Curaçao just earned the title of Best Caribbean Island to Visit in 2026 by USA Today’s 10Best, beating out major destinations like Aruba, Barbados, and Saint Martin. Tourists love the warm weather, vibrant culture, and picture-perfect beaches—but for Avalon University School of Medicine (AUSOM) students, Curaçao is more than a vacation spot.
It’s home.

The island strikes the perfect balance between study life, comfort, and adventure, wrapped in incredible natural beauty.

Dining in Curaçao

Good food, good friends, and plenty of stress-relief between study sessions.

One of the best parts about student life in Curaçao is the food scene. It’s flavorful, diverse, and surprisingly budget-friendly when you know where to go. From fresh seafood on the beach to food trucks serving local favorites like keshi yena or stoba, students never run out of options.

Whether it’s a study break in Willemstad, a weekend dinner with classmates, or grabbing smoothies by the water after anatomy lab, the island’s dining culture feels like an extension of student life.

Student Tip: AUSOM students love the Pietermaai district for weekend meals—great food, ocean views, and a relaxed vibe perfect for recharging before Monday lectures.

Nature and Fun in Curaçao

The ultimate balance: challenging academics + endless ways to unwind.

Medical school is demanding, but Curaçao gives students the perfect environment to decompress. Between exams and clinical skills labs, students can explore some of the island’s most iconic natural spots:

• Snorkeling with sea turtles at Playa Piskado
• Hiking Christoffel National Park for sunrise views
• Diving at Tugboat Beach
• Exploring the historic Hato Caves
• Kayaking or paddleboarding after class

These activities not only help reduce stress—they build community. Students often form group outings, creating friendships that last well beyond graduation.

Student Tip: Many Avalon students head to Kenepa Beach after finals—crystal-clear water + sunshine = instant stress relief.

Beach Life in Curaçao

Soft sand, calm bays, and study breaks that feel like mini-vacations.

Curaçao’s beaches are one of the biggest surprises for new students. Unlike typical crowded tourist hotspots, many beaches here are peaceful, clean, and naturally sheltered—perfect for quick study breaks or full weekend outings.

Popular student favorites include:

• Mambo Beach for a lively atmosphere
• Playa Lagun for relaxing afternoons
• Cas Abao for crystal-clear snorkeling

The island makes it easy to create a healthy study-life balance. Need a quiet place to review notes? Find a shaded spot near the water. Want to celebrate the end of a tough week? Head to a beach barbecue or grab fresh fruit ice cream by the shore.

Student Tip: Bring a lightweight beach bag—students often study by the water before enjoying a swim.

Life as a Student at Avalon University School of Medicine

Quality education in a location that supports both learning and well-being.

Avalon University School of Medicine offers rigorous academic training, supportive faculty, and a tight-knit student community—all on an island voted the #1 Caribbean destination.

Students benefit from:

• Small class sizes and personal faculty attention
• A calm, safe environment ideal for studying
• Affordable living and reliable transportation
• Access to beaches and nature to reduce burnout
• Diverse local culture and international community

Avalon’s Curaçao campus gives students the opportunity to experience a unique blend of academic excellence and island lifestyle—a combination that many graduates credit for helping them stay focused, motivated, and grounded throughout medical school.

Thinking About Joining Avalon?

Curaçao is more than a scenic place to study medicine—it’s a supportive, inspiring environment that helps students thrive academically and personally.

Whether you’re planning a visit or preparing for your first semester, you’ll quickly see why Curaçao isn’t just the best island to visit—it’s one of the best places to learn, grow, and build a future in medicine.