Known as One Happy Island, Aruba is a vibrant Caribbean island located about 15 miles north of Venezuela.
Even being so far south, it’s actually still very convenient to visit with several airlines offering non-stop flights from the U.S.
Unlike the lush tropical rain forests you’ll find on other islands in the Caribbean, Aruba’s landscape is unique being mostly flat and arid.
While on the perimeter of the island you’ll find beautiful beaches and plenty of palm trees, on the interior you’ll find sand dunes, rock formations, caves, and huge cacti. The variety of scenery makes Aruba a one-of-a-kind destination.
Here are the top seven reasons to visit Aruba:
1. THE WEATHER.
Aruba has the least amount of rainfall and more sunny days than any other Caribbean island.
With an average temperature around 82 degrees year round and cooling trade winds, anytime is the best time to visit Aruba.
EXPERT TIP: Being located outside of the hurricane belt makes Aruba the perfect place to go if you’re celebrating your honeymoon or an anniversary in the fall (hurricane season in the Caribbean).
2. THE BEACHES
The beaches in Aruba are some of the most pristine I’ve personally experienced and a couple have been included on the world’s best beaches lists many times.
If you’re looking for soft white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, you definitely won’t be disappointed in Aruba.
EXPERT TIP: Mangel Halto is a quiet, secluded beach surrounded by mangroves that’s great for snorkeling.
3. THE CUISINE
Aruba’s food scene is packed with a variety of multi-cultural flavors from around the world.
You will find everything from exclusive fine-dining options to casual quick bites on the beach.
Aruba is the ultimate foodie getaway!
EXPERT TIP: Zeerovers is a local bar and restaurant located right on the waterfront in the fishermen’s town of Savaneta that serves fresh seafood straight from the sea.
4. THE PEOPLE
Arubans are an extremely warm and friendly people. They greet you with warmth and kindness and make you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
The island is home to more than 90 different nationalities and most of the islanders speak at least four languages: English, Dutch, Papiamento (Portuguese-based creole language), and Spanish.
It’s overflowing with cultural influences from around the world and once you’ve visited, it’s easy to understand why Aruba has more repeat visitors than other top Caribbean islands.
EXPERT TIP: “Bon Bini” means welcome in Papiamento and it’s a phrase you’ll hear (and feel) often in Aruba.
5. THE FREEDOM
You can feel really comfortable getting out and exploring on your own in Aruba – in fact, it’s encouraged.
Reminder that pretty much everyone speaks English, and US Dollars are accepted everywhere.
Plus, the driving rules in Aruba are the same as the United States, so it’s very common for visitors to rent a car for at least part of their trip.
The island has so much to offer beyond the resorts and beaches – everything from hiking in Arikok National Park to wandering through the painted colonial architecture in the charming harbor city of Oranjestad to exploring natural bridges along the shore and more.
EXPERT TIP: The town of San Nicolas is full of incredible street art. Each year more and more stunning murals are added when artists from all over the world, as well as local talents, participate in the Aruba Art Fair.
6. THE WATER SPORTS
There’s no shortage of options for water sports in Aruba: snorkeling, shipwreck diving, catamaran cruises, kite surfing, sailing, jet skiing, tubing, windsurfing, body boarding, parasailing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and on and on - you name the water sport, Aruba has it.
EXPERT TIP: Boca Grandi Beach is a favorite for advanced kite surfers and enthusiastic spectators.
7. THE FLAMINGOS
If you’re on Instagram or have checked out anything about Aruba online, you’ve probably seen pictures of the flamingos that hang out on Renaissance Island aka “Flamingo island.”
I had a lot of fun relaxing on the beach with these pink flamingos when I visited. There's also a nice little beach bar and grill, and cabanas available to rent on the private island as well.
EXPERT TIP: This exclusive island is only available to guests staying at the Renaissance resort, but they do offer a limited amount of day passes for non-guests for $125 per person.
Aruba has lots of amazing resorts for every type of traveler. I’ve visited the island's properties and I'm an Aruba Certified Expert (ACE) travel agent, so if you’re wondering where to stay in Aruba, let me know and I can help you find the right fit for you!
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