Things to do in Jan Thiel, Curaçao

1. Swimming & snorkelling at Jan Thiel Beach

Jan Thiel Beach is literally around the corner from Villa Vidalou — just 2 minutes on foot. It's a calm, family-friendly beach with clear turquoise water and a sandy bottom. Perfect for swimming, lounging and snorkelling.

The coral reef just in front of the beach is beautiful and accessible even for beginners. Bring your own snorkel gear or hire it on site. On calm days you'll spot colourful fish, sea turtles and various coral species.

2. Sundowners at Zanzibar

Zanzibar is the iconic beach bar and restaurant of Curaçao, right next to Jan Thiel Beach. During the day it's pleasantly relaxed for lunch or drinks by the water. Later in the afternoon the vibe comes alive with music, cocktails and a stunning sunset.

We recommend booking a table if you want to dine in the evening — Zanzibar is very popular and fills up quickly, especially in high season.

3. Papagayo Beach Club

Just 5 minutes' drive from Jan Thiel, Papagayo Beach Club is one of Curaçao's liveliest spots. During the day you can rent sunbeds and enjoy crystal-clear water, while evenings transform into a proper beach party atmosphere.

Papagayo is also popular with locals, which gives it an authentic feel alongside the more tourist-oriented options. The restaurant serves excellent fish and grilled dishes.

4. Explore Willemstad

Willemstad, Curaçao's UNESCO World Heritage capital, is just 10 minutes by car from Jan Thiel. The colourful facades along the Handelskade waterfront are one of the most photographed sights in the entire Caribbean.

Walk across the floating Queen Emma Bridge, explore the historic Punda and Otrobanda districts, visit the floating market with Venezuelan traders, or enjoy a lunch at one of the waterside terraces.

5. Plan a dive trip

Curaçao is globally renowned as one of the world's best diving destinations. The island has a rich underwater world with healthy coral reefs, hundreds of fish species and various wrecks. Several dive schools near Jan Thiel offer guided dives and PADI courses.

Must-dives: the Blue Room cave, Mushroom Forest and the car wreck at Tugboat Beach. For snorkellers, Directors Bay is a local favourite.

6. Spot flamingos in the wild

Did you know wild flamingos live on Curaçao? At the salt pans near Jan Kok on the west side of the island you can often see them in their natural habitat. They're also occasionally spotted near the airport.

The best time to spot them is early morning or late afternoon when they're most active. Bring binoculars and drive slowly along the flatlands.

7. Road trip around the island

With a hire car (a must on Curaçao!) you can explore the whole island in a day. Must-sees include Playa Knip and Playa Lagun on the north-west coast — quiet, clear water and stunning natural surroundings. Christoffelberg National Park offers hiking trails and panoramic views over the island.

On the north side, the dramatic Shete Boka National Park shows a completely different side of Curaçao, where waves crash powerfully onto a rocky coastline.

8. Dine at Jan Thiel Culinary

The Jan Thiel area has a quickly growing restaurant scene. Jan Thiel Culinary is a favourite for fresh fish and creative Caribbean cuisine in a relaxed setting. The restaurants along the Jan Thiel strip are also worth exploring.

9. Water sports & kitesurfing

The constant trade winds make Curaçao ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The most popular spots are on the south-east side, including Caracas Bay and Spanish Water — both about 15 minutes from Jan Thiel.

Not into kite sports? Kayak, paddleboard and boat hire are also popular. From Spanish Water you can explore small islands and anchor in quiet bays.

10. Mambo Beach & Renaissance Shopping

Just 12 minutes' drive away, Mambo Beach Boulevard combines beach, restaurants, shops and the Renaissance Hotel. It's one of the liveliest spots on the island with a stunning view across the bay towards Willemstad.