Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

Newly Renovated in 2026

Hotel Riu Palace Aruba – All-Inclusive Resort

Newly Renovated in 2026 | Palm Beach, Aruba | Rooms, Elite Club, Dining & Prices

Palm Beach4.3(4,491 reviews)
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Hotel Riu Palace Aruba is a five-star, family-friendly all-inclusive resort located directly on Palm Beach, Aruba. Following a major renovation completed in July 2026, the hotel offers modernized rooms, redesigned pools, updated restaurants and a new adults-only Elite Club experience.

The resort combines 24-hour all-inclusive dining and drinks with beachfront access, family activities, swimming pools and evening entertainment. Guests can choose from standard rooms, ocean-view junior suites, spacious family suites and premium Elite Club accommodation with private pools.

Riu Palace Aruba is not an adults-only hotel. Families with children are welcome, while the neighboring Hotel Riu Palace Antillas is reserved for adults aged 18 and older.

ArubaBuddies is an independent Aruba travel guide. We may earn a commission from bookings made through our links, at no additional cost to you.

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Riu Palace Aruba at a Glance

FeatureDetails
HotelHotel Riu Palace Aruba
LocationPalm Beach, Aruba
AddressJ.E. Irausquin Boulevard 79, Noord
Resort categoryFive-star all-inclusive
Last major renovationJuly 2026
BeachfrontYes
All-inclusive24 hours
Adults-onlyNo; Elite Club is adults-only
Rooms450
Family accommodationTwo-bedroom family suites available
Premium accommodationElite Club, including 31 private-pool rooms
Restaurants8 dining venues
Bars and cafésMultiple bars, café and snack venues
Outdoor pools4
Children's facilitiesRIU Land kids' club, children's pool and baby pool
SpaRenova Spa
Fitness centerYes
EntertainmentDaily activities, evening shows and RIU Party
Room service24 hours
Wi-FiIncluded
Check-in3:00 PM
Checkout12:00 PM
Best forFamilies, couples, groups and all-inclusive vacations
ArubaBuddies verdict: Riu Palace Aruba is particularly appealing after its 2026 renovation. Families benefit from the resort's pools, kids' club, restaurants and two-bedroom accommodation, while couples can upgrade to adults-only Elite Club rooms for a more exclusive experience.

What's New at Riu Palace Aruba After the 2026 Renovation?

Riu Palace Aruba reopened on July 31, 2026, after a comprehensive refurbishment.

The renovation is one of the most important things to know when comparing recent and older reviews of the resort.

Renovated Rooms

All guestrooms were updated with contemporary interiors, lighter colors and modern furnishings.

Redesigned Pools and Gardens

The beachfront pool and garden areas were reconfigured to improve outdoor lounging and relaxation spaces.

Updated Restaurants

The resort refreshed its dining concepts, restaurant menus and food-service areas.

New Elite Club by RIU

A premium adults-only accommodation experience was introduced, including exclusive dining and beach facilities.

31 Private-Pool Rooms

The renovated property now includes 31 Elite Club rooms with private pools.

Family-Friendly Facilities

The hotel continues to welcome families, with RIU Land activities and dedicated children's swimming areas.

Why this matters: If you are comparing hotel reviews from before and after July 2026, remember that the rooms, restaurants and several facilities have changed significantly.

Is Riu Palace Aruba All-Inclusive?

Yes. Hotel Riu Palace Aruba operates a 24-hour all-inclusive program.

Meals, selected alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, snacks, room service and many resort activities are included in the accommodation package.

What's Included?

FeatureIncluded?
AccommodationYes
BreakfastYes
LunchYes
DinnerYes
Main buffet restaurantYes
Participating specialty restaurantsYes
SnacksYes
Selected alcoholic drinksYes
Soft drinksYes
24-hour room serviceYes
In-room minibarYes
Swimming poolsYes
Beach accessYes
Wi-FiYes
Kids' clubYes
EntertainmentYes
Selected resort activitiesYes
Spa treatmentsExtra
Off-site excursionsExtra
Elite Club exclusive benefitsEligible rooms only

Inclusions and dining arrangements may change. Confirm the selected room rate and resort policies before booking.

Are Alcoholic Drinks Included?

Yes. The all-inclusive package includes a selection of alcoholic drinks and cocktails.

Some premium brands and exclusive services may be limited to eligible Elite Club guests.

Is Room Service Included?

Yes. RIU advertises complimentary 24-hour room service.

Is the Minibar Included?

Yes. The resort provides an in-room minibar and liquor dispenser under its all-inclusive program.

Is Breakfast Included?

Yes. Breakfast is included in the standard all-inclusive stay.

Are All Restaurants Included?

The resort's participating buffet and specialty restaurants are included in the all-inclusive program.

However, the exclusive Elite Club restaurant is reserved for guests with eligible Elite Club accommodation.

Riu Palace Aruba Restaurants and Menus

Riu Palace Aruba has eight dining venues, including an international buffet, four specialty restaurants, casual snack venues and an exclusive Elite Club restaurant.

The dining options are an important advantage for travelers who want an all-inclusive vacation without eating at the same buffet every evening.

Riu Palace Aruba Restaurant Guide

RestaurantCuisineDining Style
Don NicolásInternationalBuffet
KrystalFusion and gourmetSpecialty dining
SayuriAsianSpecialty dining
MilanoItalianSpecialty dining
SteakhouseGrilled meatsSpecialty dining
Tiki TacoMexican-inspired snacksCasual
Pepe's FoodGrilled snacksCasual
Elite Club RestaurantExclusive diningElite Club guests only

Don Nicolás – Main Buffet

Don Nicolás is the resort's main restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Guests can enjoy international dishes, live cooking stations, salads, desserts and changing buffet selections.

The restaurant also features themed dinners during the week.

Best for: Families, flexible meal times and guests who enjoy variety.

Krystal – Fusion Restaurant

Krystal serves fusion cuisine with a more refined dining presentation.

It is a popular option for couples seeking a special dinner during their stay.

Best for: Romantic dinners and gourmet dining.

Sayuri – Asian Restaurant

Sayuri specializes in Asian-inspired cuisine.

It offers an alternative to the international buffet and other specialty restaurants.

Best for: Guests who enjoy Asian flavors.

Milano – Italian Restaurant

Milano serves Italian dishes, including pasta and other Italian favorites.

Best for: Couples and families wanting a familiar Italian dinner.

Steakhouse

The Steakhouse focuses on grilled meat dishes and hearty dinner options.

Best for: Steak lovers.

Tiki Taco

Tiki Taco is a casual dining venue offering Mexican-inspired food.

It's convenient for a quick bite between beach and pool activities.

Pepe's Food

Pepe's Food serves casual grilled food and snacks.

It's particularly convenient for guests who want to eat without leaving the pool area for a full restaurant meal.

Elite Club Restaurant

The Elite Club restaurant is reserved for guests staying in eligible Elite Club accommodation.

It offers a more exclusive dining experience as part of the premium upgrade.

Riu Palace Aruba Bars and Drinks

The resort offers a range of bars and refreshment venues, from cocktails near the pool to late-night snacks.

Daiquiri Lobby Bar

A convenient meeting place for drinks before or after dinner.

Palm Beach Pool Bar

Serves drinks near the swimming pools.

Barry's Plaza Bar

A casual venue for socializing and enjoying cocktails.

American Country Sports Bar

The resort's 24-hour sports bar provides drinks and snacks outside regular restaurant hours.

Capuchino Café and Ice Cream

Capuchino offers pastries, coffee and ice cream.

It's especially convenient for families looking for a sweet treat.

Are Premium Drinks Included?

Selected alcoholic beverages are included in the standard all-inclusive package.

Elite Club guests receive additional premium drink benefits.

Riu Palace Aruba Rooms and Suites

Riu Palace Aruba offers 450 renovated rooms, including standard accommodation, junior suites, family suites and premium Elite Club categories.

Compare Room Types

Room TypeMain FeaturesBest For
Double StandardRenovated standard accommodationCouples seeking value
Junior Suite with Partial Sea ViewPartial Caribbean Sea viewsCouples
Junior Suite with Frontal Sea ViewMore direct ocean viewsBeach lovers
SuiteAdditional spaceCouples and longer stays
Two-Bedroom Family SuiteSeparate bedroomsFamilies
Two-Bedroom Junior SuiteSpacious two-bedroom layoutLarger families
Friends & Family RoomFamily-oriented accommodationParents with children
Elite Club RoomPremium benefits and preferred locationAdults
Elite Club Swim-Up RoomPrivate terrace poolAdults seeking privacy

Exact room names, layouts, bedding and occupancy depend on the selected category.

Double Standard Rooms

Standard rooms provide renovated accommodation with air conditioning, a bathroom, minibar and modern furnishings.

They are suitable for couples or travelers who spend most of their time enjoying the resort facilities.

Junior Suites with Partial Sea View

These rooms offer partial views of the Caribbean Sea.

They can provide a balance between room price and scenery.

Junior Suites with Frontal Sea View

Frontal sea-view categories provide a more direct outlook toward Palm Beach.

These are attractive for couples celebrating a special occasion.

Two-Bedroom Family Suites

Riu Palace Aruba offers family accommodation with two separate bedrooms.

These suites are particularly useful for parents who want more space and privacy.

Two-Bedroom Junior Suites

The resort also offers spacious two-bedroom junior suites, with some layouts measuring up to approximately 80 square meters.

These are worth comparing for larger families or groups traveling together.

Elite Club Swim-Up Rooms

One of the most significant additions from the 2026 renovation is the introduction of 31 Elite Club rooms with private pools.

These premium rooms are reserved for adults and provide additional privacy.

Which Room Should You Choose?

  • Best value: Double Standard.
  • Best ocean views: Junior Suite with Frontal Sea View.
  • Best for families: Two-Bedroom Family Suite or Two-Bedroom Junior Suite.
  • Best for couples wanting privacy: Elite Club Swim-Up Room.
  • Best for premium services: Elite Club accommodation.

What Is Elite Club by RIU at Riu Palace Aruba?

Elite Club is RIU's premium adults-only experience within the family-friendly Riu Palace Aruba resort.

It provides upgraded accommodation, exclusive facilities and additional services.

Elite Club Benefits

The renovated resort offers:

  • Adults-only Elite Club accommodation
  • Rooms in preferred locations
  • Exclusive restaurant access
  • Reserved beachfront lounging areas
  • Dedicated beach bar service
  • Personalized guest services
  • Premium amenities
  • Private-pool rooms in selected categories

Is the Entire Hotel Adults-Only?

No.

Riu Palace Aruba welcomes families and children.

Only the Elite Club accommodation and designated exclusive facilities are adults-only.

Is Elite Club Worth It?

Elite Club may be worthwhile for couples who want more privacy while enjoying the restaurants, beach and facilities of a large all-inclusive resort.

It is less essential for travelers who are satisfied with standard accommodation or families traveling with children.

Standard vs. Elite Club

FeatureStandard StayElite Club
All-inclusive diningIncludedIncluded
DrinksIncludedIncluded
Beach accessIncludedIncluded
Swimming poolsIncludedIncluded
Room serviceIncludedIncluded
Family-friendly areasYesYes
Exclusive Elite Club restaurantNoYes
Reserved Elite Club beach areaNoYes
Private-pool room optionNoYes
Adults-only accommodationNoYes

Riu Palace Aruba Swimming Pools

Following the 2026 renovation, Riu Palace Aruba offers four outdoor swimming pools.

The main pool is approximately 1,000 square meters, providing a large area for swimming and relaxation.

Main Swimming Pool

The main pool features space for swimming, lounging and resort activities.

Pool Bar

Guests can enjoy drinks from the poolside bar without leaving the resort grounds.

Children's Pool

The resort includes a dedicated children's swimming pool with slides.

Baby Pool

A separate shallow pool is available for younger children.

Elite Club Private Pools

Selected Elite Club rooms feature private terrace pools.

These are different from the shared resort swimming pools.

Does Riu Palace Aruba Have a Lazy River?

No dedicated lazy river is advertised among the resort's standard facilities.

Riu Palace Aruba Beach and Palapas

Riu Palace Aruba is located directly on Palm Beach.

Guests can walk from the hotel grounds to the sand without crossing a road.

Is Riu Palace Aruba Beachfront?

Yes. The resort has direct access to Palm Beach.

Is Palm Beach Private?

No. Palm Beach is public.

The resort maintains guest beach areas and provides loungers and shade facilities.

Are Beach Chairs Included?

Guest loungers are provided under resort policies, subject to availability.

Are Palapas Included?

The resort provides shaded lounging areas.

Allocation rules and availability can vary, so ask the hotel about its current palapa arrangements.

Does Elite Club Have a Private Beach?

Elite Club guests have access to a reserved beachfront area with dedicated services.

This does not mean the underlying beach is privately owned; Palm Beach remains public.

Is Riu Palace Aruba Good for Families?

Yes. Riu Palace Aruba is one of RIU's family-friendly all-inclusive resorts in Aruba.

It offers dedicated children's facilities, family suites and organized activities.

RIU Land Kids' Club

RIU Land offers activities for children aged approximately 4–12.

Activities and supervision arrangements depend on the resort schedule.

Children's Swimming Pools

The resort has a children's pool with slides and a separate baby pool.

Two-Bedroom Accommodation

Families can book larger suites with separate sleeping areas.

Family-Friendly Dining

The buffet, casual snack venues and specialty restaurants provide a range of meal choices.

Is Riu Palace Aruba Good for a Family of Five?

Potentially, yes.

The resort offers family accommodation, but maximum occupancy varies by room type.

Check the exact guest limit and bedding before booking.

Are Babysitting Services Available?

Ask the resort about current childcare or babysitting arrangements.

For independent childcare options, travelers can also explore Aruba babysitting services.

Entertainment, Spa and Activities

RIU Party

Adult guests can attend scheduled RIU Party events at the neighboring Riu Palace Antillas, subject to RIU's current event arrangements.

Evening Entertainment

The resort offers live music, shows and organized activities.

Renova Spa

Renova Spa provides wellness and beauty treatments.

Spa services generally cost extra.

Fitness Center

The resort offers fitness facilities and selected group activities.

Watersports

Guests can enjoy Palm Beach and arrange watersports activities.

Included equipment and activities depend on the current resort program.

Motorized watersports and off-site excursions generally cost extra.

Riu Palace Aruba vs. Riu Palace Antillas

These neighboring hotels are often confused.

The main difference is that Riu Palace Aruba is family-friendly, while Riu Palace Antillas is adults-only.

FeatureRiu Palace ArubaRiu Palace Antillas
LocationPalm BeachPalm Beach
All-inclusiveYesYes
BeachfrontYesYes
Adults-onlyNoYes, 18+
Children allowedYesNo
Kids' clubYesNo
Family suitesYesNot family-oriented
Elite ClubYes, adults-onlyYes
Private-pool roomsYes, selected Elite Club roomsCheck current categories
RenovationCompleted July 2026Separate property
Best forFamilies and mixed-age groupsCouples and adult groups

Choose Riu Palace Aruba If:

  • You're traveling with children.
  • You want family suites or connecting accommodation.
  • You want access to children's pools and RIU Land.
  • You prefer a newly renovated resort.
  • You want the option of an adults-only Elite Club upgrade.

Choose Riu Palace Antillas If:

  • Everyone in your group is at least 18.
  • You prefer a fully adults-only hotel.
  • You're planning a couples' vacation.
  • You enjoy a more adult-focused resort atmosphere.

Can Riu Palace Aruba Guests Use Riu Palace Antillas?

Riu Palace Aruba guests should not assume they can freely use all facilities at the neighboring adults-only Antillas resort.

RIU specifically advertises access to scheduled adult-only RIU Party events at Antillas for eligible guests.

That does not automatically mean unrestricted access to Antillas restaurants, pools or exclusive facilities.

Confirm any reciprocal-use arrangements directly with RIU.

Riu Palace Aruba Reviews: Pros and Cons

Reasons to Stay

  • Renovated in 2026: Updated rooms, restaurants and outdoor areas.
  • All-inclusive: Meals, selected drinks and snacks included.
  • Beachfront: Direct Palm Beach access.
  • Family-friendly: Kids' club, children's pools and family suites.
  • Restaurant variety: Eight dining venues.
  • Elite Club: Premium adults-only accommodation.
  • Private-pool rooms: Available in selected Elite Club categories.
  • 24-hour service: Room service and late-night dining options.

Things to Consider

  • Large resort atmosphere: Not a small boutique hotel.
  • Not fully adults-only: Children are welcome outside Elite Club areas.
  • Specialty dining rules: Restaurant availability and procedures may vary.
  • Elite Club costs extra: Premium benefits require an eligible room category.
  • Palapas: Beach shade is subject to resort policies and availability.
  • Additional expenses: Spa treatments, excursions and optional services cost extra.

ArubaBuddies Assessment

The 2026 renovation makes Riu Palace Aruba particularly attractive for travelers looking for a modern all-inclusive resort on Palm Beach.

Families benefit from the dedicated children's facilities and larger accommodation, while couples can choose Elite Club for additional privacy.

Its biggest advantage is the combination of beachfront access, extensive dining and flexible room categories.

Riu Palace Aruba Prices and Deals

Riu Palace Aruba prices depend on travel dates, room category, occupancy and booking conditions.

Because meals and drinks are included, compare the total vacation cost rather than the nightly accommodation price alone.

What Affects the Price?

  • Travel season: Winter holidays and school vacations typically attract higher demand.
  • Room category: Ocean-view suites and Elite Club rooms generally cost more.
  • Family occupancy: Larger suites may have higher nightly rates but offer more space.
  • Elite Club: Private-pool rooms and exclusive benefits increase the price.
  • Cancellation conditions: Flexible and prepaid rates may differ.

Are There Package Deals?

Depending on the booking platform and travel dates, travelers may find flight-and-hotel packages or promotional rates.

Is Elite Club Worth the Extra Cost?

Compare the price difference for your dates.

Elite Club can be appealing for adults seeking a quieter premium experience, especially when booking a private-pool room.

Families traveling with children should focus on standard and family accommodation instead.

Where Is Riu Palace Aruba Located?

Riu Palace Aruba is located at J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 79, Noord, Aruba.

The hotel sits directly on Palm Beach, next to Riu Palace Antillas.

Nearby Attractions

DestinationApproximate Travel
Palm BeachDirect access
Riu Palace AntillasNext door
Palm Beach restaurants and shoppingWalking distance
Butterfly FarmShort walk or drive
Eagle BeachShort drive
California LighthouseApproximately 10–15 minutes by car
OranjestadApproximately 15 minutes by car
Queen Beatrix International AirportApproximately 15–20 minutes by car

Travel times depend on traffic.

Do You Need a Rental Car?

Not necessarily.

The all-inclusive package covers meals and drinks, and the resort has plenty of facilities for a beach vacation.

A rental car is useful for exploring other parts of Aruba.

Does Riu Palace Aruba Offer Airport Transfers?

Airport transfers are not automatically included in every reservation.

Check whether your booking package includes transportation.

Things to Do Near Riu Palace Aruba

Take a Sunset Cruise

Enjoy the coastline aboard a catamaran departing from the Palm Beach area.

Go Snorkeling

Explore reefs and shipwrecks on a guided snorkeling excursion.

Visit California Lighthouse

Enjoy panoramic views from Aruba's northwestern coast.

Explore Arikok National Park

Discover Aruba's rugged landscapes, caves and natural attractions.

Enjoy Palm Beach Shopping and Nightlife

Walk to nearby restaurants, bars and shopping centers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Riu Palace Aruba

Is Riu Palace Aruba all-inclusive?+
Yes. The resort operates a 24-hour all-inclusive program.
Is Riu Palace Aruba adults-only?+
No. Riu Palace Aruba welcomes families and children. Its Elite Club accommodation is adults-only.
When was Riu Palace Aruba renovated?+
The hotel reopened on July 31, 2026, following a comprehensive renovation.
What restaurants are at Riu Palace Aruba?+
The resort offers Don Nicolás, Krystal, Sayuri, Milano, Steakhouse, Tiki Taco, Pepe's Food and an exclusive Elite Club restaurant.
Are the restaurants included in the all-inclusive package?+
Participating restaurants are included. The Elite Club restaurant is reserved for eligible Elite Club guests.
Do restaurants have separate menu prices?+
Standard meals at participating restaurants are included in the all-inclusive package.
Where can I find Riu Palace Aruba restaurant menus?+
Consult RIU's official dining page or ask the resort for current menus and opening hours.
Do you need dinner reservations?+
Restaurant procedures may change. Confirm current specialty dining arrangements when you arrive.
Is room service included?+
Yes. RIU advertises 24-hour room service.
Are drinks included?+
Yes. Selected alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks are included.
Does Riu Palace Aruba have a kids' club?+
Yes. RIU Land provides organized activities for children.
Does Riu Palace Aruba have family suites?+
Yes. The resort offers two-bedroom family accommodation.
Does Riu Palace Aruba have swim-up rooms?+
Yes. The renovated resort includes 31 Elite Club rooms with private pools.
What is Elite Club?+
Elite Club is a premium adults-only accommodation category with exclusive dining, beach areas and additional services.
Can Riu Palace Aruba guests visit Antillas?+
Access is restricted. RIU advertises scheduled adult-only RIU Party access, but not unrestricted use of all Antillas facilities.
Does Riu Palace Aruba have a spa?+
Yes. Renova Spa offers wellness treatments for an additional charge.
Is Riu Palace Aruba directly on the beach?+
Yes. The resort is directly on Palm Beach.
Are palapas included?+
Shaded beach facilities are available, but allocation rules and availability vary.
Does Riu Palace Aruba have a casino?+
RIU advertises casino facilities among the resort's entertainment options. Confirm current opening hours and access rules directly with the hotel.
What time is check-in?+
Check-in is listed at 3:00 PM.
What time is checkout?+
Checkout is listed at 12:00 PM.
Where is Riu Palace Aruba?+
J.E. Irausquin Boulevard 79, Noord, Aruba.
What is the Riu Palace Aruba phone number?+
+297 586 3900.

Book Hotel Riu Palace Aruba

Looking for a newly renovated all-inclusive beachfront resort in Aruba?

Hotel Riu Palace Aruba offers 24-hour dining and drinks, family-friendly swimming pools, eight restaurants, spacious accommodation and premium Elite Club rooms with private pools.

Compare standard rooms, family suites, ocean-view accommodation and Elite Club prices before booking.

ArubaBuddies is an independent Aruba travel guide. We may earn a commission from bookings made through our links, at no additional cost to you.

Check Riu Palace Aruba Rates & Availability on Expedia

ArubaBuddies may earn a commission from qualifying bookings at no additional cost to you.

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