Courtesy of Caribbean Journal
By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
With easy air access, fabulous beaches, and a diverse culture, it’s no wonder that Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. If you’re planning a trip to the placed called “One Happy Island” soon, here are some suggestions for a satisfying stay, from larger, more traditional resorts to chic boutiques. In other words, these are the best hotels in Aruba.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
R-C loyalists won’t be disappointed by this now two-year-old Palm Beach resort, which has 320 all-balcony rooms; four restaurants; two pools; and a plush spa. Of note: The contemporary spin on classic Ritz-Carlton décor, which brings a welcome touch of modernity to the venerable brand.
Aruba Marriott & Stellaris Casino
We particularly love the Tradewinds Club, the 49-room resort-within-a-resort on the top floor where guests can enjoy concierge services; a private lounge with complimentary food and beverage presentations six times a day; and a reserved stretch of sand on famous Palm Beach.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resorts
On Eagle Beach, this adults-only boutique offers good value with champagne check-in and complimentary breakfast buffet plus free wi-fi. Park yourself under a palapa and soak up the friendly yet sophisticated vibe the owner has been cultivating here for more than two decades.
Hyatt Regency Aruba
If you’re traveling with the family and/or gambling’s your thing, you’ll love this resort, which has a humming casino open from noon to 4am daily; a kids’ club; and a three-tiered pool and waterslide the little ones will love.
Boardwalk Small Hotel Aruba
Never mind that it’s not on the beach; this cozy 14-casita compound set on a former coconut plantation is popular with visitors seeking an authentic taste of the island enthusiastically delivered by the sisters who own it. And since its near Fisherman’s Huts beach (and a quick walk to the marquee strand at Palm), sand seekers can still get their fix.
Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
The location of this Oranjestad roost – it’s attached to a mall – makes it a perfect base for city-slickers and shoppers alike. The resort comprises the adults-only Renaissance Marina Hotel and the family-friendly Renaissance Ocean Suites. Renaissance Island, the private-island oasis a free boat taxi ride away, will appeal to all.
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
There’s not a buffet in sight at this Eagle Beach all-inclusive where all meals are served a la carte; an oceanview spa offers relaxing therapies; and simply raising a flag summons a Balashi beer-toting waiter to your palapa on the sand.
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort
This intimate family-run hotel on Eagle Beach is known for its distinctive Dutch Colonial-inspired architecture and loved for its welcoming staff and romantic toes-in-the-sand restaurant, Passions on the Beach.
Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa
Close to De Palm Pier, this high-rise Palm Beach hotel has two pools; six restaurants; free wi-fi; a spa; casino; and a kids’ club. In other words, it’s got everything you need for a fun Aruban vacay.
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba
An all-inclusive Holiday Inn? You betcha. This hotel on Palm Beach offers family and couple’s all-inc packages that include three daily meals, local liquor brands, comp wi-fi, discounts on select activities, and spa credits.
