Aruba has long been a favourite for sun-seekers and luxury travellers alike, but its high-end hotel scene has remained relatively static in recent years. Iconic properties like The Ritz-Carlton and Aruba Marriott Resort have set the standard for five-star stays, yet many are beginning to show their age. For discerning guests craving fresh design, elevated service, and modern amenities, the island’s luxury offerings have felt somewhat limited.
We inspected both resorts in March 2025, during their opening months.
That’s changing. Two major openings—The St. Regis Aruba Resort and JOIA Aruba by Iberostar—have arrived with the promise of redefining the island’s upscale hospitality landscape. Both properties debuted between late 2024 and early 2025, bringing new energy to Palm Beach and Eagle Beach respectively.
But do these newcomers live up to the hype? We conducted site inspections at both resorts to assess whether they truly raise the bar—or simply add more rooms to the roster.
Which to choose
The St. Regis Aruba Resort suits you if you want Palm Beach, restaurants and shops within walking distance, butler service and a strong spa. Palm Beach is busy, with less space on the sand when the crowds arrive. Book a suite: the standard rooms are plain. It sits beside the Riu, so ask for a room away from that side.
JOIA Aruba by Iberostar suits you if you want Eagle Beach, which is far more expansive than Palm Beach, and excellent food, with an all-inclusive option. Expect a busy, lively resort, a road to cross to the beach and plenty of stairs.
🏨 St. Regis Aruba review: site inspection
Deciding between Aruba’s new openings? I’ve inspected both — happy to say which fits your dates and party.
Help me choose an Aruba resort Cruises that call at Aruba
Visited Spaces: Deluxe Room & One-Bedroom Suite
✅ Highlights
Modern Minimalist Décor: Rooms feature a clean, contemporary design reminiscent of EDITION hotels, offering a fresh take on the traditional St. Regis aesthetic.
Stunning Coastal Views: Both room categories provide breathtaking vistas of Aruba’s coastline, enhancing the guest experience.
Vibrant Atmosphere: Situated amidst other resorts and residences, the hotel exudes a lively, social ambiance, perfect for guests seeking an energetic environment.
Luxurious Spa Facilities: The spa boasts a variety of treatment options, complemented by a serene sauna and steam room, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation.
Multiple Pools: With several pools available, guests can enjoy a refreshing swim without the concern of overcrowding.
Inviting Beachfront: The beachfront area is well-maintained, offering a delightful setting for swimming and sunbathing.
Stunning view of Palm beach, however note its proximity to the nearby Riu Hotel
Spacious one bedroom suite
Large suite bathroom with all the expected amenities
Beautiful Spa at the St Regis Aruba
⚠️ Points of note
Understaffing Issues: The hotel appears to be operating with limited staff, affecting service efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Incomplete Operations: Certain amenities and services are not yet fully operational, indicating the property is still in its soft-opening phase.
Basic Room Furnishings: Compared to other St. Regis properties, the rooms feel less luxurious and more simplistic in design.
Compact Reception Area: The lobby space is relatively small, which may not accommodate high guest volumes comfortably.
Noise Concerns: Proximity to the neighboring Riu Hotel, known for its lively parties, results in elevated noise levels. Management is reportedly in discussions to address this issue.
Non-suite rooms are very ordinary - albeit you will still get the signature St Regis butler service
Room and balcony furnishings are fairly simple
Lobby bar at St Regis Aruba
🌟 Standout Staff Member
Raychelline – Guest Relations Manager: Demonstrated exceptional professionalism and dedication during our visit. Her leadership is a valuable asset to the hotel’s ongoing development.
🏨 JOIA Aruba by Iberostar review: site inspection
Update, October 2026: JOIA now offers an all-inclusive option.
Visited Space: Oceanfront Royal Suite
✅ Highlights
Culinary Delights: Food and beverage offerings are exceptional, with well-crafted cocktails and diverse dining options.
Expansive Fitness Center: The gym is notably large and well-equipped, catering to fitness enthusiasts.
Multiple Pools: Several swimming pools are available, including rooms with direct access to shared pools, which are particularly popular among guests.
Vibrant Atmosphere: The resort exudes a jovial and lively ambiance, enhancing the overall guest experience.
Prime Beachfront Location: Situated directly in front of Eagle Beach, offering stunning, unobstructed views and easy beach access.
Beautiful large suite with sitting area and a bath
Stunning sea view with a large balcony
⚠️ Points of note
Beach Access: Guests must cross a road to reach the beach, which may be inconvenient for some.
Multi-Level Layout: The property’s design includes multiple levels, requiring guests to navigate stairs frequently, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Operational Status: The hotel is not yet fully operational, with some dining options and amenities still under development.
High Occupancy: Despite the spacious layout, the resort appears busy, leading to frequent interactions with other guests and a less secluded experience.
Need to cross a busy road to access the beach
Final Thoughts
With the recent openings of The St. Regis Aruba Resort and JOIA Aruba by Iberostar, Aruba’s luxury hospitality landscape is experiencing a refreshing transformation. These properties introduce modern design and vibrant atmospheres to the island, offering new options for discerning travelers.
If you’re planning a trip to Aruba and seek personalized recommendations tailored to your preferences, our team at Expeditioner is here to assist. We specialize in curating bespoke travel experiences, ensuring your stay aligns perfectly with your expectations.
Questions people ask
Which is better, the St. Regis or JOIA?
It depends on the beach and the style of stay you want: the St. Regis for Palm Beach, walkability and a suite with butler service; JOIA for Eagle Beach, the food and an all-inclusive option.
Is JOIA Aruba all-inclusive?
JOIA offers an all-inclusive option. Ask us which rate suits your stay.
When did the two resorts open?
The St. Regis Aruba Resort and JOIA Aruba by Iberostar both opened in January 2025. We inspected both that March.
If Aruba is on the shortlist, here are two useful next steps.
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