There are a few critical ingredients needed when formulating a new Pickleball Getaways destination for our clients- quality courts, resort amenities, social spaces, and breathtaking views are always our standard. We’ve been able to nail this recipe in countries all over the globe, and it never gets less exciting when we find a new location that checks all of these boxes while also providing fresh and unique flavors to a Getaway. When Dekel visited Sandals Royal Curaçao in April, swam in the nearby vibrant, shallow reefs, and enjoyed fresh-made smoothies every day after pickleball, he knew it had all the fixings of a five-star trip. We are excited to announce our first Pickleball Getaways in Curaçao will take place September 24th – 30th. You won’t want to miss out on this one!
Where Is Curaçao? Sunny Skies Below the Hurricane Belt
Curaçao is located in the Dutch Caribbean, also known as the “ABC Islands,” which include Aruba and Bonaire. These islands are situated just north of South America, with only 45 miles separating Curaçao from the coast of Venezuela. Known for their year-round sunny and dry conditions, the ABC Islands rarely see storms during the Caribbean hurricane season, making them an ideal beach destination in the late summer. While all three Dutch constituents offer stunning beaches, abundant snorkeling, and luxury accommodations, Curaçao shines for its rich cultural beauty.
Willemstad and Curaçao’s Rich Cultural History
While the Spanish were the first Europeans to arrive in Curaçao in 1499, the island has been part of the Netherlands since 1634, and Dutch is its official language. However, you’re also likely to hear English, Spanish, and the regional Creole language, Papiamento, being spoken at any given time while walking around the capital city, Willemstad, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views of the city are just as rich as its history, with pastel-colored buildings lining the waterfront. Enjoying Curacao and learning its cultural history are inextricably linked. Whether it is the country’s food, hospitality, art, patriotism, or even its unique compliment of calling something “dushi’, it likely came from the cultural blending that Curacao is known for. To get an idea of the history behind the iconic Blue Curaçao liquor, I visited Landaus Chobolobo, a local distillery just a short drive outside of the Willemstad city center. There, you can experience a guided tour, tasting, and souvenir shop.
Sandals Royal Curaçao: An All-Inclusive Food and Drink Paradise
While Aruba has long been the most popular island for visiting tourists, tourism in Curaçao is rapidly increasing, owing in part to new luxury accommodations on the island. Sandals Royal Curacao is an all-inclusive resort boasting eight restaurants, three food trucks, and 13 bars on its property.
Saying that you ate at every dining spot by the end of your trip is an accomplishment in and of itself. One of my favorite things about this property is how diverse the restaurants are- there was always something that fit my mood or cravings.
Vincent was my favorite of the two reservation-only dining options on the property. Its French / European menu included some of my favorite dishes I ate during our stay.
Aolos had my favorite view. Whether you opt to go for breakfast (my preference) or dinner at sunset, the sweeping ocean view is a must-see during your Getaway!
Infinity Pools, Private Beaches, and World-Class Snorkeling
Beyond its extensive dining and drinking options, the resort features multiple pools and an expansive beach protected by a floating pier. The centerpiece of the property is the infinity pool with a swim-up bar- perfect for sipping on frozen cocktails with a sweeping view of the island’s beautiful shoreline by the edge of the pool. If salt water is more your style, the resort’s private beach is just around the corner where guests can relax next to the clear water on shore, or swim out to the pier to enjoy some of Curacao’s world-class snorkeling.
Curacao has many warm, calm, shallow reefs along its shores that are perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. During my visit, I opted for a Seabob tour of nearby Tugboat Beach, named after the sunken tugboat that has become a lively artificial reef for local fish, corals, and sponges. The Seabob, I learned, is a handheld motorized jet that can reach up to 12 miles per hour. I was able to swim around and explore the deepest points of the reef structures while requiring minimal work from my arms and legs. There, I swam alongside parrotfish, blue tangs, and many other kinds of tropical fish. The area is also known to get occasional sea turtles visitors. I highly recommend opting for a Seabob and snorkeling tour during your Getaway- the reefs were some of my favorites that I’ve visited and I was still able to save my energy for the pickleball courts!
Pickleball in Curaçao: Eight Dedicated Courts at the Racket Club
Most importantly, the resort offers eight dedicated, newly resurfaced, outdoor pickleball courts. Just a short walk from the resort lobby, the racket club feels like its own oasis inside an oasis. The club has air-conditioned bathrooms, a water station, and plenty of indoor or shaded seating for post-pickleball socializing. With top-tier courts and amenities, you can expect the same quality clinics, leisure, and socializing that you know to expect from a Pickleball Getaway- all in an exciting, new, tropical location! We’re looking forward to spending many sunny hours on the pickleball courts with you and the ocean breeze next September in Curaçao.
