The Riu Palace Aruba is an all-inclusive resort on Palm Beach in Noord, the busiest and most convenient stretch of the island's coast. The appeal of the all-inclusive format is simplicity: meals, snacks and drinks are covered by one rate rather than billed one by one, so the cost of a week is easier to predict. For travelers who would rather spend the day by the pool than comparing restaurant menus, that is the main attraction. Resorts of this kind typically offer a choice of buffet and a la carte restaurants, several bars, one or more swimming pools, a fitness center and spa services, along with a daytime activity program and evening shows, though the exact lineup changes, so check the current details when you book. The location is a strong point. Palm Beach has calm, clear water and soft white sand, and the shops, casinos and restaurants of the resort strip are within easy reach, as are the catamaran departures that run along this coast. Eagle Beach, with its wider and quieter sand, is a short taxi or bus ride to the south.
Location and getting around
Staying on Palm Beach puts you in the middle of the island's resort life. You can walk to beachfront bars and restaurants, join a snorkel sail from the nearby piers and reach the Butterfly Farm and the California Lighthouse area by a short ride. Oranjestad and the airport are a short drive away, and taxis and the public bus run along the main road. For Arikok National Park, Baby Beach and the south coast, most guests join a tour or rent a car for a day.
The feel
An all-inclusive resort of this scale has a sociable, relaxed atmosphere, with loungers around the pool, a steady rhythm of activities and entertainment in the evening. It suits first-time visitors who want everything in one place, families and groups who need to keep costs predictable, and couples who prefer a lively base. If you want a quiet, boutique atmosphere or a strictly adults-only stay, one of the Eagle Beach properties will fit better, and it is worth checking the resort's current age and family policies before you reserve.
Good to know
All-inclusive plans differ in what they cover, from premium drinks and room service to a la carte reservations and non-motorized water sports, so ask what is included and whether there are extra charges. Rates rise in high season and holiday weeks, so book early and compare room categories, particularly if you want an ocean view or a higher floor.
Plan to eat out at least once or twice to try island restaurants, and keep part of your budget for tours such as a catamaran sail or the Arikok jeep safari, which are not part of a standard resort plan. Request the details of any resort fees, dress codes in the evening restaurants and parking when you book.
Why stay here
- ✓All-inclusive plan
- ✓Palm Beach location
- ✓Multiple restaurants
- ✓Bars and snack options
- ✓Swimming pools
- ✓Fitness center
- ✓Spa services
- ✓Evening entertainment
Good questions
What does all-inclusive cover at the Riu Palace Aruba?+
All-inclusive plans typically cover meals, snacks and many drinks, but the details differ by resort and room rate. Ask what is included when you book.
Where is it located?+
It is on Palm Beach in Noord, close to beachfront restaurants, shops, casinos and catamaran departures.
Is it good for first-time visitors?+
Yes, the all-inclusive format and the central Palm Beach location make planning simple, though quieter beaches such as Eagle Beach are a short ride away.
