Jan Thiel

Jan Thiel is one of the best-known holiday areas on the southeast coast of Curaçao. The area combines a lively beach, restaurants and beach clubs with quiet residential neighbourhoods and nature. You will find many holiday apartments and villas here, which makes it a popular base for families, couples and travellers who want to discover the island with a rental car.

Beach, restaurants and a lively atmosphere

Jan Thiel Beach is the tourist heart of the area. Along the beach you will find several places to eat, drink and relax. You can swim, snorkel or rent a sun lounger. Because restaurants and shops are close by, you hardly need to bring anything for a full beach day.

Well-known venues in the area include Zanzibar, Zest and Koko's. During the day the atmosphere is relaxed, while some beach clubs get livelier later in the day. Fees may apply for access to the beach and the use of sun loungers.

Discover the nature around Jan Thiel

Besides the bustle of the beach, Jan Thiel also has a quiet side. At the Jan Thiel salt pans you can walk along lagoons and through a remarkably dry coastal landscape. Various bird species live in the area, including flamingos. A walk is especially pleasant early in the morning because of the temperature.

The nearby Caracasbaai is also worth a visit. Here you will find quiet spots by the water and you can explore the area around Fort Beekenburg. At Tugboat Beach lies a sunken tugboat that is a popular spot for snorkeling.

Exploring Jan Thiel with a rental car

Many facilities in the tourist part of Jan Thiel are close together. Still, a rental car comes in handy when you want to see more of Curaçao. From Jan Thiel you can easily drive to Spaanse Water, Mambo Beach and the historic centre of Willemstad. For a day trip to the beaches on the west coast or to Christoffelpark, your own car gives you extra freedom.

With a rental car you can combine several places in one day. You decide where to stop and you do not depend on organised transport. That makes Jan Thiel a practical base for a holiday in which you want to both relax and explore the island.

Practical tips for your stay

Jan Thiel has supermarkets, shops and restaurants for your daily groceries. You can park at the beach and at various facilities, although it can be hard to find a parking space nearby during busy periods. Do not leave any valuables visible in the car.

Heading out for a whole day? Bring enough drinking water and sun protection. If you plan to visit several beaches, your own snorkeling gear is handy. Keep in mind that some beaches charge an entrance fee and that sun loungers are often rented separately.

With a rental car from Goed & Goedkoop Autoverhuur you can easily discover the different sides of Curaçao from Jan Thiel: from lively beaches and cosy restaurants to quiet bays and nature reserves.