It took less than a day to understand why Aruba proudly claims the title “One Happy Island.” It took two more to find my own slice of pure euphoria sitting under a yellow and white striped cabana, staring out at the turquoise Caribbean.
The magic of this place has a way of manifesting the unexpected. Mid-sip of my custom crafted coconut drink, I spotted a familiar salt-and-pepper beard, and then—unmistakably—my college roommate and her husband right in front of me. I may have looked like a tropical whirlwind as I ran over in my jaguar-print plunge swimsuit to embrace her, but that exemplifies the warm, spontaneous spirit of Aruba. We marveled at the cosmic coincidence of sharing the same weekend and even the same flight back to Dulles. For travelers in the Washington region, this paradise is remarkably accessible; nonstop flights from IAD whisk you to the island in about four and a half hours.
An executive bedroom (Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Aruba)
The experience begins in the recently reimagined lobby, a masterwork of sophistication that blends Aruban stone textures with desert-inspired greens and beiges. Each of the 320 stylish guest rooms features a private balcony, offering front-row views of the island’s sweeping ocean vistas. While the resort is upscale, the vibe is unstuffy—don’t be surprised to see sunburned guests wearing pool towels and Prada slides in the elevators.
A custom-made cocktail (photo by author)
Service is warm and attentive. I watched as hotel staff cruised across the sand on Segway scooters to deliver tropical cocktails with seemingly effortless balance. Poolside, the whimsy continues with custom drinks ordered from a bartender operating out of a beachy Volkswagen bus. There is no menu; you simply describe your cravings—perhaps a hint of coconut and pineapple with a little spice—and a masterpiece is delivered. For a casual bite, Madero Pool & Beach Grill offers lobster tacos featuring pineapple pico de gallo. If you’re an early riser, Solanio serves up a decadent “Pan Dushi” French Toast made with local raisin bread and caramelized bananas.
Nori Lobby Bar (courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Aruba)
For those seeking an elevated retreat, the Ritz-Carlton Club Level on the seventh floor is essential. This “hotel within a hotel” offers a dedicated concierge and five daily culinary presentations, ranging from gourmet breakfasts to evening cordials and delectable hors d’œuvres. (My college roommate, MaryLou Fisher of New Market, Md., raved about it, saying: “I felt so pampered! The food offerings were delicious and the staff was over accommodating, welcoming and professional!”)
The cabanas at the Ritz Carlton Aruba (Courtesy The Ritz-Carlton Aruba)
Beyond the Resort: Exploring Aruban Wonders
While the Ritz is a destination unto itself, the rest of the island beckons with natural treasures. Arikok National Park covers nearly 20 percent of Aruba’s territory and is a playground of lava formations, Indian rock drawings and secluded bays. It is a great place to spend the day enjoying dramatic landscapes and rare indigenous gems. For a more curated adventure, De Palm Tours offers everything from Atlantis Submarine dives to conservation-minded Jeep and UTV treks.
A trip to the capital, Oranjestad, offers colorful harbor views, international luxury retailers and restored landmark buildings. Visit the Butterfly Farm to amble through a lush tropical enclosure where hundreds of exotic species fly freely. In the early morning, you can witness newborn butterflies take their first flight.
The Aruba Aloe Factory in Hato (photo courtesy)
Before you depart, surrender to the Ritz-Carlton Spa, the largest on the island. Indulge in an Ultra-Intensive Hydration Boost using local aloe vera or a Hot Stone Melter enhancement to alleviate tension. Finally, take the free tour at the Aruba Aloe Factory in Hato, founded in 1890, to see how the plants are hand-harvested, and be sure to pick up their premium SPF and beautiful lotions at the on-site store (or even at the airport!). Your skin will thank you for the high-quality, island-grown hydration long after you’ve returned home.
Rates at The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba (L.G. Smith Boulevard 107, Noord/Palm Beach) range from $650–$2,000+ per night depending on the season. Go to: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/.
This story originally appeared in the Spring (March/April) 2026 print issue.
