Ultimate Aruba Travel Guide: One Happy Island
Discover the Charm of Aruba with the Ultimate Travel Guide - Everything You Need to Know to Book Your Ticket to Paradise!
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Why Visitors Fall in Love with Aruba
(and Keep Coming Back)
We first visited Aruba in spring of 2021, still at the height of the pandemic. We were in search of sunshine, crystal-clear blue waters, stunning beaches, and a relaxed, Caribbean vibe. Aruba 100% delivered! We fell in LOVE instantly with the island and quickly understood why visitors continue to come back time and time again!
Aruba has become one of our top destinations and we just cannot get enough. As we just booked our 4th trip to this One Happy Island, I wanted to share what makes Aruba so special and beloved by so many.
Aruba is known as “One Happy Island”. It captures the hearts of its visitors with its stunning natural beauty and year-round perfect weather.
Beyond its beauty, Aruba has a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere that immediately makes its visitors feel at home. The island's friendly locals, known for their warm hospitality, are always ready to share a smile and a story. wherever you are exploring on the island, you'll find the Aruban people genuinely welcoming and eager to make your stay memorable.
Aruba is known for being the island that visitors continue to visit, time and time again.
What makes Aruba a top destination for return visitors?
Breathtaking Beauty
Aruba has several stunning beaches with powdery white sand and crystal-clear aqua blue waters all across the island. Imagine palm trees swaying in the breeze and ombré sunsets. It’s pure paradise! Visitors can spend an entire week just lounging at beautiful Palm Beach or serene Eagle Beach. But there is also SO much more to discover off the beaten path.
Perfect Weather
With nearly constant sunshine, Aruba’s weather is hard to beat. You can expect sunny skies almost every day, making it perfect for all your beach and outdoor activities year-round.
Chill Vibes
Aruba is known for its laid-back atmosphere. The locals are incredibly friendly and always welcoming. Whether you’re exploring Oranjestad or lounging on the beach, you’ll feel right at home.
Foodie Heaven
Aruba is a food lover’s dream. From fresh seafood to Caribbean and international dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Many restaurants offer stunning ocean views to enjoy while you dine.
Easy and Safe
Traveling to Aruba is a breeze, especially for Americans. English is widely spoken, and US dollars are accepted everywhere. Plus, it’s one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, so you can explore with peace of mind.
In essence, Aruba offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, welcoming hospitality, delightful cuisine, and a safe, easy-to-navigate environment. It's no wonder first time visitors fall in love with this charming island and return time and time again.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a relaxing girls’ trip, or an adventure for the whole family, Aruba is an amazing destination!
In this travel guide, I will be focusing on the perfect trip to Aruba. I will be sharing:
Where to Stay - from adults-only options and ocean-front resorts to all-inclusive and family-friendly accommodations
What to Do - fun experiences on the island; both in and out of the water
Where to Eat - top restaurants in Aruba; from casual dining with toes in the sand to gourmet dining in a romantic and intimate setting
Come discover Aruba - One Happy Island!
When to Visit Aruba
One of the best things about Aruba is that its fabulous weather is pretty constant, year-round. It has a sunny, windy, dry climate and temps in the mid to upper 80s nearly every day!
Plus, Aruba is located outside of the hurricane belt. So while there may be some seasonal storms, you don’t need to worry about any major tropical storms or hurricanes.
So, any month is perfect to visit Aruba! Peak season is considered December to the Easter holiday. Mid-April to November is considered off-season with less-expensive hotel rates.
How to Get to Aruba
There is one airport on the island, near Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad (Beatrix International Airport; airport code: AUA). Several airlines have daily direct flights from the United States to Aruba. Start your flight search on Google Flights or SkyScanner.com.
We typically fly to Aruba on Southwest Airlines. With a Southwest Rapid Rewards credit card, it’s easy to rack up enough points for 1 or 2 free roundtrips each year.
Apply here for 50,000 bonus points; enough for 1 free roundtrip flight to Aruba!
A friendly reminder about Aruba’s AMAZING wildlife
While exploring Aruba’s beautiful beaches, remember to be a respectful guest—enjoy the amazing sea turtles, starfish, and other beautiful creatures from a distance.
Touching them can cause stress and even harm, so let them be, and you’ll get to witness their natural, undisturbed beauty!
Keep your underwater camera handy to cherish the memories!
Other Tips and Info on Aruba
Language - Dutch and local Papiamento are the official languages of Aruba. But most locals speak at least 4 languages, including English and Spanish. You won’t have any issues navigating the island if you only speak English.
Currency - The official currency is the Aruban Florin. But the US Dollar is also widely accepted. All major credit cards are also accepted throughout the island.
Drinking Water - Yep! Drink up!! Because of its careful distilling process, Aruba’s tap water is super safe to drink, and pure and refreshing. In fact, the quality ranks amongst the highest standards according to the World Health Organization. Grab your refillable water bottle and enjoy!
WIFI - Aruba is among the most-modern in the Caribbean. WIFI is regularly available at hotels, bars, and restaurants across the island.
Safety - Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Violent crime rates are extremely low. The island is small and easy to navigate. Renting a car and exploring is easy, convenient, and safe. As with any other location in the entire world, always practice caution and be aware of your surroundings for a safe and memorable trip!
Getting Around the Island
Aruba is SUPER easy to get around. It’s only 18 miles across, You can get from one side of the island to the other in just about 40 minutes. Driving in Aruba is so easy to navigate. There’s plenty of parking around the island as well. I highly recommend renting a car while in Aruba so you can venture out and experience the hidden spots around the island. There’s so much more to Aruba outside of Palm Beach and Eagle Beach! Go explore!
Car Rental - you can easily rent a car through Rentalcars.com (a Booking.com partner). They have vehicles available from the airport, or if you only want to rent for a couple days to explore the island, you can also select pick-up locations near your hotel! Note - some areas on the east side of the island require jeeps or 4x4’s. Your rental car company will give you details on where you can and cannot go.
Taxis - Uber and Lyft do not exist on the island yet. But taxis are readily available and easily accessible. There are taxi lines at all major hotels in the Palm Beach hotel zone. Your hotel front desk or concierge can also easily set you up with a taxi. Note - taxi prices are regulated by the government so no need to “haggle” on prices.
UTV / ATV Tours - if you’re looking for a super fun and adventurous afternoon exploring all of the island, be sure to check out an ATV Adventure Tour!
The capital of Aruba, Oranjestad, is known for its bright pastel buildings, with lots of shopping and restaurants to enjoy!
Where to Stay
When it comes to choosing where to stay in Aruba, you’ll likely find yourself deciding between two popular areas: Palm Beach and Eagle Beach.
Palm Beach is known for its lively atmosphere, with a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and shops just footsteps away. It's the perfect spot if you love a fun vibe and want to be in the heart of the action. On the other hand, Eagle Beach offers a more tranquil setting, with its serene, wide stretches of sand and fewer crowds—ideal for a relaxing getaway.
Adults-Only Hotels
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba: This charming hotel is a hidden gem, offering a cozy and colorful escape just a short walk from Palm Beach. The lush gardens and private casitas make it feel like your own little oasis. For a small boutique hotel of only 49 casitas, the list of amenities is big, including an onsite restaurant and its own beach area with gorgeous day beds and food/drink service. Boardwalk is a pure delight!
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort: Located on Eagle Beach, this resort is a slice of paradise for couples. With its romantic setting, stunning beachfront views, and exceptional service, it’s perfect for a peaceful and luxurious stay.
Beachfront Resorts for the Whole Family
Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino: This resort is a family favorite, offering spacious rooms, a large pool area, and easy access to Palm Beach. It's the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino: Known for its beautiful grounds and fantastic amenities, this resort is ideal for families looking for fun and relaxation. The kids will love the waterslide, while adults can unwind at the spa.
Tranquil Eagle Beach Hotel
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort: If you’re drawn to the serene beauty of Eagle Beach, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort is an excellent choice. This charming, Dutch-inspired resort offers stunning ocean views, a relaxed atmosphere, and direct access to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
All-Inclusive Resorts
While I don’t typically recommend all-inclusive resorts in Aruba—mainly because there are so many incredible dining options to explore—there are some great choices if you're set on an all-inclusive experience. Riu Palace Aruba, Barceló Aruba, and Divi Village All-Inclusive Villas are all located on Palm Beach and offer all the perks of an all-inclusive stay, with the added benefit of being close to all the action.
Read for More → Best Hotels in Aruba
Things to Do While Visiting
Beaches
Obviously, anyone visiting Aruba is going to spend lots of time at its beautiful beaches! Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are the two most-known beaches in Aruba, with the majority of the accommodations near one of these beaches. Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are known for their clear, calm, and shallow waters.
Calm crystal blue waters of Palm Beach
Tranquil spot under a divi-divi tree at Eagle Beach
There’s tons of water activities that can easily be booked right on the beach, such as jet skis, paddle boards, water trikes, wind surfing, water yoga, and so many more!
Snorkeling - For private snorkeling trips, we’ve used this local company several times and it’s always a smooth and fun experience! If you’re looking for a lively snorkeling adventure, fun for the whole family, be sure to check out Jolly Pirate Cruises.
Windsurfing is one of the biggest sports in Aruba. Be sure to check out the wind surfers at the north end of Palm Beach. You may even catch a few professionals practicing their craft! Give it a try yourself - lessons available to book right on the beach.
If you’re renting a car, Baby Beach is a must visit! Take your snorkeling googles…sea turtles are plentiful in the area and like to glide around close to the shore! After enjoying time at Baby Beach, head next door to Rum Reef for a quick bite or enjoy a cocktail in their gorgeous, adults-only infinity pool over looking the sea.
If you have some more time, drive around the island searching for smaller, local beaches like Arashi Beach and Tres Trapi.
Aruba tip - all beaches in Aruba are free to the public to be enjoyed by all! Bring your own towel or blanket. Chairs and umbrellas are available to rent at most of the main beach locations as well.
Sights / Experiences
There are plenty of historical sites around the island that deserve a visit, such as:
California Lighthouse
Natural Bridge
Alto Vista Chapel
Bushiribana Gold Mills Ruins
Arikok National Park and the Natural Pool
While the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach areas offer calm, serene waters with powdery sands, other parts of Aruba give a stark contrast. On the island's rugged northeast coast, you'll find wild, rocky shores with crashing waves and dramatic cliffs. The landscape here is more arid, with cactus-studded desert terrain, wind-swept divi-divi trees, and striking rock formations like those found in Arikok National Park. This side of the island feels more untamed and remote, offering a different kind of natural beauty that's rugged and adventurous. The best way to see all of the top spots and get some of the history of the island is by booking a half-day tour or UTV Tour for the more adventurous!
There’s SO much more to Aruba than Palm Beach & Eagle Beach - if you have the time, get out and explore the rugged side of the island!
For the animal lovers, Aruba has several spots where you can learn and interact with wildlife on the island. Here’s a few worth checking out:
Aruba Ostrich Farm
The Donkey Sanctuary
Philip’s Animal Garden
Butterfly Farm
Bubali Bird Sanctuary
For included transportation to visit several of these spots, check out this Aruba Animal Sanctuary Guided Tour
Casinos
Many of the high-rise resorts on Palm Beach have casinos on site. The Ritz-Carlton, Hyatt Resort, and Marriott all offer plenty of slots, table games, and complementary drinks for those playing. For a more local vibe with great deals and lower table limits, check out Alhambra Casino in Oranjestad. There’s lots of casual shopping and dining options nearby as well to make for a fun, relaxed evening!
Shopping
There’s lots of great shopping across the island, from cherished souvenirs to high end fashion. Be sure to check out the area in the hotel zone across from Palm Beach and downtown Oranjestad near the cruise ports!
Discover Aruba’s biggest export…aloe! Check out the Aruba Aloe Factory Museum and Store for a free tour. Tours are held daily, every 15 minutes. Hours are 8-5 during the week; 9-5 on Saturdays and 9-1pm on Sundays.
Day Trip Recommendation - Local Aruban Experience
If you’re renting a car for the day and want to discovery a local, more organic side of Aruba, here’s a half day itinerary to check out.
Mid to late morning - If you are staying near Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, start heading south after breakfast.
If you haven’t been yet, this is a great time to stop and check out the Donkey Sanctuary or Balashi Gold Mills ruins.
Head to the San Nicolas neighborhood where several buildings are painted with amazingly beautiful and vibrant street murals. There is plenty of parking near the San Nicolas police station. Park and take a little stroll and find your favorite street art.
After experiencing the street art, head over to O’Neil Caribbean Kitchen for an authentic Jamaican lunch. The lunch specials are delicious, plentiful, and inexpensive. Definitely worth the trip to the south end of the island!
After lunch, grab a quick beer or soda at Charlie’s Bar and Restaurant. A family-owned establishment since 1941, Charlie’s Bar is one of the oldest existing businesses on the island! This place is chill, super fun, and eccentric!
Finally, make your way towards Baby Beach. You will know you’re getting close when you see the big red anchor (photo op!) and the donkeys blocking the road!
Baby Beach is a beautiful, crescent-shaped lagoon on Aruba's southern tip, known for its calm, shallow waters and soft white sand. Perfect for families, the water is clear and gentle, ideal for swimming and snorkeling with colorful fish. It’s a laid-back spot with a few beach huts for snacks, rentals, and a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle gliding by!
Before heading back north, stop next door at Rum Reef beach bar and restaurant. Rinse off the sand and salt water and enjoy a cocktail in the exclusive infinity pool. The adults-only pool at Rum Reef offers stunning views, overlooking the bold turquoise sea just beyond Baby Beach. It’s the perfect setting for a serene and scenic experience.
San Nicolas Street Art
Exploring Aruba’s Southern Tip
Best Places to Eat
Aruba’s got it all when it comes to food. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, local flavors, or something healthy, this island is a foodie’s paradise. With plenty of spots to chill and enjoy great vibes, you’ll find the perfect place to satisfy your taste buds. Here’s a few of my top favorite spots.
Breakfast
Linda’s Dutch Pancakes
The Dutch Pancake House
Eduardo’s Beach Shack
Craft Coffee & Bar
Dushi Delicious Breakfast Cafe
Lunch / Casual Dinner
O’Neil Caribbean Kitchen - San Nicolas
Salt and Pepper Tapas Bar and Restaurant - Palm Beach hotel zone
Lola Taqueria - Palm Beach hotel zone
Pizza Bob’s Aruba - next to Alhambra Casino
Dining Experiences
There’s SO many amazing restaurants in Aruba. But the top spots book up quick! If there’s somewhere that’s a MUST on your list, be sure to grab a reservation as soon as possible. Here’s a few of our favorites:
Oak - Our number 1 must-have meal on the island. The steaks are phenomenal, but the pastas are just as good and savory. Best old fashions on the island! Oak is small and very popular. Be sure to make reservations early. They start booking out several months in advance.
→ Make a reservation at Oak
Elements - A little less known, but this main restaurant at Bucuti and Tara is a dream dining experience. With the white beach and tranquil sea just past the patio dining area, Elements offers delicious candlelight dining with the sound of soft waves in the background. Perfect for couples celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or just a romantic night out.
→ Make a reservation at Elements
Quinta del Carmen - Dining at Quinta del Carmen is an elegant experience, set in a beautifully restored 1916 manor house with charming outdoor seating. The menu features a delightful mix of international and Aruban cuisine, served in a cozy, romantic atmosphere.
→ Make a reservation at Quinta del Carmen
Giannis Restaurant Aruba - Giannis is definitely a tourist favorite, right in the Palm Beach hotel zone. Since it caters to tourists and located in a very popular area in town, the prices are probably a bit higher than they should be. The service is good and efficient but may not go above and beyond. But we still absolutely adore the experience and everything Giannis has to offer! We love finding the local spots in Aruba, but there’s also comfort at Giannis and being part of the excitement! While it may not be an authentic Italian meal, Giannis’s Spaghetti al Formaggio Parmigiano (where they bring out a big wheel of Parmesan cheese, shave out some cheese, pour whiskey on it, and light it on fire tableside before stirring in the pasta) is freaking delicious! An amazing dinner and a show! Split the pasta experience and add an order of meatballs. You will not be disappointed!
→ Make a reservation at Giannis
After Dinner Drinks
Divi Sushi Bar & Lounge - once you’re ready for a nightcap and maybe some dessert, head to the lobby bar at the Ritz Carlton for a sophisticated vibe, tempting desserts, and handcrafted cocktails. The Lounge offers an impressive assortment of Japanese whiskeys as well
Reserved area on Palm Beach for Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba guests
Aruba truly captures the hearts of its visitors with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless adventures.
Whether you’re lounging on the pristine shores of Palm Beach, exploring the island’s rich history at landmarks like the California Lighthouse and Alto Vista Chapel, or soaking in the local charm of San Nicolas and Baby Beach, there’s something for everyone. It’s no wonder that so many people fall in love with this island paradise and keep coming back for more.
Whether you’re lounging on the pristine shores of Palm Beach, exploring the island’s rich history at landmarks like the California Lighthouse and Alto Vista Chapel, or soaking in the local charm of San Nicolas and Baby Beach, there’s something for everyone. It’s no wonder that so many people fall in love with this island paradise and keep coming back for more.
So pack your bags, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on the One Happy Island—Aruba.
