Not all Caribbean islands offer the same level of welcome for LGBTQ+ travelers
But Curaçao is a clear standout. That became immediately evident during my recent visit with my husband to attend Curaçao Pride, the island’s annual LGBTQ+ celebration that blends Caribbean warmth with genuine inclusivity.
According to André Rojer, Product Development Manager at the Curaçao Tourist Board, the island’s respect for diversity is deeply rooted rather than performative. Curaçao’s long-standing relationship with the Netherlands has helped shape an open, progressive mindset, he explains, noting that many locals study, live, or vacation there. “Our welcoming attitude toward LGBTQ+ travelers is not staged,” Rojer says. “It’s simply part of our DNA.”
That spirit was evident from the very first day. After checking into the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort—one of many LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations on the island—we set out with local guide Tirzah Statia for an evening exploration of Otrobanda. One of Willemstad’s most historic neighborhoods, Otrobanda takes on a special charm after dark, when its colonial architecture glows beneath streetlights.
Our walk led us to Kura Hulanda Village, a pedestrian-friendly enclave of restored buildings filled with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. There, we stopped at the Bagira Art Gallery to attend Sip & Sign, a Pride event that combined creativity, cocktails, and community. As attendees painted signs for the upcoming Pride parade, the atmosphere felt relaxed, social, and genuinely inclusive. People of all ages, genders, and orientations mingled freely—an ideal setting for visitors to connect with locals and fellow travelers alike.
A Parade That Belongs to Everyone
The following evening, Curaçao Pride Parade brought the city to life with vibrant color and infectious energy. Beginning near Renaissance Mall and Rif Fort, the nighttime parade offered a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat. As drag queen DJs spun music and cocktails flowed, the crowd steadily grew in anticipation.
When the parade finally stepped off, it exceeded expectations: live drummers, trumpet players, and a massive rainbow flag carried by dozens of participants filled the streets. What stood out most, however, was the diversity of the crowd—young and old, locals and visitors, people of countless nationalities and identities marching side by side.
“It’s not a gay parade,” Rojer later told me. “It’s everybody’s celebration.”
Crossing the floating Queen Emma Bridge together, carried by music and a soft Caribbean breeze, the sense of collective joy was unmistakable.
Rojer noted that Curaçao Pride has grown increasingly international over the years. Flags from Curaçao, Brazil, the United States, Colombia, and beyond waved proudly—reflecting the island’s role as a cultural crossroads. “It’s a celebration of the world,” he said, “in a place where almost everyone speaks at least four languages. It’s a true melting pot.”
The parade concluded near Willemstad’s iconic “Curaçao” and “Dushi” signs, where live music, drag performances, and dancing continued late into the night. The unveiling of a bold new Pride mural by Bagira—the Algerian-Hungarian artist whose gallery hosted Sip & Sign—added a striking visual centerpiece to the festivities. Later, the celebration spilled into the street at Gaze Bar & Lounge, the island’s only fully LGBTQ+ bar.
The weekend wrapped up with Freskura, the official closing party at La Coco Jamboo Republica. With drag performances, live music, and DJs, the event felt both high-energy and intimate—made even more special by the familiar faces we’d encountered throughout the weekend.
Beyond Pride: A Year-Round LGBTQ+ Destination
Curaçao’s appeal extends far beyond Pride week. One of the most meaningful experiences of the trip was an LGBTQ+ walking tour led by journalist and historian Nelly Rosa, who specializes in local queer history. Available year-round, her tours spotlight LGBTQ+-owned and friendly businesses while tracing the island’s journey toward equality, including early Pride efforts, community trailblazers, and milestones such as Curaçao’s first official same-sex marriage.
For travel advisors and LGBTQ+ visitors alike, Rojer offers simple but important advice: explore beyond the resort.
“Encourage your clients to get out and explore,” he says. “Rent a car, discover the 40 beaches, 60 dive sites, museums, and cultural attractions. That’s how they’ll truly experience Curaçao.”
Snorkeling, diving, and sampling the island’s diverse cuisine are among the must-do experiences, he adds.
Curaçao Pride takes place every year in early October, with details for the 2026 celebration to be announced soon. For LGBTQ+ travelers seeking an authentic, welcoming Caribbean destination—one where inclusivity feels natural rather than curated—Curaçao delivers, beautifully and year-round.
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