Elegant, romantic, and elite are words that come to mind when you think about Aruba. The Dutch Caribbean island boasts miles of white sandy beaches, clear waters, and a tropical climate year-round. Its dreamy setting makes this island the perfect place to have your destination wedding.
Having an Aruba wedding doesn’t have to be complicated or daunting. Our comprehensive guide explores everything you need to plan the perfect wedding, including the legal requirements, how to get there, and some of the best resorts/venues to consider.
Table of Contents
Best Venues for Your Aruba Destination Wedding
About Destination Weddings in Aruba
Legal Requirements for Weddings in Aruba
Aruba Destination Wedding Planning Tips
Average Room Price: $400 to $1000
Drive Time to Airport: 20 minutes
Number of Rooms: 240
Weddings Per Day: 3
All Inclusive: Yes
Adult Only: No
LGBTQ Friendly: Yes
Explore Venues and Packages →
Want to wed in a tropical paradise? Your first choice should be Divi Aruba. It is a truly enchanting destination for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience. For your special day, the all-inclusive resort offers a variety of tropical wedding locations. It’s convenient because it’s only 20 minutes from the AUA airport.
The resort includes wedding ceremony and reception locations that can hold up to 800 guests, and they are tucked away amid the white sands of Druif Beach and surrounded by exotic plants. If you’re planning a modest civil ceremony or a lavish Aruba wedding at dusk, Divi Aruba also offers wedding planning services, so you won’t have to lift a finger.
In addition to its idyllic setting, Divi Aruba offers exceptional accommodations and amenities for the wedding party and guests. Thanks to the resort’s outstanding lodging options, you can choose lovely and suite alternatives. You can select an oceanfront suite for group travelers or a room with a large balcony, a stocked mini-bar, and WiFi.
Enjoy a day of watersports, sweat at the beachside fitness facility, or unwind with a post-wedding couples massage at the Sea Spa. Thanks to the resort’s more than eight fantastic bars, numerous restaurants serving different cuisines, and various activities, you’ll have many options.
Average Room Price: $400 to $1000
Drive Time to Airport: 15 minutes
Number of Rooms: 482
Weddings Per Day: 2
All Inclusive: Yes
Adult Only: Yes
LGBTQ Friendly: Yes
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Riu Palace Antillas is a luxurious and gorgeous resort in Aruba, making it an excellent choice for a destination wedding. With its lovely beachfront location, exceptional amenities, and attentive service, the resort offers everything couples dream of for their special day.
You can select from various wedding packages and reception locations at the adults-only resort. The resort’s beachfront location allows couples to exchange their vows with their feet in the sand. Also, the gentle sound of waves in the background creates a fantastic ambiance.
After your wedding, you can unwind with a calming spa treatment. Try windsurfing or kayaking, discover new hiking trails, or stroll the beach to watch the sun go down. For those who enjoy golf, there is a course as well.
Riu Palace Antillas has beautifully appointed rooms and suites, offering a luxurious and comfortable stay for the wedding party and guests. The resort’s restaurants provide diverse culinary options, including international and local cuisines, ensuring everyone’s taste buds are satisfied.
Three restaurants at the resort are themed, and a buffet serves Caribbean food. Additionally, you can book a reservation for a private beachside meal. You may enjoy a variety of dances and shows at the resort at night.
Average Room Price: $400 to $1000
Drive Time to Airport: 4 minutes
Number of Rooms: 555
Weddings Per Day: 2
All Inclusive: Yes
Adult Only: No
LGBTQ Friendly: Yes
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Visit Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino to experience the private island. Aruba is famous for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round pleasant weather. The resort takes full advantage of this natural beauty. It offers breathtaking ocean views and private beaches as the perfect backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Depending on your choices, the resort offers two sections: one is for families, while the other is for adults. Couples can select between a tranquil ceremony by the Coral beach or an inside ceremony in the ballroom with beautiful ocean views thanks to the over 40 acres of immaculate coastline.
The resort boasts various elegant venues to accommodate weddings of all sizes and styles. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the resort offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, including beachfront gazebos, tropical islands, and elegant ballrooms.
Relax and unwind at the Oceans Spa, or swim in one of the outdoor pools. You can also work out at the fitness center or explore jogging trails, horseback riding, and snorkeling. Golf enthusiasts will love the Tierra Del Sol and Country Club, or try your luck at either of the two casinos. Guests with children will love Iguana Beach, which provides activities for guests of all ages.
Average Room Price: $400 to $1000
Drive Time to Airport: 20 minutes
Number of Rooms: 370
Weddings Per Day: 2
All Inclusive: Yes
Adult Only: No
LGBTQ Friendly: Yes
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If you’re hoping to spend your big day on an exotic island, Barcelo Aruba should be at the top of your list. Tucked into the lovely Palm Beach and overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this opulent resort is the ideal location for your Aruba wedding.
The resort boasts top-notch facilities and services catering to couples and their guests. It offers a range of wedding packages tailored to suit different styles and budgets. So, every couple can find a package that meets their needs.
From intimate ceremonies to grand affairs, the resort’s experienced wedding planners assist in every aspect of the planning process. They will take care of every detail.
The resort offers a variety of room types, including spacious suites with private balconies or terraces overlooking the ocean or gardens. The modern and well-appointed rooms provide a tranquil haven for relaxation and pampering before and after the wedding festivities.
The resort features multiple swimming pools, a fitness center, a spa, and various water sports and recreational activities. Enjoy one of the seven dining establishments or six bars while indulging your tastes. Visit the on-site casino, engage in a range of watersports, or enjoy the nonstop entertainment every night.
Average Room Price: $100 to $400
Drive Time to Airport: 20 minutes
Number of Rooms: 72
Weddings Per Day: 1
All Inclusive: Yes
Adult Only: No
LGBTQ Friendly: Yes
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Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is a picturesque and enchanting location that offers an ideal setting for a destination wedding. Located on the beautiful Eagle Beach in Aruba, this resort combines stunning natural beauty, a relaxed atmosphere, and exceptional service to create unforgettable wedding experiences.
With its lush tropical gardens and warm hospitality, Amsterdam Manor offers a unique and authentic Caribbean experience. It has approximately 72 rooms, including one-bedroom suites and magnificent penthouse apartments accommodating up to six people.
Explore Eagle Beach while learning about Dutch colonial history. You may go snorkeling or swim in the pool in the morning. You can also watch evening movies on the beach or hire a bike and explore the many paths. Horseback riding, private island excursions, golf, and a submersible expedition are also available at the resort.
The resort is just a short distance from the Airport, making it easily reachable for guests traveling from worldwide. The resort’s staff can also assist with arranging transportation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Its stunning beachfront location, intimate ambiance, and exceptional service offer everything needed to create a memorable and magical wedding experience. Whether you envision a romantic beach ceremony or a lavish celebration, this resort will exceed your expectations and leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
About Destination Weddings in Aruba
Why Get Married in Aruba
Some of the reasons to choose Aruba as your destination wedding island are:
Spectacular Beaches and Tropical Weather All Year
Aruba is one Caribbean island blessed with naturally beautiful beaches like Palm Beach, Mangel Halto, and Arashi Beach, which have the clearest waters and pristine sand. TripAdvisor ranked Eagle Beach as the fifth best beach in the world. Having an Aruba wedding allows you to get married by the beach as you enjoy the cool breeze with your guests.
Additionally, the island has easy waterport access, and you can explore hidden gems surrounded by mangroves.
You also don’t have to worry about the cold weather ruining your big day, as Aruba has warm weather throughout the year.
Myriad Activities Await
Planning an Aruba wedding also gives you time to explore plenty of activities. Popular beaches provide equipment for hire for water sports like kitesurfing, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, and more.
You can also explore and walk in Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba. The colorful city is easily accessible and safe. Get to sample local delicacies in restaurants, enjoy live music in lounges, or learn more about Aruba’s history by visiting historical attractions and museums. Aruba’s nightlife consists of daily happy hours, beach barbeques, live-action karaoke, and more to make your experience memorable.
Friendly Locals and a Rich Culture
Arubans are friendly people, and you’ll feel it once you step into this beautiful island. They’ll welcome you in different languages and are happy to be of service whenever you interact with them. Get to learn more about Aruba’s rich culture with the walking tours.
Average Cost of a Destination Wedding in Aruba
On average, the cost of a destination wedding in Aruba is $5,000. You can expect to spend less than $10,000 if you include your flights and the honeymoon.
Aruba has something for every budget. You can find high-end wedding resorts that charge a premium depending on what you’re looking for and some budget resorts that offer all-inclusive and affordable packages.
Legal Requirements for Weddings in Aruba
Aruba has simple legal requirements. Some resorts provide a wedding planner who can help you with all the requirements and answer any additional questions.
Legal Weddings Vs. Symbolic Weddings
Aruba is a fantastic destination for either a symbolic or legal wedding.
A legally-binding ceremony means you have to follow the legal requirements in Aruba. The requirements will differ depending on whether you have a secular or religious wedding. Opting for a legal ceremony allows you to have everything done in one place, which includes applying for a marriage license and getting the marriage certificate.
Couples who’d rather not go through all the legal requirements can arrange a civil ceremony in their home country and have a symbolic ceremony in Aruba.
Required Legal Documents & Cost
Aruba has a straightforward process if you plan on having a legal ceremony.
The only difference compared to other Caribbean islands is that you need to hold a Civil ceremony in Oranjestad Town Hall before having a beach or religious ceremony. Alternatively, you must prove that you were legally married in your country before proceeding.
Note that the requirements for a religious and civil ceremony are different.
Required documents for a civil ceremony are:
- Valid Passports
- Original birth certificates with apostille certification
- Deed Poll has changed the proof of name
- A death certificate if either party is widowed
- Decree absolute bearing a seal of the court of divorce if either party is divorced
- Certificate of no impediment for bride and groom or an affidavit from a lawyer/registry confirming the fact that both bride and groom haven’t been previously married
- Parental consent in the form of an affidavit if either party is under 21
- Two witnesses over 18 years with passport picture pages or a valid state-issued picture ID
It’s possible to have local witnesses provided at a fee if you plan on traveling alone. You must fax all documents for review and submit them by courier at least 30 days before your wedding date. A wedding planner can handle this for you.
Civil ceremonies take place from Monday to Friday from 10a.m-11:30 am and 2 p.m.-3:30 pm. There’s a Saturday service at an extra fee between 10 a.m-12.00 pm.
Required documents for the religious ceremony are:
- Permission from your priest to be married in Aruba
- Proof of attending pre-marriage counseling
- Local priest to provide an official declaration that neither party has been married previously in a church ceremony
- Copy of wedding certificate to show you’ve been married legally in your home country
- Confirmation and baptismal certificates of both parties
- Copies of passports or ID cards
When holding a religious ceremony in Aruba, you need to meet all the legal requirements in advance. Additionally, you must submit all documents four months before the wedding date.
Furthermore, your wedding needs to take place inside a Catholic Church building. If you’re a protestant or methodist, you can have the ceremony in a church building, on the beach, or where you prefer.
Couples receive a marriage certificate from the registry’s general office. You’ll receive a certified marriage certificate with an apostille within 12 weeks from the wedding date.
There is a $100 fee for civil service, marriage license, and marriage certificate. A $150 surcharge for Saturday civil service and a religious ceremony for $200-$300. A Local witness is $75 per person.
Legal Marriage Timeline
Aruba has no minimum residency requirement for you to get married. However, arriving at least two days before your civil ceremony is best to review the details and ensure everything goes as planned.
Aruba Destination Wedding Planning Tips
Thinking of planning an Aruba wedding but need help figuring out where to start? Here are a few tips on how to get there and what weather to expect.
How to Get There
Aruba has one international airport, the Queen Beatrix International Airport in Oranjestad.
Airlines like American, Delta, JetBlue, and United all have direct flights to Aruba. Eighty flights run weekly, which is subject to holiday and weekend schedules.
Flights from Chicago take 8 hours, Newark 7 and 28 minutes, and New York 7 and 21 minutes. You can also fly from Philadelphia for 7 hours and 2 minutes or from Houston for 9 and 13 minutes.
Aruba Weather
Aruba has consistent weather throughout the year, unlike most islands in the Northern Caribbean. The island has an average temperature of 82 degrees Fahrenheit.
The months of October to Mid December experience rain at an average of 18 inches a year. Nevertheless, you can expect short bursts and erratic rains. From mid-December to March is summer and the least likely to rain.
Expect trade winds around May to October, which makes the heat more bearable.
Budgeting Tips
While Aruba attracts many tourists worldwide, you may be worried that the Caribbean island could be beyond your budget. Fortunately, you can still plan an Aruba wedding on a budget.
Below are some budgeting tips to ensure you have a wedding dream without spending a fortune.
Plan Your Wedding Off-Season
Aruba is blessed to have great weather year-round. That means you don’t have to schedule your wedding during the peak season. Planning your big day off-season allows you to get great discounts on accommodation and activities around the island. You also get enough attention from staff involved in the planning process as they don’t have a lot of people to handle.
Opt for An All-Inclusive Wedding Venue
Planning a wedding can be tedious, especially in a foreign country. You have to find vendors, the perfect venue, a wedding planner, a photographer, and all that, which can be tedious.
Going for an all-inclusive wedding venue allows you to choose from several wedding packages, including a choice of wedding ceremony location, photography, catering, decor, and more. That will save you money and allow you to focus on enjoying your special day as the rest of the team handles the details.
Explore Activities on a Budget
You don’t have to pay for costly excursions if your pocket doesn’t allow it. Aruba has plenty of activities you can do on a budget.
Take free time to learn about Aruba’s culture in the National Archaeological Museum, visit Arikok National Park and check out the natural caves and pools for $11, or explore Oranjestad by foot and get to see what makes the capital popular.
Best Time of Year to Get Married in Aruba
The best time to have an Aruba wedding is from Mid-December to Mid-April. It’s warm throughout and is considered an excellent time for beach lovers. Aruba’s capital is also abuzz during this high season, and you can expect a lot of people around popular beaches and restaurants.
However, you can expect to pay top dollar for accommodation, food, and activities around the island as most tourists flock in during this time. It’s crucial to make reservations and plan months if you plan on having your wedding from December to April.
Nonetheless, if you’d rather have fewer crowds and save some coins, you can plan your wedding from Mid-April to August. It’s shoulder season in Aruba, which translates to cheaper rates and fewer people around beaches, restaurants, and tours. Expect short showers and trade winds during this season.
