If you have been to Aruba before you will already have a firm opinion on this, I say this because the two areas couldn’t be more contrasting.

For our first trip to Aruba, many years ago, we stayed at Palm Beach; it was far less developed than it is now, much less lively with a wide expanse of pristine beach. In recent years many high rise hotels such as the Riu have been erected and take prominent positions along this stretch of sand. The beach in front of these hotels has now become very crowded and packed with sun loungers, almost to the waters edge.

Having said that, the high rise area does have to be appreciated for its other selling points such as the watersports, shopping, bars and restaurants, all within easy reach. With calm shallow waters this makes it the ideal base for families with children.

Home to glamorous resorts such as the  Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino, Aruba Marriott Resort, Occidental Grand Aruba and Radisson Aruba Resort, Casino & Spa; Palm Beach has a lot of choice for those looking for luxurious accommodation with several 5 star hotels.

Further development of this area has seen the construction of a new shopping district called Palm Beach Plaza which was completed in 2009; which houses shops such as Mont Blanc, a food court and a cinema.

For beach lovers seeking a tranquil and uncrowded beach experience then why not consider Eagle Beach where you will find purely low rise accommodation including Amsterdam Manor, Bucuti Beach Resort, Manchebo Beach and the Divi & Tamarijn sister hotels.

Eagle Beach has the widest stretch of beach in Aruba and has been voted as the number one Caribbean beach in a USA Today survey of travel writers, travel agents and frequent travellers. There are no motorised watersports on offer here and the government will not allow any properties to be built exceeding 4 storeys, therefore the effect of Aruba’s booming tourism, and subsequent development, should have a minimal impact on the area.

The resorts here may not offer all of the high class trappings of Palm Beach’s 5 star hotels however there are some excellent boutique hotels which are popular with honeymooners and couples. Situated between Oranjestad and Palm Beach it also provides an excellent base for exploring and public transport is both frequent and inexpensive.

Our preference is now for this end of the island, having fallen in love with Palm Beach all those years ago we were somewhat disappointed when we returned following its development and we are hoping Eagle Beach maintains its charm.