Best Areas to Stay in Aruba 2024: The Ultimate Guide to Where to Stay in Aruba

Looking for the best areas to stay in Aruba? Here’s the only guide you need to start planning where to stay on this Dutch Caribbean island!

Aruba is renowned for its breathtaking white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and warm weather all year long.

I recently got the chance to travel to Aruba for a friend’s birthday and loved everything about the island!

With a blend of Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin influences, Aruba also has a thriving culture, which is reflected in its vibrant architecture, exciting festivals, and varied cuisine.

When planning a trip, knowing the best areas to stay in Aruba is essential.

Even though the island is pretty small, it has several areas you may want to consider depending on what you’re looking to get out of your trip.

For that reason, I put together the ultimate guide to the best areas to stay in Aruba, including a list of the best resorts and hotels on the island for all budgets and travel styles.

Top Areas to Stay in Aruba

These are some of the best areas to stay in Aruba with details on what makes each one great as well as hotel and resort recommendations for every budget:

1. Palm Beach

Palm Beach is a lively strip with white-sand shores and crystal-clear waters perfect for water-based activities.

This area in Aruba is a perfect choice if you’re seeking a vibrant vacation as it brims with shopping centers, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is a 5-star hotel situated in Palm Beach, which is considered one of the best areas to stay in Aruba.

The hotel is made up of 320 rooms and suites that are adorned with a contemporary Caribbean style and breathtaking views of the ocean or island.

Moreover, the hotel offers a plethora of facilities, including six restaurants and bars, a spa, a fitness center, an outdoor pool with exclusive cabanas, and access to its private on-site beach.

Mid-range: Boardwalk Boutique Hotel

The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is a charming and intimate 4-star hotel that features 14 well-appointed and stylishly decorated guest rooms and suites, each with a private patio or balcony overlooking the lush gardens or the pool.

The hotel offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, and a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine.

Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service to nearby beaches and attractions.

Budget: The Mill Resort & Suites

The Mill Resort & Suites is a modern and stylish 3-star hotel that features 188 spacious and contemporary guest rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges.

The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including three outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine.

While here, guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just a short walk away.

This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Aruba if you’re on a budget!

2. Eagle Beach

Eagle Beach has some of the most stunning white sands in Aruba, making it a perfect destination if spending lots of time lounging by the beach and swimming is your idea of the perfect vacation.

It’s less crowded than Palm Beach, but still has easy access to restaurants, shopping, and entertainment, making it a great area to stay in Aruba for the best of all worlds.

Luxury: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is an adults-only resort that provides a luxurious and environmentally friendly experience and is renowned for its romantic atmosphere and dedication to sustainability.

The hotel features 104 spacious and elegantly decorated guest rooms and suites, all of which offer stunning ocean or garden views.

Moreover, Bucuti & Tara is an adults-only property, making it an ideal choice for couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation.

The hotel boasts a range of amenities, including two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine.

Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just steps away from the property.

Mid-range: Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort

The Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort on Aruba is a charming and secluded beachfront retreat that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the Caribbean and Dutch colonial architecture.

The hotel features 72 spacious and beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites, each with a private balcony or patio overlooking the lush gardens or the pool.

It also boasts a range of amenities, including two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine.

Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just steps away from the property.

The hotel is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a more intimate and personalized vacation in Aruba.

Budget: MVC Eagle Beach

MVC Eagle Beach is a charming and laid-back boutique hotel in Aruba that is close to Eagle Beach’s pristine shores.

The hotel features 19 cozy and well-appointed guest rooms, each with a private balcony or patio overlooking the pool or the gardens.

You’ll also find a range of amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.

Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just a short walk away.

All in all, MVC Eagle Beach is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable hotel in Aruba, without sacrificing location or amenities.

3. Oranjestad

Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, is filled with colorful Dutch colonial architecture and offers a mix of shopping, dining, and nightlife options.

This central location makes it easy to explore Aruba while being just a short drive from the beaches.

Luxury: Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba (Flamingo Hotel)

The Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba offers a refined and upscale experience with its sleek and modern design. This is also where you’ll find the famous flamingo beach in Aruba!

The hotel features 556 spacious and stylishly decorated guest rooms and suites, all of which offer stunning ocean or city views.

The hotel is divided into two distinct sections: the Renaissance Marina Hotel, which is an adults-only property, and the Renaissance Ocean Suites, which is a family-friendly property.

The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a casino.

Moreover, can choose from a wide range of dining options, from international fare to Caribbean flavors, while taking in the lively entertainment and nightlife.

Mid-range: Wonders Boutique Hotel

Wonders Boutique Hotel is a well-kept secret. This charming and small hotel provides a distinctive fusion of convenience, style, and attentive service.

The hotel features 11 cozy and stylishly decorated guest rooms, each with a private balcony or patio overlooking the pool or the gardens.

Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant and bar serving delicious Caribbean cuisine, and a complimentary breakfast buffet.

Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just a short walk away.

Budget: A1 Apartments

A1 Apartments is a budget-friendly and cozy 3-star hotel situated in Oranjestad, Aruba.

The hotel offers 10 well-furnished guest rooms that provide a private balcony or patio with a pool or garden view.

The hotel provides facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool and a BBQ area. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s private beach, which is just a short stroll away.

A1 Apartments is an excellent option for travelers who want to experience a comfortable and affordable stay in Aruba without compromising on location or amenities.

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Top Aruba Resorts

If you’re planning a trip to Aruba, finding the right resort can make all the difference in your vacation experience.

Here are some of the best resorts in Aruba for you to consider:

1. Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba 

The Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino is a unique resort that offers two different experiences in one as it’s divided into two sections:

The Marina Hotel is perfect for families and features a large pool area with waterslides and a swim-up bar, as well as multiple dining options while the Renaissance Marina Hotel is an adults-only property.

The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a casino.

As if that weren’t enough, as a guest, you can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private island, which is just a short boat ride away and features a beautiful beach where flamingoes roam freely!

Furthermore, the hotel offers a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse, a seafood restaurant, and a buffet-style eatery.

2. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba 

The Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba is the ideal option if you want a more private and romantic experience.

It’s set in a quiet section of Eagle Beach, this adults-only resort offers a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere as well as a lovely pool area, spacious, well-appointed rooms, and one of the best restaurants in Aruba.

3. Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino 

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a luxurious and elegant 4-star hotel located in Noord, Aruba.

The hotel features 414 spacious and beautifully decorated guest rooms and suites, all of which offer stunning ocean or garden views.

The hotel boasts a range of amenities, including two outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and a casino.

Guests can also enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, which is just steps away from the property.

The hotel’s dining options include a steakhouse, a seafood restaurant, and a casual beachfront eatery.

Additionally, the hotel features a lobby bar and a poolside bar serving refreshing drinks and cocktails.

4. The Ritz-Carlton Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is a luxurious 5-star hotel located in Palm Beach, one of the best areas to stay in Aruba.

It features 320 spacious and elegant guest rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a modern Caribbean style and offer stunning ocean or island views.

The hotel boasts a wide range of amenities, including six restaurants and bars, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and a large outdoor pool with private cabanas as well as access to a private beach right on the property.

What are the Best Areas to Stay in Aruba?

There are several areas to stay in Aruba and the best one for you ultimately depends on what you’re after during your vacation.

Palm Beach, for instance, is known for its beautiful beaches, skyscraper resorts, and buzzy atmosphere.

You’ll love staying here if you enjoy a busy beach environment with lots of activities, entertainment choices, restaurants, and casinos

Eagle Beach, on the other hand, provides a more tranquil experience with its immaculate white sands, clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

It’s less crowded than Palm Beach, making it the perfect option if you’re looking for a calm area to stay in Aruba.

The beach is lined with resorts and boutique hotels, and it’s a wonderful place for swimming, tanning, and water sports.

Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba, is great if you’re looking for a mix of regional culture, shopping, and dining.

Here, you’ll find vibrant Dutch colonial architecture, a busy waterfront area, as well as a variety of businesses, eateries, and cultural attractions.

Best Areas to Stay in Aruba

The best area to stay in Aruba for couples and honeymooners

The best area to stay in Aruba for couples and honeymooners is Palm Beach.

Palm Beach offers stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a range of water sports activities, making it an ideal location for couples looking for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

Additionally, Palm Beach is home to a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options, making it a great choice for couples who want to enjoy the local dining and entertainment scene.

The best area to stay in Aruba for families and groups

Eagle Beach is considered one of the best areas to stay in Aruba for families and groups.

It’s known for its wide and spacious beaches, which are perfect for families and groups to relax and enjoy various water sports activities.

Eagle Beach offers a range of family-friendly activities, such as horseback riding, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby Butterfly Farm and Arikok National Park.

Moreover, the area has many restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a convenient location for families and groups to stay in Aruba.

The best area to stay in Aruba for budget travelers

The best area to stay in Aruba for budget travelers is Oranjestad.

This is the capital city of Aruba and offers a range of affordable hotel options, including guesthouses and budget hotels.

Oranjestad is a great location for budget travelers as it offers easy access to the island’s main attractions, such as the Aruba Aloe Factory and Museum, the National Archaeological Museum Aruba, and the Renaissance Marketplace.

The city also has a variety of restaurants and cafes that offer affordable dining options, as well as local markets where budget travelers can purchase fresh produce and souvenirs at lower prices.

The best area to stay in Aruba for luxury resorts

The best area to stay in Aruba for luxury resorts is Palm Beach.

This area is known for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and high-end resorts, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a luxurious vacation in Aruba.

Additionally, Palm Beach is home to a variety of high-end shops, boutiques, and entertainment options, making it the perfect location for travelers seeking a luxurious retreat in Aruba.

Best Aruba Tours

Aruba Full-Island Tour

This tour from Oranjestad offers a comprehensive exploration of Aruba, including visits to the California Lighthouse, Ayo Rock Formation, Casibari Rock Formations, an aloe-vera factory, a family-run bar, and the Bushiribana gold mill ruins.

You can also swim at Baby Beach and learn about Aruba’s history, culture, and industry from a local guide. BOOK HERE.

De Palm Island with Bus Transportation

This private island adventure to De Palm Island in Aruba offers an all-inclusive day resort experience.

It includes activities such as snorkeling, banana boat rides, drop slides, underwater helmet walk, and a flamingo exhibit.

The trip includes air-conditioned coach transportation, a delicious lunch, tropical beverages, and snorkel gear. BOOK HERE.

Horseback Riding through Arikok National Park

This 2.5-hour horseback riding tour in Aruba takes you through Arikok National Park to a local swimming hole, where you can cool off.

The tour includes riding instruction from a guide, bottled water, safety helmet, and hotel or port pickup and drop-off. BOOK HERE.

UTV or ATV to Aruba’s Secret Beach and Cave Pool Adventure

This ATV/UTV tour in Aruba takes you off the beaten path to explore hidden gems on the island’s northern coast, including a secret beach and volcanic landscapes.

You’ll have the opportunity to go swimming, cliff jumping, and walking, and can choose between a morning or afternoon start time.

The tour includes stress-free hotel or port pickup and drop-off. BOOK HERE.

Aruba Sunset Sail with Appetizers and Open Bar

This sunset cruise in Aruba offers a luxurious experience aboard a catamaran.

You’ll be able to enjoy tropical cocktails, complimentary appetizers, and views of the coastline while the crew provides entertainment through storytelling, local music, and dancing.

The cruise also includes an open bar. BOOK HERE.

How to Get Around Aruba

Public transport

Public buses are a popular and cost-effective choice to get around Aruba.

The main bus terminal in Oranjestad offers routes to various destinations, including the most popular beaches and tourist spots.

Car rental

Renting a car is a great idea as you will have more flexibility and freedom during your stay.

Many reputable car rental agencies are available near Aruba hotels, as well as at the airport.

Taxis

If you prefer not to drive, taxis are another option to help you get around the island.

They operate round the clock and can be hailed from any Aruba hotel or arranged through a taxi dispatch center.

All taxis have meters, so you don’t need to negotiate the price.

Jeep Tour

Additionally, you can also take one of the many Jeep tours in Aruba in order to explore a more rugged side of the island.

Best Areas to Stay in Aruba: FAQs

Which side of Aruba has the best beaches?

The west coast of Aruba is generally regarded as having the best beaches despite the fact that the entire island is small and has lovely beaches.

The west coast’s beaches are renowned for their crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and fantastic snorkeling and diving spots.

Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Arashi Beach are a few of the west coast’s busiest beaches.

However, the island’s south and east coasts also boast some wonderful beaches as well, including Baby Beach and Mangel Halto.

Where do most people stay in Aruba?

The majority of visitors stay in Palm Beach and Eagle Beach on the island’s northwest coast.

Awarded for its opulent resorts, casinos, dining options, and nightlife, this region.

The hotels here provide quick access to the beach as well as a range of extras like spa services, beach bars, and water sports.

What part of Aruba is most popular?

The northwest coast of the island, particularly the region near Palm Beach and Eagle Beach, is the most visited area of Aruba.

This region is renowned for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and opulent resorts.

Additionally, it is where the majority of the island’s eateries, stores, and nightlife are located.

What is the best place to stay in Aruba for couples?

Aruba offers many options for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

The best place to stay in Aruba for couples depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your stay. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: This adults-only resort is located on Eagle Beach and offers a peaceful and romantic atmosphere. The resort features spacious suites with private balconies or terraces, a spa, and a beachfront restaurant. Book here.
2. Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba: This resort is located in Oranjestad and offers a unique experience for couples. The resort is divided into two sections: one for adults only and one for families. The adults-only section features a private island with a secluded beach and flamingos. Book here.
3. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa: This adults-only resort is located on Eagle Beach and offers a romantic and peaceful atmosphere. The resort features spacious rooms and suites with private balconies or patios, a spa, and a beachfront restaurant. Book here.

What is the best place to stay in Aruba for adults?

Aruba has a number of excellent resort hotels that cater to adults, so it is challenging to name just one as the “best.”

Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is a well-known resort in Aruba for adults. It is a renowned, adults-only oasis on Eagle Beach that has won awards for its romantic ambiance, serene setting, and dedication to sustainability.

The resort offers opulent lodging, a spotless beachfront, outstanding dining options, and a variety of amenities designed to satisfy adults’ needs for peace and quiet.

Conclusion: Best Areas to Stay in Aruba

Aruba is a stunning Caribbean island that offers something for every type of traveler.

From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, the island has a range of options for visitors to choose from. 

No matter which of the best areas to stay in Aruba you end up choosing, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking beaches, crystal clear waters, and a range of activities and attractions to explore.