Planning a trip to a stunning destination like Curaçao involves more than just packing sunscreen and a swimsuit. It’s a little bit about logistics and a whole lot about making the most of your time. I remember when we sailed into Curaçao on day five of our Royal Caribbean cruise. The island, with its vibrant colors and sprawling beaches, instantly captivated us.

If you’re cruising, you’ll find plenty of shore excursions offered right on your ship. These are super convenient—everything’s planned, you just show up. But let’s face it, these excursions can be pricey, especially after shelling out a fair amount for the cruise itself. Plus, many of these guided trips last just a few hours. What do you do with the rest of your day?

We decided to break away from the crowd and explore on our own. The cruise line handed us a handy brochure with a map, pinpointing all the beaches and their perks. But with only a day at our disposal, we had to choose wisely. The key was finding a spot not too far from the port—we didn’t fancy the idea of watching our ship sail away without us!

Now, when it comes to getting around Curaçao, you’ve got several options. Here’s a rundown of what’s available, from the tried-and-true to the pleasantly economical:

1. Taxis

When you disembark, you’ll notice a fleet of taxis ready and waiting. They’re primarily large 15-passenger vans, queued up and eager to whisk you away to sandy shores. But here’s a tip: drivers tend to herd tourists to the nearest, most crowded beaches to maximize their trips (and earnings) for the day. The first ride we took cost us $8 each, which wasn’t too bad, but it’s good to be wary of getting funneled into the most obvious choices.

2. Public Transportation

Initially, we were steered away from public buses—probably because the cruise staff preferred us taking a pricier taxi. But honestly, if you’re not in a huge rush and want to save some cash, the bus is a decent option. Fares run about $2 to $3 per trip, and yes, they accept U.S. dollars. Just try to have the exact change, or you’ll end up with a pocketful of local currency. Patience is key here, as the bus makes several stops, but it’s a great way to soak in the local vibe.

3. Car Rental

Renting a car might seem daunting in a new country, but it gives you ultimate freedom. You can snag a car for around $45 for the day. Compare that to what you’d spend per person with other transport methods, and it could be a bargain. You’ll need to be comfortable navigating foreign roads and signage, but it’s perfect for those wanting to explore far and wide across the island.

4. Click

This was our lifesaver! Click is similar to Uber or Lyft and turned out to be ideal since we wanted to hop between multiple beaches throughout the day. It’s cheaper than traditional taxis and super convenient. You can just order a car through their app and pay in cash—no need to pre-load any credit card info. What’s more, our driver offered to pick us up at a pre-arranged time from our last stop, ensuring we made it back to the ship with time to spare.

Planning Your Day

Whatever transport you choose, the best advice I can offer is to plan ahead. Decide which beaches or spots you’d love to see before you even step off the boat. Curaçao is too beautiful to waste a minute, and knowing where you’re headed can help you make the most of your adventure.

In the end, Curaçao offers more than just stunning waters and sunny skies—it’s a chance to create your own perfect day on the island. Whether you opt for the convenience of a taxi, the economy of public transit, the freedom of your own rental car, or the modern ease of a service like Click, you’re in for a treat. Just remember to watch the time; you wouldn’t want to be that legendary tourist who missed the boat—literally!