Planning to go water biking in Curaçao? One of the first questions visitors ask is: what should I wear?
The good news is that water biking is one of the easiest water activities to dress for. You stay above the waterline, so there is no need for wetsuits or special gear. A few simple choices will keep you comfortable, protected from the sun, and ready for great photos.
Here is everything you need to know to get dressed for a water bike tour at Water Bikes Curaçao.
The Golden Rule: Dress for the Caribbean Sun
Curaçao sits just 12 degrees north of the equator. The sun is strong year-round, even on cloudy days. UV index regularly reaches 10 to 12 — that is extreme. Your outfit should protect you from the sun while keeping you cool.
Think of it this way: you will be outside, on the water, for 30 minutes to an hour. The sun reflects off the surface and hits you from above and below. Dress accordingly.
What to Wear on Top
Quick-dry t-shirt or tank top. Synthetic moisture-wicking fabric works best. Cotton is fine but holds sweat longer and takes more time to dry.
UPF-rated rash guard. Ideal for maximum sun protection. Lightweight, breathable, and blocks UV rays without relying on sunscreen alone. This is the top choice for guests who burn easily or spend a lot of time outdoors.
Light long-sleeve shirt. If you are sensitive to sun, a thin long-sleeve shirt in light colors keeps you cool and protected without feeling stuffy.
Colors that look great on camera: Bright turquoise, coral, white, and yellow photograph beautifully against Curaçao’s blue water. Dark colors absorb heat — go light.
What to Wear on the Bottom
Board shorts or swim trunks. The most popular choice. Quick-drying and comfortable for pedaling.
Athletic leggings or yoga pants. Good for sun protection and chafing prevention. Choose thin, breathable fabric — thick material gets warm fast in tropical conditions.
Bike shorts. If you prefer a snug fit, padded bike shorts add comfort on longer tours like the 1-hour Curaçao Ocean Adventure.
Swim bikini or swimsuit. Many guests wear a swimsuit and add a cover-up or rash guard on top. This works well if you plan to swim or snorkel before or after your tour.
Footwear: What Works and What Does Not
Water shoes are the best option. They protect your feet, grip the pedals well, and dry fast.
Sandals with straps (sport sandals like Tevas or Chacos) work well. The strap is essential — without it, the sandal slides off while you pedal.
Barefoot is fine. Many guests pedal barefoot. The pedals have grip and it feels natural in warm weather.
Avoid: Heavy sneakers get wet and stay heavy. Loose flip-flops slide off while pedaling and can end up in the water.
If You Wear Glasses
If you need prescription glasses or sunglasses, bring a strap. The trade winds along the Curaçao coastline are real, and loose glasses can blow off. A cheap neoprene eyewear strap (available at any sports store) solves this problem completely.
Polarized sunglasses are worth bringing if you have them. They cut water glare and make it much easier to spot sea turtles and fish below the surface.
Contact lens wearers: bring a case and solution just in case. Salt spray can irritate contacts, though most guests have no problems.
What to Bring in Your Bag
Sunscreen (Non-Negotiable)
Reef-safe, SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential. Apply 20 minutes before your tour and cover these commonly missed spots:
- Face and ears
- Back of neck
- Arms and hands
- Calves and tops of feet
Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Chemical sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate damage coral reefs. The marine life you come to see — turtles, fish, coral — depends on visitors making this choice.
Hat and Sunglasses
A wide-brimmed hat protects your face, ears, and neck from direct sun. Caps work too — just make sure it fits snugly or has a chin strap.
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated. A reusable insulated bottle keeps water cold in the tropical heat. Water Bikes Curaçao provides water on tours, but bringing your own means you have extras for after the ride.
Waterproof Phone Case or Dry Bag
You will want to take photos — sea turtles, colorful coastline, maybe even dolphins offshore. Protect your phone with a waterproof pouch that hangs around your neck, or a small dry bag for keys, wallet, and essentials. A GoPro or action camera with a floating mount is a popular choice.
What NOT to Wear
- Jeans or heavy pants — they get heavy if splashed and are uncomfortable in tropical heat
- Heavy jewelry — rings, necklaces, and watches can fall off into the water
- Expensive designer clothing — salt water and sunscreen can stain
- Flip-flops without straps — they will fall off while you pedal
- Dark-colored clothing — absorbs heat and makes you hotter in the sun
Morning vs Afternoon Tours: Does It Matter?
Water Bikes Curaçao operates tours throughout the day. Here is how timing affects what you should wear:
Morning tours (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): The sun is strong but the air temperature is slightly cooler. A light rash guard or long-sleeve shirt is comfortable. The wind feels refreshing.
Midday tours (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): Peak sun and heat. Prioritize sun protection: hat, sunscreen, light-colored clothing. Hydration matters most during these hours.
Afternoon tours (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Still warm but the sun angle is lower. A t-shirt or tank top works well. The light is excellent for photography.
Golden Hour Escape (Saturday sunset): The Golden Hour Escape runs on Saturday evenings. Temperatures drop slightly and the breeze picks up. A light layer is a good idea — a thin long-sleeve shirt or cover-up that you can remove if it gets warm.
What Cruise Passengers Should Know
If you are visiting Curaçao on a cruise and planning a water bike excursion, keep it simple: wear your swimsuit under lightweight clothes, bring water shoes or strapped sandals, and carry sunscreen in your bag. You can change at the departure point before your tour.
Leave expensive jewelry and unnecessary valuables on the ship. Bring only what you need on the water.
Seasonal Adjustments
Dry season (January to September): Hot and sunny. Prioritize sun protection: UPF clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and a hat. Hydration is critical.
Rainy season (October to December): Brief afternoon showers are common. A lightweight waterproof jacket or a quick-dry top can handle unexpected rain. The showers usually pass in 15 to 30 minutes and do not affect tour operations.
Hair Tips
Long hair: Tie it back in a braid or ponytail. The trade winds can tangle loose hair.
Leave-in conditioner: Salt air can dry out hair. Apply a leave-in product before your tour.
Buff or bandana: Keeps hair controlled and adds sun protection for your neck.
What Water Bikes Curaçao Provides
Every tour includes a life jacket (worn at all times for safety), a safety briefing and paddling instruction, and a professional bilingual guide. Check the requirements and policy page for full details on what is included with each tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a wetsuit?
No. The water temperature in Curaçao is warm year-round (79 to 84°F / 26 to 29°C). You stay above the waterline on the water bike, so a wetsuit is unnecessary.
Will I get wet?
Minimal splashing at most. Your hands might get wet from the handlebars, and a light spray on warm days. Most guests stay completely dry and comfortable.
Can I wear a GoPro?
Yes. Action cameras are popular on water bike tours. Use a floating mount or wrist strap in case it drops. Many guests capture incredible footage of sea turtles and the coastline.
What if I forget sunscreen?
Ask your guide. Water Bikes Curaçao typically has sunscreen available for guests, but bringing your own reef-safe SPF 50+ is the safest option.
Quick Packing Checklist
- Light-colored, quick-dry clothing
- Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap
- Polarized sunglasses with strap
- Water shoes or strapped sandals
- Water bottle
- Waterproof phone case
- Small dry bag for valuables
- Towel (for after the tour)
Ready to Go?
With the right outfit and a bit of sun protection, you are set for one of the most photogenic water adventures in the Caribbean. The ocean is clear, the turtles are out there, and your water bike is ready.
View all tours and book your water bike adventure with Water Bikes Curaçao.