Curaçao is getting ready for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The island is roaring and covered in shades of blue, yellow and white, and the excitement is building as Curaçao’s National Soccer Team makes its debut at the FIFA World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico this year. As the smallest country to ever play in the World Cup and with the first game on Sunday June 14, we’re getting the drinks, snacks and the vuvuzela’s ready to watch our team, and we hope you’ll join us, too! In this blog, we’re sharing the pregame activities, the best places to watch the games and the best activities to do on days when you’re all watched out.

Game schedules: Curaçao vs. The World

First things first, it’s important to know when Curaçao’s National Team, also known as The Blue Wave, will be playing and which countries they will go against. With the first games being against Germany, Ecuador and Ivory Coast, you’ll want to mark your calendars and book your trip, so you don’t miss all the excitement on the island. 

Sunday, June 14 at 1:00 PM 
🇩🇪 Germany vs. 🇨🇼 Curaçao
 

Saturday, June 20 at 8:00 PM
🇪🇨 Ecuador vs. 🇨🇼 Curaçao
 

Thursday, June 25 at 4:00 PM
🇨🇼 Curaçao vs. 🇨🇮 Ivory Coast

Wavingflag

Pregame excitement

If you’re unable to be on the island on game days, there are plenty of exciting activities happening island-wide to help you catch at least some of the Blue Wave fever. As this is a monumental time for the island, the government launch #BlueNation, the official hub where all the activities and events around the World Cup on the island will be communicated.

The Curaçao Tourism Board also published a long list of activities that are sure to make your stay in Curaçao even more unique and fun.

Visiting after these events and wondering what else you can expect? Use the date picker on the Curaçao Tourism Board’s website to find out all that’s happening around the Blue Wave this season.

Where to watch the games

Even if you’re not a big soccer fan, you’re guaranteed to get pulled into the Blue Wave excitement during your summer vacation on Curaçao. And to be honest, watching the country where you’re vacationing debut in the World Cup is a historic moment you don’t want to miss. From the best beach bars to rooftop terraces ready to welcome anyone willing to cheer for #TeamCuraçao, here are some spots showing the games on big screens with even bigger vibes.

1: Koraal Rooftop Terrace

If you’re staying in a villa or apartment on Coral Estate, you’re in luck. Right at Coral Estate Centre, a short walk or drive from your accommodation, depending on where you’re staying, is Koraal Rooftop Terrace. Here, the vibes are always cool, and the cocktails are cooler, but this soccer season, they will be showing the games on big screens as well. So whether you’re looking for a lively crowd or a relaxed poolside vibe to watch the match, Koraal has you covered.

2: Downtown Willemstad

Get ready for big screens and big energy. Downtown Willemstad will be painted blue with locals and visitors alike cheering on the National team. With plenty to do downtown during half time, this is a perfect choice for those wanting to explore Punda & Otrobanda while still catching the game. Win-win. 

3: Blue Wave Plein Jandoret

New on the list this year, the Blue Wave Square at Jandoret is ready for the games. Originally the grounds of foodtruck ‘De Smulkar’, this business is transforming the area into a professional fan zone with multiple screens, beautiful dome tents, and a secured area with crowd control barriers for the ultimate atmosphere.

4: The Lemon Beach 

Combining the Curaçao game on June 14th with the Dutch game night, The Lemon Beach is hosting a dual viewing party full of delicious snacks, drinks, music and an afterparty with DJ Alex Sargo to end the day. 

5: Cabana Beach

For the historic debut of Curaçao at the FIFA World Cup, Cabana Beach transforms into the Cabana Brasa Arena. A full blown soccer watching experience surrounded by beach vibes, cold drinks, and the energy of fellow fans. Every game will be shown in the arena

What to do when you’re not watching

Stay close

If you’re staying at Coral Estate Rentals, the “down-time” activities will be plenty. Within the gated community of Coral Estate, enjoy your own private swimming pool, go on a nature walk or hike around Rif St. Marie or discover the gorgeous underwater world that Curaçao has to offer with Coral Divers, only a few steps away from your villa. Discover new flavors at Karakter Beach Lounge or linger a bit longer at Koraal Rooftop and enjoy the ocean view, the island breeze and the unique cocktails.

Want to explore more of Banda Bou? Head West and discover Curaçao’s natural sanctuary. Explore the most beautiful beaches the island has to offer on the West side of the island like Playa Kenepa Grandi or Cas Abou. For the active holiday, immerse yourself in nature at Shete Boka National Park or go hiking and enjoy incredible island view at Christoffel National Park. Want more of a thrill? Hòfi Mango combines a beautiful nature walk, great food and a zipline ride. On your way there, stop and spot some pink flamingos at the Sint Willibrordus salt flats. It’s the perfect way to recharge your batteries before the next high-stakes kickoff.

Explore the island

You can easily spend your whole vacation relaxing by your pool on Coral Estate, but Curaçao is far too vibrant to stay in one place. From visiting the UNESCO-listed streets of historic Willemstad to snap a photo of the iconic Handelskade and walk across the famous Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, to touring Landhuis Chobolobo where you can sample the island’s authentic Blue Curaçao liqueur, you won't have a single moment of boredom. If you’re more of an adventurous type, head east to Spanish Water for jet-skiing, explore the historic ruins of Fort Beekenburg, or snorkel over a sunken shipwreck at Tugboat Beach.  If you want to escape the crowds entirely, take a day trip to Klein Curaçao for untouched white-sand beaches. From the colorful street art of Scharloo to the hidden caves of Koraal Tabak, there is endless excitement to experience when you aren't cheering on the Blue Wave!

Back to your home base

When all is said and done, and when all the cheering dies down, head back to your villa or apartment. With over 50 exclusive villas and apartments with private beach, private pool, tropical gardens and ocean views, Coral Estate Rentals is your home base for the best vacation in Curaçao.
 

Ready to book your vacation during the most exciting time this summer?