Finest all-inclusives in Aruba for an ideal Caribbean trip

With some of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Aruba is a jewel of an island just north of Venezuela. The island provides easy access to numerous activities and is a prime location outside the Atlantic Ocean’s hurricane belt and heavenly weather year-round. It’s also a popular stop for some Caribbean cruises, as it has a cruise ship terminal in the capital of Oranjestad,

However, Aruba is also home to some wonderful all-inclusive resorts, which may be the best way to visit without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re planning the perfect honeymoon or a fun family vacation, there’s an all-inclusive resort for every type of traveler in this tropical paradise. Here are the best all-inclusive resorts in Aruba, from giant points hotels to intimate wellness retreats.

It’s all about direct access to Palm Beach and nightlife at this 373-room resort on Aruba’s northwest coast. This property is in the center of the action, with bars and nighttime entertainment within easy reach.

In the high-rise hotel district of Noord, Barceló Aruba offers rooms and suites in a variety of configurations so you can easily find a space that best suits your needs. The decor, which includes two-poster beds and marble floors, is starting to look dated, but chances are you won’t spend much time indoors.

All accommodations have small terraces or balconies, though you’ll want to pay up for a room that overlooks the ocean for a memorable view. For added benefits, reserve a Royal Level room or suite. These sit on a higher floor and come with access to an exclusive check-in area, a lounge and a private restaurant.

Outside the accommodations, you’ll find just about everything you’d expect to see at a massive resort. On-site amenities range from a hair salon and wellness center to a lagoon-style pool with a swim-up bar, decorative water features and a lively atmosphere. There’s even a casino with around 120 slot machines, should you want to test Lady Luck during your stay.

Additionally, there are six restaurants and two bars, including the main Palm restaurant, which has an international buffet and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Other options include L’Olio (with Italian fare), México Lindo (offering Tex-Mex) and Kyoto (where Japanese dishes are on the menu).

All-inclusive rates at Barceló Aruba start at $577 per night, based on double occupancy.

Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives

Oranjestad, Aruba

Best for: Families searching for slightly elevated rooms and amenities.

Why stay here: These all-inclusive resorts appeal to families who want a kid-friendly spot without necessarily being surrounded by children.

Best way to book: Book Divi and Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives directly through their website for special offers, including sales of up 25% off.

Overlooking world-renowned Eagle Beach and situated about a 10-minute drive from both downtown Oranjestad and Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), Divi Aruba All Inclusive and Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive appeal to families seeking ample amenities in a convenient location.

On-site facilities shared by these sister properties include tennis courts, a spa and a fitness center that hosts all kinds of complimentary classes, including Zumba, yoga and water aerobics. However, the main draw is undoubtedly the 1 1/2-mile-long stretch of white sand beach, which sits between the two properties.

If you’re traveling with kids, you’re in luck, as both resorts’ all-inclusive packages cover a number of family-friendly amenities. In addition to the Sea Turtles Club for kids between ages 4 and 12, families can splash in the four pools and check out the beach’s 30-foot-tall rock climbing wall when they’re not busy using the resorts’ loaner bikes to explore the island. Best of all, children 2 and younger stay at Divi Aruba for free, while no fees apply for kids 12 and younger at Tamarijn Aruba.

Accommodation options vary slightly by property. Divi Aruba features 265 guest rooms and suites with traditional decor (think: dark wood furniture and neutral walls with teal and navy blue accents). Meanwhile, Tamarijn Aruba has 236 rooms with more modern design elements like pale blue accent walls and beds with white upholstered headboards featuring built-in reading lights.

All come with furnished patios or balconies, plus Nespresso machines, Smart TVs, stocked minifridges and locally-made toiletries.

When it’s time to eat, you’ll have 12 restaurants to choose from, 10 of which don’t cost extra to visit thanks to the resorts’ all-inclusive rates. Highlights include Mexican-focused Pure Lime, the signature international restaurant Red Parrot and Pelican Terrace, a live cooking concept open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

All-inclusive rates at Divi Aruba All Inclusive start at $617 per night, based on double occupancy. Meanwhile, all-inclusive rates at Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive start at $636 per night, based on double occupancy.

Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort

Oranjestad, Aruba

Best for: Budget travelers who want plenty of room options when staying at an all-inclusive resort.

Why stay here: Couples and families looking for a home away from home with access to amenities at nearby resorts will find this resort worthwhile.

Best way to book: Book Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort directly through the Divi website for frequent sales of up to 30% off.

Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort is not a traditional all-inclusive resort. Unlike other comparable properties, this Oranjestad resort offers standard rates, plus all-inclusive packages that enable you to use the facilities at other nearby Divi properties.

While you’ll have access to a few amenities here, including three pools (one of which features a swim-up bar), a beachfront gym and a poolside grill serving Caribbean- and American-inspired fare, the best feature of this particular property is the wide, white sand beach, which enjoys ample sunshine thanks to the lack of towering buildings alongside it.

If you’re looking for more to do, simply hop on the complimentary shuttle to Divi Aruba All Inclusive or Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive, where additional pools, restaurants, bars and more are available.

After a busy day out in the Aruba sun, retreat to one of Divi Dutch Village’s 123 accommodations. Standard King Efficiency rooms offer 300 square feet of space and come with kitchenettes, while studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites measure between 504 and 1,000 square feet and have living areas with sleeper sofas, as well as full kitchens and furnished balconies or patios. All have Smart TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi in addition to basic but sufficient bathrooms with walk-in showers and large sinks.

All-inclusive rates at Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort start at $665 per night, based on double occupancy.

Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort

Oranjestad, Aruba

Best for: Families looking for extra space over proximity to the beach.

Why stay here: Children younger than 12 stay free, so young families can enjoy time together without incurring extra charges for additional guests.

Best way to book: Book Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort directly through the Divi website for special offers.

Although standard rates at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort are not all-inclusive, this Oranjestad property offers all-inclusive packages at check-in for those seeking a convenient vacation experience. By paying an additional $125 per person, per night for the all-inclusive option, you’ll have access to the facilities at other Divi properties in Aruba in addition to the amenities at Divi Village Golf.

Should you wish to spend the bulk of your time on-site, you’ll find four pools and several hot tubs you can soak in when you’re not hitting the links at the nine-hole golf course. Additionally, there are five restaurants and bars serving everything from fresh island fare to comfort classics like burgers, pizza and nachos.

As far as accommodations go, the 348 suites and villas come with lots of elbow room and must-have amenities for families on vacation. Entry-level studio suites measure 600 square feet and are outfitted with full kitchens and living areas with queen-size sleeper sofas, plus furnished patios or balconies. Larger accommodations are even more spacious, providing up to three bedrooms and extras like in-room washers and dryers.

All-inclusive rates at Divi Village Golf & Beach Resort start at $307 per night (plus a $125 per person, per night all-inclusive add-on fee at check-in), based on double occupancy.

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino

Noord, Aruba

Best for: IHG One Rewards members who want to earn and burn points while vacationing in Aruba.

Why stay here: A massive resort in the center of it all, this property is ideal for budget-conscious families, as kids 11 and younger stay and dine for free while only a dining fee is charged for guests between 12 and 19.

Best way to book: Book the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino directly through the resort’s website, as it’s the only way to reserve the all-inclusive package.

As its name implies, the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino is a beachfront property with a casino. Built along Palm Beach, a popular stretch of sand in Noord, this IHG-affiliated property appeals to families sticking to a budget thanks to each of the 590 rooms being bookable with IHG One Rewards points.

While it may not be a traditional all-inclusive, the resort offers an add-on all-inclusive option that comes with breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus house drinks and nonalcoholic beverages, when making a direct booking. You’ll also receive a $75 credit for the on-site spa, should you wish to pamper yourself during your stay.

Accommodations feature beachy colors with a touch of modernity. Sand-hued accent walls and sea-inspired artwork provide vivid contrasts to the white linens and light wood furniture. The design is otherwise typical of what you’d find at a Holiday Inn Resort, with one or two beds, a small dining and sitting area and a bathroom. In-room amenities include minifridges, coffee makers and walk-in showers.

Seven bars and restaurants are available on-site. Guests can savor casual fare with a view at the Oceanside Bar & Grill, enjoy fresh seafood and steak alfresco at Sea Breeze Restaurant & Bar or sit for a more formal meal at Italian-focused Da Vinci Ristorante, among other options.

For some fun in the sun, head to the resort’s three pools, hot tub or beach. There are also a 24-hour fitness center, four tennis courts and a half-court with a basketball hoop for those looking to stay in shape while on vacation. Younger guests should visit the Activity Center, where children can partake in kids club activities and enjoy video games, pingpong and air hockey.

All-inclusive rates at the Holiday Inn Resort Aruba-Beach Resort & Casino start at $649 per night, based on double occupancy. Points redemptions start at 65,200 IHG One Rewards points per night, though you’ll need to add on the all-inclusive package at check-in. Keep in mind that the resort has a four-night minimum for all-inclusive stays.

Hotel Riu Palace Antillas Hotel

Noord, Aruba

Best for: Adults looking for like-minded party animals.

Why stay here: Proximity to the busy high-rise district and lovely Palm Beach — plus the convenience of free alcohol in every room — make this property an ideal spot to have a good time with friends.

Best way to book: Book the Hotel Riu Palace Antillas directly through the Riu website for special offers, including 10% off for members of the “Riu Class” loyalty program.

The Hotel Riu Palace Antillas is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort right on Palm Beach. It’s all about the party here, with lots of bars, a nightclub, a casino and a glass of bubbly served on arrival. You’ll even find a liquor dispenser and a minibar stocked with various mixers and spirits like Johnny Walker Red and Smirnoff Vodka in each room.

These aren’t the only amenities room rates cover. The all-inclusive package also comes with all meals at the hotel’s five restaurants: buffet-style Atlantis, Asian-focused Krystal, Italian-inspired Rimini, Aruban-influenced Malmok and the Palm Beach Steakhouse. Additionally, complimentary room service is available 24 hours a day, and drinks are provided throughout the property.

Should you need a break from the lively atmosphere, you can head to the hotel’s Renova Spa to break a sweat in the fitness center, unwind in the steam bath or pamper yourself with a spa treatment (extra charges apply). Or, head to the beach for water sports activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling and kayaking.

If pools are more your scene, take a dip in one of two pools. Just be sure to arrive early, as space in and around the pools tends to get limited as the day progresses.

For some time away from the crowds, retreat to your suite. Each of the 482 accommodations has mostly white and beige tones with pops of color throughout, as well as wooden furniture, tile or wood floors and a furnished balcony or terrace.

All-inclusive rates at the Hotel Riu Palace Antillas start at $680 per night, based on double occupancy.

Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

Noord, Aruba

Best for: Families looking for over-the-top style and cruise-ship-comparable amenities in a beach resort vacation.

Why stay here: This kid-friendly hotel is made for travelers who want to stay put, as it has easy beach access, multiple pools and a ton of restaurants on-site.

Best way to book: Book the Hotel Riu Palace Aruba directly through the Riu website for special offers, including 10% off for members of the “Riu Class” loyalty program.

Families in search of an all-inclusive resort right on Palm Beach should consider a stay at the Hotel Riu Palace Aruba. In the heart of Aruba’s high-rise district, this family-friendly property sits within walking distance of lots of local shops and restaurants, though you could easily fill your days enjoying all there is to see and do on the resort grounds.

The all-inclusive package covers a number of hotel activities, including non-motorized water sports (snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding), water aerobics and kids club programs for children between ages 4 and 12. Additionally, guests can check out the enormous main pool with a swim-up bar, a smaller pool with built-in seating or the separate kids’ pool.

The Renova Spa is also on-site for those who want to relax while on vacation. The spa menu features all kinds of services, including massages and beauty treatments, but keep in mind that additional charges apply.

For a bite to eat, grab a seat at one of the hotel’s five restaurants, none of which cost extra. Options include a buffet with themed meals three times a week, a steakhouse and eateries serving Japanese, Italian and Asian fusion fare. Several bars are also on-site for those looking for a cocktail.

If you’d rather sip a drink in solitude, pour a beverage from your room’s liquor dispenser or grab a drink from the complimentary stocked minibar. All 450 guest rooms and suites — which are spacious but dated with traditional dark wood furniture, stark white walls and tile floors — also have satellite TVs and free Wi-Fi, with some offering in-suite Jacuzzis and balconies or terraces.

All-inclusive rates at the Hotel Riu Palace Aruba start at $712 per night, based on double occupancy.

Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa

Oranjestad, Aruba

Best for: Luxury-seeking couples who want a more intimate experience and an excellent beach.

Why stay here: It’s all about wellness and the beach at this romantic resort.

Best way to book: Book Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa directly through the resort’s website for specials and all-inclusive package offerings.

Situated on a beautiful stretch of Eagle Beach, Manchebo Beach Resort and Spa draws those seeking rest and relaxation. This boutique property has just 72 rooms and suites, creating a more intimate atmosphere than what you’ll find at other Aruba resorts.

Every accommodation is modern and luxurious, with neutral, beachy colors and amenities like a microwave, a minifridge, a 40-inch flat-screen TV, a walk-in shower and a beach cooler. Standard rooms face the resort’s gardens, where banana trees, jasmine, areca palms and more local species grow, while upgraded rooms overlook the ocean.

While entry-level room rates are not all-inclusive, an all-inclusive package is available for guests interested in bundling all their meals and drinks with their room. With this plan, you’ll receive an a la carte or buffet breakfast each day of your stay, plus lunch, dinner and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. For stays lasting at least four nights, you’ll also be treated to dinner off-site.

Regardless of which rate you book, you’ll have access to a variety of facilities, such as a library with loaner books, a small infinity pool, a powdery white sand beach and four restaurants serving everything from steakhouse classics to sushi. The wellness offerings are particularly impressive, with options including an oceanfront spa, a fitness center and two outdoor pavilions that host complimentary yoga and pilates classes daily.

All-inclusive rates at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa start at $800 per night, based on double occupancy.

Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort

Oranjestad, Aruba

Best for: Marriott fans who want an all-inclusive option in Aruba where they can earn Marriott Bonvoy points.

Why stay here: It’s all about the private island and beaches at this high-end Aruba resort.

Best way to book: Book Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort directly through Marriott’s website to earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy elite status benefits.

The Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort in downtown Oranjestad is home to Aruba’s only private island. As such, it offers an exclusive experience you won’t find at other Aruba properties.

While it’s not a traditional all-inclusive resort, you can purchase all-inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks and various activities. Dining options include L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House, Aquarius (a seafood establishment), Italian-focused Fresco and Papagayo Bar & Grill, a beachfront venue with Caribbean fare. Make time for a drink at Blue, the chic open-air bar with tasty martinis and tapas, plus DJ-spun tunes.

Once you’re ready for some fun in the sun, cool off in one of several pools, including a lagoon-style oasis, or take the free water taxi to the private island to sunbathe at the property’s two beaches. One is reserved exclusively for adults.

At the beaches, you can enjoy pursuits like snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking and sailing. Additionally, there’s the full-service Okeanos spa, with various massages and body treatments available for an added charge. You’ll also find a huge 24-hour fitness center with modern weight and cardio equipment, plus a kids club, a casino and a mall full of high-end shops on-site.

As for lodging, you can choose from a variety of rooms and suites spread throughout two complexes: the adults-only Renaissance Marina Hotel and the family-friendly Renaissance Ocean Suites. The Marina side has 297 accommodations with cream and beige hues, colorful accent pillows, hanging bedside lights with natural rope shades and a mix of wooden furniture. The Ocean Suites section houses 268 accommodations with white, gray and blue color palettes and chrome light fixtures.

All-inclusive rates at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort start at $812 per night, based on double occupancy. Marriott Bonvoy redemptions start at 56,000 points per night but are not all-inclusive.