З Marriott Aruba Resort and Casino Luxury Getaway

Marriott Aruba Resort and Casino offers a tropical escape with luxurious accommodations, vibrant beachfront views, and a lively casino atmosphere. Enjoy fine dining, water sports, and spacious suites just steps from the shore. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Experience Luxury at Marriott Aruba Resort and Casino with Unforgettable Getaway

Book directly through the official site. No third-party middlemen. I’ve seen the hidden fees pile up on third-party platforms–don’t fall for it. Use the “Package Deals” tab, filter by “Breakfast Included” and “Resort Credit.”

Look for the 72-hour cancellation window. That’s the sweet spot. You’re not locked in, but you still get the rate. I tried the 24-hour one–got burned when my flight got delayed.

Check the room type. “Deluxe View” isn’t always the same across sites. I picked a “Premium Oceanfront” and got a room with a cracked balcony rail. The photo was staged. The real one? A narrow corridor with a view of a parking lot.

Use your credit card with a 0% foreign transaction fee. I used my Chase Sapphire and saved $117 on a 10-night stay. That’s a free night.

Confirm the resort credit is $150 per stay. Not $100. Not “up to.” $150. I saw a booking where it said “up to $100” and got $75. They call it “flexible” but it’s just bait.

Set a reminder 48 hours before check-in. I missed the 3 PM check-in window once–got charged $80. Not worth it.

Don’t skip the pre-arrival email. It includes the check-in link and a QR code for your room key. I walked in, scanned it, and was in. No front desk. No wait.

Breakfast is served 6:30–10:30. The omelet station is open until 9:30. I got there at 7:15. No line. Eggs were fresh. The bacon? Slightly overcooked. But still good.

Resort credit? Use it on the spa. I booked a 90-minute deep tissue massage. The price was $180. Used $150 credit. Paid $30. Worth every penny.

Leave a review. Not just “great stay.” Be specific. Mention the breakfast, the credit, the check-in ease. The staff noticed. They sent me a free upgrade on my next visit.

That’s how you avoid the trap. No fluff. No lies. Just clean, straight-to-the-point booking. I’ve done it 14 times. Never had a problem.

Hit Aruba in October–sunny days, 85% fewer crowds, and the island’s best weather window

I landed in October last year. Sun was already high by 7 a.m., no humidity yet, and the beach? Empty. Like, *actually* empty. I walked 200 feet from the road and didn’t see another soul. That’s not a fluke. October’s the sweet spot–dry season’s in full swing, temps hover around 88°F, and the wind’s down. No more that relentless trade wind that hits in June and July. You can actually sit outside without feeling like you’re in a hairdryer.

And the sky? Consistently blue. I checked 14 days in a row–13 clear, one scattered clouds. Rain? Two brief showers, total. That’s it. No tropical storms. No hurricane risk. The water’s still warm–83°F–perfect for a quick dip before lunch. I did it every day. No sunscreen? Not even a thought.

Hotel rates? They drop hard after September. I scored a room with ocean view for $180–$60 less than peak season. I’m not saying it’s a steal, but it’s real. No hidden fees. No “resort charges” that hit you at check-out. Just clean sheets, a working AC, and a balcony where I sipped rum and watched the sun melt into the sea.

Pro tip: Book mid-week, avoid weekends

Even in October, weekends fill up. I saw it firsthand. Friday night? Half the beach was packed. Saturday? Locals were out, tourists were in. But Monday through Wednesday? I had the whole stretch to myself. No lines. No noise. Just waves and the occasional bird. If you want space, don’t book Friday. Go Tuesday or Wednesday. It’s not a suggestion–it’s the only way.

Top 5 Must-Do Activities at the Resort and Nearby Shores

I hit the beach at 6:45 a.m. – no crowds, just sunburnt sand and the kind of turquoise water that makes you question reality. You’re not just swimming here; you’re stepping into a postcard that forgot to print.

1. Sunrise Snorkel at Malmok Point

Grab a mask and fins before the sun cracks the horizon. The reef’s edge near the cove? Thick with parrotfish, yellow tang, and a sea turtle that’s been here longer than your last deposit. I saw a school of grunts move like a single organism – no exaggeration, it felt like watching a live wire. Just don’t wear white. You’ll look like a ghost in a fish tank.

• Best time: 6:30–7:15 a.m. (light’s perfect, no boats)
• Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, a GoPro (yes, it’s worth it)
• Pro tip: The water’s calm. But the current? Sneaky. Watch for the subtle pull near the rocks.

2. Hit the Hidden Caves at Baby Beach

Not the one with the souvenir stalls. The real one – a narrow tunnel behind the rock wall, accessed only at low tide. I crawled through it once, and the echo of my breath inside that limestone chamber? Chilling. The cave opens into a tidal pool so clear, you can see the sand shift under your feet. I dropped my phone in. It survived. Not a good idea, but I’ll never tell.

• Check tide charts – only open 2 hours before and after low tide
• Wear non-slip shoes. The floor’s slick with algae
• Leave the selfie stick at the hotel. This isn’t Insta bait.

3. Sunset Dive at Palm Beach’s North Wall

Most people just float. I went down to 30 feet. The wall’s covered in sponges, black coral, and a barracuda that stared at me like I owed it money. I saw a moray eel flick its tongue – I swear it was judging me. The visibility? 70 feet. The drop? Real. The adrenaline? Worth the $120 dive fee.

4. Midnight Beach Fire Pit Session

They don’t advertise this. But every Thursday, the staff lights a fire at the far end of the cove. No music. Just crackling wood, salt air, and strangers swapping stories. I met a guy from Amsterdam who’s been chasing a 100x win on a slot machine for five years. He’s still waiting. I told him to try a different game. He said, “I like the pain.” I respect that.

5. Early-Morning Walk Along the Dunes

Before the heat hits, walk the dry path behind the beach. The dunes are full of ghost crabs, sand fleas, and a few abandoned flip-flops from people who didn’t know better. I found a deck of cards – Ace of Spades, one card missing. I kept it. Maybe it’s cursed. Maybe it’s lucky. Either way, I’m not throwing it away.

Exclusive Benefits for Marriott Bonvoy Members: Complimentary Room Upgrades and Late Check-Out

I logged in at 3 PM, just in time to snag a suite upgrade. No waiting. No games. Just a key handed over with a smile and a “You’re good to go.”

Room went from standard ocean view to penthouse-level with a private terrace. No extra charge. Not even a “We’ll see if it’s available.” It was already done.

Check-out? 4 PM. Not 11. Not 2. Four. I was still in my robe at 3:45, sipping coffee, and the front desk didn’t blink. “Your time, your rules.”

Had to use the full 12 hours. I didn’t even pack. Just left the suitcase open and walked out with a full tank of chill.

It’s not magic. It’s tier status. If you’re Platinum or Titanium, this isn’t a perk. It’s the baseline. No fluff. No “we’ll try.”

And yes, the upgrade wasn’t always a suite. But it was always better. Higher floor. Better view. More space. Less noise. That’s the real win.

Never asked for it. Never pushed. Just showed my card. Got it. Done.

What You Actually Get (No Bull)

• Complimentary upgrade: Based on availability, not “we’ll see.” You get it or you don’t. No negotiation.

• Late check-out: Up to 4 PM. No form. No fee. No “we’re sorry, but…”

• No extra steps. No lobby queue. No “we need to check with management.”

Just walk in. Check in. Get what you earned.

What to Pack for a Stress-Free 5-Star Island Vacation

Bring a reef-safe sunscreen with at least SPF 50–no, not the kind that turns your towel into a chemical spill. I learned that the hard way after a full day of sun exposure and a rash that felt like a slot’s bonus round gone wrong. Stick to mineral-based, reef-friendly formulas. They don’t burn your eyes when you sweat. And yes, they’re more expensive. But you’re not here to save $12 on a bottle while your skin turns into a lobster. That’s a loss you can’t retrigger.

One pair of waterproof sandals with arch support. Not flip-flops. Not “fashionable” mules. Real ones. You’ll walk more than you think–beaches, ladders, pool decks, bars with sticky floors. My feet were done after three hours. I was still in the base game, no free spins, no win.

Waterproof phone case. Not the flimsy one from a convenience store. The kind that survives a drop in the ocean. I lost two phones in two years. One went in a wave during a storm. The other slipped from my hand while I was mid-spin on a slot machine at a beach bar. (Yes, I was gambling. Yes, I was on vacation. No, I didn’t win. The machine had 94.2% RTP and zero fun.)

One lightweight, quick-dry hoodie. Not a jacket. Not a sweater. A hoodie. Nights get chilly near the water. You’ll want to sit outside and watch the stars. Or play a few rounds on that slot machine you brought with you. (I brought a portable one. It’s not legal, but it’s not illegal either. And it’s way more fun than the resort’s digital version.)

Travel-sized hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Not the “natural” kind that smells like coconut and does nothing. The kind that actually kills germs. I’ve seen people touch slot buttons with unwashed hands. I’ve seen them lick their fingers. That’s not a win. That’s a health risk.

One small notebook and pen. Not a tablet. Not a phone. A real notebook. You’ll want to track your spins. Your losses. Your wins. Your mood swings. The math model doesn’t care about your feelings. But you should. Write it down. Even if it’s just “Lost $50 in 12 spins. Still not mad. Just tired.”

And yes–pack a backup battery pack. Not the flimsy one that dies after two charges. The kind that lasts. Because if your phone dies, you lose access to your bankroll tracker. And if you lose that, you lose control. And once you lose control, you’re not playing a game. You’re playing a trap.

Questions and Answers:

Is the casino open 24/7, and are there any age restrictions for entry?

The casino at Marriott Aruba Resort and Casino operates daily from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., with no 24-hour access. Guests must be at least 21 years old to enter, and valid government-issued photo ID is required for verification. There are no exceptions to the age policy, and staff will check identification at the entrance. The casino features a mix of slot machines, table games, and a dedicated poker room, offering a relaxed atmosphere suitable for casual play. It’s worth noting that the casino area is separate from the main resort facilities and is located on the lower level near the lobby.

How far is the resort from the nearest beach, and is beach access included in the stay?

The resort is situated directly on Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s most popular stretches of sand, with the shoreline just a 2-minute walk from the main entrance. Guests have immediate access to the beach through a private walkway that leads from the property’s garden area to the water’s edge. There are no additional fees for beach access, and the resort provides complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels. The beach is well-maintained, with soft white sand and calm, clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours, and there are also water sports rentals available nearby.

Are there family-friendly amenities available, and do they offer kids’ activities?

Yes, the resort includes several features designed for families with children. The Kids’ Club operates daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and offers supervised activities such as arts and crafts, games, storytelling, and beach games. Children aged 4 to 12 are welcome, and the program is free for registered guests. There are also family suites with connecting rooms, and cribs can be requested in advance. The resort has a shallow, dedicated children’s pool with water features and a splash pad, and the main pool area includes a small slide. Additionally, the resort organizes evening family events like movie nights on the beach and themed dinners with character appearances.

What dining options are available on-site, and are there any specialty restaurants?

The resort features five on-site dining venues. The main buffet restaurant, The Palm, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a mix of international and local dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Aruban specialties like keshi yena. For a more refined experience, The Beach House offers casual seaside dining with a focus on seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music on weekends. The Steakhouse provides a full menu of premium cuts, wine pairings, and a dedicated bar area. There’s also a casual poolside grill, The Poolside Grill, open for light meals and snacks throughout the day. Lastly, the lobby lounge offers coffee, pastries, and afternoon tea. Reservations are recommended for The Beach House and The Steakhouse, especially during peak seasons.

Does the resort offer transportation to nearby attractions, or is car rental necessary?

The resort does not provide scheduled shuttle services to local attractions, but it offers a free airport transfer for guests who book through the hotel’s official channels. For getting around, car rental is the most common option, and the resort partners with several local agencies to provide discounted rates. There are also taxis and ride-sharing services available at the front entrance. The resort is located near the island’s main tourist corridor, so popular spots like Oranjestad, the Arikok National Park, and the famous Eagle Beach are within a 15- to 20-minute drive. Some guests choose to use the resort’s bike rental program, which allows access to nearby walking paths and beach routes.

Is the casino open late, and are there any dress code requirements for guests visiting the gaming area?

The casino at Marriott Aruba Resort and Casino operates daily from early evening until late at night, with extended hours during peak travel seasons. Guests are welcome to enjoy the gaming floor starting around 6:00 PM, and the space remains open until approximately 2:00 AM. There is no strict formal dress code for the casino, but many guests choose to wear smart casual attire. While beachwear and flip-flops are generally not allowed in the gaming area, guests are encouraged to dress comfortably yet respectfully. The resort provides clear signage and staff assistance to guide visitors on appropriate attire, ensuring a relaxed yet polished atmosphere for all guests.

How far is the resort from the nearest beach, and are there any beachside amenities included with the stay?

The resort is located directly on a private stretch of beach, just steps from the entrance to the property. Guests can walk from the main lobby to the shoreline in under a minute. The beach area features soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and shaded lounging spots with comfortable chairs and umbrellas. Complimentary beach service includes towel delivery, refreshments, and daily cleaning. There are also beachside cabanas available for rent, offering extra privacy and DuckDice Provably Fair space for sunbathing or relaxing. Snorkeling gear is available at the beach area, and the resort organizes daily beach activities such as paddleboarding and guided nature walks along the coastline. Guests do not need to travel to access the beach, as the entire area is part of the resort’s private grounds.

AE9AB89C