Palm Beach
Aruba

Aruba's main attraction

Palm Beach Aruba is the island’s most famous two-mile stretch of soft white sand on the northwest coast, lined with towering palm trees and calm turquoise water. It’s the liveliest beach in Aruba, home to the island’s largest concentration of high-rise resorts, beach bars, and water sports operators.

The vibe is very different from Eagle Beach just down the coast — while Eagle feels wide and quiet, Palm Beach is buzzing with activity from morning until night. You’ll see jet skis skimming the waves, parasails drifting above the shoreline, and at sunset, the beach bars start filling up with live music and happy hour crowds.

I like to think of Palm Beach as Aruba’s “main stage.” It’s where first-time visitors often stay, because everything is at your doorstep: shops, restaurants, nightlife, and of course, a beautiful Caribbean sea.

Palm Beach vs. Eagle Beach

Both beaches are absolutely beautiful, but the atmosphere couldn’t be more different. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you pick the one that matches your style of vacation:

Best time to visit Palm Beach Aruba

• Time of day: Early morning for peaceful walks and calm water; late afternoon for lively beach bars and colorful sunsets.
• Season: Year-round sunshine, but January to April is the busiest high season. Visit in May–June for fewer crowds and great weather.
• Weekdays or weekend: Weekdays feel slightly less crowded; weekends bring more locals and visiting cruise passengers.
• Weather-wise: Aruba’s trade winds keep it breezy and comfortable, though it can be hot midday.

Tips for visiting Palm Beach Aruba

• Arrive early to secure a palapa or beach chair.
• Expect crowds, especially when multiple cruise ships are docked.
• Bring cash for quick snacks, taxis, or beach rentals.
• Walk the beach promenade in the evening — it’s safe, lively, and fun.
• Stay hydrated; the sun feels stronger here than you think.

What to bring to Palm Beach Aruba

• Light clothing and swimwear.
• Reef-safe sunscreen.
• A refillable water bottle.
• Snorkel mask if you want to explore the edges of the beach.

Palm Beach is Aruba’s entertainment capital — a lively stretch of sand where the beach never sleeps. From watersports and shopping to nightlife and sunset cruises, this is the most action-packed spot on the island. If you’re wondering what to do in Palm Beach Aruba, here are the top activities and attractions:

Water sports and ocean adventures

Palm Beach is the number-one place for watersports in Aruba. You’ll find jet ski rentals, parasailing, paddleboarding, sailing trips, and banana boat rides available right on the sand. I once went parasailing here, and the view over the coastline was unforgettable — you can even spot Eagle Beach from above.

Beach volleyball

Several resorts and beach clubs have volleyball nets set up along Palm Beach, and they’re usually open to anyone. It’s a fun way to join a pickup game, meet fellow travelers, and stay active without leaving the beach.

Beach massage

Nothing says Caribbean relaxation like a massage on the beach. Palm Beach has open-air cabanas where therapists offer treatments with the sound of waves in the background. However, if you are looking for a relaxing experience, have a beach massage in Eagle Beach instead.

Hair braiding with a Caribbean twist

Jeanette Hair Braiding Aruba is a local favorite right on the beach. Whether you go for cornrows or colorful braids, it’s a unique souvenir you get to wear. Families especially love it — kids will walk away proudly showing off their new island look.

Palm Beach Aruba boardwalk

The Palm Beach boardwalk is a paved promenade that runs behind the sand, perfect for evening strolls. You’ll pass piers, restaurants, beach bars, and shops, all buzzing with activity after sunset.

Shopping the Palm Beach strip

Steps from the beach, you’ll find Palm Beach Plaza Mall, local boutiques, and resort shops. It’s easy to browse for swimwear, souvenirs, or even high-end jewelry without ever leaving the area. This makes Palm Beach the best beach in Aruba for combining shopping and beach time.

Sunset cruises

Palm Beach is the main departure point for Aruba’s sunset sailing cruises. Catamarans from De Palm Tours, Octopus Aruba, and Watersports Aruba set sail directly from the piers, serving cocktails and music while the sun melts into the Caribbean Sea. I joined one of these cruises, and it was easily one of the highlights of my trip.

Nightlife and casinos

Palm Beach Aruba is the center of the island’s nightlife and entertainment scene. You’ll find beach bars with live bands, lounges with DJs, casinos inside the resorts, and clubs that stay open until late.

Nearby nature and culture spots

If you want a break from the high-rise buzz, walk inland to the Bubali Bird Sanctuary to spot herons and egrets from the observation tower. The Butterfly Farm is also within walking distance to Palm Beach.

Palm Beach isn’t known as Aruba’s top snorkeling beach — the water here is calm and shallow, but the sandy bottom means marine life is limited. Still, if you’re staying nearby, you can easily enjoy a light snorkel session right off the shore or hop on a boat tour that leaves directly from the Palm Beach piers.

Where to snorkel: the best snorkeling spots at Palm Beach Aruba

The best areas to explore are at the northern and southern edges of Palm Beach, where small patches of reef and rocks attract fish. For more colorful underwater scenery, many tours depart from Palm Beach and take you to Malmok Beach, Boca Catalina, or the Antilla shipwreck — all less than 10 minutes away by boat.

What you will see underwater

Close to the shore, you might spot parrotfish, wrasse, sergeant majors, and the occasional sea turtle gliding through the calm waters. Out on a boat trip, the variety is much richer — schools of tropical fish, starfish, and corals around Malmok, and the dramatic sight of the Antilla wreck, one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean.

Best time to snorkel at Palm Beach Aruba

The water is calm year-round, but the morning hours are best for snorkeling — the sea is clearest before boat traffic stirs up the sand. The trade winds are also gentler earlier in the day, making it easier to stay out longer.

Safety tips and snorkeling guide

• Stay close to the shoreline if snorkeling on your own.
• Watch out for boats and jet skis — Palm Beach is busy with watersports.
• Always use a snorkel vest or flotation device if you’re not a strong swimmer.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral and marine life.
• Consider joining a guided tour for the safest experience and better sites.

Snorkel gear rental at Palm Beach Aruba

Most of the high-rise resorts along Palm Beach offer snorkel gear rentals for guests, and there are several independent watersports kiosks where you can rent masks, fins, and vests by the hour. Many catamaran cruises and snorkel tours also include gear in the price.

My personal honest opinion

I’ve snorkeled here a couple of times, and while Palm Beach itself is better for swimming and water sports, the real snorkeling magic is just offshore. Jumping on a half-day tour from Palm Beach is 100% worth it — the Antilla wreck and Boca Catalina easily rank among my favorite snorkeling spots in Aruba.

One of the reasons Palm Beach is so popular is the endless choice of restaurants, cafés, and beach bars right along the sand. From casual snack shacks to pier-top seafood dining, the options are among the best in Aruba. If you’re looking for where to eat at Palm Beach Aruba, here are my top recommendations:

MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant

One of the most famous Palm Beach Aruba beach bars, MooMba is the definition of laid-back island fun. It’s known for BBQ buffets, live music nights, and happy hour cocktails with your toes in the sand. Great for groups and sunset vibes.

Nos Clubhuis

Located above MooMba, this hidden gem seafood restaurant at Palm Beach Aruba is run by local fishermen. The upstairs balcony offers panoramic sunset views and the menu changes daily depending on the catch.

Pelican Pier / Pelican Nest Restaurant

If you want romantic dining at Palm Beach Aruba, the Pelican Nest is perfect. Set right over the water, it’s famous for grilled lobster, fresh fish, and ocean views that glow at sunset.

Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill

Sitting on the De Palm Pier, Bugaloe is one of the liveliest spots on Palm Beach. Famous for its daily happy hours, live bands, karaoke nights, and casual seafood dishes. This was the first place I was recommended when I visited Aruba for the first time in 2017 and it's been my favorite ever since. The pier location makes it ideal for sunset drinks and dancing over the water.

The Bread Basket Aruba

A cozy café ideal for breakfast and lunch at Palm Beach Aruba. They serve fresh baguette sandwiches, smoothies, and coffee — a great way to start your day before heading to the beach.

Bohemian Bar & Restaurant

For something trendier, Bohemian offers cocktails, tapas, and live music in a stylish outdoor garden setting. It’s one of the most popular nightlife restaurants at Palm Beach Aruba.

Piet's Pier Bar

A small pier bar with incredible 360-degree views of Palm Beach. It’s a casual spot for a cold Balashi beer or tropical cocktail while watching boats sail by.

Eduardo's Beach Shack

One of the healthiest restaurants at Palm Beach Aruba, Eduardo’s is famous for its smoothie bowls, fresh juices, and vegan-friendly snacks. It’s quick, refreshing, and Instagram-worthy.

Garden Fresh Café

Another health-focused option, Garden Fresh lets you customize salads, wraps, and juices. Perfect if you want a lighter, guilt-free meal while still staying on Palm Beach.

Scott's Brats

A quirky spot for cheap eats at Palm Beach Aruba. Locals and repeat visitors love their breakfast burritos, brats, and strong Bloody Marys served from a beachfront stand.

Sea Breeze

This hidden gem attached to a resort offers Aruban comfort food, grilled seafood, and cold drinks at affordable prices. It’s quieter than most Palm Beach Aruba restaurants.

Antilla Beach Bar

A simple, casual Palm Beach Aruba bar that’s perfect for grabbing a quick beer, snack, or frozen cocktail between swims.

Carlitos Caribbean Sports Bar & Grill

The go-to sports bar at Palm Beach Aruba. Expect burgers, wings, beer buckets, and big-screen TVs playing all the US games.

My personal top picks at Palm Beach restaurants

• Best for sunset: Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill
• Best casual beach bar: MooMba Beach Bar
• Best healthy option: Eduardo’s Beach Shack
• Best cheap eats: Scott’s Brats
• Best nightlife vibe: Bohemian

Palm Beach is the heart of Aruba’s high-rise hotel district, home to some of the island’s best-known resorts. This is where you’ll find the widest choice of luxury hotels, family-friendly all-inclusives, and boutique stays near Palm Beach Aruba. If you’re deciding where to stay, here are the top Palm Beach Aruba hotels and villas:

Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort

Located at the quieter southern end, Divi Phoenix offers condo-style suites with full kitchens, large pools, and direct beach access. It’s one of the best Palm Beach Aruba hotels for families and longer stays.

The St. Regis Aruba Resort

The newest entry to Palm Beach’s luxury scene, St. Regis is an ultra-luxury resort in Palm Beach Aruba. Expect world-class service, fine dining, and an exclusive stretch of beachfront — perfect for couples seeking privacy.

Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

A favorite for all-inclusive hotels in Palm Beach Aruba, Riu Palace offers multiple restaurants, daily entertainment, and a lively beachfront. Great if you want everything included and no planning required.

Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino

A Palm Beach classic, the Hilton combines lush gardens, a spa, pools, and an on-site casino. It’s one of the best all-round Palm Beach Aruba resorts for both couples and families.

Barceló Aruba – All Inclusive

Known for its lagoon-style pool, beachside entertainment, and all-inclusive dining, Barceló is another strong option if you’re searching for all-inclusive resorts on Palm Beach Aruba.

Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino

One of the best family resorts on Palm Beach Aruba, with a multi-level pool complex, waterslide, and plenty of kids’ activities — plus a spa and casino for adults.

Playa Linda Beach Resort

A timeshare favorite offering apartment-style suites with kitchens and living rooms. If you’re looking for a Palm Beach Aruba resort with space for families or groups, this is it.

Holiday Inn Resort Aruba – Beach Resort & Casino

Known for its affordable all-inclusive packages, Holiday Inn sits right on the sand with three pools, casual dining, and a family-friendly vibe.

Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino

A polished property with modern rooms, a huge casino, and great dining options. It’s one of the top Palm Beach Aruba resorts for nightlife and convenience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba

The ultimate in luxury hotels at Palm Beach Aruba, The Ritz-Carlton offers fine dining, a world-class spa, and an exclusive beachfront with impeccable service.

Radisson Blu Aruba

Just a short walk from Palm Beach, Radisson Blu features modern suites, rooftop pools, and panoramic sunset views. It’s perfect if you want a more contemporary stay near Palm Beach Aruba.

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

A colorful boutique hotel near Palm Beach Aruba, set in tropical gardens with private casitas. Ideal for couples or anyone wanting quiet charm close to the action.

Sandcastle Beach Apartments

A budget-friendly Palm Beach Aruba stay, with simple apartments and kitchens just steps from the sand. Great for independent travelers.

Las Islas

Another affordable Palm Beach Aruba accommodation, offering basic but comfortable apartments with easy beach access.

Where to stay near Palm Beach Aruba by travel type

• Families: Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa & Casino, Playa Linda Beach Resort
• Couples & adults-only luxury: The St. Regis Aruba Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Aruba
• All-inclusive resorts: Hotel Riu Palace Aruba, Barceló Aruba, Holiday Inn Resort Aruba
• Modern style & rooftop pools: Radisson Blu Aruba, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
• Quiet boutique charm: Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba
• Budget travelers: Sandcastle Beach Apartments, Las Islas

Staying at Palm Beach Aruba means you’re at the center of it all — restaurants, nightlife, watersports, and tours are right outside your door. If you want energy and convenience, it’s unbeatable. For more peace and intimacy, I’d book a boutique like Boardwalk or split my time with Eagle Beach.

Palm Beach is located on the northwest coast of Aruba, about 15 minutes from Oranjestad. It’s one of the easiest beaches to reach on the island, whether you’re arriving by cruise ship, flying into Queen Beatrix International Airport, or staying at another beach.

From the cruise port (Port of Oranjestad)

Cruise passengers can get to Palm Beach in a few different ways: taxi, bus, or rental car. Taxis are the most convenient, while the local bus is the cheapest option.

How far is Palm Beach from the cruise port?

• Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
• Driving time: 15–20 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $15–20 USD

From the airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport)

If you’re flying into Aruba, Palm Beach is a straight drive up the coast past Oranjestad. Taxis line up outside arrivals, or you can rent a car right at the airport.

How far is Palm Beach from the airport?

• Distance: 10 km (6 miles)
• Driving time: 20–25 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $25–30 USD

From Eagle Beach

Palm Beach is just up the road from Eagle Beach, making it easy to hop between the two if you’re staying nearby.

How far is Palm Beach from Eagle Beach?

• Distance: 3 km (1.8 miles)
• Driving time: 5 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $8–10 USD

From Oranjestad

Coming from the capital, it’s a simple drive north along L.G. Smith Boulevard, the island’s main coastal road.

How far is Palm Beach from Oranjestad?

• Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
• Driving time: 15 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $15 USD

From San Nicolás

Palm Beach is on the opposite side of the island from San Nicolás. The drive takes you along the south coast before cutting north past Oranjestad.

How far is Palm Beach from San Nicolás?

• Distance: 26 km (16 miles)
• Driving time: 40–45 minutes
• Taxi fare: Around $40–45 USD

Taxi to Palm Beach

Taxis are easy to find at the airport, cruise terminal, and most major hotels. You don’t need to prearrange a taxi for your return trip from Palm Beach — there are always cabs waiting near the resorts.

Approximate taxi fares to Palm Beach

• From Eagle Beach to Palm Beach: $8–10
• From Oranjestad (cruise port) to Palm Beach: $15–20
• From the airport to Palm Beach: $25–30
• From San Nicolás to Palm Beach: $40–45

Public transport to Palm Beach

The Arubus runs frequently between Oranjestad and Palm Beach. It’s the cheapest option (under $3 USD per ride), and buses drop you off right across the street from the resorts. Check the most up-to-date Arubus routes and bus schedules.

Driving to Palm Beach by rental car

Driving is straightforward — just follow L.G. Smith Boulevard north. Having a rental car gives you the freedom to explore multiple beaches in one day, including Eagle Beach, Arashi, and Malmok.

Parking

Palm Beach has plenty of free parking lots near the high-rise hotels and along side streets. Parking is free, but spots closest to the beach fill up quickly by midday.

Palm Beach Aruba is the island’s busiest and most vibrant beach, where soft white sand meets a lively strip of high-rise resorts, restaurants, and nightlife. It’s the perfect choice if you want watersports, sunset cruises, shopping, and endless dining options right at your doorstep.

The atmosphere is energetic and social — ideal for first-time visitors, couples who enjoy nightlife, or families who like having plenty to do. If you prefer more peace and space, I’d recommend Eagle Beach, but for non-stop fun, Palm Beach is the place to be.