Aruba’s all-inclusive resorts let you savor one of the Caribbean’s sunniest destinations with the convenience of meals and on-site activities all enjoyed at a predictable price. Below, we cover our top picks for Aruba all-inclusive resorts, with added insights from Fora travel advisors.
Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive
Image courtesy of Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive Resort
Tamarijn is a family-friendly resort designed to deliver a hassle‑free vacation experience amid Aruba’s beautiful shores. Enjoy a range of dining options, from Caribbean-inspired buffet meals to specialty restaurants (Mediterranean, Mexican, fresh seafood). The resort features multiple pools, a private beach and plenty of on- and off-site activities. Grander activities include bike tours around the island and trips to a local ostrich farm, a nearby waterpark and butterfly gardens. You can also stick to the resort and enjoy things like snorkeling, salsa classes or lounging under shaded cabanas.
All rooms at Tamarijn either include a private balcony or patio with immediate beach access. Their aesthetic doesn’t reinvent island décor, but you can expect comfortable and spacious rooms with stellar views of the Caribbean. All guests enjoy complimentary access to Tamarijn’s quieter sister resort, Divi Aruba, too (see next). The resorts are separated by a short walk, or you can take advantage of their complimentary shuttle service.
Divi Aruba All-Inclusive Resort
Image courtesy of Divi Aruba All-Inclusive Resort
As noted, Divi Aruba is Tamarijn Aruba's sister resort. The two properties share many of the same characteristics and amenities — especially in terms of the look and feel of the twin resorts. However, Divi Aruba has greater room variety and a sandy beach (Tamarijn’s beach is mostly rocky and smaller). There are a handful of newly renovated, high-end rooms with ocean views; these feature chic furnishings and updated amenities (Bluetooth mirrors with smart lighting, smart TVs, more expansive wardrobes). There are approachable room options that still grant you access to all of Divi Aruba and Tamarijn’s offerings.
“If a more relaxed experience is preferred, the Divi Aruba, located near Eagle Beach, provides a tranquil setting with beautiful beaches and excellent food and drinks,” Fora Advisor Mariela Reyes said.
Barceló Aruba - All Inclusive
Image courtesy of Barceló Aruba - All Inclusive
Barceló is one of the newer all-inclusive resorts in Aruba. It’s found on Palm Beach, a coveted part of the island known for its luxe resorts and ocean access. If you're looking for more elegant furnishings and better amenities in the high-rise area of Aruba, opt for Barceló. The resort boasts a contemporary, more adult vibe (although children are welcome in most areas). There’s an on-site casino, a variety of shows and contests, a fitness center and a full-service spa that also offers in-room massages. High-end dining options explore local Aruban, Tex-Mex, Japanese and Italian cuisine. International dining halls on site bring a more casual experience.
All-inclusive resorts aren’t your only option in Aruba
Image courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Aruba
All-inclusive resorts take a lot of hassle out of the planning and budgeting process. But in offering everything in a neat, self-contained package, they can discourage you from exploring beyond the resort on your own; you could be missing out on worthwhile experiences.
“I'd skip the all-inclusive scene in Aruba and dive headfirst into the island’s vibrant foodie culture instead!” Fora X Advisor Seasen Acevedo-Zullo said. “Sink your teeth into sizzling Cuban flavors at Cuba’s Cookin’ or dine barefoot by the water at The Flying Fishbone, where the seafood practically jumps from the ocean onto your plate.”
If you love to immerse yourself in local culture and gastronomy when traveling, consider a more traditional hotel in Aruba instead.
“The island’s full of charming, mom-and-pop spots serving up global flavors that’ll blow your mind. And with such a stunning, easy-to-navigate island, why wouldn’t you want to taste it all?” Seasen added.
She also provided two hotel recommendations: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort and The Ritz-Carlton Aruba, both excellent beach resorts.
Fora Perks at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort include complimentary air and concierge services.
Fora’s Marriott STARS partner perks at The Ritz-Carlton Aruba include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Aruba all-inclusive resort and general travel FAQs
Read on for more information on visiting Aruba.
Is Aruba expensive to visit?
While there are approachably priced resorts and hotels, Aruba is generally seen as an upscale destination. Expect to pay around $2,000 to $3,500 per person for a weeklong getaway at an Aruba all-inclusive resort. More context: the average daily rate for Fora bookings in Aruba is just under $800, which comes out to about $5,600 for a weeklong stay at an Aruba resort.
Is Aruba safe outside of the resort areas?
Aruba is one of the Caribbean’s safest islands. The local communities — in or out of the resort areas — are generally welcoming and the crime rate is relatively low. As with any travel destination, exercise common-sense precautions.
Which side of Aruba is best to stay in?
Aruba’s compact size means you’re never too far from anything, but your ideal location depends on the kind of vacation you want. If you want a serene beach escape, Eagle Beach (where Tamarijn and Divi Aruba are) is a great choice with wide stretches of soft white sand and turquoise waters. In contrast, Palm Beach (where Barceló is) has a vibrant and lively atmosphere. There are abundant water sports and lively nightlife options beyond the individual beach resorts.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, shopping and dining, Oranjestad — the island’s capital — offers a charming mix of historic architecture and modern amenities. For a more local vibe while still being close to the beach, the Noord area is an excellent option. Notably, you won’t find many all-inclusive resorts in either of these areas, though (see hotels in Aruba instead).
What’s the best month to go to Aruba?
Aruba rarely sees heavy rainfall and is consistently warm and sunny throughout the year. However, there’s a compelling case for visiting in April: During this time, the island enjoys ideal weather — plenty of sunshine, mild but comfortable temperatures and refreshing trade winds that help keep the heat in check. Plus, April is less crowded than the peak winter months.
Which is better: Aruba or the Bahamas?
Aruba and the Bahamas are both celebrated Caribbean destinations. On the surface, they have similar offerings — beautiful beaches, great resorts, Caribbean culture — but there are notable differences. Aruba is largely a laid-back luxury destination, while there’s a resort in the Bahamas for every budget and travel preference. The Bahamas is also composed of hundreds of small islands, providing a larger sandbox for exploration.
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