Aruba is sizzling, and not just because it’s so close to the equator. The southern Caribbean hotspot has been one of the most popular destinations in the region since the onset of the pandemic, having nimbly handled its tourism protocols and cultivated an impressively quick tourism recovery. Today, Aruba arrivals are nearing record-breaking totals, and that’s likely to continue into 2023.
Our latest guide to the best Aruba resorts focuses not on the best-known accommodations in Aruba, but the, buzziest, freshest and, well, hottest resorts and hotels on the Dutch Caribbean island. That means some names you may not have even heard of, along with some tried-and-true resorts that exemplify the best of One Happy Island.
Here are the best places to stay in Aruba in 2023.
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort This is the best resort in Aruba, and there isn’t much of a competition. Ewald Biemans’ jewel on stunning Eagle Beach isn’t just a breathtakingly good resort, it’s one of the Caribbean’s model resorts for sustainability. The service, beginning with the iPad check-in, is fabulous, the food (and its commitment to dietary-diverse travelers) is outstanding, and the adults-only experience is sublime.
Aruba Ocean Villas This is still the best-kept secret in Aruba: a full-fledged overwater resort, the only one of its kind in the Dutch Caribbean. There are 10 units here, a mix of overwater villas and beach bungalows, all uniquely designed. The adults-only property is attached to the Old Man and the Sea restaurant, one of the island’s most popular — and excellent — places to eat. The overwater units are nothing short of spectacular, some with their own outdoor cabanas and private plunge pools, the best of the South Pacific in the heart of the Caribbean.
Ocean Z Aruba Hip, chic and intimate, this tiny boutique hotel in Malmok is, well, unlike any other hotel on the island. While Aruba has dozens of larger resorts, this is the essence of the boutique: 13 rooms and suites, a sexy pool and a wonderful international-cuisine eatery. It’s a great way to explore the stunning coastal neighborhood of Malmok (and its world-class snorkeling).
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort Aruba’s capital of Oranjestad has undergone a remarkable transformation in the last decade. Today, it’s a vibrant, walkable, colorful city, with a dynamic arts scene, strong gastronomic chops and a cosmopolitan energy. At the core is the Renaissance, a mixed-use destination that’s one of the city’s entertainment hubs, centered around this waterfront hotel, which includes a casino and a high-level shopping mall. The resort has both an adults-only and a family-friendly wing, along with one major amenity: the nearby Renaissance Island, a private-island destination tailor-made for perfect days on the beach.
Ritz-Carlton, Aruba The most luxurious places to stay on Aruba’s Palm Beach, this 320-room is a textbook Ritz-Carlton: elegant guest rooms, a large, town-square-style lobby; diverse dining options ranging from the very good BLT Steak to the Italian-focused Casa Nonna; and a casino. The best thing here, though, is the beach, with copious chairs and terrific on-the-sand service.
Radisson Blu Aruba This is the only Radisson Blu in the Caribbean right now (you may remember one years back in French St Martin). The 133-room, high-rise hotel is the newest addition to the high rise resorts and hotels in Aruba’s Palm Beach. We love the colorful, crisply-designed room, particularly the ones that come with full kitchens. But the standout here is the poolscape, anchored by what is the largest infinity pool in all of Aruba.
Embassy Suites by HIlton Aruba The Embassy Suites is the first of its kind in Aruba, and the story about this soon-to-debut resort is about two compelling pillars: value and comfort. If you haven’t stayed at an Embassy Suites, you’ll quickly realize why it has cult status with its devotees: the suites are comfortable, capacious and sleek, far larger than most standard hotel rooms you’ll find in the region. The amenities at this resort, while not on the beach, are strong: a beautiful central pool with a hot tub, free daily breakfast, a pool bar and a fitness center. It officially opens Feb. 16.
Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino You can’t mention Aruba with mentioning the Marriott, the Palm Beach signature retreat with 411 rooms and our favorite lobby in Aruba. This is an endlessly solid, reliable resort, from the fantastic casino to outstanding eateries like the beachfront Atardi and the delicious Ruth’s Chris. And yes, that includes the lobby bar, the epicenter of an always-bustling, always-fun lobby area that’s one of the best indoor chilling spots on the island.
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort This classic, instantly recognizable Aruba resort (the aesthetic is true to the name) is in the midst of a complete transformation of both its rooms and its signature restaurant, Mango’s, along with a new gym and spa to boot. The biggest change, though, is a renewed commitment to sustainability. The property just received a Master Certification from premier sustainability ratings firm EarthCheck — the first Aruba resort to get the nod.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba It’s not on the beach, but that’s not the point. This beloved boutique hotel, which has now grown to 46 rooms, has long been one of the most beloved places to stay in Aruba, and it is easy to see why: bright, eclectic rooms (and some superb new {“casitas”), warm, endlessly friendly staff and a lovely “beach club” and an inimitable, breezy, laid-back vibe. And while it isn’t on the beach, you do get access to a Boardwalk-specific beach area with huts, chairs, food and drink and available waterspouts a short walk from the hotel.