Aruba
The island paradise that immediately springs to mind when you think of the Caribbean, Aruba is a staggeringly beautiful travel destination with plenty to offer.
Aruba travel guide
Aruba is the quintessential Caribbean island paradise, with idyllic weather, a spectacular setting and a laidback lifestyle to match. It’s exotic, beautiful, exciting and remarkably peaceful, the perfect beach getaway that epitomises what everybody imagines a Caribbean island to be like.
Enjoy a dreamlike existence, where the weather is glorious every day, the water sports on offer are fun and rewarding, the sunset is picture-perfect and the beaches are like confectionary sugar.
The island’s capital, Oranjestad is a charming touristy place full of shops, restaurants and casinos. Down south is unspoilt San Nicolas, where you can experience an authentic slice of Caribbean life. On the windswept East Coast is untouched natural beauty just waiting to be discovered.
The entire island is a treasure trove full of magnificent beaches, unusual terrain such as cacti and the twisted divi-divi trees found in the Arikok National Park, charming Dutch culture, breathtaking underwater world in magnificent coral reefs and an unbeatable climate.
Incredible sunsets are guaranteed in Aruba, like at the stunning Eagle Beach.
Best time to visit: The weather is glorious year-round. Best time to visit for reasonable prices is in the low season, April to December.
Best Area for Sightseeing: Aruba is a delight to explore. To find out where to go and what to do, see Things to do in Aruba, below.
Shopping in Aruba: Dutch treats including chocolate, Delft porcelain and Cuban cigars. Visit the art galleries and jewellery stores for unusual finds. There are great shopping malls and Oranjestad’s main street, Caya GF Betico Croes, is full of interesting shops.
Food & Restaurants in Aruba: Tantalize your taste buds with Aruba’s local dishes, a charming blend of Spanish, Dutch, French and African flavors. During the day, enjoy refreshing tropical fruit smoothies and snacks.
Nightlife: In the resort areas and Oranjestad you’ll find plenty of chic bars, nightclubs and after dark entertainment.
Beaches: The island’s beautiful beaches beckon, and with the breeze, they’re ideal for wind surfing. The most popular beaches are Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, where many of the larger resorts are located. More secluded beaches include Rodger’s Beach in San Nicholas, Baby Beach in the south and Andicuri Beach on the north-east coast.
Things to do in Aruba:
- Go hiking or off-road biking in Arikok Natural Park, stopping off to explore Fontein Cave, home to cave art and stalagmites.
- Stroll through Oranjestad and shop for souvenirs.
- Soak up the sun on stunning Eagle Beach.
- Visit Conchi Natural Pool in the Arikok Natural Park.
- Explore Aruba Archaeological Museum to learn more about the island and its history.
- Go on a submarine expedition to see the magical underwater world.
Best way to get around: The bus service is excellent, stopping at beaches and supermarkets, Oranjestad and the resort areas. In Oranjestad there’s a free open-air trolley service along the main street. Alternatively, take a taxi.
Best Area for Families: Palm Beach A popular resort area, Palm Beach offers lots of resorts, family-friendly activities and facilities. The beautiful beach is safe for all ages and swimmers.