Safety on Curacao: is Curacao safe?

Curacao is a welcoming, easy-going island where most visitors enjoy a completely safe and relaxed holiday. Just like in any popular destination, it’s smart to stay aware - but there is no reason to f eel unsafe while exploring Curacao’s beaches, neighborhoods, restaurants, and attractions.

How Safe Is Curacao for Travelers?

Curacao is considered safe for tourists, especially in well-visited areas such as Punda, Otrobanda, Pietermaai, Mambo Beach, and Jan Thiel. Most incidents involve small, opportunistic theft - the same type of issues you may find in any touristic destination.

Serious crime rarely involves visitors. With common-sense behavior, your stay will almost always be smooth and enjoyable.

Is There Crime in Curacao?

Yes, some crime does exist, but for tourists it’s usually limited to small, opportunistic incidents such as petty theft or car break-ins. Serious crime almost never involves visitors and is generally connected to areas and situations away from the main tourist zones.

Think of it the same way you would when traveling to any major city or island.

Simple Ways to Stay Safe on Curacao

You can easily avoid most issues by taking a few common-sense precautions:

Don’t leave valuables in your rental car (keep the glove box open to show it’s empty).

Keep personal items close at busy places like beaches or parking areas with security.

Avoid very isolated areas after dark.

Keep jewelry and phones discreet, just as you would while traveling anywhere.

Stick to lively areas such as Jan Thiel, Mambo Beach, Punda, and Pietermaai at night.

Following these simple habits, most travelers never experience any problems at all.

Local Laws to Be Aware Of

Drugs:
Possession or use of drugs, including soft drugs, is illegal and penalties can be serious.
Prostitution:
The island actively fights forced prostitution. Participating in illegal services is punishable.
LGBTQ+ Travelers:

Curacao is friendly and welcoming. Laws and social attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people are similar to the Netherlands.

Emergency Contacts in Curacao

If you ever need help, emergency services respond quickly:

Police & Fire Department: 911
Ambulance: 912
Coast Guard: 913
Tourism Police: 917
ForenSys (car accident): 9233
Huisartsenpost (after-hours urgent care): +5999 462-9252

Hotels and resorts can also assist you right away.

Curacao is a beautiful, colorful island filled with friendly people and a relaxed Caribbean vibe. With a bit of awareness and basic travel precautions, you can explore the island with confidence and enjoy everything it has to offer.