On Island Time
Aruba is one of those places that seems to have it all — endless sunshine, turquoise water, and the kind of easygoing rhythm that makes you forget what day it is. It’s not a destination known for its fine dining scene, but what it lacks in culinary excitement, it makes up for in charm. From oceanfront restaurants and breezy beach shacks to peaceful resorts that feel like home, the island delivers exactly what you need: good food, great views, and total relaxation.
Below is a look at where I love to stay, eat, and unwind whenever I visit this beautiful island.
Where to Stay & Enjoy the Island
We’ve always stayed at Divi Phoenix, located right on what locals call the hotel strip in Aruba. It’s a timeshare property, so our setup is a condo with a kitchen — perfect for cooking breakfast or lunch before heading to the beach. The resort sits directly on the water, and the atmosphere is calm, quiet, and designed for relaxation. It’s not a party scene by any means, and that’s part of its charm. The crowd tends to be a little older, and the whole place feels peaceful and easygoing.
If I were to stay somewhere else, I’d choose the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino. It’s right in the center of the hotel strip, which makes it ideal for exploring. We often spent our evenings strolling through neighboring hotels and casinos for dinner or a bit of gambling, and the Hyatt’s location makes that effortless. The property itself is beautiful — multiple dining options, tropical landscaping, and a full casino right inside the hotel. It really has everything you could want in one place.
While you’re exploring that area, make sure to stop by Eduardo’s Beach Shack, a local favorite near the Hyatt. It’s a casual beach stand that serves smoothies, açaí bowls, and fresh snacks throughout the day. It’s the perfect quick stop for a light breakfast or lunch after a walk along the shore.
Ultimately, Aruba is about sunshine and serenity. The island offers year-round warm weather, calm water, and a laid-back pace that’s hard to match. You don’t come here to chase nightlife — you come to rest, recharge, and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life.
Dining in Aruba: My Honest Favorites
Let’s be honest — Aruba’s food scene isn’t what you come here for. Expect plenty of seafood (especially grouper and shrimp) and a handful of American-style dishes at most restaurants. Still, there are a few standouts that make dining on the island a real treat.
The West Deck
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This is my favorite restaurant on the island, hands down. The West Deck is a casual, open-air restaurant set right on the water with beautiful views and a relaxed, welcoming vibe. It’s about a 10–15-minute taxi ride from most hotels and is very family-friendly. The coconut shrimp is a must-try, and the deck’s oceanfront setting makes every meal feel like a little escape.
The Ritz-Carlton Aruba
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We’ve never had a full dinner here, but it’s a beautiful spot for sunset drinks. Walk straight through the lobby to the outdoor deck for ocean views, cocktails, and small plates like sushi or guacamole with chips. The atmosphere is peaceful, often with live steel drum music playing softly in the background. It’s quiet, elegant, and ideal for a low-key evening.
Pelican’s Nest
Pelican’s Nest is a fun, casual spot built on a dock — you’re literally dining above the water. You can see fish swimming below your table, which makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. The food is simple but good, and I recommend stopping by in the morning to make a sunset reservation at the end of the dock.
Hyatt’s Ruinas del Mar
If you’re near the Hyatt, Ruinas del Mar is another great choice. The food is excellent, the service consistent, and the setting feels a touch more refined while keeping the relaxed island feel.
Flying Fishbone
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Flying Fishbone is an experience as much as a meal. Located about 25 minutes away, it’s absolutely worth the trip. Guests dine with their feet in the ocean, and if you time your reservation right, you’ll enjoy dinner as the sun sets across the water. The atmosphere is romantic yet relaxed — perfect for a special evening. Just be sure to book ahead; it fills up quickly.
Pinchos Grill & Bar
Pinchos is another lovely spot right on the water, about 15 minutes away by taxi. The food and service are both solid, though it tends to get quite dark after sunset, so it’s best for an early dinner.
Pureocean & Purebeach (at Divi Phoenix)
If you’re staying at Divi Phoenix, you’ll have both of these right at your doorstep. Pureocean offers dinner under string lights on the beach — simple food, beautiful setting. Purebeach, located by the pool, serves classic lunch options like burgers, chicken fingers, and sandwiches at reasonable prices.
Places to Skip
A few restaurants are better left off your itinerary:
Barefoot: Overpriced, too dark after sunset, and my food was undercooked.
Madame Janette: Packed with tourists, slow service, and cold food when it finally arrived.
Moomba Beach Bar: Very crowded and noisy — more of a bar scene than a restaurant.
Riu Hotel: Known for its all-inclusive crowd and smoky casino — not worth a visit.
Travel Tips
Getting around Aruba is simple and stress-free. Taxis are easy to find, and your hotel can call one for you anytime you need to get to a restaurant or explore beyond the main strip. Drivers are friendly, reliable, and the island feels safe overall, even at night.
There’s really no need to stay outside the hotel strip if your goal is beach time — the beaches there are exactly what you’d hope for: soft white sand and perfectly clear turquoise water. Everything you need, from restaurants to shops to water sports, is right there within walking distance.
Final Thoughts
Aruba may not be a fine-dining destination, but that’s part of its charm. The island’s real luxury comes from its views — the turquoise water, glowing sunsets, and warm, steady trade winds. Pick restaurants that let you soak all that in, and you’ll have a wonderful trip no matter what’s on your plate.
If you only choose one place to eat, make it The West Deck. It captures the best of Aruba — great food, unbeatable views, and that easygoing island rhythm you can’t help but fall in love with.