Our Week in Aruba: Staying at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
An unforgettable stay with sunshine, sea views, and a few too many trips to the Tradewinds Lounge.
If I could bottle up one week of pure happiness, it would be our stay at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. From the second we arrived, everything felt elevated — the service, the food, the views — yet still so relaxed and effortless.
Aruba has become our absolute favorite place to visit — this was our third trip in just two years, and our second stay at the Aruba Marriott. There’s something about this island that keeps pulling us back — the warmth of the people, the crystal-clear water, and that perfect mix of adventure and ease that makes it impossible not to fall in love with. Rico and I spent seven nights here (October 25–November 1), and honestly, it was everything we hoped for in a tropical escape and then some.
The Resort Vibe
The Aruba Marriott has this perfect balance — luxury without being stuffy, lively without being chaotic. You’ll find plenty of couples (it’s a total romantic getaway spot), but there’s a family-friendly energy too. I loved that you could choose your own vibe each day: the Tradewinds side was calm and quiet with an adults-only pool, while the main pool came alive in the afternoons with a DJ — shoutout to DJ Smiley, who set the tone every day.
I’m not a big gambler, but a few couples we met were obsessed with the Stellaris Casino, and if that’s your thing, it’s one of the best on the island. We spent most of our time between the pool, the beach, and (not surprisingly) the Tradewinds Club, where we had breakfast and lunch daily.
And can we talk about Ruth’s Chris Steak House on property? Easily one of the best meals of the entire trip — and maybe the best steak I’ve ever had. Between that, the resort’s little gelato shop (Gelato & Co.), and the fact that there’s a Starbucks right downstairs for my daily latte fix, I was in heaven.
The Governor’s Suite
We were lucky enough to be upgraded to the Governor’s Suite, and I’m still not over it. Oceanfront views that literally took my breath away, a massive living area, and — my favorite part — two bathrooms. If you’re someone who likes to spread out while getting ready (aka my girl messiness in full force), it’s a dream.
Every morning started with coffee on the balcony watching the sun come up over the water. It’s one of those simple moments that sticks with you long after the trip ends.
The Tradewinds Club Experience
This was our first time staying on the Tradewinds Club Level, and honestly — it’s worth every penny. Access alone is valued at around $250/day for two people, and it really does elevate the entire experience.
Here’s what it includes:
Private check-in and concierge
A reserved beach area (with palapas + floats ready to go!)
Five daily food and beverage servings (yes, five!)
Complimentary Wi-Fi, printing, pressing service, and even packing/unpacking help
Premium open bar from 6–9 PM
All-day access to drinks and snacks
Breakfast was a favorite part of our routine. I tend to eat light — eggs, fruit, oatmeal — while Rico took full advantage of the pancakes, bacon, and waffles. We’d pop in again at lunch for something quick, and in the evenings, he loved the open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Even for me (someone who doesn’t drink), it was so nice to have snacks and sodas available anytime.
If you’re planning a trip here, I can’t recommend the Tradewinds upgrade enough — especially if you’re traveling as a couple. It just makes everything effortless.
What Made It Special
There were so many little things that made our week unforgettable:
The incredible staff — especially the pool bartenders who always greeted us by name.
The mix of energy — relaxing mornings by the beach, then lively afternoons by the DJ.
The way every single corner of the resort feels like it was designed for a photo moment.
It’s one of those places that feels both luxurious and familiar, where you can do everything or nothing at all and still feel completely content.
If you’re dreaming of an island getaway that blends luxury, fun, and total relaxation, the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is truly the best of both worlds. Between the stunning Governor’s Suite, the Tradewinds Club experience, and all the thoughtful little touches, this trip was pure perfection.
Whether you’re planning a couples’ retreat, honeymoon, or just a much-needed escape — this resort is one you’ll want to come back to again and again.
✨ Need help booking? Contact Me to Book your stay at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino here!
✨ Join my newsletter to get future travel recaps, insider deals, and my personal favorites delivered straight to your inbox.
