Jan Thiel is where we live and work, so this list is not borrowed from a travel site — it is what we actually tell our guests over breakfast. Ten things to do in and around Jan Thiel, from a five-minute stroll to a full day out.
1. Start at Jan Thiel Beach
The obvious one first: a sheltered bay with calm, clear water, sunbeds, restaurants and watersports, a five-minute walk from Hibiscus Beach House. Great for a first day of doing absolutely nothing.
2. Eat and drink your way along the beach clubs
Jan Thiel has a lively strip of beach clubs and restaurants — from casual lunch with your feet in the sand to proper dinners. Ask us where to go for what: we know which kitchen is having a good year.
3. Walk the salt flats and spot flamingos
Right behind Jan Thiel lies a stretch of old salt flats where flamingos regularly come to feed. Go early in the morning or towards sunset, bring water, and keep a respectful distance — it is one of the easiest wildlife moments on the island.
4. Snorkel the Tugboat at Caracas Bay
Ten minutes away sits Curaçao’s most famous snorkel spot: a shallow shipwreck full of fish and coral. More snorkel ideas in our guide to the best snorkeling spots on Curaçao.
5. Paddle the Spanish Water
The large inner bay behind Jan Thiel is protected from the waves — perfect for stand-up paddling and kayaking, with mangroves and hidden corners to explore.
6. Take a boat trip
From snorkel trips along the coast to a sunset cruise or the full-day classic to Klein Curaçao — we can book a boat tour for you with operators we trust.
7. Try an underwater scooter
We rent out underwater scooters ourselves — an easy, fun way to cover more reef without tiring yourself out.
8. Watch the sunset with a drink
End the day on the beach with a cold drink as the sun drops into the Caribbean. Simple, free, and somehow never gets old.
9. Spend a day in Willemstad
The colourful UNESCO World Heritage capital is around 15 minutes by car: the Handelskade waterfront, the floating Queen Emma Bridge, Punda and Otrobanda. Go on your own or join one of our island tours — and read our parking guide if you drive.
10. Explore the west coast beaches
Save at least one day for Grote Knip, Playa Lagun, Cas Abao or Porto Marie on the west side of the island — the drive itself is part of the experience. A rental car is the easiest way to get there.
Staying with us? Just ask — the best tips change with the season, and we like keeping this list honest.
Diana & Martin
Hibiscus Beach House Curaçao