Oyster's team of undercover reviewers slept in the beds, lounged by the pools, ate in the restaurants, and even sampled the nightlife at some of Aruba's most popular hotels, all with an eye toward selecting the most distinguished properties. For travelers that want to simplify their vacation by staying at the property most (or all) of the time and eating at the on-site restaurants, all-inclusive resorts are a great option. Here's a list of our favorite all-inclusive resorts in Aruba.
The remote, couples-oriented Tamarijn is part of the massive Divi complex. It shares features with the Divi Aruba resort -- a nine-hole golf course, a huge casino, several pools, nine restaurants, five bars, a top-notch fitness center, and an amazing beach. The only difference -- the Tamarijn has more of a family focus, and all rooms face the ocean.
The remote, all-inclusive Divi Aruba, part of the massive Divi complex, shares the following features with the Tamarijn: a 9-hole golf course, a huge casino, several pools, 9 restaurants, 5 bars, a top-notch fitness center, and an amazing beach. The only difference -- the Divi's a bit more adult-oriented and closer to the casino.
A giant, Arabian-themed castle on the beach, the Riu Palace feels (and smells) less than authentic. Couples-heavy, the resort has two huge pools, a rowdy casino, a 24-hour sports bar, huge buffets, and a bustling beach. But service is scarcely competent, and rooms typically stink of cigarettes (nonsmoking rooms are not an option).