Curaçao is more than turquoise waters and sun-drenched beaches—it’s a vibrant island brimming with culture, color, and Caribbean charm. One of the best ways to connect with this rich local life is by exploring its open-air markets. From bustling stalls of tropical produce to quiet corners filled with artisan crafts, the island’s markets offer something for every type of traveler. For guests staying at LionsDive Beach Resort, many of these local treasures are just a short drive—or even a stroll—away. Whether you’re seeking handmade souvenirs, authentic street food, or a morning browsing with the locals, these five Curaçao markets offer unforgettable experiences.
1. Marshe Bieuw (The Old Market) – Willemstad
Located in the heart of Punda, Willemstad’s historic downtown, Marshe Bieuw is a local institution. This indoor food market is where locals go for hearty, home-style Curaçaoan meals, and it’s a must-visit for travelers eager to experience authentic island flavors.
Here, multiple cooks serve daily rotating dishes such as stewed goat, fried plantains, okra soup, and funchi (a polenta-like cornmeal side). Meals are served cafeteria-style at long communal tables, making it a social and immersive experience. The prices are reasonable, the portions are generous, and the flavors are as real as it gets.
Getting there from LionsDive:
Marshe Bieuw is located in Punda, just a 10–15-minute drive west of LionsDive Beach Resort. Taxis are readily available, or guests can book a shuttle via the concierge. Limited street parking is available nearby if you’re renting a car.
2. Floating Market – Handelskade, Punda
Though no longer truly “floating” as it once was, Curaçao’s Floating Market remains a vibrant hub of fresh produce and cultural exchange. Located along the iconic Handelskade waterfront in Punda, this market has a long tradition of being stocked by Venezuelan and local merchants selling fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and fish right off their boats or from small stalls.
It’s an ideal stop for travelers interested in sampling tropical fruits like papaya, guava, and mango, or even just observing local commerce in action. Early morning is best for freshness and fewer crowds. The market sits adjacent to the photogenic pastel-colored buildings that make Willemstad a UNESCO World Heritage site, so it’s a great stop on a walking tour.
Getting there from LionsDive:
The Floating Market is about a 10-minute drive from LionsDive. You can pair your visit with a walk around Punda’s shops and cafés. If you’re up for some light exercise, biking into Willemstad is also a scenic option that takes about 25–30 minutes along the coast.
3. Marshe Nobo (New Market) – Willemstad
Just around the corner from Marshe Bieuw, you’ll find Marshe Nobo, or the New Market, housed in a large domed structure with dozens of vendors selling everything from spices and herbal teas to jewelry and handcrafted souvenirs.
This market is perfect for travelers looking to take a piece of Curaçao home. You’ll find wood carvings, batik fabrics, paintings, shell art, and locally made wellness products. There’s also a section devoted to traditional remedies and ingredients used in Caribbean and South American herbal medicine.
Getting there from LionsDive:
Marshe Nobo is just a 2-minute walk from Marshe Bieuw and the Floating Market, so it makes sense to visit all three in one trip. LionsDive is a 10–15-minute taxi ride away. Buses from the Mambo Beach area also run into Punda regularly.
4. Plasa Bieu Artisanal Market – Punda
If you’re in Willemstad on a weekend or public holiday, don’t miss the Plasa Bieu Artisanal Market, a pop-up-style event that takes place in public plazas and occasionally within parks near the Punda shopping district. This rotating market features local artists, designers, and craftspeople, offering a curated selection of handmade items.
Expect to see handwoven baskets, vibrant canvas art, Curaçao-themed jewelry, natural soaps, and upcycled crafts. There’s often live music, and food vendors sell fresh lemonade, coconut ice cream, or pastechi (savory pastries filled with cheese, meat, or fish).
Getting there from LionsDive:
These pop-ups happen most frequently in the Wilhelmina Park or Plasa Jojo Correa, both in downtown Punda. They’re 10–15 minutes by car from LionsDive. Ask the front desk which days the next market will appear—staff are usually up-to-date on cultural events and can assist with directions or transportation.
5. Pagayo Art Market – Jan Thiel Area
Located close to the Jan Thiel Beach district, just east of LionsDive, the Pagayo Art Market is a relatively new but growing creative venue. This boutique-style market gathers local artists and makers who specialize in contemporary Caribbean art, small sculptures, hand-dyed textiles, and high-end souvenirs. It’s a quieter, more curated experience compared to the central city markets.
Travelers staying at LionsDive appreciate Pagayo for its relaxed setting and proximity. It’s the perfect market to browse before or after a beach day, and some of the shops offer international shipping for art collectors or those purchasing larger pieces.
Getting there from LionsDive:
Pagayo is only a 5–10-minute drive southeast of the resort. If you enjoy walking, it’s about a 30-minute stroll or a pleasant 10-minute bike ride along scenic coastal roads. Free parking is usually available nearby.
Getting Around Curaçao’s Markets
Curaçao is a compact island, and most markets are within a short drive from LionsDive Beach Resort. While public buses are an affordable option, many travelers prefer the convenience of a rental car or taxis when carrying items. LionsDive offers bicycle rentals, concierge-arranged taxis, and local shuttle suggestions to make your market visits easy and enjoyable.
- Taxi fares: Most trips to downtown Willemstad cost between $15–$20 USD each way.
- Bike/scooter: Ideal for destinations within a 5 km radius like Jan Thiel or Mambo Beach.
- Parking: Available in Willemstad near the Plazas and most markets; meters or attendants may be present during the day.
- Best times to visit: Morning hours (8 a.m. to noon) are ideal for fresh food and smaller crowds, especially on weekdays and Saturdays.
Why Staying at LionsDive Enhances Your Experience
After a day exploring Curaçao’s markets, there’s no better place to return to than LionsDive Beach Resort. Located on the island’s famous Sea Aquarium Beach, this eco-friendly beachfront resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility to everything Curaçao has to offer.
Guests enjoy direct access to sandy beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, a full-service spa, and several on-site dining options featuring local and international cuisine. Whether you’re lounging in a beachfront cabana, swimming in the Olympic-size pool, or enjoying a sunset cocktail at Hemingway Bar & Restaurant, LionsDive offers a sense of comfort and style that makes exploring the island effortless.
Its central location makes it the perfect launching point for market-hopping around the island, and the resort’s friendly concierge team is always available to offer recommendations, call a taxi, or suggest hidden local spots beyond the guidebooks. Reserve your stay today and enjoy a variety of local markets!
