Bucuti Beach Resort

Description:

• This elegant oasis provides Aruba's most adult ambience. Set on one of the Caribbean's best beaches, a serene 14-acre expanse of sugary white sand, it's a favored retreat for sophisticated couples of all ages, especially honeymooners. About half are from Europe, and most are independent and well traveled. And though most guests are straight, the Bucuti is both appealing and welcoming to gay couples. Contemporary minimalist design with walnut and linen tones warm the spacious rooms. The bathrooms feature granite counters with plenty of counter space, and the large balconies overlook gardens or the beach. Penthouses and the junior suites have kitchenettes. Because the Bucuti's owner-manager is the driving force behind many environmental initiatives, the hotel is one of Aruba's greenest. Recycling bins, water-conservation measures, and beachwide clean-ups are part of the effort. Beach lovers appreciate the Bucuti's palapa-to-guest ratio -- it's the highest on the island (you'll always have shade if you want it). After the sun sets, you can dine intimately at a torch-lit table on the beach. At the breezy, open-air fitness area, nature and exercise go hand in hand. Built in 1987, the three-story Spanish mission-style resort has been refurbished including the pool and pool deck. The new wing of 39 oceanfront suites has raised the comfort zone to stratospheric levels, with in-room Internet connections, flatscreen TVs, stainless-steel appliances, dreamy furniture, footed marble tubs, tasteful art, and an elegant separate concierge lounge.

  Facilities: Restaurant; bar; outdoor landscaped pool; 18-hole championship golf course nearby; open-air health club; bike rental; concierge; tour/activities desk; car-rental desk; 24-hr. business center; coin-op laundry; laundry/valet service; same-day dry cleaning.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010