The Ultimate Travel Guide To Aruba, One Happy Island

If you want to enjoy a tropical paradise while experiencing local customs and traditions, Aruba, a stunning Caribbean island located just off the coast of Venezuela, is the perfect destination. Follow along as we explore some of the best things to see, do, and eat in Aruba.

ARUBA 101

Aruba Tourism Authority

Aruba is a small island country (measuring 19.6 miles long and 6 miles across) in the southern Caribbean Sea, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and warm tropical climate. Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, so it boasts reliably sunny weather year-round with just about 15 inches of rain for the entire year (and even when it rains, we call it "liquid sunshine" in Aruba). It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world with its amazing natural beauty, rich culture, and delicious food.

GETTING TO ARUBA

Aruba is easily accessible via direct flights from many major cities in North America, South America, and Europe. Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), located just a few miles from the capital city of Oranjestad, is the main point of entry. From there, visitors can rent a car or take a taxi to their accommodation.

Aruba Tourism Authority

The best way to explore Aruba is by car, as the island is relatively small and easy to navigate. Rental cars are available at the airport and in major tourist areas, and most major car rental companies have a presence on the island. Taxis are also readily available, and public transportation is affordable and convenient, with buses running regularly between major tourist areas.

WHERE TO STAY

Aruba offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes, from luxurious beachfront resorts to unique boutique hotels. The most popular areas to stay in Aruba are Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Oranjestad.

The Ritz-Carlton Aruba

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is a luxury resort located on the stunning Palm Beach in Aruba. With its elegant architecture, lush tropical gardens, and breathtaking ocean views, the resort offers an unforgettable vacation experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba features 320 guest rooms and suites, each beautifully appointed with modern amenities and stylish decor. All rooms offer a private balcony or terrace with views of the ocean or the resort's gardens.

The resort offers a range of dining options, from casual poolside fare to fine dining experiences. BLT Steak is the resort's signature restaurant, offering prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood in a chic and sophisticated atmosphere. The resort also features Solanio, a casual Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, and Madero Pool and Beach Grill, serving Caribbean-inspired cuisine and cocktails.

The resort's amenities include a full-service spa, fitness center, and two outdoor swimming pools, including an adult-only pool.

The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is also a great destination for families, with a range of activities and programs for kids, including a kids' club and a dedicated family pool area.

In addition to its luxurious amenities and stunning location, the resort is known for its exceptional service and warm hospitality. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing escape, the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba is a perfect choice for a memorable vacation in paradise.

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba

The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba is located just steps away from idyllic Palm Beach. The hotel features different casitas, each designed with a unique and colorful Caribbean style.

The Boardwalk offers a range of guest rooms, suites, and villas, each uniquely decorated with Caribbean-inspired furnishings and artwork. The accommodations range from cozy studio rooms to spacious two-bedroom villas with private plunge pools. All units are fully equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning, a kitchenette, and a private terrace with a hammock and lounge chairs.

The hotel's lush tropical gardens and beautiful outdoor pool provide a serene and peaceful setting for guests to relax and unwind. The hotel also offers a fitness center, a small spa, and a cozy library with books, magazines, and board games. Guests can use the hotel's complimentary shuttle service to Palm Beach.

One of the standout features of the Boardwalk Aruba its personalized service. The hotel's staff is known for their warm and friendly hospitality, and they go above and beyond to ensure that guests have a memorable stay. From arranging airport transfers to recommending local restaurants and attractions, the staff is always available to assist with any needs or requests.

This family-run boutique hotel prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness. The hotel has implemented several environmentally conscious practices, such as using solar panels to power the hotel's common areas, offering reusable water bottles to guests, and providing recycling bins in each room.

The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and unique experience in Aruba. The hotel's personalized service, beautiful surroundings, and commitment to sustainability make it a standout among Aruba's many lodging options.

WHAT TO DO

From enjoying the breathtaking beaches to exploring the beautiful island, there are plenty of things to do in Aruba to make your trip unforgettable.

SNUBA at De Palm Island

You have probably heard of scuba diving and snorkeling, but have you heard of SNUBA? It is a truly unique experience perfect for those who want to explore the underwater world without the training and equipment required for scuba diving. SNUBA is offered at De Palm Island, a private island off the coast of Aruba.

The SNUBA experience at De Palm Island is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, as it is easy to learn and requires no prior experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will provide a briefing on how to use the equipment and offer guidance and support throughout the dive.

During a SNUBA excursion at De Palm Island, you wear a lightweight diving helmet connected to a breathing hose that is attached to an air supply floating on the surface. This allows you to explore the underwater world for an extended period, without worrying about refilling your air supply. You'll be able to dive up to a depth of 20 feet and experience the beauty of the coral reefs and marine life up close.

In addition to SNUBA, De Palm Island also offers other water activities, such as snorkeling, banana boat rides, and water park fun. The island also has a beach, a bar, and a restaurant, making it a perfect spot for a fun day trip.

Windsurfing

Aruba is known for its perfect conditions for windsurfing, making it a popular destination for enthusiasts and beginners alike. The island's constant trade winds and warm, shallow waters make it an ideal location for windsurfing all year round.

There are several schools and rental shops in Aruba that offer windsurfing lessons and equipment rentals for all levels of experience. Vela Sports Aruba is located on the northern side of Palm Beach, and offers a 2-hour beginner lesson. The shallow and calm water provides the perfect playground for learning how to windsurf.

Parasailing

Parasailing is a popular water activity in Aruba that provides a unique and thrilling perspective of the island's scenic coastline and crystal-clear waters. Because of Aruba's windy condition, some call parasailing here the "Aruban roller coaster." You will be lifted into the air by a parachute that is attached to a speedboat that pulls you along the coastline.

Upon being hoisted into the air, you will get to enjoy a bird's eye view of the stunning landscape, including the pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Parasailing in Aruba is a thrilling and unforgettable experience that offers a unique perspective of the island's natural beauty. It's a great way to add some excitement to your vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Sailing and Snorkeling Cruise

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters, balmy tropical breezes, Caribbean cocktails, an open bar, snacks, music, National Geographic snorkeling equipment, and shaded areas.

This cruise stops at a popular snorkeling destination, the Antilla Wreck, a 400-foot-long World War II shipwreck, home to a variety of tropical fish and colorful coral. You also enjoy a snorkel stop at Catalina Bay, a wonderful site for shallow snorkeling with plenty of fish to keep you occupied.

Donkey Sanctuary

Take a break from the water and head over to the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing a safe haven for the island's donkeys, which are an important part of Aruba's cultural heritage. The sanctuary is located in the north of the island, and it is home to more than 120 donkeys.

The sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to interact with these gentle creatures and learn about their history and importance to the island. Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, during which they will learn about the donkeys' natural behaviors, feeding habits, and the challenges they face in the wild.

One of the most popular activities at the sanctuary is feeding the donkeys, which is a fun and interactive experience for visitors of all ages. Visitors can purchase specially made food pellets to feed the donkeys, and they can also pet and interact with them.

The Donkey Sanctuary Aruba is a unique and worthwhile attraction that provides visitors with an opportunity to learn about the island's cultural heritage while interacting with these gentle creatures. It's a great activity for families with children, animal lovers, and anyone who wants to experience something different during their time in Aruba.

The Butterly Farm

The Butterfly Farm Aruba is another unique attraction that provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of these colorful insects up close. The farm is home to a variety of butterfly species from around the world, including the Monarch, Zebra Longwing, and Blue Morpho.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the butterfly farm, during which they will learn about the life cycle and behavior of these fascinating creatures. The tour guides will also explain how the farm supports conservation efforts to protect butterfly species and their natural habitats.

One of the highlights of the butterfly farm is the butterfly habitat, which is a large enclosed area where the butterflies can fly freely. Visitors can walk among the butterflies and observe their natural behavior, including feeding and mating.

The Butterfly Farm Aruba is a peaceful and educational attraction that provides visitors with a unique and memorable experience. It's a great activity for families with children, nature lovers, and anyone who wants to appreciate the beauty of these delicate creatures.

Couples Massage at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, Aruba

Wind down and relax at this ultimate, luxurious spa experience. The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Aruba offers healing and relaxation with a distinctly local touch. Aloe, coffee and other indigenous ingredients are showcased in signature treatments and paired with science-driven skincare from ESPA and Eminence for results-oriented facials.

Relaxation lounges include whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms, and an oxygen bar helps reduce stress and boost energy. The resort’s luxury spa is ideal for couples or bridal parties and includes 13 treatment rooms, a hair and nail salon and a boutique.

WHERE TO EAT

Aruba is known for its diverse culinary scene, with a range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some of the top places to eat in Aruba.

The West Deck

The West Deck is a popular beach bar and restaurant located on the western coast of Aruba, hence the name "West Deck." The restaurant is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, and delicious Caribbean-style cuisine. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, salads, and sandwiches, as well as an extensive selection of tropical cocktails, beers, and wines.

Divi Sushi Bar and Lounge

This contemporary lobby bar at the Ritz Carlton Aruba is the hub of activity and features an illuminated center bar and an outdoor terrace showcasing beautiful views of Palm Beach.

Discover the art of sushi at Divi Sushi Bar and Lounge where you can try mouthwatering sushi rolls and salmon bowl made with finest grade sashimi, juicy steak bowl, and fresh ceviche.

Eduardo's Beach Shack

Eduardo's Beach Shack is a popular outdoor restaurant located in the Palm Beach area of Aruba. The restaurant is known for its casual atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious Caribbean-style cuisine.

The beach shack setting of the restaurant adds to its laid-back ambiance, and guests can enjoy their meals with a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea. The staff at Eduardo's Beach Shack are friendly and welcoming, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.

The menu at Eduardo's Beach Shack offers a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, sandwiches, salads, and smoothies. The standouts from the savory menu include Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl (ahi tuna, salad, coconut rice, pineapple, mango, pickled ginger, wakame, and avocado) and Vegan Pad Thai with Tofu.

Eduardo's also partners with Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, where you can get delicious breakfast delivered to your room. You must try the Banana Pancakes with seasonal fruits, and scrambled eggs with roasted potatoes, mushroom, and a side salad.

Pelican Pier

Pelican Pier is a popular seafood restaurant located on the waterfront in the Palm Beach area of Aruba. The restaurant is situated on a pier that extends out into the Caribbean Sea, offering beautiful views of the ocean and the sunset.

Pelican Pier is known for its fresh seafood dishes, which are prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of seafood options, such as lobster, shrimp, mussels, and fish, as well as non-seafood items like steak and pasta. The restaurant also offers a selection of cocktails, beers, and wines.

Casa Nonna

Casa Nonna is an Italian restaurant located in the Palm Beach area of Aruba. The restaurant features an elegant and cozy atmosphere with rustic Italian decor, and a menu that specializes in traditional Italian cuisine.

The menu at Casa Nonna includes a variety of classic Italian dishes, such as homemade pastas, steak, and antipasti plates. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the Shrimp Scampi, Mushroom Risotto, and 22-ounce Ribeye.

Taste My Aruba

Taste My Aruba is an authentic, family-owned, farm-to-table and sea-to-table restaurant that offers a fusion of Caribbean and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its unique menu items and flavorful dishes, which are made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, with indoor and outdoor seating options. The staff are friendly and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual and relaxed dining experience.

From the appetizer menu, both the Ceviche (local white fish marinated in lime and garnish) and Tuna Tartare (local yellow fin tuna tossed in sesame oil and soya sauce with chunks of avocado, and garnished with edible flower), were an absolutely delicious explosion in the mouth. The Lobster Pasta features perfectly al dente pasta with juicy chunks of lobster.

ARUBA, ONE HAPPY ISLAND

Aruba Tourism Authority

Aruba is a true paradise, offering the perfect blend of natural beauty, activities, and culture. With its stunning beaches, warm weather, and friendly locals, it's no wonder that Aruba is one of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Aruba has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to this tropical paradise.