🌊 Curacao Marriott Beach Resort Review: A Diver’s Paradise (But Is It Right for You?)

If you’re planning a trip to Curaçao and considering the Marriott Beach Resort, read this first, especially if diving is on your bucket list. As someone who has been visiting this property since 1997, I’ve witnessed its transformation firsthand, from the days of the on-site casino to the sleek, modern upgrades of today. While it may not top the charts in terms of luxury, it remains one of the best dive-friendly resorts on the island. Here's everything you need to know before you book.

🐠 The Best Resort in Curacao for Scuba Divers

Let’s get one thing clear: this resort is a dream for scuba divers. If you're looking for a hotel where you never have to leave the property for gear rentals, dive classes, or guided dives, this is your place.

• On-site dive shop with full-service rentals

• Lockers, rinsing stations, and gear storage

• Certified dive instructors and masters available daily

• Daily dive trips leave right from the property

Bonus: The dive site just off the beach is excellent for both beginners and advanced divers.

🏨 Room Options: From Ocean View to… Less So

The Curacao Marriott Beach Resort offers multiple room types, but here’s what you need to know:

• Suites have stunning oceanfront views but only one king bed, not ideal for families.

• Rooms with no view or garden view tend to be quieter, but less visually appealing.

• The modern renovation is a big step up from the older design pre-2019.

🛑 Heads-up for families: There’s no suite that easily accommodates a group of four unless you book multiple rooms.

⚠️ Insider Tip: Electrical Outlets

Curacao is part of the Dutch Caribbean, so:

• Rooms use European style plugs

• You'll need both an adapter and a voltage converter if you're using appliances like hair dryers, steamers, or curling irons

• Many high-end devices will short out if you only use a simple adapter!

  
  

👙 Pools, Bars & Beach Vibes

There are two distinct pool areas:

🧒 Family Pool

• Right next to the main bar and casual dining area

• Fun, energetic atmosphere

• Great for kids and parents who want to stay close to food and drinks

🍹 Adult Only Pool

• Quieter and more peaceful

• Surrounded by cabanas (first-come, first-served—get there early!)

• No adjacent bar; drink service only available through roaming staff

🏖 Tiki Beach Bar

• Located near the dive shop

• Limited hours, but convenient for divers or beachgoers on that end of the property

  
  

🍽 Dining & Cost Breakdown: Be Ready to Spend

Here’s where the resort underdelivers.

✖ Breakfast Buffet

• $30 per person (before taxes and fees)

• Our family of four paid over $150 each morning—for breakfast alone

• No alcohol included

✖ Lunch Example:

• Pizza: $16

• Fish tacos: $19

• Soda: $4

• Virgin piña colada: $7💸 Total: $70 after tax & gratuity

✖ Dinner Reservations Required

• Two restaurants on-site, including CSpice, which books up quickly

• Reservations are essential, or you may end up without a seat

  
  

🍷 All-Inclusive Option: Is It Worth It?

During certain times of the year, the resort offers an all-inclusive package:

• $150/day per adult

• $120/day per child

If you're drinking alcohol regularly, this may work out. But for our family, even after the pricey breakfasts, it didn't make financial sense.

📌 Recommendation: Do the math based on your eating and drinking habits before opting in.

❌ Missing Features That Might Matter

Despite the gorgeous grounds and dive-friendly setup, some elements are notably absent:

• No spa (big miss, especially for post-dive muscle recovery!)

• Limited dining choices

• No casino (if that’s a selling point for you)

  
  

✔ Pros & Cons Summary

Pros	Cons
Best scuba diving setup on the island	Overpriced food and drink
Gorgeous beach location	No spa onsite
Modern rooms	Limited sleeping arrangements for families
Two pool options (family & adults-only)	Difficult restaurant reservations
On-site dive shop & classes	Requires adapters and voltage converters

📍 Final Verdict: Who Should Stay Here?

If you’re a diver, especially a serious one, Curacao Marriott Beach Resort checks all the boxes. The convenience of diving right off the beach with everything available on-site is unmatched.

But if you're seeking a luxury Caribbean escape with high end dining, spa services, or family style accommodations, there are better options on the island.

✈️ Planning Your Trip to Curacao?

• Currency: USD accepted, but Antillean Guilder is local

• Plug Type: European (Type C/F); bring adapter + voltage converter

• Getting Around: Renting a car is ideal to explore the island

  
  

📩 Have Questions?

As a returning guest since 1997 and an avid scuba diver, I'm happy to help with any travel planning or resort questions! Watch my video review here on YouTube!

📧 Email me at BeyondHerLensArt@gmail.com📷 And check out more of my adventures on BeyondHerLens.com