A Brief Guide to Aruba's Blissful Week: Uncovering the Joyous Isle
In the heart of the Caribbean lies Aruba, an island as vibrant and diverse as its tropical cocktails. This charming piece of paradise, with its distinctive blend of colors and rhythms, offers more than just sun, sea, and sand. And boy, do we love it!
Aruba's simply irresistible allure lured us from the moment we set foot on its shores. This diminutive island, just 8km wide and 30km long, makes up for its modest size with a powerful punch. The azure waters, cacti-dotted landscapes, and the infectious reggae beats set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Before stepping foot on this paradise, we thought a week would be plenty. Boy, were we wrong! Aruba is jam-packed with natural wonders, local culture, fantastic eats, hidden beaches, and a thriving street art scene. But alas, many choose to spend their time lounging on the beach, and we can't blame them!
For those willing to venture beyond the water's edge and their next frozen beverage, there's an authentic Aruba waiting. With rugged national parks, stargazing, mouthwatering food, secluded beaches, caverns with ancient art, and a vibrant street art scene, Aruba is so much more than a sandy feet escape.
Ready to embark on this Aruba travel adventure with us? Buckle up as we take you through everything we got up to on our one week in Aruba, filling you in on why you should visit Aruba too.
Navigating Aruba
Arubus surprised us with its extensive network of routes and services, perfect for exploring the island. While you may not be able to reach everywhere by public transport, a mix of buses and tours would give you a thrilling escape. Timetables can be found here.
Car rental from the airport is a breeze, but we recommend opting for a 4WD over a standard car to access spots in the national parks and off-road destinations that a regular vehicle wouldn't. Amigo was our go-to local hire firm.
There are numerous tour operators and transfer options available on the island, catering mostly to those staying at resorts. We even rented bicycles for a while, which was a blast – the island is flat, though long trips in the strong sun weren't ideal.
The Beaches of Aruba
Let's start with Aruba's most famous attraction, its glorious coastline. This varied coast contains gently lapping waves, mangrove-shrouded beaches, and crashing surf. With a wealth of beach destinations to choose from, each offering a unique experience, pairs of sunglasses are a must!
Our favorite beach was a short drive south of the airport, though most places are just a short drive away in Aruba. This hidden gem, called Mangel Halto, seemed less well-known than many other beaches, despite its proximity to the city and cruise terminal.
Mangel Halto offers a mix of white sands, mangroves, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. If you walk along the beach and take the path to the side road, you'll find stairs and decks leading straight down into the water.
Another favorite of ours was Arashi Beach, near our Gold Coast accommodation in Malmok. The beaches along here are renowned for their snorkeling, and with a nearby beer shack and fewer crowds, it was a perfect place for relaxation during the day or sunset.
The main resort beach on the island is Palm Beach, boasting hotels along its length. While we had heard tales of the "high rise" beach before arriving in Aruba, it isn't as drastic as we expected – more like a lovely beach with some of the whitest sand we've ever seen, albeit a bit crowded.
Eagle Beach, located nearby, offers a similar vibe to Palm Beach, albeit less crowded. Here, you'll find swings for that Instagram shot, jet skis for rent, and a lovely restaurant on the sand, where we enjoyed a tasty lunch.
Eagle Beach is also just by the Bubali Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot various birds in the marshlands, making it an ideal combination.
Hadicurari Beach boasts a more authentic feel, thanks to fishermen and their huts. If you're seeking a similar vibe but with fewer visitors, drive over to the east coast beaches on the island to discover secluded pockets of paradise.
For another sublime beach, with waves crashing against rocky cliffs and water photoshop-worthy, head to Dos Playa, the beach inside the Arikok National Park, a true gem.
Watersports and Diving in Aruba
If lazing on the beach has its limits for you, comme ci, comme ça, the water in Aruba is the perfect temperature for swimming and snorkeling. Snorkel gear can often be rented at resorts and most beaches, except for the smaller, quieter ones that don't have activity centers.
Palm and Eagle Beach offer the most activities, with jet-skiing, kayaks, paddleboards, and more available. The prices seemed fair for Aruba, with costs around USD 20 for an hour on a paddleboard or USD 50 for 30 minutes of jet-skiing.
Scuba Diving in Aruba is some of the best in the Caribbean, thanks to excellent coral reefs, like Mikes Reef, and numerous wreck dives. Some wrecks, like The Pedernales, torpedoed during WWII, are authentic, while others have been purposefully sunk.
One fascinating opportunity for diving in Aruba is the sunken plane, located near the Renaissance Island. Sadly, we weren't able to dive it on this trip, but it certainly raises the stakes when it comes to wreck diving FOMO.
Aruba's marine code, like most places, prohibits touching wildlife, including the turtles that occasionally lay or hatch eggs on the island's shores and underwater life.
Island Trips in Aruba
For a small island, it may surprise you that you can take island trips from Aruba to even smaller islands.
The most famous island is Renaissance Island, privately owned by the hotel and ferries guests from its mainland location to the resort. Non-hotel guests who wish to visit the island must secure day passes, which are both scarce and expensive, typically running around $100 per person. The main draw for Renaissance Island is the small number of flamingos kept there. Personally, knowing these birds have likely had their wings clipped to prevent them from flying, we didn't feel drawn to visiting.
Just along from Renaissance Island is De Palm Island, another all-inclusive island offering water sports, food, drinks, and other activities. Tickets for this island can be purchased online, and at approximately half the price of Renaissance Island, you can enjoy the flamingos and escape vibes without breaking the bank.
There are also family-owned reefs and cabins that can be rented, although the costs for a boat and rental may only be feasible for larger groups. Our squad spent a beautiful morning at Barcadera Reef, renting one of the small wooden houses from a local family. They even organized a BBQ for us, and we had a fantastic time swimming and snorkeling.
Where to Stay in Aruba
Most resorts and all-inclusive accommodations are centered around Palm Beach, with no shortage of options on hotel booking platforms. Aruba is embracing a new approach, aiming to limit the development of big hotels.
We recommend staying away from the large hotels and instead focusing on apartments and Airbnb. We stayed at the Gold Coast Club, which offers a mix of residential and rental apartments in the Malmok region in the north. Each unit came with a kitchen, ideal for cooking and saving money, and it also boasted a clubhouse with a pool available to guests. Of course, having a car will be essential for this type of accommodation.
Budget accommodation is lacking in Aruba, with no hostels we could find. However, there are some homestays and rooms in houses available on Airbnb.
If you're looking to splurge, places like the Renaissance Hotel, which includes access to their private island with flamingos, are renowned options. Personally, we didn't want to stay in the city or too close to the Cruise Port, as the area becomes quite busy when the ships arrive.
For a unique experience, you can even find Aruba's only overwater bungalows in Savaneta, the island's old capital.
The Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park covers over 20% of the island. This rugged, dry landscape feels worlds apart from the resort beaches on the west coast, though in reality, it's just a short drive away.
The national park is home to one of our favorite beaches, Dos Playa, which we mentioned earlier. This stunning beach, split by dramatic rock formations, gives a home to turtles nesting during the season. Inside the Fontein cave, you can find an ode to Aruba's long history, thanks to the Caquetío Indian rock paintings that adorn the walls. Quadiriki caves, with their handful of bats and roof windows, offer a cooler temperature for exploring and photographing.
Another gem in the Arikok National Park is the Donkey Sanctuary, which is free to visit, though donations are, of course, encouraged. Aruba was once awash with wild donkeys that were imported, but as more roads were constructed and resulted in accidental deaths, the sanctuary was established to keep these adorable creatures safe.
Stargazing in Aruba
In and around Arikok National Park, you'll find some of the best stargazing on the island. One evening, we headed down a dirt track road (4WD is essential), past the Ayo Rock Formations, just outside the park, and set up under the stars. The night sky was filled with stars, and with minimal light pollution, it was an incredible sight to behold.
Sashay Down to Cultural Hub San Nicolas
The highlight of our trip to Aruba was exploring the vibrant and edgy streets of San Nicolas.
Known as the sunrise city, most tourists would venture to the far south of the island to enjoy the pristine sand of Baby Beach. However, here, just a short drive away from shops and the bright lights of the capital, you'll find a more authentic slice of Aruba.
San Nicolas sometimes gets a bad reputation, and you'll often hear tales of prostitution when describing it. Thanks to some passionate and dedicated locals and international street artists, though, it's getting a new lease on life.
The once rundown streets and dilapidated walls are becoming alive with color thanks to mural artists from around the world, who shared their work across the city. On each corner, you'll find another piece of art, whether it be sprayed on the wall or constructed from the island's trash.
San Nicolas is also home to the newly opened Carnival museum, paying tribute to this colorful and energetic festival, which takes place from January to March each year.
If you're seeking a rawer side of the Caribbean vibe in Aruba, you'll love San Nicolas as much as we did.
Start your visit at the Cosecha Creative Center, which has spearheaded the revival of the city. Here, you can purchase local artists' work or even try your hand at creating your own. During our visit, we were fortunate enough to meet some Portuguese street artists and leave our mark with a can of spray paint on the newest mural in town.
If you time your visit right, steel pans will fill the air as flamboyant outfits dance around you in a riot of color. Here, in San Nicolas, we found our hearts truly come alive. Each Thursday, you can sample the flavors of the festival here in the city, with music, shows, and handicrafts that bring the streets to life.
Keep an eye out for pop-up events here in the form of street restaurants, which will round off the perfect visit to this lesser-known side of Aruba. If you're seeking the island's culture, make sure you visit the sunrise city.
Best Time to Visit Aruba / Events
Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, so as a general rule, it's a year-round destination when it comes to weather, maintaining a temperature of around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year.
The lower seasons run from September to November, when the weather can be unpredictable, but the costs are usually lower to visit.
From January through to March, the Aruba Carnival takes place, which is a massive event drawing many visitors. While this would be an incredible time to visit, be sure to book accommodation well in advance if you want to join the festival!
Explore the Old and New of Oranjestad
Oranjestad is a city standing in a time warp, with the old colonial buildings contrasting against the modern cruise port.
One of the best ways to get a feel for Oranjestad is to join a walking tour, and we highly recommend doing so on the evening version with Aruba Walks.
Exploring the city with two friendly locals, our group was guided between the most important historical monuments in the city, complete with fascinating stories of the island's history. The bonus of this particular walking tour is the foodie element, with five different restaurant stops included.
The first thing that will strike you when you arrive in Oranjestad is the riotously colorful, and some might say garish, buildings inspired by the Dutch days. Bright pinks stand out against cheap shop signs, while more pastel-shaded buildings are appealing to the eye.
The free tram, which circles the city, is another excellent way to get your bearings and enjoy a lazy loop of Oranjestad.
If you're feeling the urge to spend, you'll find plenty of high-end retail stores on the squares and in the malls here, as well as the typical tourist souvenirs. It's also a hub of nightlife entertainment, although most of our evenings out were spent around the white sands of Palm Beach.
Notable tourist attractions worth visiting include the oldest building in Aruba, Fort Zoutman. The tower next door followed in 1868, and both were used to protect against pirates. These days, you'll find the Historical Museum here, which provides a good overview of the island's history.
The area that Oranjestad covers used to be known as the Horse Bay, as many horses were brought to the island over the years and eventually roamed free. You'll spot blue horse statues across the capital in tribute to the island's equine history.
If you want to delve deeper into Aruba's culture, head to the community art center or enjoy a performance at the country's main theater, the Cas di Cultura.
The capital is compact, so exploring on foot is the best way to get around. Park your car there, though be aware that if it's a busy day for the cruise terminals, the city can quickly become crowded, so head here in the mornings and avoid the crowds.
The Most Famous Aruba Attractions
While there are plenty of ways to spend your time in Aruba, there are a few iconic attractions that are considered must-visits on the island.
Nearby Arikok National Park, you'll find the Ayo Rock Formations, a collection of monolithic rock boulders that also have one cave with historical paintings similar to those found within the national park.
The site of the Balashi Ruins is where you can see the remnants of Aruba's mining history. In the 19th century, gold mining was booming here, but today, all that remains are the ruins of the mine, which you can wander around on foot for a glimpse into the past.
Aruba's history can be traced back to the Caiquetio Indians, who were the first known inhabitants of the island around 3500 years ago. Rock drawings from these early days can still be found in the island's caves.
In 1499, the Spanish arrived in Aruba, marking the beginning of a chain of colonization from various countries. Slavery began on the island and lasted for over 137 years, after which the Dutch took control. In 1845, Aruba officially became part of the Netherlands Antilles, which includes two other nearby islands. Aruba seceded from the Netherlands Antilles in 1986, though it remains autonomous within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
For more detailed information about Aruba's history, visit the Aruba Tourism website.
Nearby the Alto Vista Chapel, you'll find the largest windmill in Aruba, standing tall and imposing as a symbol of the island's Dutch heritage. The windmill is a striking sight against the azure sky.
The California Lighthouse, also known as the Lighthouse of Aruba, is another iconic landmark that serves as a handy navigation tool for sailors and a romantic destination for couples.
Languages in Aruba
English is widely spoken across Aruba, along with Dutch and Papiamentu, the local language. Spanish is also spoken, although not as fluently.
The two official languages of Aruba are Papiamento and Dutch, with many people speaking Spanish and English as well. Papiamento is an intriguing mix of Dutch, English, and Spanish, although it closely resembles Afro-Portuguese Creole.
Dinner Cruises in Aruba
While we aimed for this Aruba travel guide to be authentic, there are certain touristy things that you simply must do. A sunset dinner cruise in Aruba is one of those things, and there are several options to choose from.
Some dinner cruises focus more on booze and partying, while others, like the Monforte Luxury Dinner Cruise, focus on food and entertainment. Setting off to watch the sunset paint the sky in hues of gold and orange, the boat moored up gently, and a delicious dinner was served. If you're seeking a romantic treat in Aruba, this is one of the best choices.
Sustainability in Aruba
Aruba has taken significant steps toward eco-friendliness, with tap water being safe to drink, thanks to a huge desalination plant on the island. Obviously, apart from being an eyesore, this creation generates its own problems, but at least you won't need to buy single-use plastic water bottles on the island.
Aruba has also banned single-use plastics since 2019 and prohibited harmful ingredients found in sunscreen. Be sure to check the products you're bringing. At Eduardo's beach shack, for example, they were more than happy to serve our bowls in a recycled paper container rather than compostable plastic.
Where to Eat and Drink in Aruba
Eduardo's beach shack became our go-to spot for breakfast and lunch. Situated on Palm Beach, the health-conscious and vegan options available here were excellent, although you'll pay a premium for the beachfront location. The Acai Bowls here were a winner.
Local Store offers a funky, retro atmosphere, with wall colors and colorful lights. The menu features American dishes with a local twist, like Balish BBQ ribs, and a relaxed, lively vibe. The range of Aruban beers available complements the perfect laid-back night out.
Quinta del Carmen is an old hospital outbuilding that has been transformed into a fancy restaurant. Whether you sit in the front garden, back terrace, or inside, the relaxed atmosphere is elevated, and the food is of high quality.
Peanuts was a local recommendation, and the menu listed in Florin and the local customers confirmed that. Here, we sampled some Aruban stews and dishes, and while the service was slow and the food not the best we had, the chill vibe, lower prices, and laid-back atmosphere reflected that.
Hadicurari was a hidden gem and located just north of Palm Beach. This atmospheric beachfront restaurant spills out onto the sand, with sand beneath your feet and the local Aruban cocktail in your hand. The Ceviche here was the standout dish for us.
Zeerovers is a local, less-touristy eatery located off the beaten path. Here, you'll find some of the freshest fish on the island and, on some days, can even see the fishermen catching the fish right from the beach!
We also enjoyed some fantastic meals in Oranjestad, many of which we discovered on the Aruba Walking Tour.
Dancing and Nightlife in Aruba
Craft is a small coffee shop that transforms into a cozy bar at night, located in the Palm Beach area. Serving some of the best coffee we found on the island and tasty cocktails, it's an ideal spot throughout the day.
Gusto Nightclub was our go-to spot in Palm Beach, where we spent too much money on G&Ts and danced like fools on stage. Good vibes, a local crowd, and a friendly bar team made it a perfect spot to unwind after a long day in the sun.
The Windmill is an epic venue, although we have to admit we don't remember much by the time we arrived. A late-night spot just a short walk from Palm Beach's hotspots, the large windmill flanked the venue.
MooMba is another spot north of Palm Beach and is especially popular on Sunday evenings when locals and visitors gather to enjoy the funky tunes and delicious local Balashi beer.
Additional Activities in Aruba
To round off our Aruba travel guide, we'd like to share some additional things to do on the island.
As one of the premium golf destinations in the Caribbean, those who can withstand the heat should give it a go. If speed is more your thing, then the island's motor racing track provides an adrenaline rush.
If you want to see Aruba from the sky, consider skydiving or taking a scenic flight in a helicopter or light plane.
For those interested in the natural history of the island, head to the Archaeological Museum for insight into its geography, or visit the Aloe Farm and Factory and the Butterfly Garden for a deeper understanding of one of Aruba's main exports.
Whether you decide to spend your time in Aruba laying on the beach or packed with activities, we hope this Aruba travel guide has enlightened you about the incredible experiences this one happy island offers and enticed you to plan your trip!
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Enrichment Data:
- Overall: Aruba offers a wealth of experiences beyond its renowned beaches and resorts, especially for travelers interested in the island’s natural wonders and local culture. Here are the top things to do:
- Explore Aruba’s Natural Landscapes: Visit Arikok National Park, home to dramatic landscapes, rocky outcrops, caves with ancient art, and hidden treasures like the Natural Pool.
- Adventure and Outdoor Activities: Go on guided off-road adventures, explore secluded beaches, or participate in water sports like parasailing and snorkeling.
- Discover Local Culture and Landmarks: Wander the colorful streets of Oranjestad, a historic city with Dutch colonial architecture, or check out landmarks such as the Alto Vista Chapel and the California Lighthouse.
- Wildlife and Birdwatching: Spot unique species such as the Aruban burrowing owl, whiptail lizard, and various migratory birds in Arikok National Park and other protected areas.
- Additional Tips: Rent a car or ATV for maximum flexibility and access to remote areas, and check accessibility for attractions before visiting.
In the midst of a vibrant and diverse Aruba, where food-and-drink options are just as enticing as the tropical cocktails, we embarked on a travel adventure that took us beyond the sun, sea, and sand.
While we initially thought a week in Aruba would be long enough to explore its natural wonders and local culture, we soon realized we had underestimated the island's charm. For those willing to venture beyond the water's edge and their next frozen beverage, an authentic Aruba awaits, filled with rugged national parks, secluded beaches, caverns with ancient art, and a vibrant street art scene.
