Aruba is a paradise where you can truly get away and enjoy the serenity of the beach. Marked by powder-white sand, crystal blue waters, and bright sunshine, this Caribbean island is an experience for anyone who loves beach life.
If you’re planning your next Aruba vacation soon, two luxury resorts to consider staying in is The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba and Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.
Let’s see which one is for you in this The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba vs. Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino comparison.
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Quick Glance: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba vs Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
| The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | Aruba Mariott Resort & Stellaris Casino | |
| Location | L.G. Smith Blvd 107, Noord, Aruba | L.G. Smith Blvd 101, Noord, Aruba |
| Getting There | Requires a 20-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA). For a fee, the hotel can arrange an airport transfer for you. | Requires an 11-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA). Getting a cab, rental car, or a third-party shuttle service is easy from the airport. |
| Room | 320 Rooms and Suites | 411 Rooms and Suites |
| Amenities | Two Swimming Pools, Beach, Casino, Fitness Center, Spa | Swimming Pools, Beach, Barber/Beauty Shop, Fitness Center, Casino, Spa |
| Food and Dining | 6 Restaurants and Bars | 8 Restaurants and Bars |
| Staff and Guest Services | Attentive, generous, and fuss-free. Experience personalized service if you stay in a room with Club Level access. | Warm and accommodating. If you avail of the Tradewinds member privileges, you’ll get more personalized service. |
| Price | Rooms start at $800 per night in the off-peak period. Prices can start at $1,380 per night during the standard season while they can go up to $2,810 per night during the peak season. | Rooms start at $580 per night in the off-peak season. In the standard season, it starts at $740 per night while it’s $1,240 per night in the peak season. |
| Points Redemption | Yes, points redemption is available from 70,000 to 100,000 points per night. | Yes, points redemption is available from 65,000 to 70,000 points per night. |
The Details: The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba vs Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Set against Aruba’s majestic sunsets and pristine white beaches, The Ritz-Carlton Aruba boasts first-rate amenities and excellent service.
Location
Because of its unique location in the northern portion of Palm Beach, guests easily have access to pristine, clean sand and striking blue waters. These waters are calm, making them ideal for swimmers and snorkelers.
Aruba is well-known for its tradewinds so expect this area to be windy. You even have a kite surfing school next to the resort taking advantage of this popular feature. Three other Marriott resorts are close to the hotel including various tourist snorkeling centers.
If you want to socialize or catch a movie, head to the Palm Beach Plaza Mall, a 12-minute walk away. Meanwhile, the popular Arashi Beach is only 20 minutes via bike or a 6-minute car ride.
To reach the resort, it’ll take a 20-minute drive from Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA). The hotel’s concierge team can book a transfer for you as well.
Room
A key highlight of staying in The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba? Most of the 320 rooms and suites have a private balcony with chairs and oceanfront views! However, the entry-level Aruba-Limited View Room only comes with partial ocean and resort views.
The resort’s accommodations are colorfully decked with custom-designed beach-themed decor. Everything here is curated for your utmost comfort and convenience.
Bathe in a sublime marble bathroom with a separate rain shower and a bathtub. Luxury bathroom touches include Asprey toiletries, soft terry robes, and room slippers. Get ready at his and her vanity area that’s outfitted with a lighted makeup/shaving mirror and hairdryer.
Each 550-square-feet standard room has either two queens or one king-size bed with premium linens and the resort’s signature featherbeds.
Other standard inclusions include a flat-screen LCD TV, radio, alarm, iPod docking station, in-room safe, mini-bar, Nespresso machine, and a work desk. Wired internet is available, but wireless internet (Wi-Fi) comes with an added fee.
Room upgrades come with better ocean views and spacious balconies. These include the following rooms: Coastal View Room, Ocean View Room, Ocean Front Room, Club Coastal View Room, and Club Ocean View Room.
The suites range from 732 to 2,390-square feet. For suite choices, you can pick from the following: Junior Suite, Deluxe Suite, Executive Suite, Club Suite, and The Ritz-Carlton Suite. Opting for these upgrades means you get sweeping ocean views with double or expansive wraparound balconies, full bathrooms or an additional one-half bathroom, and a living room with a dining table.
The Ritz-Carlton Suite will spoil you with utmost comfort. The 2,390 square feet master suite comes with a Master King bedroom and spacious living quarters—a separate living room and dining area which can comfortably seat eight. The outdoor balcony greets you with postcard-worthy ocean views, where you can lounge at one of the two sunbeds or hammocks. A private outdoor shower is also available.
The Club Coastal View Room, Club Ocean View Room, Club Suite, or The Ritz-Carlton Suite also includes exclusive Club Lounge access.
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Amenities
One of the highlights of staying in The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is its easy beachfront access. The resort has two outdoor pools—one that’s kid-friendly and one strictly for adults.
Experience beachside luxury at one of their cabanas. Their poolside or beach cabanas are decked with luxurious lounge chairs. They also come with personalized touches in their amenities and refreshments. Advanced reservations are required.
Both motorized and non-motorized watersports activities such as snorkeling, sailing, and kayaking are available for guests. It’s perfect for venturing out and enjoying the Caribbean Sea. Guests can book through Red Sail Sports, the resort’s official partner for activity and adventure in the area.
Their state-of-the-art fitness center comes with equipment for a complete workout. Personal trainers and group workout classes (cross-training, yoga, and full-body stretching) are available.
Located on the 7th floor, the Club Level Lounge is a relaxing oasis for guests to unwind. Its floor-to-ceiling windows open to mesmerizing views of the Caribbean. Guests can indulge in food and beverage presentations, starting from breakfast to desserts. For drinks, choose from liqueurs, wines, beers, and spirits. Non-alcoholic beverages are also on offer.
There is a business center for those who have work needs to attend. The Club Concierge can assist you with reservations (in-house dining and spa) and airport transfers.
Kids also get to enjoy an assortment of sweet treats and cookies at the Club Level Lounge. Board games, books, and playing cards are also here to keep them entertained.
Young children will delight in the Ritz Kids program where their itinerary includes arts and crafts and outdoor adventures.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa is a 15,000-square-foot luxury spa that features 13 treatments rooms for private relaxation. Known for its zen-like ambiance, they proudly use indigenous ingredients and traditions in their signature treatments. The spa also uses a premium, science-driven skincare line called ESPA and Eminence for their facials
Indulge yourself in their relaxation lounges equipped with saunas, steam rooms, and whirlpools. Want to de-stress? Take calming breaths in aromatherapy flavors at their in-house oxygen bar.
For those feeling lucky, head to the 24-hour casino. It comes complete with live entertainment. The world-class Tierra del Sol Golf Club is also a must-experience for avid golfers.
With all these fantastic amenities, it’s no surprise The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is considered among the best resorts in the Caribbean you can book with points.
Food and Dining
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Casa Nonna. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Aruba’s Ritz-Carlton is home to six dining venues: a modern steakhouse, an Italian restaurant, and a sushi bar among others.
BLT Steak is a classic steakhouse where you can savor premium steaks and seafood, among others, in a classy bistro setting.
Craving Italian food? Head to Casa Nonna and dig into authentic Italian flavors, ranging from antipasti platters to pasta. Fun fact: The name translates to “grandmother’s house” in Italian.
Start your day right at Solanio, where breakfast favorites await. Watch as chefs exquisitely prepare dishes in the open kitchen or get a table on the terrace to appreciate the alfresco setting.
Madero Pool & Beach Grill is in proximity to the two pools and the private stretch of Palm Beach. It’s the perfect place to pair casual fare with cocktails and other tropical-inspired drinks.
Divi Sushi Bar & Lounge is their all-day restaurant that serves sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese favorites. Its unique setting includes tech-savvy amenities, such as a center bar that illuminates. There’s even a technology-enabled seating. The outdoor terrace also opens to panoramic views of Palm Beach.
Get your caffeine fix at Ritual Coffee Culture, where you can choose from several coffee brewing methods. Aside from premium coffee, there are also baked goodies, pastries, healthy options, and gelato.
For an elevated dining experience, avail of the Dinner on the Beach. Enjoy a customized menu along the shores of Palm Beach with a personal butler to attend to your every need. Witness a magical sunset with the waves gently lapping nearby.
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Staff and Guest Services
The service here is impeccable. Experience Aruba’s homegrown hospitality and thoughtfulness only the best luxury resorts possess.
Guests enjoy twice-daily turndown service with a customized honor bar upon request. However, if you’re after exclusive and personalized service, opt to stay in one of the rooms or suites with private Club Lounge access. Enjoy the services of a personal concierge team that will assist in making reservations and provides recommendations to make your stay more worthwhile.
Price
Rooms start at $800 per night during off-peak season. In the standard season, the price can start at $1,380 per night for a standard room. It goes up to $2,180 per night in the peak season.
Points Redemption
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is a Marriott Bonvoy hotel. You can book a standard room for as little as 70, 000 Marriott Bonvoy points to 100,000 points per night.
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Who Is It For?
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is perfect if you want to experience the best of Aruba. Its central location, easy beachfront access, and complete amenities are just some of the highlights of this luxury resort.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Gallery
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Private Beach. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Madero Pool, and Beach Grill. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba Club Level Lounge. Image Credit: The Ritz-Carlton
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. Image Credit: Marriott
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is an upscale oceanfront resort situated in Palm Beach, Aruba. It’s one of the largest high-rise luxury hotels in the area.
Location
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has a fantastic beachfront location along Palm Beach. It’s just a short distance from Aruba’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife hotspots.
The upscale hotel is approximately 7 miles away from the airport. While there is no airport shuttle service, getting a cab or third-party transportation service from the airport is easy.
Room
At Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris, there are nine types of rooms to choose from with beach, pool, and garden views. The resort prides itself on having the largest balconies in Aruba so you can soak in the views and ocean breeze inside the comforts of your room.
All rooms are equipped with modern touches: a LED screen TV (international cable/satellite and premium channels, Wi-Fi (for an additional fee), a mini-refrigerator, a hairdryer, a coffee maker, and a tea service.
These spacious rooms use sleek furnishings, including double vanities, a walk-in closet, a work desk, and a wet bar. Cozy touches such as premium pillowtop beds, plush linens, slippers, and robes complete the stay.
The 500-square-feet standard room starts with the Limited View Guest Room with 1 King or 2 Queen. Meanwhile, room upgrades come with a spectacular vista of the sparkling blue waters outside and an expansive balcony area for lounging outdoors. These include the following rooms: Premium Ocean View, Ocean Front Junior Suite, Governor’s Suite.
Those who avail of the adults-only Tradewinds Guest Room, Tradewinds Junior Suite, and Tradewinds Governor Suite get special room upgrades in amenities and bathroom products.
Amenities
Tradewinds Club is the exclusive, adults-only club lounge where guests can enjoy privacy and relaxation. The club lounge has mesmerizing views of Aruba’s fine beaches from its floor-to-ceiling windows. Enjoy their open bar and complimentary light meals with beverages that are served five times daily. Other services include free Wi-Fi, printing services, and reserved parking space.
Receive direct access to the resort’s reserved beach area, where you can swim or sunbathe near the pristine waters of Palm Beach. During the day, explore the island’s tropical beauty by swimming or participating in a motorized watersport through Red Sail Sports. Choose from a wide range, including sailing, jet-skiing, boating, kayaking, etc.
Take a refreshing dip or sunbathe at their two outdoor pools—the freeform outdoor pool with a swim-up bar and an adults-only pool called H2Oasis. The latter pool is a sanctuary for those who want to take laps without being disturbed.
An advanced reservation fee is required for those who want a front-row palapa. Meanwhile, the other palapas located at the back of the beach are complimentary but on a first-come, first-served basis.
Work up a sweat at their two-story 24-hour fitness gym, fully equipped with cardio machines and free weights. The gym also boasts gorgeous ocean views.
De-stress at their Balinese-inspired Mandara Spa. With 12 private treatment rooms, it offers an exotic pampering experience like no other, with natural ingredients and the unique techniques of Bali. Combined with a modern harmonious setting, this all-encompassing spa experience seeks to improve body and mind balance.
Other not-be-missed highlights to experience nearby are the 24-hour casino and Tierra Del Sol Golf Club.
Food and Dining
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Image Credit: Marriott
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino has a famed in-house steakhouse, casual and elegant restaurants, and several bars.
Enjoy prime cuts and fresh seafood at the renowned Ruth’s Chris Steak House. The sophisticated Atardi serves mainly seafood delights with gorgeous oceanfront views. It’s a highly recommended place to watch Aruba’s celebrated sunset.
La Vista is the resort’s all-day signature restaurant. Located at their open-air terrace, it offers sumptuous international cuisine in a relaxed setting. Waves Beach Bar & Grill is their casual poolside restaurant where you can order light fare and drinks after a refreshing dip or sunbathing session.
Relax and unwind at the Lobby Bar, home to an impressive cocktail list and fresh sushi and sashimi. There is also live entertainment nightly that families and friends can enjoy together. There’s also a Starbucks for a quick coffee-and-pastry run and Gelato & Co. for Italian gelato and fresh ice cream in the lobby.
Staff and Guest Services
The service is generally friendly and attentive. Those with Tradewinds member privileges can enjoy more personalized service, such as private check-in and a dedicated concierge team to assist in reservations. Complimentary pressing, packing, and unpacking services are also available upon request.
Price
The low-season rate for a standard room starts at $580 per night. However, the rooms can go up to $1,240 per night in the peak months. For the average season, the rates start at $740 per night.
Points Redemption
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a Marriott Bonvoy hotel. You can book a standard room for as little as 65,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or 70,000 points per night.
Who Is It For?
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino certainly does have its perks—bigger balconies, more adults-only areas, and stellar in-house dining options. Price-wise, it’s the cheaper option than The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, so if you’re looking for more value, this resort is a great option.
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Gallery
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Pool. Image Credit: Marriott
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Junior Suite Balcony View. Image Credit: Marriott
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino Premium Ocean View. Image Credit: Marriott
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Convenience | Tie | Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is closer to the airport, but The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba offers assistance in airport transfers upon request. |
| Best for Food | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba gets this one with its unique dining options. |
| Best for Pools | Tie | Both have pools designated for kids and adults only. |
| Best for Spa | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | The 15,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Spa boasts spacious treatment areas for utmost privacy. |
| Best For Beaches | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | The resort’s private beach area is better with more personalized services. |
| Best For Adults | Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino | Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino offers adults-only Tradewinds member privileges, including adults-only rooms, an exclusive lounge, and a bar. |
| Best for Families | Tie | Both have kids’ programs and kid-friendly facilities to keep young ones entertained. |
| Best Location | Tie | Both resorts have access to the famous Palm Beach. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | The vibe in the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is generally more subdued. |
| Best for Service | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | Overall, the resort excels more in providing heartfelt hospitality to its guests. |
| Most Exclusive | The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba | Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino draw in more crowds, so it tends to be noisier. The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is the quieter and is a more peaceful option. |
Wrapping Up
Both resorts have similarities: a members-only lounge, oceanfront access, exquisite spas, stellar casinos, and diverse in-house dining options. Another important thing to highlight is their central location in Palm Beach. This puts you steps away from Aruba’s vibrant cultural, lifestyle, and dining scene.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is the pricier option and you’ll enjoy more personalized and heartfelt service. The overall ambiance is quiet and calm (including their beach area), so if that’s something you’re after, choose this resort. In addition, most of the rooms are oceanfront so that’s also something to consider.
On the other hand, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino have the biggest balconies in Aruba. That’s a significant factor if you prefer staying in and enjoying the oceanfront views from the privacy of your room. It’s also cheaper than The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, but it can get crowded during peak seasons. If you’re okay with crowds or are traveling during off-peak seasons, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a good choice.
Nevertheless, with all the premium amenities and services both resorts offer, they make wonderful resting points for your Aruba vacation.
Happy travels!