CURAÇAO

Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club, Westpunt

A getaway property in Westpunt, on the extreme end of Curaçao, the Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club is an hour's drive from the commercial bustle of Willemstad and feels even more removed. Situated on the edge of a limestone bluff, its 32 villa suites have stunning sunset views and quick access to bone-white Playa Kalki beach. Just inland, the wooded grounds camouflage 42 bungalow rooms, including a rustic tree house. All rooms come equipped with kitchenettes and complimentary broadband Internet. Ground-floor villas have more room, while those on the second floor enjoy the best sunset views (especially Villa 216). Sea-view Christoffel Sunset Lounge and Watamula Restaurant cover, respectively, the casual-fare or fine-dining cravings of a clientele made up mostly of couples, both straight and gay. On-site dive shop Ocean Encounters West offers quick access to some of the best sites on Curaçao's protected leeward coast, and also rents paddle boats, sea kayaks, and snorkel gear. Take a free Friday scuba lesson in the swimming pool, and then tackle Alice in Wonderland, a dive site known for its star corals and spotted eagle rays that starts just 100 yards off the beach.

Standard rooms $110 (plus 19% taxes and service charge) through December 23; $232 December 24–January 2; $170 January 3–April 3.

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