Renaissance Island is a private paradise in Aruba that offers a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss. Home to the famous Flamingo Beach, this exclusive 40-acre island combines luxury, relaxation, and some of the most Instagram-worthy moments you’ll find anywhere on the island. Imagine lounging on soft white sand while flamingos stroll past you or floating in crystal-clear waters surrounded by Aruba’s natural beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, Renaissance Island promises an unforgettable experience.
Getting to Renaissance Island is part of the adventure. The island is accessible only by a quick water taxi ride from the Renaissance Aruba Resort in Oranjestad. Boats depart regularly from the Marina Hotel, conveniently located in the lobby, specifically, the lower lobby behind the Starbucks in the Renaissance Mall, and also picks up passengers at the Ocean Suites before heading to the island. The ride is short but scenic, around 10 minutes, offering stunning views of Aruba’s coastline before you arrive at the island’s dock.
If you’re staying at the Renaissance Aruba Resort, access to the island is complimentary.
For non-guests, day passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis and are released at 9:00 AM Aruba time every Saturday for the following week. These passes sell out quickly, so it’s essential to act fast to secure your spot. They are $125 each and there is a limit of 5 sold at one time. Please note, there is no longer a $25 food & beverage credit included as of Jan 11, 2025.
Another option for access is booking a treatment at the island’s exclusive Okeanos Spa, specifically, the Spa Cove, which not only includes the time for your massage but also grants you entry to enjoy the island for the entire day. Be sure to reserve your massage well in advance, as spots fill up quickly, and this is one of the most relaxing and rewarding ways to experience the island. You will need to email them to do this, here is the email: spa@arubarenaissance.com
For the ultimate luxury experience, consider renting a private cabana for the day on Renaissance Island. Starting at $409, these cabanas offer shaded comfort with a cozy couch and chairs, lounge chairs for sunbathing, a relaxing net over the ocean to lounge on, and stairs for easy access to the water. Each cabana also includes a fully customizable cooler stocked with water, and a bottle of Champagne or sparkling wine for you to enjoy as you soak in the tropical vibes. While cabana rentals are technically reserved for hotel guests, you’ll need to email the resort with your booking or reservation number to secure one. To reserve a cabana, future guests can use their hotel confirmation number and visit: https://renaissancearuba.ipoolside.com/
However, if you’re not staying at the Renaissance Resort and still want to rent a cabana, don’t hesitate to email them and ask. If any cabanas are still available on the day you’re interested, they may allow you to book one, providing you with a private oasis for your unforgettable day on the island.
It’s a good idea to arrive early to Renaissance Island to secure the best spots, especially if you’re looking for premium seating. The most coveted spots are in the front row, offering unobstructed views of the turquoise waters, or under the limited shaded areas, which provide relief from the tropical sun. By catching one of the first boats of the day, you’ll have the best chance of claiming a prime location where you can settle in and enjoy your day in comfort. Whether you’re sunbathing or relaxing in the shade, arriving early ensures you can make the most of this exclusive island experience.
Once on the island, there’s so much to see and do. Flamingo Beach, known for its iconic pink flamingos, is a highlight. This adults-only area is perfect for a peaceful day of sunbathing, swimming, and, of course, snapping pictures with and feeding the flamingos.
Be sure to bring an American quarter if you’d like to feed the flamingos—it’s a fun and interactive experience that makes for great photos! If you don’t have any coins on hand, don’t worry. You can exchange bills for change at one of the restaurants on the island, so you won’t miss the opportunity to treat these iconic pink residents.
Be sure to spend some time around the dock, towel hut, and shop area around midday, as this is when the iguanas gather for their lunch! At around 12 PM, the staff feeds them fresh lettuce, and it’s an amazing sight to see these cool creatures up close.
If you’re traveling with children, they are welcome to visit Flamingo Beach from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM daily, so the whole family can enjoy the experience. For families or those seeking a more vibrant atmosphere, Iguana Beach is a fantastic option. This family-friendly spot offers plenty of lounge chairs, calm waters for swimming, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for all ages. The day I visited, there were plenty of flamingos wandering not only on Flamingo Beach but also on the family side at Iguana Beach and the areas in between. It was such a treat to have multiple opportunities to interact with these beautiful birds throughout the island!
Adventure lovers will find plenty to do on Renaissance Island. Complimentary towels, snorkeling gear and floats are available, making it easy to explore the crystal-clear waters. For a more relaxed pace, find a hammock by the mangroves or lounge by the water with a tropical drink from the Mangrove Beach Bar.
Speaking of food and drinks, you won’t go hungry on Renaissance Island. The Papagayo Bar & Grill on the family side serves a variety of delicious meals and snacks, from fresh seafood to refreshing salads and burgers. Pair your meal with a cold drink or cocktail for the ultimate beachside dining experience. I had a delicious pulled pork sandwich and fries with a cold Chill, a local beer, when I was there! Yum!
You can also head over to the Mangrove Beach Bar on the adults side. This laid-back spot offers light bites, refreshing beverages, and tropical cocktails to keep you fueled throughout the day.
You can also take some time to explore the nature trail on the island behind the cabanas on Flamingo beach. This scenic path winds through lush greenery and offers a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty beyond the beaches. Keep an eye out for native plants, birds, soldier crabs & kododos (local bright blue lizards) and other wildlife as you walk along the trail.
To make the most of your visit, try to catch one of the earlier boats to the island to secure a great spot on the beach and enjoy the peaceful morning hours. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, swimwear, and hats to stay comfortable under the Aruba sun. Towels and water sports equipment are provided, so you can pack light and focus on enjoying your day. It should also be noted that outside food and drink is not allowed.
If you were lucky enough to score a day pass or book a spa appointment, and you have a rental car, don’t worry about parking! You can park for free at the Renaissance Ocean Suites and near Wind Creek Crystal Casino at the Marina Hotel and making it convenient to access the water taxi and start your day on Renaissance Island stress-free. It’s one less thing to worry about as you get ready to enjoy your private island adventure!
Whether you’re relaxing on Flamingo Beach, paddling through calm waters, or savoring a delicious meal with a view, Renaissance Island offers a truly magical escape. It’s a perfect blend of luxury, nature, and exclusivity, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Aruba. Don’t miss the chance to experience this private island paradise—it’s an adventure you’ll be dreaming about long after your vacation ends.
Have you ever been to this incredible oasis in Aruba? I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
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