And now for something completely different. Rather than a typical, sprawling beachside report, Scuba Lodge is a collection of beautifully restored and colorfully decorated 1860s Dutch colonial buildings. These are nestled in the heart of Pietermaai, a downtown district of Willemstad, Curacao renowned for its artistic ambiance and local flair.

If you prefer to stay in-town on your vacations (but with an ocean view of course) and don’t mind driving to explore an island’s beaches, this is a great hotel for you. It is important to note, while the rooms offer ocean views, the nearest swimmable beach is a short drive away.

The ambiance is relaxed and carefree, with the lovely grounds linked by garden pathways. There are two small pools on site: a small but stunning and inviting infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and a shady garden pool next to the restaurant.

Scuba Lodge has 28 standard rooms and 11 apartments, several of which are great options for families. Modern finishes, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, mini-fridges, and coffee and tea-making amenities are included in every room. The bathrooms have walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads. Bedrooms are air-conditioned, but the living room in the apartment is not.

Each apartment has a dedicated living space and fully equipped, contemporary kitchen with refrigerator.

Standard rooms offer small patios, but the apartments—our top choice for families—have large balconies offering stunning views of the hotel grounds and sea beyond.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in the hotel’s boho-beachside restaurant, De Heeren @ sea. Sunsets are dramatic at this open-air eatery and kids can make the most a small, shaded playground right on-site. Pastries, coffee, and lighter lunch fare can be found just a stone’s throw away at next door at La Reina café. And a ton of other restaurants are right at your fingertips, walking distance from the hotel.

Scuba Lodge is, as its name implies, a dive-centric hotel, but thanks to its warm, inviting charm, proximity to the town, and sea views, it still has a lot to offer to non-divers. If you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or simply relax in the sun, there are some quiet nooks with seating areas and day beds in the garden. There are no fitness centers or spas on-site, but the staff can help arrange an in-room massage for you.