Curaçao: A Gay-Friendly Vacation Where LGBT Fantasy Meets Luxe Reality

Curaçao, an island nation north of Venezuela, is known for its blazing azure waters, pristine beaches and stunning resorts. Its capital Willemstad is bustling, and be sure to take pictures on its Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge (pictured); it’s a site to see and vibrantly lit at night.

Eric’s ATV Adventures is a fun way to explore the island. The company offers an ATV and Snorkeling Tour where they take you to explore a sunken tugboat. Hato Caves are a great place to explore beautiful limestone formations or go on an Indian Trail Walk to spot ancient Caiquetio carvings. The Curaçao Ostrich Farm is one of the largest ostrich farms outside Africa with more than 600 birds. Nearby Curaloe Plantation is a perfect spot to pick up some lotions and gels to protect you from the sun.

Where to stay? The Kura Hulanda Village & Spa features 82 rooms gathered from a collection of unique meticulously restored 18th-and-19th century Dutch Colonial Caribbean buildings. Explore the cobblestone pathways of the eight block village (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Kura Hulanda Lodge & Beach Club, GHL Hotel Curaçao, located just off an enormous natural reef, offers an impressive white coral beach, an on-site dive shop and daily trips to Curaçao’s famous dive sites. Or simply book a poolside massage in the Spa Pavilion to enjoy the breeze. Feeling adventurous? Go on a hunt for “Indian Cave,” a hidden cavern offering a unique look that traces the Arawak-Taino left behind.

Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort Curaçao has created a Royal Retreat package in the suite where the Dutch royal family has vacationed. The 1,400 square-foot accommodations include a two-story great room, living room and multiple balconies. The package includes airport transfers, butler service, a couples massage with bubbly and snacks, welcome champagne, a six course, in-suite dinner and full-day private boat charter to nearby Klein Curaça, including cocktail service and a picnic lunch. The resort is in a 2,000-acre gated plantation with a beach, three pools, a golf course, bike trails, two marinas, a spa, a dive and water sports center, tennis center, iguana feeding, yoga, pilates and a botanical walk.

The Floris Suite Hotel is a gay-friendly 72-suite property offering an adults-only experience. Book the Ocean Front Premium Suite with high-end Italian furniture, sweeping views of the Caribbean sea and a private beach. Make friends at Moomba Beach Club on the most gay-friendly beach on the island or relax quietly at the Water Club Spa, which is free for hotel guests (other visitors can purchase a day pass). After 6pm the spa is open to men only.