Sandals Resort Aruba: Ultimate Guide
Aruba is a magical island filled with white sand beaches and unique rocky desert terrain. Unfortunately, Sandals Resorts does not have a location on the island yet. The good news is that there’s a Sandals in Curaçao, which is right next to Aruba.
I have been to Aruba, and let me tell you that while it’s fantastic, it’s not one of my top Caribbean islands to visit. For those looking into an idyllic tropical escape, I have some alternatives that are not only located near Aruba, but will also knock your socks off in terms of beauty.
Is There A Sandals Resort In Aruba?
While there is no Sandals Resort in Aruba, there is one located only 70 miles west in Curaçao. These are known as the “ABC” islands that are made up of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. They are also part of the leeward Antilles island chain that lies outside the hurricane belt. Consistent sun year round has made them one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean.
But here’s the rub. Aruba has been a tourist hot spot for so long that the beaches are becoming overrun with tourists, prices are high, and it definitely skews toward more of a party scene. That’s why it’s become known as “Little Miami”.
I greatly prefer to go to Curaçao where you enjoy the same geographical characteristics (white sand beaches, crystal clear water, arid desert landscape) but with a less crowded, more authentic experience. The capital of Willemstad still retains its Dutch charm with colorful colonial buildings that aren’t overshadowed by high-rise development like Aruba.
That said, if you’re dead set on going to an adults-only all-inclusive resort in Aruba, I would recommend looking around Eagle Beach or Palm Beach. These are the primary resort zones just north of Oranjasted where you can also easily find restaurants, bars, casinos, and shops.
Top Sandals Resorts Alternatives To Aruba
1. Sandals Royal Curacao
SANTA BARBARA, CURACAO
Curacao is a jet setters paradise that your friends are sure to be envious of. The island is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, flamingos, and arid desert landscape spotted with volcanic rock and cactus.
Sandals Royal Curacao is located along the Spanish Water where you can enjoy endless views of the glowing blue Caribbean waters while watching yachts pass by into the harbor. The property underwent a massive $72 million renovation in 2022 so the 5-star accommodations are some of the nicest I have been to.
Situated on a massive 44 acre oceanfront estate, it only takes 25 minutes to get there from the airport. The all-inclusive resort features 11 restaurants, 13 bars (try the Blue Curacao liqueur), and a massive 2-level infinity pool that you have to see to believe.
I highly recommend taking a day trip to Willemstad, the famous UNESCO world heritage site. Here you can really experience the cultural melting pot of Dutch, Spanish, and African influences. Rows of pastel colored buildings featuring Dutch architecture line the streets.
Lastly, a big reason I particularly like Curacao is because it’s consistently ranked one of the safest Caribbean islands with a Level 1 Advisory by the US Department Of State (the safest rating) due to its low crime and stability. You’ll see right away how friendly the locals are!
2. Sandals Royal Barbados
SAINT LAWRENCE GAP, BARBADOS
Tucked away on the famous Dover Beach, Sandals Royal Barbados is an exotic destination that Caribbean dreams are made of. The luxurious resort features a rooftop pool, exclusive butler suites, 21 restaurants, and even a bowling alley!
One big advantage is that Sandals actually has two resorts here, Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados. You get full access to both resorts when you stay at one. They are right next to each other so you can easily walk back and forth.
Getting to the island has a similar flight time as Aruba albeit more eastern, but there are generally more flights to choose from too. The other plus is that the resort is only about 10 minutes away from the airport so you can get to relaxing on the beach quickly.
Similar to Aruba, Barbados also has a Level 1 Advisory, meaning it’s very safe to visit relative to the other island. I have certainly never felt unsafe at the resort or when I’m walking around Bridgetown.
For a more affordable option over Aruba, with fantastic beaches and culture, Barbados should be at the top of your list.
3. Sandals Grande St. Lucian
GROS-ISLET, SAINT LUCIA
St. Lucia is one of my favorite islands in the Caribbean. I’ve been there 4 times now and there’s nothing like the towering Piton Mountains or the glowing listerine waters.
My top all-inclusive resort on the island is Sandals Grande St. Lucian on the northern tip of the island in Gros-Islet. It is nestled in a private peninsula that offers stunning 360 degree views of the surroundings.
There are actually 3 different Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia. The other two are the Regency La Toc and Halcyon Beach. The best part is that you get full access to all three when you stay at one, so it’s like 3 vacations in one! They even provide the transfers to the different resorts.
If you are a golf aficionado, you will be happy to hear that golf greens fees are also included for free here. That’s in addition to unlimited food, drinks, water sports, scuba diving, and airport transfers (to name a few). That’s why the Sandals in St. Lucia provide some of the best value around.
RELATED: FULL LIST OF ALL SANDALS LOCATIONS
What Makes Sandals Resorts Attractive
Sandals are the only adults-only all-inclusive resorts specifically designed for couples in love. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, there is no second best, which is why Sandals Resorts are so sought after. That’s in contrast to most of the expansive resorts in Aruba that now prioritize quantity over quality. Here are a few of the things that are included when getting the full Sandals experience.
- Premium Food & Drinks: Unlimited food and drinks are included. I’m not talking about budget options like most other all-inclusive resort. The dining options are world class with fresh, locally sourced, ingredients. The wine and spirits are also top-shelf.
- Unlimited Water Sports: Water activities like scuba, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, motorized water sports (skiing, wakeboarding), glass bottom boat rides.
- Airport Transfers: Airport transfers are always included no matter which room type you book. Some locations will even pick you up in a Rolls Royce or provide a private boat transfer to the resorts when you book at Butler Level Suite.
- No Tipping: Sandals has a strict no tipping policy. This means there are no gratuities, taxes, or surprise fees. Once you book your room, you can practically leave your billfold at home!
- Exclusivity & Romance: Tons of activities crafted for a romantic vacation, whether it’s a couples massage, candlelight dinner on the beach, or a trip to their private offshore island. The intimate and exclusive nature of Sandals makes it perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, birthdays, or a much needed getaway!
- 5-Star Luxury: Sandals isn’t your typical all-inclusive resorts. The accommodations are second to none with Swim-Up Suites, Rondoval Suites, Overwater Bungalows, and so much more. The employees are always happy to go above and beyond (a lot of times they know me on a first name basis!). I don’t want it to sound intimidating because there’s truly something here for every budget. I just know that you’ll be hard pressed to find a higher service level, jam packed with so many inclusions, for comparable price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Sandals Resort in Aruba?
There is not currently a Sandals Resort in Aruba, however there is a Sandals in Curacao (Sandals Royal Curacao), which is right next to Aruba. Many people prefer Curacao over Aruba these days because it offers all of the same natural characteristics yet it has about half of the tourist traffic. Curacao remains a gem that offers a more authentic Caribbean experience.
Does Aruba have all-inclusive resorts?
Yes, Aruba has many all-inclusive resorts particularly around Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. This is the main resort zone where you can find adult-only options like JOIA Aruba or RIA Palace Antillas. Note that although these resorts are all-inclusive, they do not include water activities like scuba diving or gratuities, and in many cases, they do not include airport transfers.
BEST SANDALS RESORTS
Our favorite all-inclusive resort brand.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Sandals Grenada
Sandals Royal Barbados
Sandals Grande Antigua
