The Kontiki Beach Resort in Curaçao is expanding its footprint with the addition of 22 new rooms and suites. The project aims to keep the resort’s “barefoot jungle chic” identity intact while accommodating more guests. This expansion follows a long history for the property, which has operated on the island since 2006.
A New Wing Focused on Nature and Comfort
The new rooms and suites are designed to match the existing atmosphere at The Kontiki. Officials say the design relies on natural elements like stone, wood, greenery, and sand to create a consistent look throughout the property. The Tropical Deluxe rooms and suites are now open for booking, with stays starting December 7.
Terence van der Valk, the general director, described the project as an investment in the guest experience. “With this expansion, we’re adding something that fits exactly with what Kontiki already stands for: hospitality that goes beyond comfort alone,” van der Valk said. “The 22 new rooms and the magnesium pool are an investment in our guests’ experience, now and for the next twenty years.”
John Veensma, the chief operating officer, noted that the design was based on guest feedback. “In developing these rooms, we listened closely to what our guests expect from a stay at The Kontiki: space, calm, and quality down to the last detail,” Veensma said. “From the layout to the finishes, everything is designed so guests feel at home the moment they step into the room.”
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Wellness Features and Resort History
The expansion includes a magnesium pool, a feature officials say addresses the growing trend toward wellness travel. Unlike pools treated with traditional chlorine, this pool contains minerals that officials claim have a calming effect on skin and muscles. The resort also emphasizes the absence of a strong chlorine smell.
The Kontiki sits on Cabana Beach in Willemstad and is a family-owned operation. The resort maintains three beach clubs: Club Cabana, Mood, and Wet & Wild. The van der Valk family’s history on the island dates back to 1988 when they opened the Van der Valk Plaza Hotel.
It is not uncommon for established resorts to expand without altering their core identity. In many cases, developers try to modernize facilities, but doing so often risks disrupting the specific atmosphere that loyal guests have come to expect. The decision here to prioritize a specific design language over generic luxury suggests a strategy focused on retention rather than attracting a completely new demographic.
