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Planning a trip to Aruba? We’ve got you covered!
This sun-soaked Caribbean island is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and laid-back vibe. But we’ve discovered that choosing where to stay can totally shape your experience. So whether you’re looking for nightlife, romance, or something a little more off the beaten path, we’ve rounded up the five best areas to stay in Aruba.
We’ve also included our favorite hotels in each area, with something for every budget. From glitzy resorts in Palm Beach to laid-back beach villas in Noord, your perfect place to stay is here somewhere. Keep on reading to find out exactly where!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Aruba is Palm Beach! This is the most lively area with some of the best beaches, restaurants, and hotel options.
We recommend staying at Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. It offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!
Where to Stay in Aruba Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Aruba
Aruba may be small, but it offers a surprisingly wide range of places to stay. Each different part of the island has its own vibe, so whether you want lively beach resorts, a quieter romantic escape, or something more local, there’s an area that fits.
Getting around is fairly easy, but renting a car will definitely make your life smoother. You can drive from one end of the island to the other in under an hour, and car rentals here are pretty affordable. There are public buses and taxis that connect most of the major tourist spots, but if you want flexibility and the chance to explore more remote areas, then a rental car is the way to go.
- Palm Beach – Aruba’s most vibrant and energetic area, Palm Beach is packed with high-rise resorts, beach bars, casinos, and great shopping. It’s the heart of the island’s tourist scene and perfect if you’re after nightlife and want everything within walking distance. Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino is one of the most iconic beachfront stays here.
- Eagle Beach – Just south of Palm Beach, Eagle Beach offers a more relaxed vibe with wide, quiet shores and fewer crowds. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort offers a relaxed stay right across from the sand.
- Oranjestad – This is Aruba’s capital city, and it’s filled with Dutch-colonial architecture, shops, and cruise ports. It’s also where you’ll find Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, the only hotel that gives you access to the famous Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island.
- Noord – This northern part of the island is quieter than Palm or Eagle Beach, with a more local feel and access to hidden beaches. Ocean Z Boutique Hotel is our top pick here for a more peaceful beach retreat that’s still relatively affordable.
- Savaneta – If you’ve been to Aruba before and want something slower paced, try the sleepy coastal town of Savaneta in Aruba’s southern corner. Serene by the Sea offers a rustic stay right on the water.
Important Tip: Book Now or Cry Later
Multiple Aruba trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Aruba accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is the most popular area of Aruba to stay in. And honestly, it’s easy to see why so many travelers flock here! This lively beachfront strip is packed with high-rise resorts, restaurants, bars, and shopping centers, all set against one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of white sand. If you want to be in the middle of the action, with everything you need just steps away, this is the place to be!
The area has a fun, energetic vibe that appeals to just about everyone. It’s our top pick for first-time visitors, whether from families and couples to solo travelers and groups of friends.
Palm Beach is one of the best spots on the island for water sports, with parasailing, paddleboarding, and lots of boat tours available right from the beach. There’s also a scenic, palm-lined path that runs along the resort zone, so it’s super easy to explore this area on foot. You’re close to attractions like the Butterfly Farm and Bubali Bird Sanctuary, and there’s no shortage of nightlife if you want to keep the party going after sunset.
While Palm Beach is definitely touristy and can get crowded, it’s convenient and a ton of fun! It’s a vibrant coastal hub that offers relaxation, entertainment, and easy access to Aruba’s best experiences.
Pros
- Lots of restaurants, nightlife, and things to do
- Gorgeous beach with calm, swimmable water
Cons
- Very busy and touristy
- Resorts can get crowded, especially in peak season
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino – $$$
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino is an upscale beachfront resort that’s luxurious but relaxed. The rooms are sleek and modern, many with ocean views, and the sprawling pool area is one of the best in Palm Beach. There’s also a casino, a full-service spa, and several restaurants right on site.
In addition to the fact that it’s got basically everything you could want or need, the resort is located in the heart of the action, so you can walk to outside bars, shops, and the beach in seconds. If you’re looking for a stylish, all-in-one experience that’s close to everything, this place is just the ticket!
Rooms here start at $750 USD per night and range up to $1,600 USD depending on the dates and room category you choose.
Check the hundreds of positive reviews and book your stay here!
Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino – $$
One of Aruba’s most beloved resorts, the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino is a beachfront classic that strikes a great balance between comfort, location, and price. It’s set on beautifully landscaped grounds with two pools, several restaurants, a full-service spa, and a casino.
The beach here is wide and peaceful, and you’re steps from Palm Beach’s best restaurants and nightlife. It’s a solid pick for travelers who want resort perks without splurging on ultra-luxury prices.
Prices here start at $430 USD per night and range up to $1,000+ for tower suites.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Blue Residences – $
For a more affordable and independent stay, Blue Residences offers spacious, apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens and sweeping ocean views. It’s just south of the main Palm Beach strip, so you’re close to the action without being right in the middle of it. The complex has three pools, a small restaurant, and great sunset views. This is a great option if you’re staying longer, traveling as a group, or just want a little more space and flexibility.
One-bedroom apartments start at $300 USD per night and range up to $550 USD.
Check out all of the options and book your stay here!
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is Aruba’s second most popular area to stay, and we think it’s a fantastic pick if you’re looking for something a little quieter than Palm Beach that’s still close to the action. The beach here is wide, peaceful, and often ranked among the best in the world, thanks to its soft white sand and iconic fofoti trees. It’s the perfect spot for anyone dreaming of a more laid-back beach escape.
The vibe is relaxed and low-key. You’ll mostly find low-rise resorts, boutique hotels, and a few restaurants within walking distance. Nightlife is limited compared to Palm Beach, but for me, that can sometimes be a plus when I want to relax and make the most of the sunshine! And you’re only a short drive (or a longer walk) away from the buzz if you want to spend a few hours in the thick of it all.
Eagle Beach is a great base for sunset strolls and beach-hopping. Our favorite time to visit is turtle nesting season, which runs from April until November, as this is when turtles come up to the area’s shores to lay their eggs. You can even see baby turtles if you’re lucky!
Pros
- Quiet, romantic setting with a world-famous beach
- Less crowded than Palm Beach
Cons
- Fewer dining and nightlife options nearby
- Not as walkable for exploring beyond the beach
Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort – $$$
Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort is a large, 4-star resort that sits right on the beach. It’s an all-suite hotel that offers guests plenty of space, full kitchens, and private balconies. There are three restaurants on site, but the ability to self-cater is ideal for longer stays!
The resort is located at the northern end of Eagle Beach, giving you easy access to both Eagle and Palm Beaches. There are also two pools and, best of all, a swim-up bar! I don’t know about you, but I think nothing says “vacation” like a swim-up bar. Plus, you’re just a short walk from the sand and close enough to venture into the nightlife scene when the mood takes you.
Suites typically range from $450 to $950 USD per night, depending on the category and season.
Don’t miss out – check prices and book your stay here!
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort – $$
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is a charming Dutch-colonial style resort that sits directly across from Eagle Beach. It offers a bit more character than most resorts, and the rooms are cozy and well-equipped. But honestly, the real standout is the beautiful private beach area and beachfront dining options!
Amsterdam Manor is ideal for couples or travelers looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, sunset dinners, and a touch of romance. The studios and suites also have private kitchens, so you can self-cater whenever you need to as well.
Studios start at $400 USD per night and go up to $1,000+ USD depending on the season and room type.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Eagle Aruba Resort – $
Eagle Aruba Resort is a cheaper option located just a short walk from Eagle Beach. It’s a large, family-friendly property with spacious suites that come with kitchenettes or full kitchens, making it ideal for longer stays or groups.
The resort has three pools, including a kids’ pool and waterslide, along with a small spa, gym, and a couple of restaurants and bars on site. It’s not right on the beach, but the walk is short and easy, and we think that the price point makes it well worth the trade-off.
Prices typically range from $250 to $500 USD per night for a one-bedroom suite.
Check out all of the options and rates here!
Oranjestad
Oranjestad is Aruba’s colorful capital city, known for its Dutch colonial architecture and lively harbor. We really enjoy staying in this area because it offers a fantastic mix of local charm and tourist-friendly attractions. It’s the best area to stay if you’re interested in history, shopping, or easy access to day trips.
There are lots of cruise ports here, so if you’re arriving in Aruba by cruise, then it’s a super convenient place to stay. The same goes if you’re planning to explore the island by boat, which is a lot of fun, just FYI.
The city has a walkable downtown core filled with restaurants, museums, shops, and casinos. You’ll find local markets alongside high-end malls like Renaissance Marketplace and Royal Plaza Mall. It’s also home to the famous Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, the only hotel that gives guests exclusive access to Flamingo Beach on private Renaissance Island!
We think that Oranjestad is a great option for anyone who enjoys local flavor or who wants a more urban base with good transport links. It’s not your typical beach resort zone, but the city’s energy, character, and central location make it a great jumping-off point for exploring the island’s history and culture.
Pros
- Great for shopping, museums, and local culture
- Ideal if you’re planning boat tours or arriving by cruise
Cons
- Not a beach zone
- Busy with cruise ship crowds during the day
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort – $$$
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort is a real standout! It has a gorgeous, tropical design, but what really sets this iconic property apart is the fact that it’s the only place where you can access Aruba’s private Renaissance Island.
Renaissance Island is the very definition of a postcard-worthy tropical island, and it’s also home to a flock of flamingos. Then, once there, they can enjoy private cabanas and a quieter adults-only section for the ultimate island experience.
Back on the mainland, the resort features a large pool, multiple restaurants, and easy access to downtown shopping and dining. If you want the perfect mix of beach, luxury, and city convenience, this place has it all.
Nightly rates usually range from $450 to $1,200 USD, depending on room type and season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Wonders Boutique Hotel – $$
Wonders Boutique Hotel is a peaceful oasis tucked in a quiet residential corner of Oranjestad. It’s just a 15-minute walk from the city center, and while it’s not as glamorous as some of Aruba’s other properties, it’s very highly rated thanks to all of the thoughtful touches and the super-friendly staff. They really could not be nicer!
The hotel is super charming, too, with a lush garden, a spring-fed pool, and a relaxed vibe that feels worlds away from the bustle of downtown. The rooms are super comfy with lots of personality, and there’s free parking on site.
Prices typically range from $215 to $315 USD per night.
This place fills up fast, so book your stay here ASAP!
Victoria City Hotel – $
Victoria City Hotel is a budget-friendly pick in the heart of Oranjestad. It’s simple but modern and comfortable, and it’s located close to shops, restaurants, and the main port area.
While it’s not a luxury stay and doesn’t offer beach access or many amenities, it’s a great option if you’re traveling on a budget and want to be in the middle of the city. And who needs to stay in a huge resort when you’re in the heart of Aruba’s capital city, anyway?
Prices are reasonable, and you can expect to pay between $150 and $165 USD per night.
You can snap up this budget-friendly stay here!
Related Read: To help plan your time, check out our blog on the best things to do in Oranjestad here.
Noord
Noord is one of the best places to stay in Aruba if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed vibe without being too far from the action. Noord means “north,” and it refers to the northernmost region of the island.
Technically, Palm Beach is actually a region within Noord. However, when you hear travelers talk about this area, they’re usually referring to the peaceful neighborhoods and coastal stretches outside of the tourist hub.
The beaches here are beautiful, so it’s ideal for those looking for a laid-back beach holiday without the buzz of the big resorts. We go to Palm Beach when we want to party, and Noord when we want to relax and get away from it all.
The beaches here are calm and clear, making them ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Tres Trapi and Boca Catalina are local favorites! You’ll also find great sunset spots, walking paths, and fewer crowds overall.
That’s not to say there are no amenities in Noord because there are a few shops, local restaurants, and markets around. However, we definitely recommend renting a car to make the most of your stay here. This will give you the freedom to explore nearby highlights like the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, and the scenic northern coast.
Pros
- Quieter and more peaceful than Palm or Eagle Beach
- Easy access to top snorkeling spots and scenic beaches
Cons
- Not many shops or restaurants within walking distance
- You’ll definitely need a rental car
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba – $$$
Tucked into a former coconut plantation, Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is one of Aruba’s most beloved upscale hideaways! It’s just a short walk from Palm Beach, but it feels super serene and removed from the buzz. We love the tropical-chic decor, and the lush gardens and two pools mean that you’ll really feel those vacation vibes when you stay here.
Instead of a room, you get your own casita here, which is individually decorated and comes with a private patio, hammock, and fully equipped kitchenette. This place is ideal for travelers looking for privacy, style, and a boutique experience that feels personal and peaceful.
Rates usually range from $500 to $1,300 USD per night, depending on the season and casita type.
Read the stellar reviews and book your stay here!
Ocean Z Boutique Hotel – $$
Ocean Z is a sleek, modern boutique hotel located just steps from Malmok Beach. With only a handful of rooms, it offers an intimate and personalized experience. The design is clean and minimalist, with ocean views, an infinity pool, and fantastic on-site dining! Seriously, nothing beats enjoying a gourmet meal here at sunset.
We think that this place is a great choice for couples looking for a peaceful, romantic escape without the resort crowds. The location is perfect for snorkeling or sunset walks along Aruba’s northern coastline!
Prices typically range from $450 to $1,000 USD per night, depending on the season and room category.
Find the best prices here on Booking.com!
Aruba Beach Villas – $
Aruba Beach Villas offers a simple but clean and comfortable base just across the street from Malmok Beach. The property offers basic, self-catering studios and apartments with ocean views and kitchenettes. We think it’s the perfect choice for travelers who want a budget-friendly base in a great location.
You won’t find that many amenities on site, but the peaceful setting, easy beach access, and spacious units make it a solid pick for longer stays or travelers who plan to spend most of their time out exploring and enjoying Aruba’s gorgeous beaches.
Expect to pay around $115 to $215 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Need help planning the rest of your trip? See our 5-day Aruba itinerary here for the top activities, day trips, beaches, restaurants, and more!
Savaneta
Savaneta is a quiet coastal town in the southern part of Aruba that offers a totally different vibe from the island’s high-rise hotel zones. Once the island’s capital, it’s now a laid-back fishing village. We came here after we had already visited Aruba a few times and were looking for a more local, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. So if you’re seeking the same, we highly recommend staying here!
What’s great about this area is that it offers easy access to nature and some of the island’s best snorkeling. Baby Beach, Mangel Halto, and Rodger’s Beach are all nearby, and they offer calm, shallow water perfect for swimming or spotting colorful marine life. It truly is incredible, so even if you don’t stay here, we definitely recommend driving down here to experience Savaneta’s underwater world.
As a big seafood lover, I was also happy to find some excellent seafood restaurants tucked along the coasts. Trust me, these local gems are hard to beat. Make sure to head to Zeerover’s, which is a rustic, over-the-water spot that’s famous for its fresh catch!
You will need a rental car to explore Savaneta, and there’s hardly any nightlife or shopping here. The peace and tranquility it offers are unparalleled!
Pros
- Quiet, local vibe with beautiful nearby beaches
- Great for snorkeling and seafood lovers
Cons
- Not much nightlife or entertainment
- Not walkable – you’ll need a rental car
Eva Resort – $$$
Eva Resort is incredible. There are no other words for it! This modern hotel consists of a few luxurious villas dotted around a lush garden and pool area. It feels like such a hidden gem that when you stay here, you really won’t be able to believe your luck that you found it!
This is a 5-star, adults-only hotel with a minimalist yet stylish design. Most of the suites come with full kitchens, so it doesn’t matter that there’s no restaurant on site. Zeerover’s is just a 2-minute walk away, too, so you can go and enjoy fresh seafood over the water whenever you like. The only downside of this resort is that it books up fast, so if it sounds like your kind of stay, don’t hesitate to book.
Prices typically range from $450 to $650 USD per night.
Book your suite here, before they all sell out!
Serene by the Sea – $$
Serene by the Sea is a family-run guesthouse that lives up to its name. While it’s not flashy, it’s friendly, comfortable, and super quiet and relaxing. There are only a handful of rooms, and they all have ocean views and direct beach access.
It’s perfect for travelers who want to be close to the sea in a peaceful setting. You can snorkel from the shore, watch the sunset from a hammock, or enjoy breakfast on the pier – what more could you want from an Aruba vacation? And the staff are so friendly and welcoming that we guarantee you’ll be sad to say goodbye to them when your trip comes to an end.
Rates generally range from $200 to $250 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Coral Reef Beach – $
Coral Reef Beach is a chic but affordable beachfront stay in Savaneta. The apartments and studios are housed in a charming, colonial-inspired building, complete with black-and-white tiled floors and elegant architectural details that add a bit of character to your stay.
The hotel has a private beach area with gorgeous white sand and shaded hammocks. There’s a seafood restaurant right next door, and another one just 5 minutes away on foot. We think this place strikes a great balance between style, location, and affordability for those who want to unplug and wake up to the sound of the gentle waves every morning.
Prices usually range from $130 to $160 USD per night – not bad for beachfront bliss!
Check out the rave reviews and book your stay before word gets out about this hidden gem!
Top Activities to do in Aruba
Now that you’ve found the perfect area to stay and a comfortable hotel, you can start planning your itinerary! There is truly so much to do in Aruba, you’ll already be planning your next trip before you leave. To help you narrow down your options, here are a few of our favorite activities:
- Go on a 4×4 jeep excursion – Looking for a thrill? This 4×4 jeep tour was our favorite thing we did in Aruba! Not only was it exhilarating, but it took us to Baby Beach and Natural Pool – two sights you can’t miss.
- Relax on a catamaran cruise – Sink into the relaxed Caribbean vibes on this catamaran snorkeling tour. We loved spending a day on the water, snorkeling at shipwrecks and stunning blue bays, and simply enjoying the luxury of a catamaran boat!
- Explore the full island – Aruba isn’t very large, so this full island tour is possible in one day! This was a great chance to learn about the history and culture of Aruba, get off the beaten path, and give our sunburns a break!
- Take a sunset cruise – As one of the most memorable things we did in Aruba, I can’t recommend this sunset cruise enough! We spent the golden hour and sunset cruising along the coast, sipping on cocktails, and eating yummy appetizers – is there anything more luxurious?
- Horseback ride in Arikok National Park – Take a break from the beach and sea! This horseback ride in Arikok National Park was the best way to explore Aruba’s natural beauty. The day was convenient with our local guide leading the way and making sure we were comfortable with our horse; it was definitely a memorable experience!
Related Read: Looking for even more activities? See our list of the top 10 things to do in Aruba for a memorable trip!
Renting a Car in the Caribbean
Renting a car in the Caribbean gives you the freedom to explore beyond the resorts—think secluded beaches, remote viewpoints, and vibrant local towns that buses don’t reach. As long as you are prepared for the road conditions and informed about local driving rules, renting a car can be a great addition to your trip!
We always book through Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s easy to compare providers, filter for exactly what you need (like an automatic or 4×4), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want all the details, check out our full Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the Caribbean
- Know the driving side: Some Caribbean islands drive on the left, while others stick to the right. It really varies island to island, so double-check before you go—and make sure you’re comfortable driving on that side of the road, especially if it’s different from home.
- Know the local driving rules: Road laws and signage can differ between islands, so it’s worth doing a quick check before pickup. Seatbelts are usually mandatory, texting and driving is typically illegal, and honking is often just a friendly heads-up. Expect low speed limits and shared roads—think scooters, pedestrians, and even the occasional animal—so stay alert and take your time!
- Add full insurance: Roads can be unpredictable, with potholes, hills, and narrow lanes—especially outside resort areas. For that reason, we always recommend adding on full coverage insurance to your rental. Discover Cars makes this super easy (and affordable!) to add on, so you can drive with peace of mind.
- Choose the right car: For beach tracks or hilly inland roads, a compact SUV or 4×4 might be your best bet. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, or even luggage space to suit your needs.
- Watch for extra fees: Some rental companies charge sand cleaning fees, airport pickup surcharges, or require you to return the car spotless. It’s nothing to stress over—just check the fine print so you’re not caught off guard.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the Caribbean
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- On some islands, a temporary/visitor’s driving permit may be required. These are normally issued by the rental agency for a fee. Check with your company in advance, so you’re not surprised by extra costs at pickup!
- An IDP (International Driving Permit) may be required depending on your destination and the language of your license. Always check the country’s requirements beforehand so you’re prepared.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Caribbean Islands on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Aruba is truly a dream getaway, but having the right place to stay can make or break your trip! Luckily, we did all the research for you. After visiting these areas for ourselves, we can confidently say that they will make for a comfortable stay.
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out the rest of our Caribbean blogs here! Whether you’re looking for top areas to stay, full itineraries, or top activities, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few related blogs to get you started. Cheers!
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