Your Complete Guide to Aruba's Best All-Inclusive Resorts

Dreaming of a Caribbean getaway where turquoise waters meet pristine white sand? Aruba, the “One Happy Island,” is a top destination for a reason. If you’re looking for a truly carefree vacation, an all-inclusive resort is the perfect choice. This guide will walk you through the best options Aruba has to offer, helping you find the perfect fit for your travel style.

What to Expect from an All-Inclusive Stay in Aruba

Before we dive into specific resorts, it’s important to understand what “all-inclusive” typically means in Aruba. While packages vary, you can generally expect your upfront price to cover:

  • Accommodations: Your room or suite.
  • Food and Drinks: All meals at various on-site restaurants (buffets and Ă  la carte), snacks throughout the day, and unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages (usually local and some international brands).
  • Activities: Access to pools, beaches, fitness centers, and non-motorized water sports like kayaking and snorkeling.
  • Entertainment: Daily activities and nightly shows organized by the resort staff.

What’s often not included are premium services like spa treatments, motorized water sports, off-site excursions, top-shelf liquor, and special private dining experiences. Always check the fine print of the specific resort package you’re considering.

A Quick Note on Overwater Bungalows

The beautiful image that brought you here shows stunning overwater bungalows, a dream for many travelers. It’s important to know that this style of accommodation is characteristic of destinations like the Maldives and is not currently available in Aruba. However, Aruba offers its own incredible version of paradise with sprawling beachfront resorts, swim-up suites, and oceanfront rooms that put you just steps from the world-famous turquoise sea.

The Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Aruba for Every Traveler

Aruba’s resorts are concentrated in two main areas: the lively Palm Beach and the more tranquil Eagle Beach. Here are our top picks, categorized to help you choose.

For Ultimate Romance and Luxury: Riu Palace Antillas

Located on the vibrant sands of Palm Beach, the Riu Palace Antillas is an adults-only haven perfect for couples and honeymooners. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet fun, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

  • What Makes It Stand Out: Being exclusively for adults (18+) ensures a peaceful and romantic environment. The resort boasts an elegant design, a sprawling pool area with a swim-up bar, and direct access to a beautiful stretch of beach.
  • Dining: You’ll find a great variety of dining options, including a main buffet and several themed Ă  la carte restaurants serving Italian, Fusion, and steakhouse cuisine. Reservations are not required for the specialty restaurants, which is a convenient perk.
  • Activities: Guests have access to a full-service spa, a lively casino, and daily entertainment. Plus, you can use the facilities at the neighboring sister resort, the Riu Palace Aruba.

For Fun-Loving Families: Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive

If you’re traveling with children, the Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive is an exceptional choice. What makes this resort truly unique is that every single room is oceanfront, guaranteeing incredible views and direct beach access just steps from your patio or balcony.

  • What Makes It Stand Out: The “One Happy Family” package often allows kids under a certain age to stay and eat for free. The resort features a 30-foot rock climbing wall on the beach, a kids’ club, and family-friendly activities.
  • Dining: Guests at the Tamarijn have full access to the restaurants and bars at its sister property next door, the Divi Aruba All Inclusive. This gives you a combined total of 10 dining options and 8 bars, ensuring even picky eaters will find something they love.
  • Activities: From water sports and bike rentals to tennis courts and nightly entertainment, there is always something happening to keep the whole family engaged.

For Entertainment and a Lively Vibe: BarcelĂł Aruba

Situated in the heart of Palm Beach, BarcelĂł Aruba is ideal for travelers who want to be in the middle of the action. This resort is known for its energetic atmosphere, beautiful lagoon-style pool, and dazzling nightly shows.

  • What Makes It Stand Out: Its prime location makes it easy to walk to nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions. The resort’s casino is one of the most popular on the island, and the entertainment staff keeps the energy high day and night.
  • Dining: With 7 restaurants and 3 bars, the culinary options are diverse. You can enjoy everything from Japanese hibachi at Kyoto to authentic Mexican dishes at MĂ©xico Lindo.
  • Activities: The massive, free-form pool is the social hub of the resort. You can also participate in water aerobics, play beach volleyball, or try your luck at the casino.

For a Relaxing and Wellness-Focused Escape: Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa

While not a traditional, large-scale all-inclusive, the Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa on the serene and expansive Eagle Beach offers a premium all-inclusive package that’s perfect for those seeking tranquility and wellness.

  • What Makes It Stand Out: This boutique resort is located on one of the widest and most beautiful stretches of sand in the Caribbean. It has a strong focus on wellness, with daily yoga and Pilates classes and an incredible oceanfront spa. The vibe is quiet, intimate, and rejuvenating.
  • Dining: The all-inclusive plan here is focused on quality over quantity. You can enjoy delicious Ă  la carte meals at four excellent restaurants, including the popular Ike’s Bistro and The Chophouse at Manchebo.
  • Activities: The main activity here is relaxation. Enjoy the pristine beach, take a yoga class, or indulge in a spa treatment. It’s the perfect place to disconnect and recharge.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Aruba? Aruba is located outside the hurricane belt, making it a great year-round destination. The most popular (and expensive) time is from December to April. For better deals and fewer crowds, consider visiting between May and November.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Aruba? Yes! Aruba has some of the purest drinking water in the world. It is desalinated and purified in a state-of-the-art facility, so it’s perfectly safe to drink right from the tap.

Do I need to tip at an all-inclusive resort? While tips and service charges are often included in your package, it’s a common and appreciated practice to tip staff members who provide exceptional service. A few dollars for the bartender, your server at an à la carte dinner, or the housekeeping staff can go a long way.