Lively Jan Thiel is a popular area for singles, couples, and families alike.

Located on the southwest “heel” of Curacao, this beloved island neighborhood offers everything from beaches, to nightlife, to nature-based excursions.

To help kick off your adventures in Jan Thiel, here are 10 fun ideas for your Curacao itinerary!

You can’t visit Jan Thiel without stopping off at the beach that shares its name!

Commonly known as one of the biggest party beaches of Curacao, Jan Thiel Beach is definitely one of the liveliest on the island. This energetic spot reminded me of some of the party beaches in Mykonos. With all of the activity, you certainly won’t be bored here!

Instead, you can expect upbeat music and beach clubs, as this beach tends to draw a young, fun-loving crowd.

While I found it to be a bit overstimulating for my personal taste, I can see the appeal for those looking for a more social atmosphere.

In addition to the upbeat vibe, there are also plenty of comfy beach loungers as well as numerous restaurants, should you decide to stay awhile.

Although Jan Thiel is a private beach for its accompanying resort, it’s also open to the public for a minimal fee of NAFL 6.00 ($3.50 USD)

Speaking of restaurants, Jan Thiel Beach has a whopping five of them as well as three beach clubs, so you’ll have your pick!

I personally recommend Zanzibar Beach & Restaurant for the atmosphere and the tasty traditional stone-oven pizza. In fact, I consider it to be one of the best restaurants in Curacao!

I had the “Orient” pizza and it was delicious!

The design of the restaurant was inspired by East Africa, as reflected in the animal-print bar design and giant tiki umbrella. I loved the cozy vibe of eating under the massive canopy!

Zanzibar Beach & Restaurant is located at Kaya Damasco, Jan Thiel in Curacao.

In addition, here are the other eateries along Jan Thiel Beach to check out: 

• Zest Restaurant
• Zest Beach Café
• Tinto Bar Y Cocina
• Koko’s
• Dulce Ice Cream Shop

I would’ve tried them all if we had more time!

Although Jan Thiel Beach can be fun for the party-loving crowd, I personally preferred Mambo Beach, located just a 10-15 minute drive away.

While it’s similar in terms of the energetic atmosphere, Mambo Beach has a bit more of a relaxed vibe. The loungers are also spaced a bit further apart here, which I found more comfortable.

Plus, the palm trees situated right on the beach create such an impressive view from above!

Honestly, I could go on and on all day about all of the beautiful beaches on the island.

However, I’ll be saving all the juicy details for my ultimate beach guide to Curacao, so stay tuned, beach bums!

Mambo Beach charges a minimal fee of $3.50 for beach access and $4.00 USD to rent a lounger.

Mambo Beach is located at Bapor Kibrá, Willemstad in Curacao.

One of the other plusses of this beach is the popular Mambo Beach Boulevard.

Similar to a beach boardwalk, this hub serves as a convenient, two-level outdoor shopping center. Travelers can stroll the boulevard, browse over 50 shops, as well as dine along the strip.

We ate at The Green House, which offers a combination of Mediterranean food, steak, and seafood.

The food was great and I loved the view we had over Mambo beach!

You can check out the various restaurant offerings along Mambo Beach Boulevard here.

Mambo Beach Boulevard is located at Mambo Beach. You’ll find the address above.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or you want to feel like a kid yourself, you can enjoy hours of fun at the Curacao Sea Aquarium!

This aquarium practices environmental awareness and is proudly dedicated to maintaining the island’s marine ecosystem.

From a behind-the-scenes look at marine life via an underwater lens, to interactive animal feedings, to a guided snorkeling experience, the aquarium offers something for visitors of all ages.

Head here for visiting hours and to get in touch with the aquarium for ticketing information.

The Curacao Sea Aquarium is located at Bapor Kibrá, Willemstad in Curacao.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of nature, I highly recommend a trip to the salt flats of Jan Thiel.

These salt flats – or saliñas, as they’re called – are large swaths of flattened land that once served as a plantation for salt extraction.

To navigate here, plug “Parke Publiko Sorsaka” into your GPS. There are signs along the road to guide you to the salt flats.

Since the flats are a bit off the beaten path, be prepared to walk briefly through a small forest clearing before reaching them.

While you’re out getting your nature fix, you’ll have to stop to witness Tafelberg Mountain, one of the most beautiful views on the island.

This flat-topped formation is often referred to as a hill, although it’s actually the fourth highest point on the island.

Besides admiring the view, you can also literally take things to a new level with a guided hiking or rock climbing tour!

In addition, if mountain hiking is up your alley, I recommend visiting the northern end of the island to explore Christoffel National Park.

You can read more about what to expect on a visit to Mount Christoffel – the island’s highest point – in my guide of the 20 best activities in Curacao.

One of the best viewpoints of Tafelberg Mountain (shared above) is located along Kaya Kachu.

Fort Beekenburg is one for the history buffs!

This historical landmark sits on the Caracas Bay Peninsula and dates back to 1703. It was originally built to protect the entrance to the bay from pirates and the British. You can read more about this site’s interesting history as well as check out these other fascinating Curacao facts!

Today, visitors can enjoy free access to the area as well as climb to the top of the tower for a beautiful view of the island!

While I didn’t discover this gem until after our trip, I definitely have it on my radar for a future visit!

Fort Beekenburg is located at the Caracasbaai Old Docks in Curacao.

While not in Jan Thiel directly, you won’t want to miss a visit to the island’s capital city of Willemstad, located about 15 minutes away by car.

This colorful capital is most known for its colonial architecture, floating pontoon bridge, and vibrant street art.

Given that it’s the largest city on the island, it’s also a popular stopping point for cruise ships, so do expect it to get busy as early as the late morning.

Although I’ll be dedicating a separate post to the most photogenic city spots, you’ll come across plenty of colorful facades by wandering around!

If you’re looking to base yourself in the Jan Thiel area, consider a stay at De Plantage Jan Thiel Boutique Resort.

This cozy boutique property offers a tranquil, tropical environment and is centrally located to the fun activities in this guide.

Ideal for travelers who prefer the privacy of Airbnb-style accommodations, each of the eight suites is conveniently equipped with a kitchen, living room, and private patio.

Although meals aren’t served on the property, it’s definitely a plus having your own kitchen to prepare whatever you wish!

I was also impressed by how spacious the suite felt with its high ceilings and minimalist décor.

I also loved that the bedroom was separate from the main living area, offering more privacy and a homier feel.

De Plantage also includes the bonus of a pool area with serious jungle vibes and an outdoor community space that places an emphasis on relaxation!

I hope this guide has inspired you to visit Jan Thiel and the surrounding area while you’re in Curacao. This is easily one of the best neighborhoods in Curacao, whether you’re looking to hit the beach, shop and dine, reconnect with nature, or all of the above!

Have I convinced you to add Jan Thiel to your Curacao itinerary? Let me know in the comments below!

Looking to discover Curacao beyond Jan Thiel? Check out my other island guides:

• Best Areas to Stay in Curacao: Essential Neighborhood Guide & Top Hotels
• 12 Awesome Curacao Diving Resorts for an Epic Caribbean Escape
• 33 Quirky & Interesting Curacao Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
• 15 Best Beaches of Curacao: Hot Spots to Hidden Gems
• 10 Best Restaurants in Curacao for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• 25 Awesome Things to Do in Curacao

This post was written in conjunction with De Plantage Jan Thiel Boutique Resort, who kindly hosted me and my husband during our time in Curacao. As always, all opinions are my own.