I'm visiting Aruba for the first time, I've been to Bonaire. I have Marriott points and am trying to decide between the Renissance Aruba Resort and the
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. I am coming with 2 of my single girlfriends. We prefer the resort with less kids and an area with more nightlife. Any info on which may be a better fit?

both very nice. The Ren is not on the beach or in the resort area.

The Renaissance is downtown - so you are next to the night life. Recently renovated, so very nice place to stay. They have tiny beach on property, but a shuttle boat to their private island. The island is all beach and a restaurant. If it is still the same, 1/2 of the beach on the island is top optional.

As for the Marriott Hotel & Stellaris Casino... This is where I would rather stay. It is on the high-rise section of the very long Palm Beach. Beautiful properties and lots of beach and beach activities. The windsurfing is just the other side of Marriott. Also two Marriott Timeshares so lots of properties and restaurants. The restaurant/beach on the bar is very good for lunch and has frozen drink specials daily. Also Simply Fish restaurant right on beach is romantic for dinner. (probably not what you're looking for) Another thing about the Marriott, the bus into town is only $2 round trip. Not sure what the last trip back is, though.

Have a great time whereever you decide to stay!

Definitley go w. the Ren then bc they'll send you over to their private island if you want the beach and you can walk to all the bars, shops and restaurants. The Marriott Resort is beautiful but more family oriented. You have to take a cab downtown to get to the real, more wild bars. But you really cant lose either way!

Does anybody know when they will know for sure about the Beach Music Festival? Looks like it is planed for the last part of May.

If you go to ren. downtown say hi to RAFI he is a bartender there from dutch country. great guy about 5' 6 white. good sense of humor and makes great drinks.

So the REN is not on the beach? How far is the beach from the REN? You have to shuttle over to the private island, how long does that take and does the private island make it worth staying there over Marriott?