Sandwiched between the Caribbean Sea and Spanish Waters Bay, the Hyatt Regency Curacao Golf Resort, Spa and Marina boasts prime, white-sand real estate on an island that’s known more for cosmopolitan Willemstad than smooth, sandy oceanfront. The 350-room property (including standard rooms with plasma-screen TVs and balconies and upgraded "Sea Traditions" units that offer perks like butler service and access to a separate pool) opened in late April 2010 and promises to sate almost any traveler’s itinerary on Curaçao. Families should come for the resort’s Camp Arawak, which brings the littlest vacationers to some of the island’s top environmental and historical attractions – think archeological expeditions, cave hikes, and a sea creature petting zoo. For grown-up adventure, everything from windsurfing to scuba diving to golfing on the resort's namesake 18-hole Pete Dye championship course is up for grabs. Local influence and culture also seeps into the luxury beach resort's dining and amenities. SHOR, one of three resort restaurants, collaborates with island farmers to serve American fare from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, while the Atabei Spa infuses its treatments and house-made products with native plants and herbs. Summer rates start from $139/night. 

— Molly Fergus

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