3 Best Hotels in Aruba
Hotels on the island are categorized as low-rise or high-rise and are grouped in two distinct areas along L.G. Smith and J.E. Irausquin boulevards north of Oranjestad. The low-rise properties are closer to the capital, the high-rises in a swath a little farther north. Hotel rates, with the exception of those at a few all-inclusives, generally do not include meals or even breakfast. The larger resorts are destinations unto themselves, with shopping, entertainment, and casinos.
Radisson Blu Aruba
This stylish modern high-rise behind the Palm Beach strip overlooks an expansive water circuit and has spacious rooms and suites. Though not right on the water, the property offers a complimentary shuttle to its own Palm Beach area with lounges. Onsite dining options are a tad limited, but the charming Clover Café is unique with dedicated coffee and tea baristas, and there is an interesting extra of a floating breakfast in the pool. Better still, the property is steps away from the scads of restaurants and bars of Palm Beach Plaza, Paseo Herencia, and The Cove Mall. There is a small spa and a fitness center onsite, and a number of cool activities, like floating yoga, are on offer. The adult-only rooftop infinity pool is a romantic spot for sunsets over a distant sea.
Courtyard Aruba Resort
This resort is a bright, contemporary alternative to the high-rise hotels of Palm Beach for business travelers and budget-conscious families, with recently renovated rooms that have modern amenities and spacious rain showers. The property centers around an expansive water circuit with a whirlpool, swim-up pool bar, and waterfalls. Allegra Bistro, an indoor-outdoor restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner (eat outside to enjoy regular live entertainment around the pool); Delia’s Terrace bar serves cocktails, specialty coffees, and fruit shakes; and a small 24/7 Grab and Go market provides snacks and extras. On site is a small spa and 24/7 fitness center, and the free shuttle to their designated Palm Beach area delivers guests to complimentary lounges right beside the St. Regis hotel’s beachfront. Some big resort casinos, as well as a number of dining options around the Old Dutch Windmill, are within walking distance.