Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club

Secluded sister property to Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa & Casino (check rates) in Willemstad, Curacao's capital city, Lodge Kura Hulanda is set on the west end of the island, about a 30 minute drive from the airport and 45 minutes to the capital. It features a beach, three restaurants, pool, spa, gym, and on-site dive and snorkel operation. The resort feels more like a small town, and its out-of-the-way location and relaxed atmosphere make it conducive to romantic getaways.

Check rates at Lodge Kura Hulanda now >

Villa homes along a cliff view overlooking the sea were renovated into guest rooms for the resort, so there are a few private apartment-style suites per villa with patios or balconies facing the sea. Each of these suites encourage couples to stay a while and feature a kitchenette, dining table, king or two double beds, TV, large armoire, and turndown service. Bathrooms are exceptionally large, most containing a shower big enough for two. The hotel feels like a tropical community, with its lobby and restaurants centered on the property like a town plaza.

There are three restaurants and a bar at the Kura Hulanda lodge. Signature tropical drinks are made with Blue Curacao, a native orange-flavored liquor. Quaff at the Christoffel Lounge, the best place to watch the sunset. At Jacob’s Bar, try a Kura Frio Frio, a mix of Kahlua, chocolate syrup, and vanilla ice cream. Daily specials at Kalki Beach Bar and Grill are fresh and locally caught. Grilled lobster was the best value and tastiest item on a recent visit to the beachside eatery, which features a live steel drum band most evenings. An all-inclusive option is available.

Ceremonies are held on the stone Christoffel Terrace overlooking the turquoise sea, or on a small sandy beach under a cliff and surrounded by rocks. These are also the best places for wedding photos. Casually elegant receptions can be held on the Terrace, which can accommodate more than 100 people and offers an opportune place to watch fireworks displays. Various wedding and vow-renewal packages that include photographers, makeup artists, transportation, catering, music and fireworks displays are available. To keep near and dear close, guests can lodge together in neighboring villas.

The property is one of the most romantic lodging options on Curacao, thanks to its secluded feel and quiet, laidback atmosphere. Although peak season is December and January, there are plenty of opportunities to be alone. Skies are bright and clear on the west end of the island, called Westpunt, which is less populous than the east. So take advantage of your private patio or balcony to stargaze with a bottle of wine.

If your goal is to avoid overcrowded beaches, this is the place for you. The beach areas, which are a mix of sand and soft rocks, are small but private. The lodge is a great jumping-off point for daily snorkeling and diving trips to prime reefs, thanks to its on-site dive and snorkel boat operation, Ocean Encounters West. It is a member of a task force that lobbies for enforcement and protection of Curacao marine parks. Snorkeling equipment, paddleboats, sunfish boats, and kayaks are available for rental. If you'd rather stay close to the home star, opt for a massage by the pool or a tennis match.

The lodge is close to several public beaches, including Knip Bay. Hato Caves, which were used by the Arawak Indians for shelter and feature 1,500-year-old petroglyphs, are 10 miles away. Rent bikes on-site and ride to Jaanchies, which is well known for its iguana stew and attentive staff. Listen to trupials and bare-eyed pigeons chirp and interact from your table. Daily complimentary transportation is provided to the Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino in Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There are no convenience stores or gift shops nearby, so pack necessities or pick them up on your excursion to Willemstad.

When eating dinner at one of three resort's restaurants, remember you’re on island time. So be patient while waiting for service. Breakfast includes fruit, pancakes, cereal, yogurt, and cold cuts, but is pricey.

The Lodge attracts many Dutch visitors, as Curacao received country status from the Netherlands Antilles in October 2010. There’s also a fair share of Americans. No matter their nationality, couples flock to the Lodge, particularly divers and snorkelers, for the balance of relaxation and outdoor activities it offers. Many more children can be found at resorts near the east end of the island, where there is a Seaquarium and other kid-friendly activities. The staff is friendly and helpful; don’t be surprised if a bellman offers to drive you in his personal car to a nearby beach or to map bicycle paths for you.

Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club
Playa Kalki 1 Westpunt
Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
Reservations: 877-264-3106
Hotel Website

Check Rates Now Search for a Flight to Curacao

As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary accommodation and meals for the purpose of reviewing those services. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our ethics policy .