Me and my husband (newly married) booked flights for Jan 2-9th. Can anyone that's been there give me a recommendation for accommodations? I think I'd like the high rise section best. We'll probably be doing a bit of drinking during the day as well as other activities. We won't spend much time in the room, so it doesn't have to be super luxurious. I'd just would like a clean space that's big enough that we won't be tripping over each other getting dressed. The beach and pool are important and it's very important to my husband that he can get some shade, so somewhere where it isn't difficult to get a palapa would be great. We'll probably go out to dinner each night, but would enjoy a hotel with a good bar outdoors for happy hours and after dinner cocktails if possible.

Does such a place exist? Thanks so much for your help.

Hi,

I would suggest either the Marriott Stellaris hotel or the Marriott Ocean Club.
As for the Surf Club if having a palapas is a must I wouldn't consider.

If you choose the Ocean Club try to rent a timeshare directly via the owner you will save about 40% compare to Marriott.

I competely disagree with the person who responded above me. All of the Marriotts are extremely crowded. Not just on the beach, but in the whole hotel, bars, pools, etc. If it must be the high rise, stay at the Radisson. It is far more convenient and has beautiful grounds, plenty of palapas and lovely bars.

However, if you're a beach person and you like to relax, there is a resort in the low rise section call Bucciti Beach Resort. Eagle beach is the largest on the island with plenty of palapas. This resort is small but beautiful. We own timeshare at CostaLinda, which is right nex door. We walk over to this resort almost every night for happy hour. It is pleasant, relaxing and has a sunset view to die for. You will find the drink prices much lower at this resort, than at any of the high rise resorts. They have waitresses who serves drinks and lunch or snacks under the palaypas so you never have to move. If you want to spend the extra money, there new 'Tiara Suites' are magnificent and oceanfront.

I would say if you really want the high rise section, then try the Radisson, Hyatt, Playa Linda, or Holiday Inn. I think it is much less crowded in the low rise section at Bucuti Beach or the Costa Linda. These two are on the beach, and have a few taller buildings to give that high rise "feel" if it is necessary for you. And less crowded and congested thereabouts. The Alhambra Casino is a 5 minute walk, if that, from both Bucuti and Costa Linda. Some good restaurants right there too such as the Pirates Nest and the French Steakhouse.

Hi, Ive been going to Aruba for a while now. When I booked this years trip I went on ebay and found Buffams Tropical Haven (Cunucu villas at the time). At first I didnt know what to expect. By the end of the week it was nice and I booked my next years tripa t the same place. Rick and Sherrie are very nice hosts. For more information visit their web site. www.buffamstropicalhaven.com I'm sure if you e-mail them they will have some kind of honeymoon deal for the two of you. If you end up booking through them let me know, and let me know how you liked it.

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