Weather

Curacao is situated 12° north of the Equator and is in close proximity to the tropics. Curacao is a warm and sunny tropical island that has a favorable climate all year round. Temperatures average around 85° F through the year. The island faces cool trade winds from the east and the winds increase in intensity during spring. Between October and February, the islanders deal with short, infrequent showers that mostly occur after dark. This is the rainy season but daytime conditions can be categorized as sunny. The annual rainfall is a standard 22 inches. Curacao is situated slightly off the hurricane belt and hence the regularity of tropical storms and unfavorable weather conditions related to it is considerably low key as compared to other islands in the region.

1. Best Times to Go

Though largely sunny, the island remains cool throughout the year. This increases its popularity as a holiday destination as the evenings are pleasant and tourists can sit back and take advantage of the cool trade winds that are an integral part of the Curacao climate. Between December and April, a large number of tourists head for Curacao as warm weather proves to be a respite. Apart from this, it is a major holiday as Christmas, New Year, President's Day and school breaks in March are all part of this period. Though it rains during this period, tourists are not too bothered as Curacao falls outside the hurricane belt.

2. What to Wear

The temperature tends to be warm all through the year and hence casual tropical clothing is apt. When indoors, most establishments control temperatures with air conditioning, which warrants the need of a light jacket or long sleeved uppers. Locals tend to be fashionable, especially for indoor social gatherings in the evenings. When outdoor, casual clothing is the need of the hour. For women, wearing wrap-arounds, sarongs and skirts may be an ideal option. Certain upscale restaurants do not allow patrons with short skirts or sandals. Jackets are customary at some casinos. Though not a conservative set of people, short clothing, swimwear and revealing outfits are best worn at beaches.