Curaçao is a small Caribbean island that neighbours Bonaire and Aruba and forms part of the ABC Islands in the Dutch Caribbean. Here divers can enjoy magnificent healthy reefs, great topography, walls and shipwrecks.
Hurricane Free Zone
Curaçao sits below the hurricane belt making it appealing for travelers who can do without potential weather delays during the Atlantic hurricane season.
85 Dive Sites
Most of the 85 or so dive sites here are located on the southwest of the island, but there are some in the northern parts, which are more suited for advanced divers. There’s a wealth of variety in Curaçao’s dive sites, despite its size. Offering amazing walls, reefs and wrecks accessible by shore or boat, there’s something for everyone no matter your level of experience.
Clear Blue Water
Teeming underwater life is best enjoyed with great visibility, which is huge bonus to diving Curaçao. Visibility is often 70 feet and on calm days, of which there are many, the visibility can be up to 100 feet. Visibility is excellent thanks to minimal river runoff from the island.
Marine Biodiversity
Curaçao’s reefs are among the healthiest in the region, especially the reefs of Eastern Curaçao. The absence of substantial hills and year-round rainfall likely contributes to the healthy reefs. Large schools of tarpons, sharks, eagle rays, large barracuda, eels, and turtles all populate the healthy and pristine reefs.
Easy Shore Access
The majority of the diving can be done from the shore, and to top it off, the dive sites are mostly protected from strong currents, meaning diving is very easy and relaxing, and perfect for beginner divers. Boat diving is also an option here, with most dive operators choosing to do so. Most all oceanfront resorts have amazing house reefs right at their doorsteps.
Dive All Year
Diving in Curaçao is great all year thanks to good weather and a warm ocean averaging around 25°C (78°F) in winter and 27°C (82°F) in summer. Marine life is mostly unaffected by the slight seasonal changes, so divers can benefit from fantastic dives no matter the season. April to November is the dry season, during which April to June experiences the calmest weather. The island has minimal rain and enjoys plenty of sun during this season. December to March is the rainy season, when the island experiences a slight drop in temperature, with air temperatures lowering to 29°C (85°F) and water temperatures dropping to 26°C (79°F). Rain occurs more, however, showers are only brief and quite refreshing. And this is the low season when deals on diving and hotels can be found. There’s a brief windy period in Curaçao due to trade winds, which occur from January to April.
After-Dive Activities
Curaçao offers a myriad of activities after you day of diving. The island offers arts and culture, beautiful beaches, unique restaurants, museums, nature parks, and great night life clubs for your wild side.
