(Bonus Tip: Last-minute bookings at Sandals Resorts can save you big money. If you’re flexible, this is your moment!)
Whether you’re dreaming of world-class golf, sun-drenched beaches, or a perfectly balanced mix of adventure and indulgent downtime, this sample itinerary brings the best of Curaçao and Sandals together in one unforgettable trip. Here’s how I’d spend five incredible days on the island—spa stops and all.
Day 1: Arrival, Unwind, and Let Sandals Curaçao Do Its Thing
Welcome to Paradise. You’ve landed in Curaçao, one of the most colorful and culturally rich gems in the Caribbean. Check into Sandals Royal Curaçao, where every suite is designed to melt away the anxiety you didn’t even know you had. It’s like unpacking stress! I should copyright that slogan.
- Suite Life: If upgrades are available, go for it. Some rooms come with a private pool or swim-up access, and the butler-level service can be a game changer. Just check the pricing, and you can see the upper tier accommodations aren’t much more money.
- Resort Wandering: Take your time exploring. The Dos Awa Infinity Pool is a stunner—two levels of beautiful water, set for panoramic ocean views. Snap some photos, soak it all in. Post on Instagram!
- Dinner Vibes: For your first evening, book a table at Vincent, a tribute to the creativity and bold color of Van Gogh and Curaçao’s own vibrant palette. (I like art too, if you are interested.) Vincent has dishes like herb-crusted lamb rack or Caribbean snapper, artfully plated and full of flavor. And yes, I always take food pictures.
Day 2: Sunrise Swings & Sunset Seafood
Morning: Time to hit the links. Tee off at the Old Quarry Golf Course, where dramatic views of Tafelberg Mountain and the Spanish Water Harbor elevate every swing. This Pete Dye-designed course is both scenic and strategic, so plan ahead and book your tee time early. I can help you with this.
Afternoon: Head back to the beach and unwind in style. Grab a bite from Toteki, the retro-chic food truck delivering snacks like grilled sirloinsteak with onions and mushrooms, in red wine sauce, fish kebabs, loaded burgers, fish sandwiches, or even kroketten (beef croquettes with mustard dipping sauce) or chili dogs!
Evening: For dinner, make your way to The Strand, where “toes-in-the-sand” is the resort-casual dress code and the seafood is caught from the ocean, just steps away. Time it right, and you’ll be clinking glasses as the sun dips below the horizon in a blaze of pink and gold. It’s definitely a relaxing sunset!
Day 3: Reef Adventures & Spa Bliss at Sandals Royal Curaçao
Morning: Dive in—literally. Curaçao’s coral reefs are among the best in the Caribbean. Join a snorkeling or scuba excursion and explore the technicolor underwater world. Sea turtles, vibrant reef fish, maybe even a seahorse if you’re lucky. I’ve seen turtles and fish, but no seahorse yet.
Afternoon: After your marine adventure, treat yourself to a well-deserved spa escape. At Red Lane® Spa, try a deep tissue massage or Caribbean-inspired body wrap. Don’t skip the hydrotherapy garden—it’s the kind of place you imagine when someone says “serenity.” Hey, the spa isn’t just for women, you know.
Evening: Set sail on a sunset catamaran cruise. I can help you book it! It’s got everything: ocean breezes, champagne toasts, and Curaçao’s dazzling coastline lit by the setting sun. Thus, the relaxing sunset. Afterward, keep the sensory experience going with dinner at Zuka, a bold Latin-fusion restaurant. This restaurant has great choices. Think Peruvian ceviche, Argentinean steaks, and tropical cocktails. Check their menu here.
Day 4: More Golf & A Cultural Excursion in Willemstad
Morning: Golf. Round two on the greens. Either return to Old Quarry or try Blue Bay Golf Club, closer to Willemstad and known for its lush fairways and ocean views.
Lunch: Refuel at the clubhouse, or swing back to the resort for a lighter meal by the water with something fresh and satisfying before your next stop. Maybe another food truck choice, like Kishi or La Palma would do you well. I would go for some tapas at La Palma. Why not? It’s included!
Afternoon: Head into Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage city painted in pastel dreams. Walk the iconic Handelskade waterfront, browse local artisan shops, and visit the Floating Market or Kura Hulanda Museum for a deeper look at the island’s African heritage and cultural history.
Dinner in Town: Reserve a table at The Pen, tucked into the Avila Beach Hotel. It’s romantic, elegant, and delicious—Caribbean-European fusion served under the stars in a historic mansion. Definitely a night to remember. Tell them the Travel Rooster sent you.
Day 5: Farewell, for Now, Curaçao
Morning: A sad cloud fills the room as you realize you actually have to leave the resort. Or maybe that’s just me? Well, savor your final hours. Lounge by the infinity pool one last time, or enjoy breakfast served on your suite’s patio—your butler can handle the details. Just make sure you get your coffee.
Brunch Stop: Before heading to the airport, enjoy a leisurely brunch at Pietra, known for its Euro-Caribbean dishes and breezy oceanfront setting. Grab some flaky croissants and tropical fruit, Curaçao-style eggs, and maybe one last mimosa?
Departure: It’s hard to say goodbye—but easy to start planning your return. Yes, I can help you out! Don’t be surprised if you’re already checking dates for the next trip before your flight takes off.
If you would like some information or would like to get a good deal on a Sandals Resort trip, just contact me. Or you can book directly, here. And as always, have a relaxing sunset!
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