Aruba All Inclusive Vacations: Caribbean Paradise & Beach Bliss
Introduction: Why Aruba is Perfect for All Inclusive Vacations
Aruba is a beautiful Caribbean island. It is known for its white sand beaches. The weather is sunny almost every day. This makes it perfect for vacations. All inclusive resorts make travel easy. You pay one price for everything. This includes food, drinks, and activities. Many families love this option. Couples enjoy it for romantic trips too.
Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt. This means fewer weather problems. The island has Dutch influence. You can see this in the architecture. The local language is Papiamento. But most people speak English too. The water is clear and blue. Palm trees line the beaches. It feels like paradise.
All inclusive resorts in Aruba offer great value. You know your costs upfront. No surprise expenses during your trip. This helps with budgeting. You can relax and enjoy your vacation. No need to carry cash everywhere. Everything is taken care of at the resort.
Top All Inclusive Resorts in Aruba
Aruba has many all inclusive resorts. Each offers different experiences. Some are great for families. Others are perfect for couples. Here are the top choices.
Riu Palace Aruba
This is a popular 5-star resort. It sits on Palm Beach. The resort has multiple swimming pools. There are several restaurants on site. Guests enjoy 24-hour room service. The rooms are spacious and modern. Evening entertainment is included. Kids have their own club too.
Barcelo Aruba
This resort is on Palm Beach. It has a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar. There are eight restaurants. These include Italian, Japanese, and Mexican options. The resort offers water sports. You can try snorkeling and kayaking. The spa is available for extra fees.
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba
This is a great family-friendly option. It has a large water park for kids. The resort offers all inclusive packages. There are multiple dining options. The beach location is perfect. Rooms are comfortable and clean. Kids under 12 eat free.
Divi All Inclusive Resorts
Divi has two properties in Aruba. These are Divi Aruba Phoenix and Tamarijn Aruba. Both are on Druif Beach. They offer all inclusive packages. Guests can use facilities at both resorts. There are multiple restaurants and bars. Water sports are included.
Best Beaches for All Inclusive Vacations
Aruba has many beautiful beaches. Each has its own character. Some are busy with activities. Others are quiet and peaceful. Here are the best beaches near all inclusive resorts.
Palm Beach
This is the most popular beach. It has white sand and calm water. Many all inclusive resorts are here. The beach is two miles long. You can find water sports here. There are also shops and restaurants nearby. The water is perfect for swimming.
Eagle Beach
This beach is wider and less crowded. It has famous divi-divi trees. The sand is soft and white. Some all inclusive resorts are nearby. This beach is great for walking. Sunsets here are beautiful. It is often ranked among world's best beaches.
Druif Beach
This beach is near Palm Beach. It is quieter than its neighbor. Several all inclusive resorts are here. The water is clear and calm. It is good for swimming and snorkeling. You can see fish near the shore.
Baby Beach
This beach is on the island's southern end. It has shallow, calm water. This makes it perfect for families with children. The beach has a natural lagoon shape. Snorkeling here is excellent. You can see many colorful fish.
Activities and Excursions Included in Packages
All inclusive resorts offer many activities. Some are included in your package. Others cost extra. Here are popular options.
Water Sports
Most resorts include non-motorized water sports. These include snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Some resorts offer introductory scuba lessons. Always check what is included. Some activities may have extra fees.
Land Activities
Resorts offer daily activities. These include beach volleyball, yoga, and dance classes. Evening entertainment is common. You might see live music or shows. Fitness centers are usually available. Some have tennis courts too.
Off-Site Excursions
Many resorts can book excursions for you. These cost extra but are worth considering. Popular options include:
- Jeep tours of Arikok National Park
- Catamaran sailing trips
- Snorkeling tours to shipwrecks
- Visits to Oranjestad for shopping
- Sunset cruises
Dining Options at All Inclusive Resorts
Food is important on vacation. All inclusive resorts offer various dining options. Most have multiple restaurants. Here is what to expect.
Main Buffet Restaurants
These offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They have wide variety of foods. You can find local dishes and international options. Buffets are great for families. Everyone can find something they like.
Specialty Restaurants
Most resorts have specialty restaurants. These might include Italian, Asian, or steakhouse options. Some require reservations. Dress codes may apply. These restaurants offer more intimate dining experiences.
Snack Bars and Poolside Service
Many resorts have snack bars open between meals. Poolside service is common too. You can get drinks and light snacks without leaving your chair. This is convenient when relaxing by the pool.
Local Cuisine to Try
Don't miss local Aruban food. Try keshi yena (stuffed cheese). Sample fresh seafood. Taste funchi (cornmeal porridge). Try pastechi (fried pastries). Local drinks include Aruba Ariba cocktail.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Trip
Planning makes your vacation better. Here are practical tips for Aruba all inclusive vacations.
Best Time to Visit
Aruba has great weather year-round. December to April is peak season. Prices are higher then. May to November is quieter. Prices are lower. The weather is still good. September and October are the rainiest months.
What to Pack
Pack light clothing for warm weather. Bring swimsuits and cover-ups. Don't forget sunscreen and hats. Evening wear is casual but neat. Some restaurants require proper attire. Bring comfortable shoes for walking.
Money and Tipping
US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards work in most places. At all inclusive resorts, tips are usually included. But many people tip extra for good service. Bring small bills for off-resort purchases.
Transportation
Queen Beatrix International Airport is modern. Taxis are available at the airport. Many resorts offer airport transfers. Renting a car lets you explore the island. Buses are affordable and reliable.
Family-Friendly All Inclusive Options
Aruba is great for family vacations. Many resorts cater to families. Here is what to look for.
Kids Clubs and Activities
Good resorts have kids clubs. These offer supervised activities. Children can make friends and have fun. Parents get time to relax. Activities might include crafts, games, and beach fun.
Family Accommodations
Look for rooms that suit families. Connecting rooms are helpful. Suites with separate sleeping areas work well. Some resorts have family suites with bunk beds.
Child-Friendly Amenities
Pools with water slides are popular. Kids love beach toys and games. Child-friendly dining options matter too. Look for early dinner times. Check if children's menus are available.
Romantic Getaways for Couples
Aruba is perfect for romance. Many resorts cater to couples. Here are features to consider.
Adult-Only Resorts
Some resorts are adults-only. These offer peaceful atmospheres. No children means quieter pools. Romantic dining is easier. Evening entertainment suits adults.
Romantic Add-Ons
Many resorts offer romantic packages. These might include private dinners on the beach. Couples massages are popular. Room decorations for special occasions can be arranged. Sunset cruises are romantic too.
Quiet Areas
Even family resorts often have adult-only areas. Look for quiet pools or beach sections. These provide escape from busy family areas.
FAQ Section
What is included in Aruba all inclusive packages?
Most packages include accommodation, all meals, snacks, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and basic activities. Always check exactly what your package includes before booking.
Are tips included at all inclusive resorts?
Most resorts include tips in the package price. But many guests tip extra for exceptional service. Check your resort's policy.
Is the water safe to drink in Aruba?
Yes, Aruba has excellent drinking water. The island has one of the world's largest desalination plants. Resort water is perfectly safe.
What is the best all inclusive resort for families?
Holiday Inn Resort Aruba is great for families. It has a water park and kids club. The Divi resorts also work well for families.
Do I need to make restaurant reservations?
At most resorts, specialty restaurants require reservations. The main buffet does not. Make reservations early for popular restaurants.
What is the weather like in Aruba?
Aruba has sunny weather year-round. Temperatures average 82°F (28°C). Trade winds keep the island comfortable. Rainfall is minimal.
Are there adults-only all inclusive resorts?
Yes, several resorts offer adults-only sections or are completely adults-only. The Riu Palace has adults-only areas. Some smaller boutique hotels are adults-only.
Real Examples and Statistics
Aruba welcomes over 1 million visitors annually. According to the Aruba Tourism Authority, about 40% choose all inclusive options. The average stay is 7-8 nights. Visitor satisfaction rates are over 90%.
Popular resorts like Riu Palace have occupancy rates over 85% in high season. The Caribbean Tourism Organization reports Aruba has the highest repeat visitor rate in the Caribbean.
Step-by-Step Booking Guide
- Research resorts online. Read recent reviews.
- Compare packages and prices. Check what is included.
- Consider travel dates. Off-season offers better deals.
- Book flights and resort together for best prices.
- Check passport requirements. Ensure it is valid.
- Purchase travel insurance for protection.
- Make restaurant reservations early if needed.
- Pack appropriate clothing and documents.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Aruba Vacation Awaits
Aruba all inclusive vacations offer great value. You can relax and enjoy paradise. The island has perfect weather. The beaches are beautiful. The people are friendly.
All inclusive resorts make planning easy. You know your costs upfront. No surprise expenses during your trip. Food, drinks, and activities are included. This lets you focus on having fun.
Whether traveling with family or as a couple, Aruba has perfect options. Families love the kids clubs and water parks. Couples enjoy romantic dinners and quiet beaches. Everyone enjoys the warm Caribbean sun.
Start planning your Aruba all inclusive vacation today. You will create wonderful memories. The happy island awaits your visit. Your perfect Caribbean getaway is just a booking away.