Is the Sunscape Curaçao Hotel Worth It? An Honest Review with Pros and Cons

Accommodations in Curacao, Practical Tips, Vacations to Curaçao

Is the Sunscape Curaçao Hotel Worth It? An Honest Review with Pros and Cons

Are you planning a trip to Curaçao and wondering if the Sunscape hotel is a good choice? This all-inclusive beachfront resort is one of the most sought-after on the island, especially by travelers looking for comfort, affordable prices and a family atmosphere. But is it really worth it?

In this article we tell you the main advantages and disadvantages of staying at Sunscape Curaçao, and answer the 5 most frequently asked questions from travelers before booking.

Sunscape Curaçao Hotel Overview

Sunscape Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino is a 4-star all-inclusive hotel located near the Mambo Beach area and just minutes from downtown Willemstad. It appeals to couples, families and groups looking for a relaxing all-inclusive getaway: meals, drinks, entertainment and direct access to the beach.

Advantages of staying at Sunscape Curaçao

All-inclusive: Meals, beverages (including alcohol), activities and non-motorized water sports are included, ideal to avoid unforeseen expenses.
Direct access to the beach: The hotel is located on a quiet beach, perfect for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing under the palm trees.
Snorkeling from the shore: Right in front of the hotel there is a coral reef where you can snorkel without a tour.
Ideal for families: It has a supervised children's club, children's pools and family rooms.
Strategic location: Only a 10-minute drive to the center of Willemstad and walking distance to Mambo Beach Boulevard with stores, bars and restaurants.
Nightly entertainment and casino: It offers live shows in the evening and a small casino for nightly fun.

Disadvantages to consider

Not a luxury resort: The hotel is a few years old and may not meet the expectations of those looking for high-end finishes or gourmet cuisine.
Variable service: Some guests mention that service and food can be inconsistent, especially in high season.
Restaurants with limited seating: Although there are a la carte restaurants, reservations are required and seating is limited.
Crowded common areas: During holidays or high season, the beach and pools can get quite crowded.
Limited Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is only available in common areas. In the rooms it is chargeable, unless the category is upgraded.

Book here or explore the location

👉 "Check prices and availability for Sunscape Curaçao".

5 frequently asked questions about the Sunscape Curaçao hotel

1. Is it only for families or also for couples?
Both. Although popular with families, couples enjoy the adults-only pool, spa and ocean-view rooms.

2. Are excursions included?
No. Activities such as tours, diving or boat trips have an additional cost, but there is a tour desk inside the hotel.

3. Is it safe to leave the hotel to explore?
Yes, Curaçao is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. You can walk to Mambo Beach or take a cab to Willemstad without any problem.

Is there a dress code in restaurants?
Yes. Resort casual clothing is fine, but swimsuits are not allowed in restaurants. Some places require long pants for men at dinner.

5. Is it possible to snorkel directly at the hotel beach?
Yes, there is a nearby reef with lots of tropical fish. You can bring your own equipment or borrow it from the hotel.

Conclusion: Is it worth it?

If you are looking for an all-inclusive Caribbean experience, without luxuries but comfortable and well located, Sunscape Curaçao is an excellent choice. Although it is not a luxury resort, its beach, family activities and relaxed atmosphere make it a good choice for those traveling on a moderate budget.

Not ideal for:

Travelers seeking absolute luxury
Lovers of gourmet haute cuisine

Perfect for:

Families with children
Snorkeling travelers
Couples looking for comfort without spending too much
Groups and destination weddings

Buy an eSIM for travel to Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire

Practical Tips

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An eSIM is the easiest, fastest, and most affordable way to stay connected during your trip to the Caribbean. Holafly gives you the peace of mind of having internet access at the airport, at your accommodations, and while you explore the idyllic beaches of Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire.

👉 Buy your Holafly eSIM now and enjoy a seamless trip

Why do you need an eSIM to travel to Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire?

Traveling to the Caribbean can be an unforgettable experience, but if you don't plan how to connect to the internet, you could face excessive roaming charges, trouble hailing a taxi from the airport, or even difficulty finding your accommodations on Google Maps.

An eSIM (virtual SIM) lets you connect to the internet as soon as you land—no need to swap out your physical SIM card, no contracts, and no hassle. And best of all: you can activate it in minutes right from your phone.

What is Holafly, and why is it ideal for the Caribbean?

Holafly is a company that specializes in eSIMs for international travelers. Its service is designed to provide internet access without roaming charges, without surprise bills, and with support in Spanish.

Among its advantages:

Quick Installation via QR Code
Stable connection with local carriers in Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire
24/7 Support in Spanish
Unlimited data plans in various destinations

Holafly's Plans for Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire

Holafly offers a specific plan that covers the three destinations in the Dutch Caribbean— Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire—making it the perfect choice if you plan to visit more than one island during your trip.

Caribbean Plan: Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire

Duration	Approximate price	Details	Compatibility
5 days	$27 USD	Unlimited*	eSIM-compatible iPhone and Android devices
7 days	$34 USD	Unlimited*	✅
10 days	$44 USD	Unlimited*	✅
15 days	$54 USD	Unlimited*	✅
20 days	$64 USD	Unlimited*	✅

Holafly offers unlimited data in many destinations. In these countries, this is considered "fair use," which means that if you exceed reasonable usage limits, your speed may be temporarily reduced.

What does it include?

Immediate Internet access upon landing
Compatibility with apps such as WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, Instagram, and more
Keep your WhatsApp number to stay in touch with your contacts
A reliable local network on every island

How to Buy and Activate Your Holafly eSIM?

Step 1: Check if your phone is compatible with eSIM

Check the list of eSIM-compatible cell phones on the Holafly website.

Step 2: Purchase the plan that's right for you

👉 Buy your eSIM for Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire here

Step 3: Scan the QR code

Once you purchase your eSIM, you'll receive an email with the QR code and installation instructions.

Step 4: Turn it on when you land

Activate your eSIM just before you land or when you arrive at the hotel, and you'll be connected right away.

Advantages Over Other Connection Options

Option	Cost	Installation	Regional Coverage	Support Language
Holafly eSIM	Low	Very easy (QR)	Curaçao, Aruba, Bonaire	Spanish
Local SIM	Medium	In-person	An island	English or Dutch
Carrier Roaming	High	Automatic	Depends on the plan	Spanish
Free WiFi	Free	Requires searching for a network	Limited	-

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIMs for the Caribbean

Can I use the same eSIM for all three islands?

Yes. Holafly's plan covers Curaçao, Aruba, and Bonaire, which is ideal if you're planning to go island hopping.

What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?

You can opt for a local physical SIM card, although it's not as convenient. Consider renting a Wi-Fi hotspot or switching devices for future trips.

Can I make calls with Holafly?

Holafly is for data only, but you can make calls using WhatsApp, Telegram, or Skype.

✈️ Ready to fly from Curaçao to Bonaire?

Avoid complications and secure your seat at the best available rates.
👉 Book your flight to Bonaire from Curaçao now

Shelly

Curacao My Way

Is it possible to travel by ferry from Curaçao or Aruba to Bonaire?

Bonaire, Practical Tips

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One of the most common questions among travelers visiting the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) is whether it’s possible to travel by ferry between these islands. And although it might seem logical at first glance, the short answer is no: there is currently no regular ferry service between Aruba, Curaçao, and Bonaire.

Why aren't there any ferries between the islands?

Although these islands are relatively close to each other geographically (for example, Bonaire is only 80 km from Curaçao), several factors prevent the establishment of a regular ferry service:

Strong ocean currents, which make safe and steady travel difficult.
Lack of adequate port infrastructure for passenger and vehicle ferries.
Low economic viability: Studies have concluded that there is not enough demand to sustain a daily or regular ferry service.
High operating costs, especially when considering international safety and comfort standards.

So, how do you travel between the islands?

The only practical and available way to travel between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao is by plane. Several regional airlines operate routes between the islands:

Divi Divi Air
EZ Air
E-Liner Airways

The flights are short (about 20 to 30 minutes), but the travel process isn't as simple as flying there and back on the same day without any formalities.

Can I go and come back the same day?

Technically, yes, but it’s not as simple or as quick as many people think, especially if you’re coming from a Latin American country with no prior experience traveling this way. Although the islands belong to the same Kingdom of the Netherlands, each one has its own immigration control.

This means that the process for traveling between them is just like any other international trip:

Requirements and Procedures:

You should check in at the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours in advance, even if it's a short flight.
You must present your valid passport (an identity card or national ID alone is not accepted, as is the case for flights within South America).
You must fill out immigration forms online (such as the ED Card in Aruba or the Digital Immigration Card in Curaçao).
You go through security and immigration checks both when you leave and when you arrive.
In some cases, if you travel between islands twice on the same day (for example, a round trip from Curaçao to Bonaire), you might have to go through immigration up to four times.

Is it worth going just for one day?

Unless you have a very specific reason, we do not recommend taking a same-day round-trip flight between islands. Although the flight itself is short, the total travel time (check-in, immigration, boarding, arrival, and departure) can take between 3 and 5 hours each way.

Tips for First-Time Travelers

Plan to stay at least one night on the island you're visiting.
Always carry your passport.
Check with your airline about immigration requirements before purchasing your flight.
Check to see if you need to fill out any online forms before traveling.
Avoid itineraries with tight schedules, especially if you're connecting international flights.

Conclusion

Although the ABC Islands are close to one another, traveling between them isn't like taking a bus between cities. There are no ferries, and flights require going through immigration procedures similar to those for any international trip. If you plan to visit more than one island, it’s best to take your time, spending at least one night on each, and always making sure your documents are in order.

Would you like help planning your route between Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao? I can suggest optimized itineraries with realistic time frames.

✈️ Ready to fly from Curaçao to Bonaire?

Avoid complications and secure your seat at the best available rates.
👉 Book your flight to Bonaire from Curaçao now

Shelly

Curacao My Way

Where to Eat in Curaçao

Curacao Restaurants

Curacao's cuisine is the result of a blend of Spanish, Dutch, African, and Asian culinary traditions. This makes the food in Curacao very diverse and full of flavor.
Below is a list of about 20 recommended restaurants for when you want to enjoy a good meal during your stay in Curaçao.

In Willemstad

IGUANA CAFÉ

The best cocktails and snacks with a great view
One of the favorite restaurants of tourists and locals alike, where you can enjoy delicious appetizers and the most delicious piña colada cocktail on the island. The panorama of colorful monumental houses and passing ships is unsurpassed. The restaurant has a Latin touch to make you feel at home.

Where is it? 13 Handelskade, Punda

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/iguanacafecur

ZUS DI PLAZA @ PLAZA BIEU MARKET

The Best Local Food
A flea market with several small restaurants, where you can eat together with the local inhabitants. Arriving from the main market, Zus di Plaza is the last restaurant, on the left hand side.

Here you will find local dishes such as kid and beef stew, the famous Giambo, an okra soup with mixed meat that has a slimy texture. You'll either hate it or love it. I don't like it very much. Instead, I always go for fresh fish and delicious pumpkin pancakes (for dessert).

Where is it? On Ryuterkade, next to the main market, in Punda

See more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Zus-di-Plaza-Curacao/100064172317199/

LA BOHEME

A Little Piece of Latin America in Curaçao
This charming spot is owned by a Chilean family. Make yourself at home and enjoy an arepa, a wrap, a burger, or a delicious milkshake in a cozy atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for people-watching in the heart of Punda.

Tip:
Have dinner on Thursday nights during "Punda Vibes," when there's live music in town and a great atmosphere.

Where is it? 4 Columbiastraat, in Punda.

See more:

https://www.facebook.com/labohemecuracao

THE CAPTAIN

The best burgers at the best price
This restaurant is located below the popular De Gouverneur restaurant, overlooking Handelskade in Punda. However, at "The Captain" you pay a fraction of the price you would pay at the "De Gouverneur".

The Captain specializes in steaks, burgers, and fresh tuna every day.

Tip:
The Angus burger. The burger has a pleasant smoky flavor, and the fried onion rings add a crunchy touch. On Fridays, there's happy hour from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Where is it? 9E Ruivilleweg, in Otrobanda

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/TheCaptainbarCuracao

ROZENDAELS

Caribbean restaurant , excellent quality and value
Rozendaels, now located in a modern building, offers an extensive menu featuring international dishes and local specialties such as beef and fish stews.

Tip:
If you want to try an authentic Dutch Caribbean dish, try Keshi yená, which literally means “stuffed cheese.” You’ll be served a plate of Gouda cheese stuffed with chicken, raisins, and vegetables.

Where is it? Penstraat 35, across from the Avila Beach Hotel.

See more: https://www.facebook.com/Rozendaels/

MOSA CAÑA BAR & KITCHEN

Excellent cocktails and tapas-style food
At this trendy, high-end restaurant, you can share Latin/Caribbean-inspired tapas-style dishes, such as ceviche, tacos, and rum-glazed ribs.

Where is it? Penstraat 41-43

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/mosa.canabarkitchen

FORT NASSAU

The Most Romantic Restaurant with an Unbeatable View
Located in an old 18th-century fortress, it offers a nearly 360-degree view of Willemstad and its harbor. As you climb the stairs leading to the restaurant, you can already feel the special charm of this historic place.

Tip:
Ask for a table on the terrace and arrive before sunset to enjoy the best views.

Where is it? Fort Nassauweg.

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/fortnassau.curacao

BARIO FOOD YARD

The Best Fast-Food Restaurant
Before you go inside the restaurant, take a moment to admire the colorful graffiti on the walls. It’s the perfect spot for some Instagram photos. Inside the restaurant, they’ve set up a mini food court with food trucks (service windows) serving all kinds of snacks. It’s a nice place to have a few drinks and grab a bite to eat with friends.

Tip:

Every Thursday, you can sign up for a guided tour of Otrobanda with Kurt, starting at the Bario Hotel. The price is $10 per person, and you can reserve a table for lunch at Barrio Urban Streetfood after the tour.

Where is it? De Rouvilleweg, Otrobanda.

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/bariohotelcuracao

Restaurants in Downtown Willemstad

NUMBER TEN

The best breakfasts and lunches (including vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options)

You can dine indoors or on the cozy patio. This restaurant has something for everyone. Our recommendations: the Green Egg salmon club sandwich and the breakfast burrito. Delicious coffee and pastries.

Recommendation:
Number Ten is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, so it's a good idea to make a reservation. Closed in the evenings and on weekends (it's not a restaurant for dinner).

Where is it located? Santa Roosaweg, 10

See more: https://www.facebook.com/numbertencuracao

TONY ROMA'S

The best breakfasts and lunches (including vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options)

A pleasant place to have lunch or dinner at any time of day in the open air, open from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week. There are daily specials and an affordable lunch menu. Tony Roma’s is famous for its delicious ribs. Daily happy hour from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Recommended: Shrimp pasta in Alfredo sauce and fillet medallions; To drink: Tony Roma's signature cocktail: Curaçao rum punch. A huge glass that you can't lift with just one hand.

Where is it? Schottegatweg Oost, 171

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/Tonyromascuracao

CHOPSTIX SUSHI

The Best Sushi on the Island

Chopstix has been the locals’ favorite sushi restaurant for years. You can eat inside or outside on the patio. The menu is extensive and the portions are generous. Try the crispy Curaçao roll, wrapped in salmon and fried in a sweet tempura batter.

Where is it located? St. Roosaweg, 33

See more:
https://www.facebook.com/chopstixsushi

Restaurants in Piscadera

TOMATOES

The best sunset with the best pizza

The tables, with a direct view of the ocean, are the perfect spot to enjoy a thin-crust pizza while watching the boats go by at sunset.

Recommendation:
If you're not quite ready to head back to the hotel after dinner, stop by the neighboring seaside restaurant, Pirate Bay, where you can enjoy a delicious cocktail with your feet in the sand.

Where is it? Piscadera Bay

See more: https://www.facebook.com/TomatoesCuracao

FISHING

The best fish on the island

It's only open Friday through Monday.
There is a reason why the lines are long at this fishmonger's. The fish is very fresh, delicious and affordable. The concept is simple: You decide the type of fish you want to order and the size of the portion. Then, you order the fish and the side dishes of your choice at the counter. They serve you a drink at another counter and you wait at the table until your food is brought to you.

Tip: Try the medium-rare yellowfin tuna served with a sesame seed crust, soy sauce and wasabi. You will not be disappointed.

Where is it? Piscadera Bay

See more: https://www.facebook.com/piscaderanoreservations

Restaurants on Mambo Beach Boulevard

PIZZA MARE ITALIAN RESTAURANT

The best Italian food and a great atmosphere
You'll also find gluten-free options here.

Where is it? Mambo Beach Boulevard

See more: https://www.facebook.com/pizzamare

THE GREEN HOUSE

The best breakfasts and lunches (including vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options)

Greenhouse originally started as a Lebanese food restaurant, but has expanded its options considerably, with an extensive menu with all kinds of international dishes. Still, Greenhouse is the place to go on the island for Lebanese food.

Where is it? Mambo Beach Boulevard

See more: https://www.facebook.com/thegreenhousecuracao

Restaurants in Jan Thiel

ZANZIBAR BEACH & RESTAURANT

Good value food in one of the best tourist areas of Curaçao.

Especially famous for its pizzas.

Recommendation: If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, don’t come on Saturdays, since Zanzibar’s happy hour is one of the most popular on the island. It’ll be hard to find parking on a Saturday. Looking for a more chic atmosphere? Papagayo Beach Club is right on the beach. Here you can enjoy a more elegant dining experience, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea.

Where is it? Jan Thiel Beach

See more: https://www.facebook.com/ZanzibarCuracao/

Restaurants in Westpoint

EETCAFE BY BUURVROUW

A peaceful atmosphere under a huge palapa

This restaurant is easily recognizable by its large palapa. The restaurant opens at 2:00 p.m. for lunch and dinner. There’s an extensive menu; our favorites are the salad with goat cheese croquettes and the barbecue chicken pizza with garlic sauce.

Where is it? Via Westpoint, near Groteberg

See more: https://www.facebook.com/DeBuurvrouwCuracao

KOMEDOR KRIOYO - LANDHUIS DOKTERSTUIN

A local restaurant located on an old hacienda
Another favorite spot to sample local dishes, such as beef stew, goat, and fish.
Recommendation:
If you go on a Sunday, arrive early, around noon, because it gets crowded later.

Where is it? On Westpoint Road, before you reach Barber, on the left-hand side.

See more: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantkomedorkrioyo

SHELTER ROCK PARADISE

A hidden gem in the West Point area

This is a special place that’s completely off the beaten path, on a side road between Soto and Lagun. The restaurant offers a beautiful view of the countryside and features décor with antiques and artwork. Shelter Rock specializes in local cuisine. Its Friday “coconut night” is very popular (reservations are required). The coconuts are stuffed with chicken and seafood and heated for hours over hot coals.

Where is it? Flip 17

See more: https://www.facebook.com/shelterrockparadise/

SOL FOOD

For the island’s biggest pizza and mouthwatering brownies

In addition to pizza, the American owners serve fish, steaks, and salads. It’s only open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. If you’re coming to Westpunt specifically for this restaurant, be sure to make a reservation. The patio is small and fills up very quickly.

Where is it? On the way to Kalki Beach at Sunshine Getaway Curaçao in the town of Westpunt

See more: https://www.facebook.com/Sol-Food-at-Sunshine-Getaway-Curacao-245884928763809

Cab fares in Curaçao: Updated guide

Practical Tips, Transportation in Curacao

Cab fares in Curaçao: Updated guide

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If you are planning a vacation in Curaçao and you are not going to rent a car, it is essential to understand how cabs work on the island. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, cabs in Curaçao have fixed fares set by the government, but there are also recent aspects you should be aware of to avoid overpaying.

In this guide we explain in detail how much a cab costs in Curaçao, how prices are regulated, and which tourist areas are covered by the most common services.

BOOK A PRIVATE TRANSFER

Cab drivers have the possibility to promote themselves independently as service providers. Therefore, each one looks for a way to stand out either by keeping a car in excellent condition, by offering private services, by providing pick-up services with amenities such as bottle of water, luxury vehicles, etc. This is in order to attract better customers.

You can book your private transfer to or from the hotel with me here:
- The selection of 1 transfer already includes up to 2 persons.
- You book by paying 20% and the rest you pay later.

Private means: no waiting, exclusive driver in the arrival hall for you and no stops at other hotels along the way.

How are cab fares regulated in Curaçao?

In Curaçao, cab fares are regulated by the government, which means that there are official maximum fares. Legally, cab drivers cannot charge more than this price to customers. However, they can offer lower rates if they wish.

Recent changes in pricing policy

For a long time, cab drivers affiliated with SINUSTA, an association of cab drivers, agreed among themselves on fixed prices for specific routes, such as trips between Hato airport and the main tourist areas. This is no longer allowed.

According to the Landsverordening inzake concurrentie (Curaçao Competition Act), collective price agreements between cab drivers are not allowed, even within associations. From now on, each driver must set his fare individually, as long as it does not exceed the government's maximum limit.

The competition authority FTAC is monitoring this compliance and may impose penalties or fines if cab drivers do not follow the new guidelines.

Fares from Hato International Airport

One of the most frequent routes for tourists is from the airport to the hotel zones. These are the approximate fares (USD):

Destination	Estimated Fare (USD)
Willemstad (center)	$35 - $45
Mambo Beach / Seaquarium	$45 - $50
Jan Thiel Beach	$60 - $65
Westpunt / Kalki Beach	$80 - $85

✔️ Tip: Book in advance your private private transfer from the airport to ensure availability and avoid negotiations upon arrival.

Transfers to popular beaches and tourist areas

Origin	Destination	Approximate Fare (USD)
Willemstad	Cas Abao Beach	$90 - $112.50
Willemstad	Grote Knip	$100 - $125
Willemstad	Porto Mari Beach	$25 per person (minimum 6)
Willemstad	Mambo Beach	$10 per person (minimum 6)

Some cabs offer shared fares per person, with a minimum number of passengers.

Cab per hour

If you prefer a more personalized service or a private tour, you can hire a cab by the hour:

Average rate: 90 to 100 ANG per hour (approx. $50 - $56 USD)
Includes waiting time and multiple stops

Payment methods and tips

Most accept only cash (guilders or dollars).
Ask first if they accept credit cards
Confirm the rate before the trip
Cabs are not metered
Some services apply a night surcharge of 25% (from 23:00 to 07:00).

Main areas of the island

Willemstad: Punda, Otrobanda and Scharloo
Bandariba (East): Jan Thiel, Caracasbaai
Bandabou (West): Grote Knip, Cas Abao, Forti Beach

Recommended cab applications and services

24-7 Taxi Curaçao: Book online or via the app; fixed rates based on route
curacao.com/24-7-taxi-curacao

Want to avoid surprises and ensure a safe ride upon arrival?

Book your transfer with me from Curaçao Airport to your accommodations with a reliable, Spanish-speaking, and punctualdriver.

Shelly

Curacao My Way

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