We have only been to Aruba so I can't compare/contrast your two choices. Also, this is probably too late for your trip, but may help someone else.

We were in Aruba in September 2022. The locals reported that it has been busy all summer. I didn't find it crowded. We didn't make reservations and had to wait for a table two times. All other times we were able to walk along and pick a place to eat.

We were north of Palm Beach and found the coast road to be lightly traveled during the times we were out.

Scenery wise the island is a desert -- not a lush tropical island typical of the Barbados, St. Lucia and Virgin Islands destinations. The cactus run tall there! 15 feet I would guess. It's a different view for sure.

The "local food" is an odd thing. Jamaica has their Jamaican Patties. Trinidad has their Doubles. I don't remember anything that stands out as Aruban for food other than the Aruba Ariba drink. They have their Dutch influences of which I partook of their pancakes. They had South American dishes -- which I can't remember a specific example of right now. Nothing stood out as being Aruban. Don't get me wrong -- it was different than I could get at home and all was good. It was definitely "I'm on vacation" meals. In the Caribbean I look for the seafood I can't get at home or the pork chop with different seasoning and sides that I can't get at home.

It's a lovely place. Our second trip has been planned 8 months after our first one.