This Dutch Caribbean island has a wealth of large resorts, but if you’re looking for a really memorable stay, there are a few extraordinary boutique hotels in Aruba worth considering.
They’re our top picks for unique accommodations and include small luxury hotels, dreamy cottages, upscale apartments, overwater villas and glamorous resorts set on the beach.
After two decades of exploring Aruba’s hotels, beaches and top attractions for leading publications such as Fodor’s, USA Today, Forbes, Business Insider, TripAdvisor and on-island guides like Aruba Nights, either I (or one of the experts here at A Taste for Travel) have personally reviewed each of these properties.
We love how unique they are.
This curated guide includes choices ideal for independently minded travellers, couples and families looking for a taste of the real Aruba. I’ve also included lots of insider tips to help you make the most of your stay on “One Happy Island.”
(Note: This list is in alphabetical order, not by rank or quality or preference.)
1. Aruba Ocean Villas – Exotic Adults-Only Oasis
Each time I return to the South Pacific style oasis called Aruba Ocean Villas tucked away in Savaneta, I’m amazed by how beautiful it is.
And it just keeps getting better and better.
During my first stay in one of their overwater villas, I awoke each morning to the sound of birdsong and showered in an outdoor shower beneath a spout made of a conch shell.
Evenings, I relaxed in the big indoor soaking tub or in a hammock on one of two decks featuring jaw-dropping views.
Today, Aruba Ocean Villas continues to amaze.
Its kaleidoscope of accommodation options include beach villas, a treehouse, exotic overwater bungalows, and massive two-story overwater penthouses that are akin to having your own little boutique hotel all to yourself.
Their two family-friendly off- property vacation rentals also offer luxurious amenities.
Resort owner Osyth Henriquez is an artist, and every inch is awash with her creative touch and adorned with the unique treasures she continues to amass from world travels.
The entire oasis offers a luxurious feast of indulgences with hammocks, private Jacuzzis, deep soaking tubs, outdoor rain showers, crystal chandeliers, and even musical instruments ensuite.
They also have a standalone overwater spa tower and on-site dining also includes overwater palapa options at their signature restaurant.
Insider’s Tip: A few steps away is Zeerovers Aruba, a seafood restaurant you don’t want to miss. Not only is the seafood super fresh but you get to dine on the waterfront at budget prices.
2. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort – Affordable Eagle Beach Boutique Hotel
Though this Dutch colonial-style landmark boutique low-rise hotel (72 rooms) emits a regal air with a coat of arms crest at the entrance, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort has been best known as a down-to-earth resort favoured by Dutch families.
All rooms have kitchens and everything you need to self-cater, plus it’s a short walk to Superfood Plaza to stock up on supplies, a bonus for budget travellers. (Though their onsite dining is definitely splurge-worthy.)
Originally, the 72 rooms had a rather spartan vibe, but the entire resort has recently undergone a spectacular refurbishment.
On my last visit, I was delighted at the brilliant improvements from top to bottom.
I especially enjoyed my colourful two-bedroom suite with its massive dining/living area and gorgeous prints of Aruban life.
And the sea view from my balcony showcased stellar sunsets set against Aruba’s iconic Fofoti trees. Surreal. You can view their dedicated beach area in real time via live webcam.
Foodie Alert: Don’t miss dinner with toes in the sand at their signature oasis Passions on the Beach, one of Aruba’s most romantic restaurants.
Check prices and availability of Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort on Booking.com.
3. Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba – Colourful Casitas Steps to Palm Beach
Set in the Palm Beach area of Noord, the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel is a collection of 49 colourful casitas (cottages) joined by boardwalks meandering through lush tropical foliage, sparkling pools, and culminating in the lovely Coco Café serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Each casita is uniquely designed with tropical décor. During our stay, we swooned over our spacious bedroom, kitchen/ living room combo and luxurious washroom with plush towels and luxury bath amenities.
Two very special casitas offer over the top romance; one with its own dipping pool where they can serve you a floating breakfast, and the other a second story palapa tower with a panoramic view and a deep soaking tub.
Boardwalk is so unique it was awarded two Michelin Guide Keys in 2025, making it the first hotel in the Dutch Caribbean (ABC Islands) to receive this coveted distinction based on a one-to-three key rating system for excellence.
Although their dedicated Palm Beach area with shaded loungers and wait service is a short walk away, they offer complimentary shuttles.
Foodie Alert: Book one of their private dinners with a local chef who prepares a 3-course menu right on your patio. Or order a fully loaded pre-packaged BBQ Box of goodies to grill your own meal.
Check prices and availability for Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba on Booking.com.
4. Bubali Luxury Apartments – Accessible Aruba Boutique Apartments
Located within the residential neighbourhood of Bubali, near SuperFood Plaza (Aruba’s largest full service grocery store) this collection of four boutique apartments is a rare find.
A handy location, adults-only policy and luxurious touches make Bubali Luxury Apartments an appealing, budget-friendly micro hotel.
To begin, the quality of finishing in these apartments is exceptional. There are modern euro cabinets, stainless steel appliances, glass walk-in showers, flat screen TV and a spacious living/dining room area.
We stayed in a two-bedroom apartment with a private terrace with a dining table and lounge area overlooking the shared swimming pool. A BBQ and outdoor kitchen are also available.
Guests can spend idyllic days lounging poolside or relaxing on a beach lounger with cooler (supplied) at nearby Eagle Beach. Free parking also adds to the savings.
Each apartment is completely wheelchair accessible with adjustments subtly incorporated into the contemporary decor.
There’s even a special ramp for wheelchairs in the pool and a beach wheelchair to borrow. It’s definitely one of the most accessible places to stay in Aruba.
Check prices and availability for Bubali Luxury Apartments on Booking.com.
For a splurge, consider a Day Pass to Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island.
5. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort – Luxury Eco-Haven on Eagle Beach
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort’s founder Ewald Biemans has been on a mission for the past 38 years to create the most eco-friendly resort in the Caribbean.
And he’s succeeded beyond belief, see their awards page for proof!
But though environmental sustainability is the watchword here, that doesn’t mean it lacks in luxury and amenities.
In fact, they’ve won multiple awards for their romantic vibe, and for the culinary prowess of their signature restaurant Elements where we especially love their vegan and vegetarian options.
Choose from modern studios and suites across two small complexes set upon a stunning swatch of pristine Eagle Beach with cool extras like Smart TVs embedded right into the bathroom mirror.
But I recommend the deluxe ocean view Tara Penthouse Suites that include exclusive access to their private beach palapas. At night they host private romantic dining.
And the service is impeccable throughout. Every guest receives a personal concierge, couples receive a romance concierge, and seaside massages are also available.
Foodie Alert: Terra, a refined, sustainability-driven culinary experience under the creative direction of Top Chef Season 13 winner Jeremy Ford, chef-owner of the Michelin-starred Stubborn Seed in Miami, opens for reservations right on the Bucuti property October 2025.
Check prices and availability at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort on Booking.com.
6. Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa – A Heavenly Health & Wellness Boutique Retreat
This legendary boutique resort in Aruba has 72 rooms designed for two, but there is one deluxe one-bedroom suite that can accommodate four.
I stayed in that one last visit, and it’s super spacious with a full kitchen, large dining area, and a wraparound sea view balcony. I loved it.
Food and beverage choices are excellent and eclectic over four venues with lots of healthy choices including vegan creations sidling alongside indulgent classic French dining, sushi, and beach bar fare.
All-inclusive plans are available.
But a highlight of this intimate Aruba hotel is a massive sea view pavilion where they hold a multitude of complimentary yoga and Pilates classes.
Even if you opt not to partake in the exercises, you’ll still get a workout strolling from your room to the inviting sea. Manchebo crests Eagle Beach’s broadest sand strip.
However, once in your lounger, simply raise a flag for refreshments and the staff will happily serve you by Segway!
Insider’s Tip: Book a seaside massage at the Balinese spa pavilion for pure nirvana.
7. OceanZ Boutique Hotel – A Sleek, Stylish Luxury Stay
Mere minutes from Palm Beach, yet worlds away from the tourist frenzy you’ll find OceanZ in the upscale residential neighborhood of Malmok across from ancient sea cliffs close to a snorkelling spot famous for its abundance of colourful tropical fish, sea turtles and starfish.
Created by longtime Aruba transplant Venezuelan fashion designer Eva Zissu, she envisioned it as an oasis where she could offer guests a thoughtfully curated luxury boutique hotel experience.
From the modern white décor splashed with bright pink blooms to the massive indoor/outdoor rain showers, it’s all her vision.
One of the best boutique small hotels in Aruba, it offers 13 intimate rooms.
Star suites are the master oceanfront balcony abodes with their own plunge pool and whirlpools. But the smaller suites also hold an alluring appeal, all flanking the saltwater infinity pool.
And though this stylish boutique hotel isn’t on a swimmable beach, they’ll supply everything you need including transportation to and from two popular sandy spots nearby.
Foodie Alert: The OCEAN Z on-site restaurant is open to the public and has been garnering rave reviews. Be sure to try the seafood paella for two.
Check prices and availability for OceanZ Aruba Boutique Hotel on Booking.com.
8. Papiamento Lodge – Adult-Only Boutique Stay at a Working Rum Distillery!
I recently discovered this awesome new downtown Oranjestad attraction, a working distillery housed in a retrofitted ice factory directly behind the new Harbour Walk, and bedecked with awesome outdoor local art and flanked by a charming alfresco courtyard.
Bodegas Papiamento is a must visit to see how they make their award-winning rum and artisanal vodka, and tasting tours include spirits sampling, gourmet fare pairings, and artisanal local chocolate and rum tours. Their bar serves up killer cocktails often using ingredients from their own herb and fruit farm, too.
But they’re also an adults-only B&B! (And I can’t wait to stay there!)
The second-floor houses Papiamento Lodge, a collection of five spacious, modern, creatively appointed ocean view spirit-themed suites with kitchenettes and access to a laundry room.
Extras include rum and chocolate samples plus beach hopping essentials like foldable chairs and coolers, and breakfast is included at their on-site Sailor Café.
It’s a unique Aruba stay indeed!
Foodie Alert: The stationary food truck in the courtyard is quite a surprise; MarCo Canteen specializes in Asian robata grill fare though they also serve comfort food like burgers.
9. Privada Stays – A Chic (Budget-Friendly) Boutique Hotel
When I first spotted this low-rise complex just behind the tourist area of Eagle Beach, I thought Aruba had a new mall due to its huge parking lot. But on closer inspection, the candy-cane striped umbrellas surrounding a cool infinity pool suggested it was not.
It’s actually a cool hotel called Privada Stays.
Intrigued, I toured the property and quickly recognized the decor was supplied by well-known local artist Elisa LeJuez, her pop art style is unmistakable. And I was right. It is part of ‘The Lejuez Group’, a local family-run business.
Each room maximizes every inch with functionality and high-tech amenities, and each has its own unique décor and its own private plunge pool!
Kitchens are fully equipped for self-catering, and thoughtful extras like portable foldable chairs, and beach gear make it a breeze to hop in the car and stake your claim in the sand wherever you please.
Privada also hosts weekly social get together hangout parties called “Fridays after Five” around their pool bar.
Insider’s Tip: This spot is highly affordable since they are a completely solar-powered property which keeps their overhead low.
Check rates and availability of Privada Stays Boutique Hotel on Expedia.com
10. Tryp by Wyndham Aruba- A Hip Adult Spot to Stay on “The Strip” Palm Beach
The 2-mile stretch fronting all the high-rise hotels lining Palm Beach is referred to as “The Strip.”
After dark, this stretch comes alive with a mind-boggling choice of nightlife; there’s always dancing in the streets!
Embedded in this quadrant is Tryp by Wyndham, a hip, new adults-only boutique hotel awash in Insta-worthy outdoor art. The pièce de résistance is the private pool and swim-up bar area surrounded by said electric nightlife.
All 96 rooms are smartly appointed with high tech amenities, some with personal fitness equipment like exercise bikes. I admit I didn’t use the exercise gear (in an effort to save energy for bar-hopping and beach combing).
Their dedicated Palm Beach area is a short walk or free shuttle away and offers wait service from the hotel.
And it’s right in front of Bugaloe Beach Bar (one of our 10 Can’t Miss Beach Bars in Aruba for live music and dancing over the sea at night.
I thoroughly enjoyed a typical Aruban breakfast in their alfresco courtyard, and the food and beverage from their two bars and Island Grind Café were first rate.
Service was stellar, too.
Insider’s Tip: At press time, they were planning to unveil a trendy new bar/social gathering spot on the second level overlooking the pool and the strip for 2026.
Honorable Mentions: Unique Places to Stay in Aruba
Aruba Airstream: Glamping in a Luxury RV
For another unique place to stay in Aruba, it’s also worth checking out this glamping stay in a 30-foot Flying Cloud Airstream.
This 2-bedroom, luxury RV/camper is located on three secluded acres surrounded by cacti and ocean views. It features a private saltwater pool, outdoor Bali-style shower and an herb and spice garden.
The owner will help you craft curated on-site experiences and create a personal itinerary so you can explore all the amazing things to do in Aruba.
Pos Chiquito Cunucu Farm House – A Traditional Aruban Country Home
Though Bodegas Papiamento Distillery (noted above) offers a B&B in their downtown location, they also offer a unique stay in a typical Aruban country home.
It’s located on the farm where they grow their own herbs used to infuse their spirits and cocktails as part of their “farm to bar” experience.
This colourful and cute family-friendly accomodation sleeps six and includes a fully-equipped kitchen, a BBQ, and a combo washer/dryer unit.
And it’s a mere 2-minute drive to lovely Mangel Halto Beach, a local favourite for superb snorkeling and shore diving. They also supply beach gear.
This post was originally published in 2018 and updated annually. It was fully rewritten and expanded in 2025 with the latest information by Aruba expert Sue Campbell.
Travel Guide for the Best Boutique Hotels in Aruba
Aruba Tourism Authority
Get maps, travel advice and other valuable resources on the official tourism website at Aruba Tourism Authority.
First-Class Experience Aruba
Avoid queues at customs and immigration by booking the premium arrival and departure service at Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport.
First Class Experience Aruba service includes personalized welcome (or departure), fast-track escort through immigration, luggage handling and access to the private Aruba Airport VIP lounge.
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