When I think of paradise children don’t readily come to mind; so when Janien Huistra Director of Sales and Marketing at Renaissance Aruba and Curacao filled me in on the family side of the resort I was surprised. After years of being single envisioning paradise with children was quite far from my mind. It was with a great deal of surprise and delight that I found myself actually enjoying my visits to The Ocean Suites family portion of the resort.

My first visit to the family side was late in the evening. The outdoor dining drew me to the family side of the resort. Though the adult side of the resort has outstanding restaurants none offer outdoor seating except Blue, an elegant bar overlooking the pool which serves tapas and drinks. The family side of the resort has two options for outdoor dining. These two restaurants are casual and offer the ambiance one would expect within a relaxed, family resort. Each is located surrounding the pools amid beautiful views and tropical walkways.

My lunch at the Sole Pool Bar

The second option is Captain’s Corner which is located under an outdoor pavillion with a thatched roof. The atmosphere was peaceful and casual. It was quiet, enjoyable and not at all what I expected when I thought of children and family dining, I enjoyed it. The restaurant offers buffet style meals and has three dining options. One night the Captains Corner restaurant offers an Italian menu selection with the ambiance and mood one would expect of a home style italian restaurant. The italian menu is priced at $22.95. Another night visitors have the option of Around the World in Three Courses; this menu features items such as japanese sushi, seafood ceviche, greek lamb souvlaki, brazilian mango cheesecake and grilled dominican fruit skewers for $27.95 per person. The third option is Caribbean Barbeque Night which offeres a tasty selection of grilled meats and fish served with caribbean style salads and “dushi” desserts for $24.95.

Captain’s Corner Restaurant at The Ocean Suites, Renaissance Resort Aruba.

The Renaissance Aruba Resort offers additional restaurant options in their outdoor Marketplace. The Marketplace is centrally located between the adult and the family side of the resort, next to the Marina. There are at least eight to ten restaurants within this area. Some restaurants look to be casually elegant, while others are family style, and still others offer quick on the go meals. The marketplace contains shops and a couple breakfast/coffee cafes for those looking for simplier fare or gourmet coffee selections at breakfast. There’s also a movie theatre which is a nice option after a busy day of sun and activities.

Renaissance Aruba Marketplace

Ocean Suites
Photo Courtesy of Marriott Paradise Resorts and Diamond PR

I was pleasantly surprised with my visits to the Ocean Suites side of the Renaissance Aruba resort. I wish I’d had more time to relax there. I might have tried the swim up option at the pool bar to try another of the many island style drinks offered. Within Ocean Suites you will find relaxation, comfort and a delightful atmosphere. In fact some of the rooms offer kitchens for families so that eating in can be an option. I found the Ocean Suites side to have spectacular views and I would recommend a visit. I especially liked the protected sea water swim area overlooking the ocean. There was much to like about Ocean Suites, it’s a delightful environment for families to find a bit of paradise.

A new friend on Renaissance Island

Sailing Away

Your Hammock in Paradise