Curacao is a long, arid, and generally flat island, stretching some 40 miles (64 km) from southeast to northwest, at much the same north-south angles as its sister islands in the ABC group (Aruba to the west and Bonaire to the east). The island is about 10 miles (16 km) at its widest point, and the area is about 180 square miles (472 square km), making it the largest island in the Netherlands Antilles group.
The coastline along the south is irregular, peppered with small bays and inlets, including the spectacular bays and beaches at the west end of the island. The largest bays are located along the central-east and east end of the island, where you'll find the capital and major port of Willemstad. Most of Curacao's 130,000 residents live in and around this historic town.
The long north coast of the island, buffeted by constant northeast trade winds, is characterized by a rough coastline, limestone cliff formations set on top of eons-old volcanic rock, and weather-beaten terrain. It is generally less inhabited than the south coast, but you will find smaller villages and many of the island's famous land house, or old plantation house, structures here.
The west end of the island is also characterized by expansive, hilly terrain, most of it encompassed by Christoffel Park. The 4,500-acre (1,820-hectare) park contains Mt. Christoffel, at 1,239 feet (377 meters) the highest elevation on Curacao. The east end of the island comprises flat and mostly barren plain, with few settlements and some secondary roads weaving to and from its coastal inlets.
With an average 20 inches (510 mm) of rainfall yearly, Curacao is generally a dry island. There are few standing bodies of water save some saline ponds, and most of the island's water is provided by a large desalinization plant found on the south coast.
Climate
Located in the tropics, just 12° north of the Equator -- and outside of the hurricane belt -- Curacao has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average temperature is about 27°C ( mid 80s F). Refreshing trade winds blow constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months. The rainy season, October to February, is marked by short, occasional showers, usually at night, and continued sunny weather by day. Total annual rainfall averages only 570 mm (22 inches). Occasionally a tropical storm brewing elsewhere in the Caribbean can cause uncharacteristically cloudy weather for a day or two.
Weather can't be forecast more than a week or so in advance, but weather averages are good indicators of what to expect any month.
DivingAn ideal holiday spot for divers
Curacao was born millions of years ago, developing under the sea from lava rock on which coral has grown for centuries. For millions of years reefs have surrounded the island, attaching to the shore like a narrow fringe. In some places they are like beautiful gardens, with delicate corals and are home to brightly colored tropical fish. In others, massive coral formations extend into depths with deep-water fish patrolling the plunging walls. It is no wonder that diving is one of the most popular sports on Curacao.
Cuisine
Curacao's restaurants run the range from elegant dining to roadside kiosks, with just about everything between. Look to the hotels and several Willemstad restaurants for fine dining, and to the countryside for great seaside seafood and barbecue spots. The country also hosts familiar fast-food joints such as McDonald's-its motto, "Feel At Home Again!" has just got to make you stop and wonder-and Pizza Hut.
Most restaurants will accept credit cards and traveler's checks, but not all. Call (or email) ahead to confirm. For evening dining, it's always best to make reservations.
