RIU Palace Antillas, Aruba: Is the All-Inclusive Any Good?
Tucked away on the sunny island of Aruba in the Southern Caribbean, the RIU Palace Antillas Aruba Hotel is the perfect spot for those looking for a bit of luxury, fun and relaxation.
About Me
Hi, I’m Ralu, a passionate traveller who traded routine for the thrill of exploring the world. What began as a simple getaway soon turned into a journey of discovery, shaping Making Miles and Memories into what it is today. From stunning landscapes and hidden gems to local cultures and travel tips, I hope to inspire your next journey.
About Me
Hi, I’m Ralu, a passionate traveller who traded routine for the thrill of exploring the world. What began as a simple getaway soon turned into a journey of discovery, shaping Making Miles and Memories into what it is today.
From stunning landscapes and hidden gems to local cultures and travel tips, I hope to inspire your next journey.
Specifically designed for adults, this hotel offers a peaceful escape while still letting you dive into everything Aruba has to offer. As a couple who always seeks out adults-only hotels, this place was a perfect fit for us.
And if you’d like a change of scenery, guests at the Antillas can also enter the other side of the complex, which is not adults-only. Best of both worlds: you can enjoy the quiet and relaxation of the Antillas Hotel while still having easy access to all the exciting experiences that RIU Aruba has to offer.
Arrival and first impressions
Arriving on the famous Palm Beach strip, we felt a buzz of excitement that matched the grand presence of the RIU Palace. The hotel’s exterior is an impressive mix of modern design and Caribbean charm.
Once we looked out over the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean from the hotel, we knew we were in for a treat. The beach, just steps away, invites you to take a stroll, dip your toes in the soft sand, and let the sun work its magic.
What RIU Palace Antillas costs
For an Ultra All-Inclusive stay, rates start at around 450 EUR per night for a Double Room, with higher-end suites reaching up to 700 EUR per night.
While it’s not cheap, the all-inclusive package means you get a lot for your money. Everything from dining at various restaurants to enjoying unlimited drinks at the bars is covered, letting you relax without worrying about extra costs.
The thing to know before you book
There’s only one pool, and a lot of rooms.
It can feel overcrowded, and finding a spot to lounge can be a challenge. You’ll need to wake up early, like 6 or 7am, to claim a good spot. The RIU crowd is known to be lively, so expect a fair amount of noise, including yelling and shouting, especially around the pool.
The entertainment team does a nice job, but if you’re looking for pure relaxation and quiet, this might not be the best fit.
What the rooms are like
With 482 rooms and suites, each space is designed to be a cosy retreat. Recently renovated, the rooms come with all the modern comforts: air conditioning, satellite TV, and our personal favourite, a private balcony.
Since our stay, RIU has added an Elite Club tier with its own lounge, a private pool area and bar, separate check-in and an à la carte breakfast restaurant. We didn’t stay in it, so I can’t tell you whether it’s worth the upgrade.
The restaurants at RIU Palace Antillas
Dining at the RIU Palace is a journey in itself. With a variety of cuisines on offer, there’s something to satisfy every craving.
Buffet Restaurant (Don Nicolás – Breakfast and Dinner): Start your day with a breakfast spread that has something for everyone, and in the evening, treat yourself to a dinner with endless options. Don Nicolás is a buffet done right, with dishes that keep you coming back for more.
6 Bars: As the day turns to night, the hotel’s six bars come alive. Whether you’re looking for a quiet drink or a lively spot to hang out, there’s a bar for every mood. We spent quite a bit of time at the pool bar, enjoying the tropical cocktails while cooling off by the water.
4 À La Carte Restaurants:
- Nautilus (Grill/Steakhouse): If you’re a fan of grilled meats, Nautilus is your go-to. The steaks were cooked to perfection, with that unmistakable sizzle and rich aroma that made every bite a treat.
- Milano (Italian): This spot brings the flavours of Italy to Aruba. The pasta was fresh, the sauces rich, and we couldn’t resist finishing every meal with their creamy tiramisu.
- Sayuri (Japanese): Sayuri offers a taste of Japan with dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The teppanyaki was not just a meal but a show, with the chefs impressing us with their skills.
- Krystal (Fusion, International Specialities): Krystal is where global flavours come together in unique dishes. It’s a culinary adventure that takes your taste buds around the world.
Embarking on a gastronomic odyssey, the RIU Palace Hotel elevates dining to an ultra-all-inclusive journey that tantalizes even the most discerning of palates.
What there is to do
Once settled in, we spent our days soaking up the atmosphere. The main pool was popular, buzzing with activity and laughter. While it was a great spot to people-watch and enjoy a drink, we often found ourselves drawn to the beach. It was, for the most part, less crowded. The soft, white sands and the gentle waves were the perfect backdrop as well.
Just a short walk from the hotel, you’ll find a lively mix of bars, terraces, and supermarkets. We discovered that the supermarkets offered better prices than the smaller shops near the hotel, so we stocked up on snacks and drinks there. A quick cab ride took us to Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital, where we explored the local culture and attractions.
The hotel itself offers plenty to do, from beach outings to thrilling excursions like self-driving tours, helicopter rides, and catamaran trips. There’s even an in-house casino for those feeling lucky, offering everything from Poker to Roulette and even Bingo. As you can see here, we did well (several times…), making our stay even more fun.
Excursions worth doing
One of the highlights of our trip was the Atlantis Submarine expedition. We dove 40 meters below the surface to explore the Barcadera Reef and some fascinating shipwrecks. It was like entering another world, full of vibrant marine life.
But the most thrilling adventure was our half-day private off-road safari. Cruising through Aruba’s rugged terrain in an open-air vehicle was exhilarating. We visited the stunning Natural Pool, the Baby Natural Bridge, the Ayo Rock Formation, the historic Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and the serene Alto Vista Chapel. We even stopped by a glass modelling workshop, adding a creative twist to our day.
So is the all-inclusive any good?
Location
I’d rate the location of RIU Palace Antillas Aruba a solid 9 out of 10. The hotel is perfectly situated on the famous Palm Beach strip, offering immediate access to stunning beachfront views and plenty of nearby activities. While bars and supermarkets are within walking distance, you might need a short taxi ride to explore more of the island’s cultural spots, like Oranjestad. The hotel’s beachfront location and proximity to local attractions make it a great choice for those looking to mix relaxation with a bit of adventure.
Price
For an Ultra All-Inclusive stay at RIU Palace Antillas Aruba, rates start at around 450 EUR per night for a Double Room, with higher-end suites reaching up to 700 EUR per night. While it’s not cheap, the all-inclusive package means you get a lot for your money. Everything from dining at various restaurants to enjoying unlimited drinks at the bars is covered, letting you relax without worrying about extra costs. Though it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the convenience and overall experience make it worth considering.
Venue
The RIU Palace Antillas Aruba is well-maintained and clean, with a nice pool area that’s inviting, though a bit small for the number of guests. With just one pool and a lot of rooms, it can feel overcrowded, and finding a spot to lounge can be a challenge. The RIU crowd is known to be lively, so expect a fair amount of noise, including yelling and shouting, especially around the pool. The entertainment team does a nice job, but if you’re looking for pure relaxation and quiet, this might not be the best fit.
Relaxation
While the hotel offers some peaceful spots, the overall noise level can make it hard to fully unwind. The lively atmosphere is fun, but if your main goal is relaxation, you might want to look elsewhere.
Our stay was very enjoyable. The location is fantastic, with easy access to the beach and local attractions, and the hotel is clean and well-maintained. However, the single pool and large number of guests can make it feel overcrowded, and the lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere might not be ideal if you’re seeking peace and quiet.
Riu Palace Antillas Aruba FAQ
Is RIU Palace Antillas adults-only?
Yes. Guests can also access the adjoining RIU Aruba side of the complex, which is not adults-only.
How much does RIU Palace Antillas cost per night?
When we stayed in 2023 rates started around 450 EUR per night. As of 2026, they’re closer to 500.
How many rooms does RIU Palace Antillas have?
482 rooms and suites.
How many pools does RIU Palace Antillas have?
One, which is the main drawback. Expect to reserve a lounger early, around 6 or 7am.
Is RIU Palace Antillas quiet?
No. The crowd is lively and there’s a fair amount of noise, particularly around the pool.
Where is RIU Palace Antillas?
On the Palm Beach strip in Aruba, with bars, terraces and supermarkets within walking distance.
Is there a casino at RIU Palace Antillas?
Yes, offering Poker, Slots, Roulette and Bingo.
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Our stay at the RIU Palace Antillas Aruba was very enjoyable. The location is fantastic, with easy access to the beach and local attractions, and the hotel is clean and well-maintained. However, the single pool and large number of guests can make it feel overcrowded, and the lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere might not be ideal if you’re seeking peace and quiet.
ralu
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