Nicknamed ‘One Happy Island’, Aruba is a small Caribbean island just off the Venezuelan coast. Known for its year-round sunshine, friendly and hospitable locals, and of course its unparalleled tropical beaches.
Naturally, it’s one of the top spots for couples, honeymooners, and family trips to the Caribbean.
While there aren’t any high-rise cities on the island, Oranjestad is the largest city and is home to many of the island’s cultural attractions and brightly colored Dutch buildings. With a history steeped in Dutch, Spanish, and English colonialism, there’s a unique blend of old and new in this city, making it a must-visit for first-time visitors to Aruba.
If you head up North, you’ll come to the famous Eagle and Palm Beach. You won’t be disappointed with the range of restaurants in this area, which is definitely the best spot for budget, solo, and party-going travelers. Arashi Beach is more peaceful and picturesque, and you’ll find a few bespoke luxury vacation rentals close to this secluded cove.
In the South, there is the charming local town of San Nicolas, which is overflowing with Aruban culture.
No matter where you decide to stay in Aruba, choosing to stay in a vacation rental will allow you to have more flexibility, more homely comforts and a more authentic experience.
That’s why I have put this list of my favourite vacation rentals in Aruba so you can find an accommodation option that allows you to have the best possible experience of the island.
Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Vacation Rentals in Aruba
Funky 2 Bed Villa with Pool
- > $$
- > 4 Guests
- > Colorful villa with outdoor living area and pool courtyard
- > In the central Noord region, minutes from the beach
Historical 2 Bed House
- > $
- > 4 Guests
- > Traditional colonial home with updated interiors
- > In the local town of Savaneta, near Mangel Halto beach
Charming Boutique Apartment for 2
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Cozy space with shared pool and gardens
- > In a prestigious neighborhood in Noord
Homey 3 Bed Villa with Pool
- > $$$
- > 6 Guests
- > Mediterranean style home with a huge pool
- > Located in Boegoeroei, a mile from Palm Beach
Opulent 4 Bed Villa with Private Beach
- > $$$
- > 9 Guests
- > Luxury home with a tiki bar and private boat dock
- > In the quiet region of Savaneta
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Aruba!
Types of Accommodation in Aruba
Before we go into my top 20 vacation rentals in Aruba, let’s quickly look at the types of homes available to rent on the island.
This will give you an idea of what to search for so you can quickly find somewhere best suited to your travel style and budget.
Remember, Aruba is expensive, so if you want to save a few pennies, then you’re going to need to consider one of the more affordable types of accommodation mentioned below.
Condos, Studios, and Penthouses
Probably the most common type of holiday rental in Aruba is an assortment of condos, studios, and luxury penthouses. There are many condos and apartment vacation rentals in all the larger towns.
Depending on their size and how many beds they have, studios are ideal for couples and solo travelers, while penthouses could comfortably accommodate up to 10 guests.
Whether you choose a budget-friendly studio or an extravagant penthouse with ocean views, most of these rentals offer access to a shared swimming pool. The more luxurious buildings might even include gyms, on-site restaurants, and concierge services.
They’re also typically located in central areas offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. If you’re looking for safe accommodation in Aruba with security guards, renting an apartment would be a great call.
Beach Houses
Beach houses are the most sought-after, yet less common form of accommodation in Aruba. While they do exist, it’s not super easy to find an affordable house for a family located directly on the beach.
However, as one of the best Caribbean islands that is famous for beaches, if you do find a beach house in Aruba you should definitely jump on the opportunity.
Beach houses in Aruba are usually modest single-story homes with multiple bedrooms and an open concept living space. They’re a lot cheaper than luxurious villas, and if you look hard enough, you could find a beach house with a swimming pool and yard.
This type of self-catering vacation rental in Aruba is well-suited to small families, groups of friends, and even digital nomads looking for an affordable spot for a long stay.
Luxury Villas
The ‘creme de la creme’ of vacation rentals, this Caribbean island is home to some extravagant villas. Whether you’re traveling with a large family, are hosting an event, or are meeting up with a group of friends, villas are the best spot to rent out for big groups.
They tend to have many private bedrooms and a spacious central living area. While most include swimming pools and Jacuzzis, the more luxurious villas will even have private theatres, games rooms, and private beaches.
The best luxury villas in Aruba are located near, if not on, the beach. You’ll find this type of rental across the busy cities as well as in the more secluded southern parts of the island.
Top 20 Vacation Rentals in Aruba
From luxurious villas to tiny houses, there are many great places to stay in Aruba. Here are our picks of the best holiday homes in Aruba for your next tropical vacation.
Enjoy!
Best Overall Vacation Rental in Aruba | 2 BR Villa W/ Pool
- $$
- In the central Noord region, minutes from the beach
- 4 Guests
- Colorful villa with outdoor living area and pool courtyard
Tourists like to visit Aruba for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and colorful atmosphere. This villa is located in the heart of Noord, a few minutes from the beach, major tourist attractions, world-class eateries, and shops. It’s one of my top picks for Airbnbs in Aruba.
Not only does it sit in a prime location, but it’s also a perfect representation of the colorful country of Aruba. Painted a bright yellow with different block-colored details, this two-bedroom villa has a huge central courtyard with a pool, fire pit, and tons of seating and lounge space.
The interior has a youthful beach aesthetic, with indoor hammocks and pastel-colored cushions set against a neutral backdrop. As one of the best vacation rentals in Aruba, it’s the perfect combination of funky and relaxing.
Best Budget Vacation Rental in the Heart of Aruba | 2 Bed Home
- $
- In the local town of Savaneta, near Mangel Halto beach
- 4 Guests
- Traditional colonial home with updated interiors
Not only is this home extremely affordable for what it offers, but it’s also a uniquely historical house. Built over 100 years ago in the colonial era, the bright yellow home has been completely remodeled to boast modern fittings, floors, and cabinetry.
The home can fit six guests (two on a sleeper couch) and is furnished simply yet comfortably. Although basic, the home is fitted with everything you might need for a holiday in the sun, including high-speed Wi-Fi, a BBQ, snorkeling equipment, and even some backyard games.
Best of all, it’s located in a local town that is full of authentic character, near some of Aruba’s lesser-known beaches.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Aruba start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Most Beautiful Villa Rental in Aruba | 3 BR Villa W/ Pool Courtyard
- $$$
- Near Oranjestad in the inland town of Paradera
- 6 Guests
- Neutral interiors with a state-of-the-art kitchen
This beautiful villa is only a few miles from the capital, in a local town surrounded by greenery. The modern home has a large yard with a swimming pool and a covered gazebo dining deck.
Once you walk through the front doors, you’ll be gifted with a sense of relaxation and privacy. The home has been furnished with neutral tones and calming interiors. White walls combined with warm wooden furniture, state-of-the-art kitchen cabinetry, and marble countertops make it clear that the home was designed with care.
In fact, this kitchen is so beautiful and well-equipped, that it will make cooking and cleaning (even on holiday) a pleasant experience!
Luxurious Tropical Hideaway in Aruba | 4 BR Villa W/ Private Beach
- $$$
- In the quiet region of Savaneta
- 9 Guests
- Luxury home with a tiki bar and private boat dock
What more could you ask for from a luxury beach vacation rental in Aruba than a private beach and dock? This truly is the most idyllic spot to spend a family vacation.
This property is large enough for nine guests and has been designed with Mediterranean influence with tons of space for socializing throughout the central living areas.
However, it’s the private beach that we’re here for. If your own personal sandy beach isn’t good enough, this home also has a private dock with juts out over the pristine coral reef. The dock has a thatched gazebo and is fitted with lounging chairs and a dining area.
Back on the beach, there’s a separate tiki bar and outdoor kitchen, which is the perfect spot to cook up a family feast on the beach.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba for Small Families | 3 BR Villa W/ Pool
- $$$
- Located in Boegoeroei, a mile from Palm Beach
- 6 Guests
- Mediterranean style home with a huge pool
Aruba is one of the most peaceful family vacation destinations in the Caribbean. If you’re traveling with your family, this home will tick all your family holiday boxes.
Firstly, it’s located only a mile from the most famous Palm Beach and the Butterfly Farm. It sits on top of a hill in a prestigious neighborhood, offering beautiful views of the beach.
Second, the single-story home has three beautiful bedrooms, each with its own bathroom, as well as a spacious pool deck and garden. As the perfect spot to unwind and bond with your family, it truly feels like your own private oasis.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba for a Weekend | 1 Bed Condo
- $$
- In the heart of Oranjestad
- 3 Guests
- Onsite restaurants, pool, gym, and 24-hour concierge
With so many condos across the island, choosing the best vacation rental in Aruba for a quick weekend break can be tough.
I chose this one for its convenient location in the heart of the capital city, only a few minutes from the airport. With minimal transport times, you’ll have more time to lay by the pool and explore the beautiful beaches.
The condo is simple yet clean, perfect for couples or business travelers. The resort-like apartment block has an on-site bar and restaurant, making it easy to eat out, even if you don’t feel like venturing into town.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba with a Pool and Jacuzzi | 5 BR Villa
- $$$
- In the heart of the Noord district
- 12 Guests
- Gorgeous indoor/outdoor living space with modern furniture
Renting a spot with a pool and Jacuzzi is almost essential in this tropical climate when you need somewhere to cool off. This exquisite five-bedroom villa has one of the most inviting pools we have ever laid eyes on.
Picture this: you’re relaxing by the pool with your best friends, shaded by tropical palm trees and plants. You enjoy a homemade cocktail from the private pool bar while listening to the sounds of water trickling down the water feature into the crystal clear pool. This is paradise if you ask me!
The rest of the home is equally as impressive, with beautiful modern interiors blending a bunch of styles. With an outdoor kitchen and tons of covered seating space, this is one of the top luxury vacation rentals in Aruba for indoor/outdoor living.
Super Accessible Vacation Rental in Aruba | 1 BR Condo W/ Pool
- $
- Between the famous Palm and Eagle Beaches
- 2 Guests
- Well-equipped apartment with comfortable furniture
If you’re looking for an accessible vacation rental in Aruba, look no further! This single-story modern condo is wheelchair-friendly and suitable for guests with limited mobility. You can expect wide hallways and tons of space throughout the condo, making it easy to move around.
Not only is it easy to enter and exit, but the owners have even included specially designed countertops that are low enough for wheelchair users to reach. The walk-in shower and toilet with grab rails are also convenient for wheelchair users.
Aside from being super practical, the home also has a beautiful shared pool and courtyard.
Most Central City Vacation Rental Aruba | 3 BR Penthouse
- $$$
- On the beach in Eagle Beach
- 8 Guests
- Exquisite interior design with 180-degree ocean views
Views are the name of the game in this centrally-located, modern condo. Located on Eagle Beach in the trendy central Noord district, this home is well positioned for just about any activity.
Aside from its convenient location and unrivaled ocean views from the private balcony, the interior of the home is so beautifully decorated, it will transport you into vacation mode from the moment you walk through the doors. The modern home has been renovated using contemporary furnishings, lighting and cabinetry.
Dark ocean blue cabinets and walls contrast with the luxurious white furniture and linens, giving the home a coastal feel. The double-story condo includes access to a shared gym, pool, and Jacuzzi.
Vacation Rental in Aruba for a Big Family | 6 BR W/ Private Beach
- $$$
- In Noord, surrounded by restaurants and attractions
- 13 Guests
- Fun and festive beach villa with private beach
Make yourself at home in this luxury vacation rental in Aruba. Equipped with a thatched gazebo, swimming pool, and private beach, you could not find a more beautiful tropical paradise if you tried. Perfect for large families, the 13 sleeper home is filled with fun activities and things to do.
Spend some time at the outside beach bar, take a dip in the massive swimming pool or soak in the Jacuzzi, or lay a towel out on the sandy beach area.
Although it’s been renovated with contemporary touches, the home still has its old Aruban charm. The original home boasts high ceilings, tiled floors, and spacious rooms. My favorite part of this authentic home is the terracotta tiled kitchen with French windows.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba for Friends | 5 BR Beach Villa
- $$$$
- Steps from Arashi Beach and Boca Catalina beach
- 10 Guests
- Mediterranean style home with beach and sunset views
This isn’t just another luxurious tropical villa in Aruba. The multiple-story Spanish-style casita is overflowing with charm and beauty, from the balconies to the pool area.
Located on a corner property only steps from beautiful and secluded beaches, this stunning home has a landscaped tropical garden and organically shaped swimming pool fit for a king.
Aside from the multiple balconies scattered across this beach vacation rental in Aruba, the pool deck includes two covered gazebos, one with an outdoor lounge set and another with a dining area and an outdoor BBQ.
Most Unique Vacation Rental in Aruba | 4 Bedroom Retreat
- $$$
- Near restaurants and shops in Noord
- 10 Guests
- Two swimming pools, a games room, and a private theater
This home takes outdoor living to the next level in a true Bali-inspired home. In fact, the entire home has been curated as a relaxing yet quirky space, ideal for yoga lovers. It includes two swimming pools (one indoor, one outside), a yoga shala, private cinema, and a gym.
Decorated using natural island-inspired materials such as exposed stone, thatch, and warm timber, the entire house is designed with windows and sliding doors to be opened up daily.
My personal favorite part of the home is the bathrooms, which are part indoor, part outdoor. There’s nothing better than sitting in a hot bath while a tropical rainstorm rages above you.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba for a First Time Visit | 1 Bed Apmt
- $$
- Located in the busy Noord area, near Palm Beach
- 2 Guests
- Modern interior with classy shared pool courtyard
If you’ve never visited the island before, it’s a great idea to spend some time in the central Noord region, near famous beaches, top-rated snorkeling tours, and all major city attractions.
This boutique apartment block is super modern and clean. Painted all white, it almost looks like it could belong on a Greek island.
While you’ll want to spend most of your time exploring the area or lounging by the turquoise pool, the actual apartments are beautifully designed and well-equipped with everything you might need from a self-catering vacation rental in Aruba.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba for Nightlife | 1 BR Condo
- $
- In a resort on Palm Beach
- 4 Guests
- Access to a shared pool, gym, and BBQ areas
Welcome to paradise! Located in the beautiful Palm Village Resort on Palm Beach, this one-bedroom condo is almost surrounded by restaurants, beach bars, and nightclubs.
If you’re feeling lazy, there is even a fun vibe at the resort itself, which has a buzzing shared swimming pool and bar scene.
The condo is relatively basic yet has everything you need for a short stay visit. It’s the common amenities that will lure you into this space. Aside from the pool area, guests can enjoy access to on-site restaurants and bars, a shared gym, and reserved beach space.
Best Vacation Rental in Aruba with a View | 5 BR Penthouse
- $$$$
- On the sea in Noord
- 10 Guests
- Miami style apartment with glass walls and tons of natural light
This spot might just have the most beautiful ocean views on the island. Located on the coast of the prestigious Noord district, this corner condo boasts 180-degree views of the ocean.
The two-level penthouse includes five luxurious bedrooms, each with its own full bathroom.
However, it’s the spacious deck where you’ll be spending most of your time, and with a Jacuzzi overlooking the ocean, we don’t blame you.
The entire penthouse has been remodeled with modern fittings and contemporary furniture and art. Combinations of wood, glass and white linens bring a sense of luxury into the home.
Romantic Vacation Rental in Aruba for Couples | 1BR Apartment
- $$
- In a prestigious neighborhood in Noord
- 2 Guests
- Cozy space with shared pool and gardens
As one of the best vacation rentals in Aruba, this boutique hotel is overflowing with beauty. Nestled between tropical trees in the most sought-after region of the country, the property has a few intimate self-catering bungalows surrounding the central swimming pool area.
The pool area is the perfect spot to catch some sun after a day of exploring Aruba’s top beaches and attractions.
The private bungalow is decorated immaculately, with a simple and clean bathroom and well-equipped kitchen. Lots of windows and skylights ensure the home is flooded with natural light and breezy airflow.
Off-the-Beaten-Track Vacation Rental in Aruba | 1 BR Condo W/ Pool
- $
- On the wild North East coast in Sero Cristal
- 3 Guests
- Beautiful Japanese and contemporary style interiors
If you’re after a more secluded stay in Aruba, there are a bunch of properties to rent in the less touristy parts of the island. This gorgeous condo is one of them.
Located in the Sero Cristal area, which is overflowing with tropical plants and local trees, you’ll feel like you’re the only guests on the island.
The star of this condo is the outdoor living space and terrace kitchen, which has beautiful views of the surrounding hillsides. Inside the home, you’ll be treated to a huge luxurious bed, high vaulted ceilings, and natural wooden furniture.
The modern yet minimalistic interiors perfectly match the rugged natural beauty of the outdoor surroundings.
Best Vacation Rental near Attractions in Aruba | 1 Bed Prefab Home
- $$
- In a residential neighborhood by the beach and all major attractions
- 2 Guests
- Gorgeous deck and Astroturf outdoor space
Not only is this vacation rental located between all the best attractions and famous beaches on the island, but it also has a wonderful homey feel about it.
The small beach vacation rental in Aruba is filled with quirky mismatched furniture giving it tons of character and charm. The bedroom is super spacious and includes a personal workspace, perfect for digital nomads.
Best of all, this home has a spacious covered deck with a built-in Jacuzzi. Choose to soak in the Jacuzzi or relax in the swaying hammock while you wait for your dinner to cook in the BBQ.
Vacation Rental in Aruba near the Beach | Contemporary Studio
- $$
- Between Palm and Eagle Beach
- 3 Guests
- Funky modern style with contemporary furniture
This blissful studio will be your own private oasis between Aruba’s most famous beaches. The contemporary spot has modern interiors with contemporary fittings and luxurious linens and furniture. Pops of bright yellow color are used throughout the home, giving it a fun, summer feel.
The swimming pool is the place to be on a hot summer day. Surrounded by tall palm trees and a beautiful mosaic backdrop, this area has sunny loungers as well as a shady-covered living area. It’s the perfect spot for socializing with other guests after a day spent on Eagle or Palm Beach.
Small Town Vacation Rental in Aruba | 1BR Tiny Wagon Home
- $
- Secluded in the quiet Santa Cruz district, near Arikok National Park
- 2 Guests
- Boho-gypsy inspired home with quirky interiors
Small town Aruba offers visitors a completely different experience to the busy beach and tourist scene. While both have their pros and cons, it’s always a great call to spend some time in one of these quieter towns.
This tiny gypsy wagon is as low-key as self-catering vacation rentals in Aruba goes. The purple wooden home is filled with hand-made furniture and hand-painted details.
Surrounded by a mix of tropical plants and cacti in Aruba’s national park region, the wagon includes access to a shared swimming pool deck and a bunch of outdoor lounge areas. If you’re visiting with family or a group of friends, choose to rent out all three separate cottages for a special gathering!
Final Thoughts
Because the island is so small, you’ll never be too far away from the main attractions, even if you choose to stay inland.
Public transport isn’t too great, and renting a car is advised if you want to explore all the hidden coves, beaches, and best spots during your visit. In fact, the whole island is so small, it’s possible to explore the entire island in a few short days!
Whether you choose to stay in a busy beach resort or a more secluded bungalow by a quiet beach, Aruba is overflowing with quaint local towns and beaches for you to explore. Staying in a vacation rental is a great way to make sure you can relax and unwind while you’re staying on this fabulous island.
Do you have a favourite vacation rental on my list? Let me know in the comments.
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