Island Resorts in the Netherlands Antilles
- The capital of the Netherlands Antilles is Willemstad, located in Curaçao.Willemstad, Curacao image by Dragan Saponjic from Fotolia.com
Also known as the Dutch West Indies, the Netherlands Antilles are a relatively untapped corner of the Caribbean. This doesn't mean they're not equipped to deliver outstanding resort experiences, though. Five islands make up the Netherlands Antilles: Sint Maarten, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba and Sint Eustatius. Despite the draw of the tropical weather, find out when hurricane season hits the islands. - Because it's on the Dutch side of an island shared with the French, Sint Maarten is also synonymous with festivity. This Westin resort is particularly ideal for families. Children can spend the day doing the kinds of activities they enjoy at the Westin Kids Club, while grownups spend the day snorkeling, yachting, or just lounging around Orient Beach. The property has a casino, and is close to other bars and clubs. If you don't feel like leaving the resort, relax by the freshwater infinity pool with a swim-up bar or spend the day at the Hibiscus Spa.
The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, St. Maarten
144 Oyster Pond Road
Sint Maarten
011-590-599-543-6700
starwoodhotels.com - The crescent-shaped island of Bonaire is often associated with Aruba and Curaçao, since they're so close to one another. Bonaire is especially known as a water-sports destination, which is why the Harbour Village Beach Club has a comprehensive diving and snorkeling program. Families will appreciate the Kids Great Adventures water activities, children especially. Not surprisingly, Harbour Village is close to a marina, so it's ideal for romantic late-night strolls. The suites are spacious, but groups might prefer staying in one of the seaside villas.
Harbour Village Beach Club
Kaya Gobernador N. Debrot, No. 71
Bonaire
011-599-717-7500
harbourvillage.com - The island is home to Willemstad, the capital of the Netherlands Antilles. Curacao is particularly rich in history and culture, and all that is reflected in the luxurious Baoase resort. It has a mere 8 suites and 4 villas, all with plenty of legroom and sleek contemporary decor. The villas have their own gardens and mineral pools. Since the Baoase is located between Willemstad and the Aquarium, it's easy enough to go out for a night on the town. Grab a bite at Baoase's scenic beachside restaurant and bar, or take advantage of the in-villa dining option, where a private chef comes in and whips up something special.
Baoase Curaçao
Winterswijkstraat 2
Curaçao
888-409-3506
baoase.com - Most notable as the teeniest island of the Dutch West Indies, Saba nevertheless boasts the Kingdom of Netherlands' highest point, Mount Scenery. Formerly Willard's of Saba, the Shearwater Resort is perched some 2,000 feet above sea level, providing panoramic views of the Caribbean. It does its best to make guests comfortable after a long day of hiking or diving, especially with its soothing modern interiors. Accommodations are available in rooms or cottages. Its Bistro del Mare offers open-air dining and specializes in fish and seafood, all with a fine selection of wine.
Shearwater Resort
Booby Hill, PO Box 515
Saba
011-599-416-2498
shearwater-resort.com - Sint Eustatius is certainly the most humble of the Netherlands Antilles islands. There are no grandiose resorts, at least not compared to the others on this list. The upshot is a peaceful getaway, where snorkeling and hiking are a no-fuss affair. If that's what you're looking for, the hotel most visitors prefer is the intimate Kings Well Resort. It has a view on Orange Bay, an outdoor pool and hot tub, a picturesque garden, and a great restaurant with personable staff. With any luck, owners Win & Laura will join you for dinner.
Kings Well Resort
Oranje Bay Rd.-1
Oranjestad, Sint Eustatius
011-599-318-2538
kingswellstatia.com
The Westin Dawn Beach Resort & Spa, Sint Maarten
Harbour Village Beach Club, Bonaire
Baoase Curaçao, Curaçao
Shearwater Resort, Saba
Kings Well Resort, Sint Eustatius
Source...