PS to my note below....

dividivi....you're there? We're jealous.

Randi.....256 days....I feel your pain! (just kidding)!

....with CindyO near California Lighthouse
Next Aruba trip in

Lou and Nay,

Have never been to DePalm....but whan you said "dead reef" it made me remember. Back in 1997, I would not have given Renaissance Island (then Sonesta Island) rave reviews. The breakwater was too low, and waves washed in. The problem was that there were lots of shells and rocks when you got in the water....you needed water shoes or your feet would hurt. By 2001, the breakwater was improved....no problem anymore!

....with CindyO near California Lighthouse
Next Aruba trip in

No comment, wouldn't know. yuo do have to remember that the occpancy of the hotel affects whether they will allow others to go out at $75.

Cindyo
View of Rennaissance Island
Daughters dining at El Gaucho

Next Aruba trip in

Depalm and Rennaissance are 2 different islands. Depalm lets the general public go out for a fee. They have that water park, sliding in sand, snorkel stuff and a snackbar/restaurant. The fees vary on the time you want to spend there, half or full day. Renaissnce has tons of shade, plenty of chairs, and all the amentities that i listed earlier. The ren is a classy island, the staff wonderful and cheerful, and all the things our kids, cousins, nieces and nephews love to do.
I hope i convey our love of the place

Cindyo
View of Rennaissance Island
Daughters dining at El Gaucho

Next Aruba trip in

Actually, the ticker needs to be updated. We were there 3 weeks ago The one thing I did NOT care for were the FLIES. In almost 20 years of going back and forth to Aruba, there were more flies on renaissance island than I've seen in all 20 years. Unless you were on the windy 'wings' of the horseshoe shaped beach, they were really bothersome!

Yikes, thanks for that update Better go find some spray to take with us. Tip is really aprreciated!

Cindyo
View of Rennaissance Island
Daughters dining at El Gaucho

Next Aruba trip in

Rob O,
I can't complain to much that I have 250+ days to go as I was there twice this winter and here in Ottawa we are close to reaching our record breaking snow fall (back in 1970-71 winter...how many of the posters were alive then?)this year.

Getting to the island shuttle before 10am, no problem as I am usually getting chairs at 6am!!!


Sounds like something to consider on one of next visits.

Randi

renaissance island is amazing..it's huge for one and it's kept in great shape..the $75 fee sounds a little steep but you can go there from 7 am to 7 pm..you do get a lunch and a drink for that price and imo it does blow away the other beaches..it's also not like some of the beaches outside of hotel row where you have to reserve a palaypa for 3 days for a price or go wait in line to try to get one for free..imo if you are staying at a hotel you shouldn't have to dish out extra money for a palaypa..

scott and tricia

What kind of lunch is included? and drink?

Randi

We took the excursion years ago when it was $25.pp, it was worth it then but is way overpriced now in our opinion! Greg & Susan