If you closed your eyes and imagined a tropical Caribbean paradise, most likely it would look like Aruba. This tiny Caribbean slice of paradise has something for every traveller. From turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a laidback atmosphere that only comes with good ol’ island living .
Aruba is a picturesque Island located in the southern Caribbean. It’s one of the smallest of all the Caribbean islands and although it isn’t a large, knowing where to stay in Aruba can be tricky.
I have had the very tough job of exploring this magical Island and created this ULTIMATE guide on where to stay in Aruba. I’ve got the inside gems on the best areas, places to stay and the top things to do.
So buckle up and let’s jump into the best places to stay in Aruba.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Aruba?
- Aruba Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Aruba
- Aruba’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Aruba
- What To Pack For Aruba
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Aruba
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Aruba
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our recommendations for the best places to stay in Aruba. It might be a tiny island but there’s so much to see and do as well as heaps of places to stay.
From swimming pools, luxury hotels, all-inclusive resorts and even hostels, I’ve got you covered! So let’s explore the different neighbourhoods and accommodation options available on one of the most stunning Caribbean Islands.
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort | Best Hotel in Aruba
Renaissance Wind Creek is a tropical paradise located on your own private island, yes ISLAND.
You can enjoy the onsite fitness centre, a choice of three pools and for you adventure bunnies don’t worry, there are plenty of activities to take part in like scuba diving and kayaking. This place seriously knows how to do luxury.
Pista Q Hostel | Best Hostel in Aruba
If you’re travelling on a budget, this Hostel is perfect. You can choose between a shared dorm or if you want to treat yourself, they also have private rooms.
The location is ideal, you’re a short walk from Surfside Beach and only a 10-minute walk to town. The hostel has a kitchen perfect for whipping up some tasty meals and an outdoor pool where you can relax during the day. This is the ideal place for backpackers travelling on a budget.
Aruba Cottage Escape | Best Airbnb in Aruba
Enjoy paradise from your very own, private Aruban cottage. Located near Arashi Beach in the Noord district, this cottage features a full kitchen, free wifi, and clean linens and is a short walk from the area’s main attractions.
Enjoy a slice of paradise at this spacious and bright Aruba cottage escape – it’s seriously one of the best Airbnbs in Aruba!
Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the capital city and the best place to stay in Aruba for first-timers. It is home to the shopping and entertainments centres of the island.
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach is an idyllic Caribbean community with white sand beaches, turquoise waters and a laid-back attitude. Routinely ranked one of the top ten beaches in the world.
Palm Beach
Located along the northwest coast, Palm Beach is the life of Aruba’s party scene, and our pick for the best place to stay in Aruba for the best nightlife.
Palm Beach
Palm Beach is the most popular tourist destination in Aruba. Perfect for those looking for a night out, this seaside community is also ideal for families and travellers with small children.
Arashi Beach
Arashi Beach is a quiet and secluded beach on the northwestern coast of Aruba. Here you’ll enjoy all the perks of paradise without the overwhelming crowds.
Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean Sea. Located just 29 kilometres off the coast of Venezuela, this island is famous for its white-sand beaches, clear waters, and overall calm and tranquil atmosphere. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best Caribbean Islands to visit!
Covering 184 square kilometres, Aruba is home to approximately 100,000 people and is divided into six main districts. Each district is comprised of a number of cities that offer visitors unique attractions and activities.
Depending on the length of your visit, it’s entirely possible that you’ll be able to visit all areas of the island. However, if you’re pressed for time, I recommend you focus on two or three of the main areas for your trip.
Photo: @maxpankow
You might be wondering, is Aruba is expensive? While mostly seen as a resort and family holiday destination, there is still a range of accommodation options in Aruba including budget backpacker hostels and a fine selection of Airbnbs. To help you pick the best areas in Aruba for your visit, this guide breaks down the main attractions by interest.
Oranjestad: The capital and largest city in Aruba. This is where you’ll find many of the country’s historical and cultural sights, colourful colonial houses, and delicious Caribbean restaurants as well as the famous Playa Linda Beach Resort.
Eagle and Palm Beaches: Head north to the seaside areas of Eagle and Palm Beaches. These are Aruba’s main tourist destinations thanks to their white sand beaches, clear blue waters and stunning tropical scenery. Great for budget travellers, partygoers, and families alike, these two resort areas boast a number of Aruba’s main tourist attractions.
Arashi Beach: Continuing north is Arashi Beach. Stunningly beautiful but calmer than Eagle or Palm Beaches, this area is perfect for folks looking to lounge on the beach or explore the wonders below the waves. Home to tropical fish, reefs and shipwrecks, this spot is a must-visit for snorkelers, divers and swimmers.
Still not sure where to stay in Aruba? Read on because I’ve got you covered!
Aruba’s Five Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Aruba is a small nation that can easily be explored by car or moped. The island is also serviced by the Arubus bus system which runs between Oranjestad and the northern tip of the island throughout the day. So, no matter where you stay you’ll be able to visit other neighbourhoods with relative ease.
While all of Aruba’s neighbourhoods are beautiful, some are better suited to specific interests.
Are you packing for the beach, lotion in hand, ready to soak up the sun? Or, are you hoping to enjoy Aruba’s nightlife and dance under the stars? Perhaps you want to learn a new hobby and explore the depths of the Caribbean Sea. Maybe you’re looking to scour the family-friendly all-inclusive resorts with multiple swimming pools, got that too!
All of these things are possible but will be made much easier if you’re in the right place.
Here are the five best areas in Aruba, broken down by interest.
1. Oranjestad – Where to Stay in Aruba for Your First Time
Oranjestad is the capital city and the best place to stay in Aruba for first-timers. It is home to the shopping and entertainment centres of the island.
Here you’ll find upscale chain stores, street vendors and independent boutiques, as well as a wide variety of restaurants, casinos, dance clubs and bars.
Oranjestad is also where you’ll find Aruba’s cultural centre. The largest city on the island, Oranjestad is home to art galleries, historical sites and a number of interesting museums.
Stay in Oranjestad and enjoy the bright and colourful colonial houses and traditional Dutch architecture that make up this island city.
Wonders Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Oranjestad
This adults-only property is located less than two kilometres from Oranjestad city centre. With its relaxing garden and outdoor swimming pool, you’ll feel surrounded by nature in this centrally situated hotel.
Just 10 minutes to many of Aruba’s most famous beaches, this hotel is perfect if you are travelling as a couple looking to enjoy a romantic getaway.
Pista Q Hostel | Best Hostel in Oranjestad
Attention budget backpackers, this hostel has some serious bang for your buck! Not only are you 700m from Surfside Beach, but Pista Q Hostel has an outdoor swimming pool, relaxing garden and terrace. You definitely won’t be short of places to chill.
Choose between comfortable dorm rooms or, treat yourself, to a private room if you’re feeling fancy. They have a kitchen perfect for whipping up some tasty meals or you are only a 10-minute walk to town. The ideal place for backpackers travelling on a budget.
Affordable 1-Bedroom Studio | Best Airbnb in Oranjestad
If you have to watch your expenses while travelling in Aruba, this Airbnb is the perfect place for you. Even though Aruba is expensive, this Airbnb is super affordable. The cosy studio offers everything from a comfy bed to a fully equipped kitchen and a large outdoor pool in the spacious garden.
It’s a bit further from the city centre, but only 15min drive from the heart of Oranjestad. There are public transport options, as well as restaurants nearby too.
Top Things to do in Oranjestad
- Spend a day on the sand at pleasant and pristine Surfside Beach.
- Take a deep look at Aruba’s past at the National Archaeological Museum in Oranjestad.
- Enjoy Aruba’s best snorkelling beaches Mangel Halto and Baby Beach on a snorkeling tour
- Climb the 587 steps to the top of Hooiberg, a volcanic formation located outside of the city.
- Explore Fort Zoutman, a former military fortification and the oldest building on the island of Aruba.
- Hike through the desert and see the Casibari Rock & Ayo Rock formations created by ancient volcanoes.
- Let loose and go barhopping on a party bus tour
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Eagle Beach – Best Place to Stay in Aruba on a Budget
Eagle Beach is an idyllic Caribbean community with white sand beaches, clear waters and a laid-back attitude. Routinely ranked one of the top ten beaches in the world, Eagle Beach offers perfect conditions for swimming, powdery sand and a myriad of water activities to take part in.
Here you’ll find scenic piers, funky beach bars, quirky restaurants and low-rise hotels with plenty of refreshing swimming pools! Eagle Beach is also my top choice for where to stay in Aruba for budget backpackers travelling cheap.
Centred between two high-rise communities, Eagle Beach is where you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options from hostels to some of the most luxury hotels in Aruba. Enjoy stunning beaches for a fraction of the price in this northwestern Aruban community.
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort | Best Hotel in Eagle Beach
Dream of waking up to the sound of crashing waves? Well, this beachfront resort could be the answer you’ve been searching for. Amsterdam Beach Resort is located on the beautiful shores of Eagle Beach you’re a stone’s throw from the enticing waters.
Spend your days lounging by the large outdoor pool or Marveling at the underwater world, making use of the complimentary snorkels. Enjoy the colorful Dutch colonial architecture with spacious rooms and beds that are so comfy, they’ll have you considering extending your stay and missing your return flight.
Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort | Best Boutique Hotel in Eagle Beach
If you’re searching for the perfect getaway, look no further. Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort sits on the soft sands of Eagle Beach with breathtaking views all around.
Relax with a refreshing cocktail from the beachfront restaurant and bar or take a stroll along the shore, enjoying the stunning sunset. This adults-only resort also has an onsite spa, fitness centre and a large outdoor pool. It is one of the best hotels in Aruba.
Condo with sea view | Best Airbnb in Eagle Beach
A 5th-floor apartment with stunning views of Eagle Beach. Perfect for 2 guests the condo has fast WIFI, one double bed with a new orthopaedic mattress, a marble bathroom, Apple TV and a fully equipped kitchen with a bar table.
Top Things to do in Eagle Beach
- Enjoy the turquoise waters and white powdery sand at this pristine beach.
- Test out a new water sport or activity, like parasailing or stand-up paddleboarding, in these calm, clear waters.
- Enjoy a Snorkel tour on a Catamaran cruise with an open bar and light lunch
- Walk along the more than three kilometres of interconnected beaches that make up the stunning Aruban north coast.
- Snap a picture of the famous fofoti tree, which points in the direction of the Caribbean.
- Pick up a racket and challenge a friend to a game of tennis on one of the beaches’ many courts.
- Go offroading along the north coast and enjoy an ATV adventure.
3. Palm Beach – Best Area to Stay in Aruba for Nightlife
Located along the northwest coast, Palm Beach is the life of Aruba’s party scene, and my pick for the best place to stay in Aruba for the best nightlife and nocturnal activities.
Six kilometres north of the capital, this area is where you’ll find many of Aruba’s high-rise hotels, famous casinos, and infamous bars and nightclubs. Whether you want to dance under the stars or enjoy a seaside cocktail, this place is where it’s at.
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
This is where you’ll find some of Aruba’s best food. From the traditional Caribbean to Afro-fusion, this community is where you can sip, sample and taste your way around the world. It’s also home to the shopping street, L. G. Smith Boulevard.
Enjoy amazing views, delicious food, and nights you won’t soon forget.
Palm Beach Retreat | Best Hotel in Palm Beach
Less than 10 minutes from the beach and at the centre of the action, this hotel is ideal for guests looking to enjoy a night on the town.
Clean, comfortable and conveniently located, this hotel is within walking distance of the beach plaza, Aruba Marriott Resort and many of the area’s top attractions. With a large pool and gaming facilities, you won’t find a better hotel.
Ocean Z Boutique Hotel | Best Boutique Hotel in Palm Beach
Imagine sipping on your morning coffee from the comfort of your queen bed whilst marvelling at the stunning turquoise waters. Sounds dreamy, right?
You are located just outside the hustle. and bustle of town, whilst being close to the best beaches in Aruba. The staff go above and beyond to make your stay one to remember and don’t even get me started on the breakfast, I’d rebook just for that.
Caribbean beach loft for 2 | Best Airbnb in Palm Beach
This centrally located condo is perfect for guests who want to enjoy Aruba’s nightlife and entertainment. Guests have access to a fully fenced-in one-bedroom and bathroom corner property with every modern amenities you can imagine and a private pool.
Top Things to do in Palm Beach
- Set sail on the luxurious Monforte III and enjoy a 4-course dinner cruise.
- Relax on the pristine white sands of Palm Beach.
- Rent a jet ski and zoom across the waters of Aruba.
- Enjoy a relaxing beachfront yoga session, feeling the soothing rhythm of the waves as you stretch and unwind.
- Set sail for crystal-clear waters on a catamaran cruise snorkelling tour.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Palm Beach – Best Neighbourhood in Aruba for Families to Stay In
Palm Beach is the most popular tourist destination in Aruba. Perfect for those looking for a night out, this seaside community is also ideal for families and travellers with small children.
Home to many of Aruba’s top resorts, this area boasts a number of family-friendly attractions. From Butterfly farms to pirate adventures, this place has a myriad of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained.
The shallow waters also make it an attractive destination for families. Take part in a variety of watersports in these calm and turquoise waters whilst staying in one of the many family-friendly hotels in Aruba.
Whether you want to learn to snorkel or simply play in the waves, it’s perfect for swimmers of all ages and abilities. It’s a very safe area of Aruba – family-friendly – and perfect for anyone travelling with the kids. Of course, many of these Aruba hotels have awesome swimming pools the kids will love too!
Pauline’s Apartment | Best Hotel in Palm Beach
Bright, spacious and impossibly cool, Pauline’s Apartment is the best hotel for families in Palm Beach. Just 15-minutes from shops, restaurants, and attractions, this hotel couldn’t be better situated.
Enjoy furnished patios, garden views, and an outdoor swimming pool at this charming aparthotel. If you still need some inspiration on where to stay in Aruba, there are plenty more vacation rentals in Aruba available.
Hyatt Regency Resort | Best Luxury Hotel in Palm Beach
Okay, Luxury lovers, this one is for you. Hyatt Regency offers an incredible beachfront with direct beach access to the soft white sand and turquoise waters.
If you can tear yourself away from the incredibly comfy beds this place has all the amenities for an unforgettable stay. From an on-site spa, gourmet dining, fitness centre, tennis courts and casino, you might just have to extend your trip to experience everything.
Bohemian Palapa Suite | Best Airbnb in Palm Beach
Perfect for up to five guests, it’s is the ideal choice for families looking for a home away from home. You’re in the perfect location, a short walk from the beautiful white sand and great restaurants or you can get yourself a rental car and go exploring.
Spend your days relaxing by your private swimming pool soaking up some rays before heading to the beach to catch a stunning sunset. If you fancy staying in, the villa has a fully equipped kitchen perfect for whipping up some delicious meals. It’s no surprise it’s one of the best villas in Aruba.
Top Things do in Palm Beach
- Relax on the beach and play in the pristine sand at Eagle Beach.
- Head to the Arikok National Park natural pool and Indian cave with a guided tour
- Grab yourself a beach chair and watch a stunning sunset at Hanicurari Beach
- Learn to stand up paddleboard in the tranquil, clear waters.
- Go Snorkelling at Baby Beach and discover hidden underwater gems and the vibrant sea life.
- Participate in a beach cleanup, contributing to the preservation of Palm Beach’s natural beauty.
- Enjoy a happy hour sunset catamaran cruise.
5. Arashi Beach – Where to Stay in Aruba for Diving
Arashi Beach is a quiet and secluded beach on the northwestern coast of Aruba. Here you’ll enjoy all the perks of paradise without the overwhelming crowds. Soak up the sun and dig your toes in the sand on this serene and idyllic beach.
Photo: Alexandria Zboyovski
Arashi Beach is also one of Aruba’s top destinations for watersports enthusiasts. Just off the shores of this stunning Caribbean beach, you’ll find a world of wonder below the surface.
Beautiful reefs, tropical fish, and ominous shipwrecks call this area home, making it a must-see for anyone who enjoys snorkelling or diving beneath the waves. Here you’ll also find some of the best luxury hotels in Aruba.
Beach House Aruba Apartments | Best Hotel in Arashi Beach
Stay in paradise at Beach House Aruba Apartments in Arashi Beach. This aparthotel offers modern décor, private palm-roof terraces, and breathtaking views.
Located just a few minutes from the beach and California lighthouse, this hotel is close to restaurants, bars, and most of Arashi Beach’s top cultural attractions. It is ideal for travellers interested in exploring northern Aruba.
Upscale 1-bedroom beach house | Best Airbnb in Arashi Beach
This upscale beach house in Aruba is located in the trendiest neighbourhood. Perfect for 3 – 4 guests, the home has a fully-equipped kitchen with a gas cooker, 1 double bed and a sofa bed, 1 bathroom and access to a shared swimming pool.
The property is a short walk from Aruba’s hip shops, eateries and California lighthouse.
Stunning Oceanview Beach Apartment | Best Apartment in Arashi Beach
Staying at this amazing home means being in for a real treat. Snorkel enthusiasts will love the location of this beach apartment – within walking distance to three different beaches as well as California lighthouse, you’ll have a blast in the crystal clear water.
On top of that, you can enjoy your morning coffee while admiring the view of the white beach from your private patio.
Top Things to do in Arashi Beach
- Enjoy a sunset clear-bottom kayaking tour on Arashi Beach.
- Go swimming at Boca California, one of Aruba’s best swimming spots.
- Dive beneath the waves and explore the Antilla, a German freighter sunk during World War II.
- Climb to the top of the California Lighthouse and take in the panoramic views of Aruba’s most northern point.
- Rest, relax and stare into the crystal clear waters of Malmok Beach.
- Visit the tiny Alto Vista Chapel (or Pilgrims Church) that stands high on a hill overlooking Aruba.
- Get off the beaten track at the fascinating Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Aruba
What To Pack For Aruba
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where to stay in Aruba with Kids?
Palm Beach is the best place to stay with kids. Home to the best beaches in Aruba with plenty of activities to keep the kids entertain and great restaurants nearby.
Where to stay near Eagle Beach in Aruba?
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is the best hotel in Eagle Beach. With its stunning Dutch colonial architecture and just a short walk from the beautiful beach, this is the perfect place to set up camp.
Best place to stay in Aruba for Adults?
Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort is the best Adults only hotel in Aruba. Located on the soft sands of Eagle Beach, enjoy breathtaking views with a cocktail in hand in your kid-free paradise.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Aruba
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Aruba.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Aruba
This small beautiful Caribbean Islands has so much to offer for all travellers. From private beaches, vibrant underwater life and bustling bars, your time in Aruba will be nothing short of incredible, and I’m jealous.
Whether you’re up for hitting the beach or roaming the town, I hope after reading this guide that you have a better idea of where in Aruba is best for you. That said, if you’re still unsure, I’ll recap my top picks for Aruba.
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort is my top pick for the best hotel in Aruba. This place knows how to do luxury and It is without a doubt one of the best hotels in Aruba.
Or, for my fellow budgetpackers out there, grab yourself a bed at a bargain at Pista Q Hostel. You’re a short walk from Surfside Beach and only a 10-minute walk to town. You can choose from a shared dorm or treat yourself to a private room.
The town isn’t too big so you should be able to pack in loads of exploring…I had an incredible time exploring Aruba and I hope you do too.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Aruba.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Aruba instead.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
Going on monday the 20th with a big group can’t wait!! Using this as a ref will let you know how it works next week.
Aruba is such an amazing Caribbean’s island with many tourists’ attractions. I would say it is an ideal place for beach-lovers because of offering a number of gorgeous beaches with Watersports. Thanks for wonderful post.
Very very helpful!!!