Located on one of Aruba’s best beachfronts, the all-inclusive, adults-only Riu Palace Antillas caters well to couples and is quieter than the Riu Palace Aruba next door. Room rates can be on the steep side for a 4-star hotel (and for the quality of the rooms here) and the on-site restaurant quality is just so-so; but the property boasts an excellent swimming pool and swim-up bar (next door; the pool at the Antillas is quite nice, though, too), a good casino, above-average cuisine variety, and solid spa and fitness facilities. The A2 Overall Beach Resort Rating is mostly supported by the property’s strong beach and pool areas. Service at the Palace Antillas is generally better-reviewed than that at the Palace Aruba next door, but some rooms at the Palace Aruba have terrace jacuzzis (which isn’t an option at the Palace Antillas). Rooms come with liquor dispensers, private balconies or terraces, mini-bars, and coffee makers; most have ocean views. A variety of off-site shops and restaurants, as well as water sports, are available within walking distance. Available water sports include windsurfing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and jet skiing.
Guests returning to the U.S. can take the COVID-19 antigen test on-site. There is no additional cost for all adults and children. This service is available at all Riu resorts in Mexico (except Riu Plaza Guadalajara), Jamaica, Aruba, and Punta Cana and is provided by an accredited medical testing lab that complies with the requirements of the CDC. Test results are received within 72 hours prior to departure, as required by the CDC. In the event of a positive test, Riu Hotels will provide an extension at no cost of up to 10 days.