According to forum posts, travelers looking for accommodation in Aruba have several options depending on their preferences, including all-inclusive resorts, adult-only hotels, and family-friendly or private accommodations.

Some travelers recommend all-inclusive resorts like Riu Palace, Riu Antillas, and Divi All-Inclusive for convenient access to dining and activities. These are particularly favored by those who appreciate having meals and activities bundled into their stay.

For those preferring adult-only environments, Riu Antillas is frequently mentioned. It offers an all-inclusive experience with fewer disruptions often associated with younger guests.

Families and those seeking quieter stays mentioned hotels like the Ritz, which caters to both adults and children with separate pools and a variety of on-site dining options. For a more private and exclusive experience, Aruba Ocean Villas offer overwater huts that are ideal for special occasions like anniversaries.

Location-wise, many travelers suggest staying near Palm Beach due to its proximity to restaurants, shops, and nightlife. The Hyatt Regency and Marriott Stellaris are popular choices in this area, offering extensive amenities and beach access without being all-inclusive.

According to forum posts, popular beaches in Aruba include Eagle Beach, known for its tranquility, and Palm Beach, favored for its calm waters and nightlife. Some travelers recommended Baby Beach for a serene morning and Arashi Beach for amenities like chair rentals.

For many users, beach activities enhance the experience. Eagle Beach offers peaceful beach days while Palm Beach provides opportunities for jet skiing and windsurfing. Baby Beach is suggested for collecting sea glass, a unique activity highlighted by travelers.

Some travelers have pointed out that certain beautiful beaches in Aruba are accessible mainly to resort guests, but reservations can allow public access, ensuring even non-guests can enjoy these exclusive spots.

Many travelers have recommended a variety of restaurants in Aruba. Popular choices among forum users include Wilhelmina, Yemanja Woodfired Grill, and Barefoot for their excellent food and atmosphere.

For those seeking unique dining experiences, Casa Nonna at the Ritz and Pinchos are highly praised. Casa Nonna is noted for its relaxing atmosphere and live music, while Pinchos offers a great setting for casual meals.

Seafood lovers and those looking for local flavors often prefer Driftwood and Marina Pirata. Driftwood is repeatedly mentioned for its quality seafood dishes, whereas Marina Pirata is favored for its casual food and nice water views.

For a broader range of options, some travelers also suggest The Fish House and Elements, known for their diverse menus and enjoyable dining environments.

According to forum posts, many beaches in Aruba, including Arashi, Eagle, Surfside, and Baby beaches, have vendors that rent out beach chairs. Some travelers have mentioned that renting chairs for short periods at different beaches can be expensive, suggesting the purchase of chairs as a cost-effective alternative.

For many users, buying beach chairs at local stores like SuperFoods has been a preferred option, especially for those exploring multiple beaches. The chairs purchased are described as well-made, albeit more expensive than typical U.S. prices, costing around $85 each. Travelers have the option to donate these chairs at the end of their trip.

Some travelers recommended using services like Travel Light Aruba, which rents out beach chairs and other items and delivers them to your accommodation. Prices for beach chair rentals through such services are considered reasonable, with various types of chairs available for weekly rental.

According to forum posts, Tropic and Wheels2Go are frequently recommended by travelers for their reliability and excellent customer service. Tropic has been praised for features like mid-rental car washing and delivery, while Wheels2Go is noted for timely delivery and impressive response times to inquiries.

Some travelers have also had positive experiences with Yess Rental Car, which offers efficient service and good prices, and Top Drive, known for their new and well-maintained vehicles. Both companies have been recommended for their dependable service and customer satisfaction.

For those interested in local companies, More4Less and Drive 4 Cheap were mentioned as providing good service at competitive rates. These smaller local options are appreciated for personalized service and newer vehicle options.

According to forum posts, Aruba offers several excellent snorkeling spots such as Boca Catalina and Arashi Beach. Travelers have called out these locations for their clear waters and diverse marine life, including sightings of turtles and reef squid.

Some travelers suggested private snorkeling excursions with local guides like Captain Pauly and companies like Private Snorkeling Aruba. These excursions are favored for avoiding crowded tours and optimizing wildlife encounters.

For those interested in water activities that do not require swimming, parasailing is available, with direct bookings often suggested to ensure availability. Additionally, for non-swimmers, submarine tours are an alternative way to explore underwater life around the island.

Other recommended water activities include jet skiing and SeaBob or ArubaBob snorkeling adventures, which use hand-held propulsion devices for an exciting underwater experience. These activities are highly rated for both fun and the opportunity to observe aquatic life closely.

According to forum posts, the Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive is highly recommended for families, as it is very kid-friendly and often offers deals where kids stay and eat for free. The Divi Aruba All Inclusive is similarly praised for its family-friendly atmosphere and access to a beautiful beach.

Some travelers mentioned that these resorts provide spacious accommodations suitable for families, with options like the Divi Dutch Village offering studios and one or two-bedroom units with small kitchens. This can be particularly convenient for families with children.

Travelers have called out the Marriott Surf Club as another good option for families, highlighting its kid-friendly amenities like a lazy river and a small water slide. The resort also offers a kids' club which can provide some free time for parents.

For many users, booking early is essential, especially during peak seasons like Christmas and Presidents Week, as family-friendly resorts can fill up quickly.

According to forum posts, condos generally offer more space and come with amenities such as full kitchens, which can be ideal for families or longer stays. They are often part of timeshare properties but can be rented like regular accommodations, providing a more home-like environment.

Travelers have noted that hotels might not offer the same spaciousness as condos but typically provide more comprehensive services, including daily housekeeping, on-site dining, and sometimes all-inclusive options. Hotels may also feature more extensive recreational facilities compared to condos.

Posts suggest that both condos and hotels in Aruba are well-located with access to beaches and local attractions. However, the choice between a condo and a hotel might depend on the desired level of activity and convenience, with hotels often being closer to more tourist-centric areas and activities.