Aruba Vacation: Best Things to Do, Hotels and Tips
Aruba! After a long time at home in the Netherlands, I finally flew back to a tropical destination for the first time since January 2020. My last long flight was to beautiful the Dominican Republic. Finally I could pack my DEET and sunscreen SPF 50 again. I stayed on this lovely island for 8 days and collected all my favourite tips and highlights for you. In this blog post you can read all about the best things to do during your Aruba vacation!
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Oranjestad | best things to do | Aruba vacation
Introduction to Aruba
Aruba sits in the southern Caribbean and fully lives up to its nickname “One Happy Island.” Pristine white sand beaches like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach, turquoise water and warm weather year round make it one of the most consistently popular destinations in the Caribbean. Whether you are travelling with family, friends or a partner, this beautiful island’s friendly atmosphere makes everyone feel at home from the moment you arrive. Luxury resorts, a lively local scene and that famously laid-back vibe make Aruba a place most visitors want to return to.
Best travel time for your Aruba vacation
The best travel time for an Aruba vacation is from April to August. The high season runs from January to March, when prices are higher and the beaches get crowded. In addition, Aruba sits outside the hurricane belt, so you can visit year round without worrying about tropical storms. The weather is warm and sunny almost every day of the year, making it a reliable destination for relaxation.
Is 7 days in Aruba too much?
Not at all. Seven days is actually ideal for an Aruba vacation. You have enough time to snorkel, explore Arikok National Park, take a jeep safari, do a sunset cruise, wander through Oranjestad and San Nicolas and still have a few lazy beach days left over. Most visitors who come for a week end up wishing they had booked longer.
How much will a trip to Aruba cost?
Aruba is not the cheapest Caribbean destination, but it offers excellent value for what you get. A mid-range Aruba vacation budget is roughly 150 to 250 euros per person per day, covering a comfortable hotel, meals, a rental car and one or two activities. Booking your hotel and flights early and travelling outside peak season makes a significant difference. Families and couples both find that planning ahead keeps costs manageable without sacrificing fun.
Arikok National Park | best things to do | Aruba vacation | photos by Remke Vet.
Best hotels for your Aruba vacation
– Click on the names for rooms and rates –
During my visit I stayed at the wonderfully comfortable Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba: truly a home away from home. This adults-only boutique hotel is located in lush tropical gardens with private casitas, a beautiful pool and a relaxed atmosphere. The last two nights I stayed at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, where we had a private sunset dinner on the beach. An experience I will not forget.
ROOMS AND RATES BOARDWALK BOUTIQUE HOTEL
More hotel options for your Aruba vacation
Wonders Boutique Hotel: a charming, intimate option consistently praised for its personal service and beautiful design. Perfect for travellers who want something more characterful than a large resort.
Bida Marino Residence Aruba: stylish apartments with a kitchen, ideal for longer stays or those who want the flexibility to cook their own meals without sacrificing quality.
Aruba Surfside Marina: right on the water with direct marina access. A laid-back, characterful stay popular with divers and water sports enthusiasts.
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort: a classic beachfront resort on Palm Beach with a stunning pool, multiple restaurants and everything you need for a classic Aruba vacation. The location directly on Palm Beach means you are always within steps of the ocean. Many guests also enjoy the spa and swimming facilities on site.
Snorkeling with De Palm Tours and Eagle Beach | Aruba vacation | photos by Boyan Ortse.
Best things to do in Aruba
Snorkeling and water activities
When you are in Aruba, you will probably spend a large part of your vacation in the ocean. The crystal-clear water and white sand beaches are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, kayaking and kite surfing. Book a kayaking and snorkeling trip: instead of paddling with your arms you pedal yourself forward with your legs, and during the snorkeling stop I spotted a shy turtle and lots of colourful fish. For the best chance of seeing a turtle, go early in the morning at Boca Catalina or dive in at the rocky beach of Tres Trapi.
Moreover, book a boat trip for a full day on the water with snorkeling stops, a sunken shipwreck and drinks and lunch included. In many places you can also paddleboard, such as at the mangroves of Mangel Halto. If you love this kind of relaxed Caribbean island experience, my guide to Caye Caulker in Belize is worth a read.
Oranjestad | sights | Aruba vacation
Arikok National Park – Aruba vacation
Arikok National Park is a must for any Aruba vacation. Here you will find enormous cacti, aloe vera plants, deserted beaches with wild surf and the beautiful caves Quadirikiri and Fontein. The pristine white sand beach Dos Playa was one of my highlights: nature still has free rein here and you will encounter few other tourists. During your walk between the cacti you may be followed by small flies. They do not sting, but keep walking and they will leave you alone.
Book a horseback tour through Arikok Park with a stop at the Natural Pool for one of the most memorable experiences on the island. Furthermore, the Natural Pool is a sheltered rock pool hidden in the rugged landscape, only accessible by 4×4 or on horseback.
HORSEBACK TOUR TO THE NATURAL POOL
Jeep safari and island tours – Aruba Vacation
The best way to explore all corners of Aruba in one day is a full-day island jeep safari departing from Oranjestad. You will visit the Natural Pool, the lighthouse, the California Dunes, the Gold Mill ruins and the famous Casibari rock formations. A guide explains the island’s history throughout the day and lunch is included. It is a fun and efficient way to see the whole island, great for families and solo travelers alike.
BOOK THE FULL-DAY JEEP SAFARI TOUR
Horseback riding: a unique Aruba vacation experience
One of the most memorable things I did during my Aruba vacation was a horseback ride to Wariruri Beach on the wild northern coast. The combination of untouched coastline and riding through the Aruban countryside makes this a very special experience, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light. It is the kind of activity that turns a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
Picnic Aruba – Aruba Vacation
Book a lovely picnic in Aruba. This was the most beautiful picnic I have ever had. We sat by the ocean on beautiful cushions with delicious snacks and fresh Mimosas. Truly a unique experience that I would recommend to anyone visiting the island. As I shared on my Instagram, it is one of those moments you do not forget quickly.
The picnic and Dos Playa | Aruba vacation tips | best things to do
Sunset experiences
Aruba sunsets are something else. The best way to enjoy them is on a happy hour sunset cruise from Noord, with drinks on board and the island glowing behind you. For something more intimate, book a romantic sunset picnic in a luxury cabana on Eagle Beach. Cushions, snacks, Mimosas and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean in front of you. The breathtaking views at sunset make this one of the most perfect spots on the island.
Oranjestad and San Nicolas
The capital of Aruba is Oranjestad. Take a ride in the authentic tram to the city centre and visit the National Archaeological Museum for the history of Aruba. The Town Hall is extremely photogenic. When we arrived, there had just been a wedding and guests were leaving the building. Because I was wearing a white dress, cars stopped to congratulate me. We laughed! #notthebride
San Nicolas | highlights and tips | Aruba vacation
San Nicolas and Eagle Beach
Additionally, drive to the town of San Nicolas for the beautiful street art. Go early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Also, a one-hour walk is enough for all the art. On the way, stop at the famous Fofoti trees on Eagle Beach for a photo. Eagle Beach is consistently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, with its iconic divi-divi trees and calm, warm water. A perfect spot to visit Aruba’s coastline at its most serene.
DAY TRIP TO BEAUTIFUL ARIKOK NP
Dining and Nightlife in Aruba
Aruba’s dining scene is as diverse as the island itself. Fresh seafood features on almost every menu, and the range runs from casual beach bars to proper waterfront restaurants. For a memorable evening, head to Joia Aruba for creative cuisine in a stylish setting. When the sun sets, the island comes alive: Oranjestad is the heart of the nightlife, with lively bars, clubs and casinos. Whether you want a romantic dinner under the stars or a night of music and dancing, Aruba delivers.
Kayaking with Aruba Outdoor Adventures | photo on the left by Hanna Thomas, on the right by Boyan Ortse.
Best Beaches in Aruba
Aruba is world-renowned for its pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters. Eagle Beach, consistently ranked among the best in the Caribbean, is famous for its breathtaking views, iconic divi-divi trees, and calm, inviting waters. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking up the warm island weather. Palm Beach, lined with lively resorts and a vibrant boardwalk, offers water sports, beachside dining and a great atmosphere for travelers who want both relaxation and entertainment.
Staying connected during your Aruba vacation is easy with a Saily eSIM: download it in minutes before departure and stay online from the moment you land. No roaming fees, no SIM card stress. Order your Saily eSIM here.
Tips and Essentials for Your Aruba Vacation
Planning an Aruba vacation is straightforward. The island sits outside the hurricane belt, so you can book at any time of year without weather concerns. All-inclusive packages are widely available and a great way to manage costs upfront. From luxurious spas and pools to family-friendly facilities and world-class beaches, Aruba has something for every type of traveller. It is no wonder the island consistently ranks among the top Caribbean destinations.
Getting Around Aruba
Getting around Aruba is easy and stress-free. Renting a car is the most popular option, giving you the freedom to discover hidden beaches and local spots at your own pace. Taxis and shuttle services are widely available for getting between your resort and the main attractions, and most hotels can arrange transfers on request. Queen Beatrix International Airport welcomes flights from around the world, making Aruba straightforward to reach from most destinations. Once you are on the island, everything is within reach.
- Find the best hotels for your Aruba vacation at Booking.com
- Book tours and activities at GetYourGuide.com
- Compare rental cars at Discover Cars
- Book your airport transfer via WelcomePickups
- Get your eSIM at Saily
Looking for another warm, unhurried island escape? My guide to Isla Holbox in Mexico is a great next read: no cars, crystal-clear water and a similarly infectious go-slow atmosphere.
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