Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean Sea. Even though it is not big, it has two amazing beaches. These are Palm Beach Aruba and Eagle Beach. Both beaches have soft white sand, warm blue water, and sunshine all year. They are close to each other, and you can walk, bike, or take a bus from one to the other.
We once walked from one beach to the other. Still, I was not sure which beach was better for a place to stay. Being close to the beach is great because you can walk right out of your hotel and touch the sand. In the end, we chose Palm Beach Aruba. But both beaches are nice, and one might be better for you depending on what you like.
Let’s take a deep look at both beaches so you can choose the one that fits you best.
Where Are These Beaches?
Location of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach
Both Palm Beach Aruba and Eagle Beach are on the northwest side of Aruba. They are close to the capital city called Oranjestad. They are also not far from the airport.
The island of Aruba is only 21 miles long, so nothing is too far. You can get around easily.
- Eagle Beach is closer to Oranjestad. This makes it easier to go shopping or visit the city.
- Palm Beach Aruba is a bit farther from the city, but it is still easy to get to.
There are other beaches too. Arashi Beach is good for snorkeling. Baby Beach is great for kids because the water is very shallow. Flamingo Beach is famous, but it is on a private island. You can only go there if you stay at the Renaissance Hotel or buy an expensive day pass.
What is Palm Beach Aruba Like?
Calm Water and Fun Activities
Palm Beach Aruba is the most popular beach on the island. Many people come here because the water is calm and shallow. This makes it great for swimming, especially for families with kids.
There are also many fun things to do right on the beach. You can try:
- Snorkeling
- Sunset boat rides
- Banana boat rides
- Tubing
- Parasailing
These tours and activities often start from the beach, so you don’t need to go far. It’s easy to wake up and start having fun.
Hotels and Places To Eat
Palm Beach Aruba has many big hotels. You will find famous hotel names like Hyatt, Hilton, and Marriott. These hotels have many services and comforts. Some are all-inclusive, but most are not. That’s okay because you can walk to many restaurants, shops, and bars nearby.
There is also a lot of nightlife here. If you like to go out in the evening, Palm Beach Aruba is the best place.
But remember, this beach is more expensive. Hotel rooms can cost a lot. Some restaurants are not very good even though they charge high prices.
Feeling of the Place
Some people say Palm Beach Aruba feels like home. You will see brands and restaurants that are also in the United States. Some people like that because it feels familiar. But others might not like it because they want to feel like they are somewhere different.
Good and Bad Things About Palm Beach Aruba
What You Might Like
- The water is calm and great for swimming
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are easy to find or are free at some hotels
- You can stay at chain hotels and use hotel points
- There are many tours and water sports
- Shops, restaurants, and bars are close by
What You Might Not Like
- It can be crowded with many people
- It costs more to stay and eat here
- Traffic can be busy
- It doesn’t feel very local or unique
We stayed in Palm Beach Aruba because we found a good hotel deal. But we often walked to Eagle Beach for long walks at sunset and better food.
Best Hotels in Palm Beach Aruba
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa and Casino
This is a luxury hotel in a great spot. It has two pools: one for adults and one for families. There’s also a swim-up bar and a water slide. The hotel offers free beach chairs and even some beach huts you can book early.
Radisson Blu Aruba
We stayed here. It is not right on the beach, but it is very close. The rooms are big and come with a living area and a dining table. It is a good pick for families or groups. You can walk to shops and restaurants in five minutes.
Barcelo Aruba
This is an all-inclusive hotel. You pay one price for your room, food, and drinks. The pool is big and there are many places to eat on-site. This is a good choice if you want everything in one place and do not want to spend extra money eating out.
What is Eagle Beach Like?
Big, Peaceful, and Pretty
Eagle Beach is very wide. You have more space to lay down your towel and relax. The sand is also very soft and white. It’s perfect for lying in the sun or walking for a long time.
The water is a little different. The beach goes deeper more quickly. On windy days, there might be more waves. This might not be great for little kids who are learning to swim.
Hotels and Food at Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach has fewer big hotels. Instead, there are small hotels, condos, and apartments. You can find cheaper places to stay or stay in fancy boutique hotels.
This area is quieter than Palm Beach Aruba. Fewer people means you can enjoy a peaceful day. Many couples and families come here to relax. At night, a few restaurants by the beach offer beautiful sunset dinners. These places are a little more expensive, but they serve delicious food.
There are fewer stores and shops. So, you might have to walk more or take a taxi. Still, many people enjoy the peaceful feeling of Eagle Beach.
Good and Bad Things About Eagle Beach
What You Might Like
- The beach is wide and great for walking
- It is not crowded
- The area is calm and relaxing
- There are many kinds of places to stay
- The restaurants are better and have tasty food
What You Might Not Like
- The waves can be bigger and the water deeper
- You may need to rent or bring your own beach chair
- You might have to walk or take a taxi to get around
- You won’t find many chain hotels
Best Hotels in Eagle Beach
MVC Eagle Beach Aruba
This small hotel does not have many extras, but it is very close to the water. It is a great place for swimming and watching sunsets. There is also a bus stop and a grocery store nearby. Restaurants like Screaming Eagle are just a short walk away.
Pearl Aruba Condos
These condos are a short walk from the beach. They are not fancy, but they are big and useful. Each one has a small kitchen and a living room. This is great if you want more space and plan to stay for a few days.
Bucuti and Tara Beach Resort
This is one of the fanciest hotels in Aruba. It is actually on Manchebo Beach, but it is very close to Eagle Beach. It is made for couples and people who want peace. You need to stay at least 3 to 5 nights. The rooms get booked early, so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts
Both Palm Beach Aruba and Eagle Beach are beautiful places. They have warm water and great weather all year. You can find hotels and restaurants near both beaches.
Choose Palm Beach Aruba if
- You like being close to everything
- You want to try water sports and join fun tours
- You enjoy nightlife, shops, and many places to eat
- You prefer big hotels with many services
Choose Eagle Beach if
- You want a quiet and relaxing vacation
- You enjoy long walks and peaceful sunsets
- You want better food and fewer crowds
- You like smaller hotels and more space on the beach
In the end, it depends on what kind of vacation you want. If you are looking for fun, people, and action, Palm Beach Aruba is perfect. If you want peace, space, and quiet beauty, then Eagle Beach is the one for you.
And if you are still not sure, you can do what we did stay at one and visit the other. Aruba is small, and you can easily explore the whole island. Whether you choose Palm Beach Aruba or Eagle Beach, you will have a great time.
For more travel stories and helpful guides, check out Travel With Bony and get tips to make your trip fun and easy.
