance Requirements

📄 Driver's License

US, Canadian & EU licenses are valid! No international license needed for stays under 90 days. Minimum age: 21 years (some agencies require 23+). Must have held license for 2+ years.

What to bring:

✓ Valid driver's license
✓ Passport or ID
✓ Credit card (for deposit)

🛡️ Insurance Coverage

Rental cars include basic insurance (liability). We strongly recommend full coverage (CDW + theft protection) for peace of mind. Cost: $15-25/day extra.

Included: Liability to others

Optional: Damage waiver (CDW)

Optional: Theft protection

Optional: Personal accident insurance

🛣️ Road Conditions & What to Expect

Main Roads (Excellent)

Highways & main routes: Well-maintained paved roads. Clear signage. Routes to popular beaches (Westpunt, Willemstad, Mambo Beach) are in great condition. Easy navigation with GPS.

Secondary/Beach Roads (Caution)

Some beach access roads can be narrow, unpaved, or have potholes. Roads to remote beaches (Playa Kalki, Jeremi) may be rough. Drive slowly and carefully.

Pro Tip: SUV or high-clearance car recommended for adventurous travelers visiting remote spots. Standard sedans work fine for main beaches.

Traffic & Congestion

Rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM): Traffic in Willemstad can be heavy. Outside city: minimal traffic. Weekends: More locals at beaches, arrive early for parking.

⛽ Gas Stations & Fuel

Fuel Information

Price: ~$1.20-1.40 per liter ($4.50-5.30/gallon)
Type: Unleaded (regular) available everywhere
Payment: Cash or card accepted
Hours: Most stations 6 AM - 10 PM
24-hour stations: Available in Willemstad

Where to Find Gas

✓ Plenty in Willemstad - multiple stations
✓ Westpunt area - 1-2 stations near beaches
✓ Airport area - convenient for drop-off
⚠️ East side less options - fill up in advance
💡 Pro tip: Don't wait until empty!

Rental Policy: Return car with same fuel level as pickup (usually full). Refueling fees: $20-40 if not filled.

🅿️ Parking Guide

Where to Park

Beaches: FREE parking at most (arrive early!)
Willemstad: Paid parking lots $2-5
Shopping areas: Free or paid depending on store
Restaurants: Usually free parking
Hotels: Free for guests, paid for visitors

Parking Don'ts

🚫 Don't block driveways or gates
🚫 Watch for "No Parking" signs (towing possible)
🚫 Don't leave valuables visible in car
🚫 Lock car and use trunk for bags/equipment
⚠️ Popular beaches fill up by 11 AM on weekends

🗺️ Navigation & GPS

Getting Around

Google Maps: Works perfectly! Most reliable for Curaçao. Download offline maps before remote trips.

Road Signs: Clear and visible. Directions to beaches and attractions well-marked. Mix of Dutch, Papiamento, and English.

Addresses: Some remote beaches don't have exact addresses. Use landmark names or GPS coordinates.

Pro Tip: Save beach locations before leaving hotel Wi-Fi. Cell data can be weak in remote areas.

⚠️ Safety Tips & Common Issues

🦎 Wildlife on Roads

Watch for iguanas, goats, and donkeys! Common on countryside roads, especially early morning and dusk. Drive carefully and be ready to brake.

☀️ Sun & Heat Precautions

🌡️ Car gets HOT! Use sun shades, crack windows
💧 Always carry water in car
🚗 Check tire pressure (heat affects it)
❄️ Use A/C but watch fuel consumption

🔧 In Case of Breakdown

All rental cars include:

✓ 24/7 roadside assistance number
✓ Spare tire and jack
✓ Emergency contact information

Our 24/7 Support: Call rental agency immediately. Free towing and replacement car included.

🚔 Police & Emergencies

Emergency: Call 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
Police: 917
Traffic accidents: Call police immediately (required by law)
Police attitude: Professional and helpful to tourists
Checkpoints: Have license, passport, rental papers ready

💡 Expert Driving Tips

1. Best Times to Drive

Avoid Willemstad rush hour (7-9 AM, 4-6 PM). Head to beaches by 9 AM for best parking. Drive to remote areas in daylight only.

2. Use Parking Security

At beaches: Remove all visible items. Use trunk for valuables. Some beaches have security guards ($1-2 tip appreciated).

3. Fuel Strategy

Fill up in Willemstad before heading to remote areas. Gas stations less common in west coast. Never let tank drop below 1/4.

4. Road Trip Planning

Plan 20-40 min drive time to beaches from Willemstad. Add 10-15 min for rough roads. Visit 3-5 beaches per day easily!

✅ Final Checklist Before You Drive

☑️ Valid driver's license
☑️ Insurance documents
☑️ Rental agreement & keys
☑️ 24/7 assistance number saved
☑️ GPS/Google Maps working

☑️ Full tank of gas
☑️ Water bottles in car
☑️ Phone charger
☑️ Cash for parking/tolls
☑️ Emergency contacts handy

🚗 Driving in Curaçao: Complete Guide 2025