Welcome to Aruba—the tiny Caribbean gem where the sun literally never stops shining and the trade winds keep you perfectly cool. Whether you’re here for the world-famous white sands or the rugged desert adventures, there’s a reason this place is nicknamed “One Happy Island.”
After spending some time exploring every corner, from the colorful streets of Oranjestad to the limestone caves of the south, I’ve put together the ultimate getaway guide.
The Beach Breakdown
In Aruba, all beaches are public, but they each have a totally different “personality.”
Eagle Beach: Frequently voted the best beach in the world. It’s wide, pristine, and home to those iconic Fofoti trees you see on every postcard.
Palm Beach: The place to be if you want action. It’s lined with high-rise resorts, beach bars (check out MooMba), and every water sport imaginable.
Baby Beach: Located on the southern tip, this man-made lagoon is shallow and calm—perfect for families or travelers who just want to float for hours.
Tres Trapi: Not a traditional beach, but a set of stairs carved into the rock leading into crystal-clear water. Pro tip: Bring your snorkel; this is the best spot to find sea turtles!
Desert Adventures & Hidden Gems
Aruba isn’t just about the ocean. Nearly 20% of the island is covered by Arikok National Park, a rugged landscape of cacti and volcanic rock.
The Natural Pool (Conchi): Tucked away in Arikok, this pool is protected from the crashing waves by a circle of rocks. You’ll need a 4×4 Jeep or a sturdy pair of hiking boots to get here, but the swim is unforgettable.
Quadirikiri Cave: Famous for its two large chambers where sunlight streams through holes in the roof. It’s a photographer’s dream.
California Lighthouse: Head here at sunset for 360-degree views of the island’s northern coastline.
Where to Eat Like a Local
The food scene in Aruba is a delicious mix of Dutch, Caribbean, and South American influences.
Zeerovers – Casual and oceanfront, order the catch of the day.
- Linda’s Dutch Pancakes – A breakfast staple.
- The Flying Fishbone – Tables in the water!
- Papiamento – Set in a historic 128 year old manor, got to order stone-grilled meats.
Travel Tips
- Getting Around: The Arubus is reliable and cheap ($5 round trip), but if you want to see the “wild” side of the island (Arikok), I highly recommend renting a Jeep for at least one day.
The Flamingo Myth: You won’t see flamingos wandering every beach. They live on Renaissance Island, a private resort island. If you aren’t staying at the hotel, you’ll need to grab a day pass early in the morning!
Sustainability: Aruba is moving toward a total ban on single-use plastics. Bring a reusable water bottle—the tap water here is some of the cleanest and best-tasting in the world (it comes from a massive desalination plant!)
