Otrobanda for culture and character
Choose Otrobanda if you want colourful streets, museums, local cafés and walkable access to Punda without staying inside a resort district.
Stay guide
Where to stay in Curaçao
The best area depends on how you want to experience the island. Otrobanda works especially well for travellers who value history, local character and central Willemstad.
Willemstad as an island base
A central city stay keeps restaurants and services nearby. Beaches are a short drive away, while tours and transfers can start around Willemstad.
West Curaçao for beach focus
The west is attractive for quieter coves and nature, but distances to city restaurants, nightlife and services are greater. A car is usually more useful there.
Choose the apartment that fits
The Time Apartments offers five private stays for up to two guests, each with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a queen bed and private bathroom.
Make the most of your stay
Start in the city
Explore Otrobanda and central Willemstad on foot before planning a longer island day.
Arrange the return trip
For west-coast beaches, confirm transport and pickup details before you set out.
Pack for the climate
Bring drinking water, sun protection and comfortable shoes for warm, bright days.
Planning questions
Is Otrobanda a good base for a first visit?
It works well if you want historic Willemstad, local restaurants and walkable sights nearby. If your main priority is quiet beach time, compare the longer drives with your plans.
Can I reach Punda on foot from The Time Apartments?
Yes. The Queen Emma Bridge is around a 15-minute walk from the apartments, and Punda is just across the harbour. Allow extra time for the heat and bridge schedule.
Do I need a rental car to visit Curaçao beaches?
A car gives the most flexibility, especially for the west coast. You can also arrange a taxi, transfer or organised tour; confirm the return journey before leaving.
More local guides
Neighbourhood guide
Discover Otrobanda, Curaçao
Discover Otrobanda in Curaçao: street art, history, restaurants, the Queen Emma Bridge and practical tips for staying in Willemstad.
Walking guideExplore Willemstad on foot
A practical walking route through Willemstad from Otrobanda across the Queen Emma Bridge to Punda and Pietermaai.
Transport guideVisit Curaçao beaches without a rental car
How to visit Curaçao beaches without renting a car, with taxi, transfer and tour options from Willemstad.
Combine your Willemstad stay with local island experiences
Book The Time Apartments through ExploreIsla and discover local tours, transport and wellness in one place.
Book via ExploreIsla →Getting to beaches from Otrobanda
Getting to beaches from Otrobanda
Some beach guides focus on island trips that need transport, but two different options are walkable from the city base: Punda Beach/Playa Marichi across the Queen Emma Bridge and Parasasa Beach on the Piscadera side. Check the current pedestrian route before setting out.
Parasasa Beach
Open walking route in Google Maps →Punda Beach (Playa Marichi)
Open walking route in Google Maps →Google Maps calculates the current walking route. Check the route and local access before setting out.