Curacao: Lodge Kura Hulanda or Sunset Waters

[scubachica]

I've decided on Curacao for my next dive trip (just two of us) in August. I've read the forums for advice on lodging/dive ops and have narrowed it down to two: Lodge Kura Hulanda and Sunset Waters. We're serious divers but want a nice escape (w/ a good beach) and Lodge Kura Hulanda seems rather enticing. Would love comments from divers who've stayed at either one (or both) of these places. (I nixed Habitat b/c it doesn't sounds like there is much of a beach.)

Thanks!

 

[Scubagal]

While it's not a posh resort by any means, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Sunset Waters. Check out my trip report: Sunset Waters Trip Report

 

[bigz]

We were at Sunset Waters in early March and absolutely loved it. The size of the resort was just right and if you don't mind quiet relaxation after some great diving, then this is a good choice. Sunset Divers - the onsite dive op was wonderful. They went out of their way for everyone and became friends right off the bat. Safety, fun and excellent knowledge of the sites all helped to make it a great week. For an all-inclusive, the food was very good. Fresh fish every day and great breakfasts and lunches also. Lots of choices, even for veggies and they'll make sure you are happy with the food!

Enjoy - we loved Curacao and can't wait to get back.

Neil

 

[sharon]

I would go for the Lodge Kura Hulanda, it is out on the very western tip of the island, house reef is Playa Kalki, that is one reef you will not tire of. Dive shop there is good with a nice boat. Sunset is also nice, but if I had my choice, I think the Lodge would be it. Now for reality, for us, it will always be Allwest Apts in Westpunt. Enjoy your trip.

 

[saholz]

I spent 9 days at Sunset Waters this past February. Rooms are spacious and clean, food is good and plentiful, grounds are well maintained, and the pool is pleasant with a small swim up bar. The beach is a nice place to hang out, and the house reef and lagoon are fine for snorkeling and diving. The on-site dive op is first rate and they really cater to their divers. Lots of good sites are just short boat rides away, including Mushroom Forest. It is not, however, a five star resort, so expect a few rough edges, especially in room fixtures, bedding, etc. I went with a group of friends and we all had a great time there. The bottom line ... we all agreed we would go back.

 

[cstreu1026]

I too have stayed at Sunset Waters. My wife and I spent the second week of our honeymoon there (the first week was at Buddy Dive in Bonaire). I honestly think the diving rivaled that in Bonaire. The water was a little rougher at times but not unmanageable by anymeans. Sunset Divers is top notch. I have nothing but good things to say about Mike and his crew. We thought the food was not all that great, not bad but not good. However, many have said it was good so maybe we just were unlucky. We did vention into town one day and I can say I would rather have just stayed at the resort. I just had an uneasy feeling the entire time I was there. The resort itself was clean and the staff was friendly. Do pack an alarm clock as we had trouble getting wake up calls, but I later learned this was typical for island life. I am anxious to return but that will be after our trip to Australia this fall.

 

[Lyle C]

I just got back from 10 days at Sunset Waters last week. We had a great time and really enjoyed the resort and the diving. The food was good and plenty of variety. All of the resort staff were great and extremely helpful. Sunset Divers were great. All the staff were a pleasure and the dive sites great. We visited with a lot of repeat customers that have been to a lot of different locations. They were all really pleased with Sunset Waters and keep coming back. This tells me something. We are definately planning a return visit. Enjoy you trip!

 

[aquaagua]

I just got back from 10 days at Sunset Waters last week. We had a great time and really enjoyed the resort and the diving. The food was good and plenty of variety. All of the resort staff were great and extremely helpful. Sunset Divers were great. All the staff were a pleasure and the dive sites great. We visited with a lot of repeat customers that have been to a lot of different locations. They were all really pleased with Sunset Waters and keep coming back. This tells me something. We are definately planning a return visit. Enjoy you trip!

It sounds fun. Is there much to do for a non-diver? I understand Bonaire is mostly dive, dive, dive is Curacao any different?

 

[dvrliz1]

Bonaire is just not dive, dive, dive! It all depends on what you want. There are a lot of activities to do or try. We do have some shopping, 2 casinos, wakeboarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, day trips to Klein Bonaire, hiking, mountain biking, rum punch parties, fantastic restaurants, horseback riding, boat rentals, deep sea fishing, exploring the National Park, Donkey Sanctuary, Flamingo Sanctuary, many things...to many to mention! I am a diver who lives on Bonaire and could not dive for 2 years. The snorkeling is incredible, and I have done a lot of research and there is A LOT to do!

Liz

 

[saholz]

It sounds fun. Is there much to do for a non-diver? I understand Bonaire is mostly dive, dive, dive is Curacao any different?

Sunset Waters has a miniature golf course, paddle boats and kayaks, a pool, a tennis court, and the bar and restaurants, as well as the diving and snorkeling. They also offer a shuttle into town, which is about a 20-30 minutes ride. Curacao's main city, Willemstaad, offers lots of shopping, restaraunts, and historical sites to visit. It's a bustling mini metropolis.

Still, unless you are staying at one of the bigger and busier resorts, you'll find Curacao to be a fairly laid back island. Bonaire has a much smaller central city, but it does offer lots of fine restaurants and some shopping. If the non-divers are into snorkeling they'll have fun at either locale. If not, they may get bored after the first few days. Neither Bonaire nor Curacao are high octane tourist destinations. IMHO, they are both more suited to divers, snorkelers, and those looking for a more quiet and relaxing vacation.