Aruba

Travel Guide
Oranjestad
A popular cruise ship stop-off, this beach-fringed Dutch Caribbean island has a colorful colonial capital and ample opportunities for both lounging and adventure.

Travelers dream of visiting Aruba, a sunny Dutch country in the Caribbean that enjoys dazzling natural scenery, sparkling warm waters and friendly multicultural residents. Go diving among shipwrecks, celebrate Carnival in the capital city and descend underground into mysterious caves under the island.

One of the best ways to discover Aruba’s history is to start in the capital, Oranjestad. This city has a unique blend of influences, featuring the colonial architecture typical of the Netherlands and the bright pastel colors characteristic of the Caribbean. Attend a service at Saint Franciscus Church to meet local islanders. Take the whole family to the Butterfly Farm to get up-close to these beautiful insects.

For peace and quiet, head to the coastal town of San Nicolas, southeast of Oranjestad. Wander around the art gallery, buy an ice-cream cone from a snack shop and listen for the sound of steel pan drums at the town’s weekly Carubbian Festival.

Watersports are popular on the island, especially on the western and southern coasts, which are sheltered from strong ocean currents. Splash around in the waters of Eagle Beach, where clear waters and soft sand provide perfect swimming conditions. Try parasailing or kitesurfing on the beautiful Malmok Beach.

Getting around Aruba is easy. A frequent bus service up and down the coast ensures you don’t need a car to get to the resorts and popular tourist spots. If you’re considering venturing into more remote parts of Aruba, rent a car or moped from Oranjestad. Dutch, together with the local language Papiamento, are most widely spoken. However, many Arubans speak additional languages, including English.

Aruba has a semi-arid tropical climate, meaning that you can expect both warm and dry conditions year-round. Visit in February to experience the colorful Carnival celebrations that take place throughout the island.

Whether you want to laze by the beach or try thrilling watersports and scenic hikes, Aruba can accommodate you.

Popular cities in Aruba

Oranjestad
Oranjestad
Known for Beaches, Islands and Excursions
A popular cruise ship stop-off, Aruba’s brightly colored capital is filled with modern shops, upscale restaurants and colonial-era buildings.

Reasons to visit

  • Eagle Beach
  • Aruba Town Hall
  • Renaissance Island
Arashi Beach
Noord
Known for Beaches, Islands and Excursions
With dozens of white-sand beaches, aquatic adventures and an easy-going island vibe, this region is Aruba at its most enchanting.

Reasons to visit

  • Palm Beach
  • Arashi Beach
  • Butterfly Farm
Conchi Natural Pool featuring general coastal views as well as a small group of people
Santa Cruz
Known for Snorkeling, Tropical and Islands
Find a slice of authentic Aruba away from the crowds at this centrally located town on the edge of Arikok National Park.

Reasons to visit

  • Conchi Natural Pool
  • De Palm Island
  • Donkey Sanctuary
Ayo Rock Formations
Paradera
Known for Beaches, Islands and Excursions
Use this small, centrally located district as a starting point for exploring Aruba’s natural rock formations, white-sand beaches and lively resort areas.

Reasons to visit

  • Bushiribana Gold Smelter Ruins
  • Ayo Rock Formations
  • Wariruri Beach
Baby Beach
San Nicolas Zuid
Known for Beaches, Natural parks and Monuments
This small coastal town was once at the center of the island’s oil industry. Free from resorts and crowds, the town retains a refreshingly authentic atmosphere.

Reasons to visit

  • Baby Beach
  • Anchor in Memory of All Seamen
Lourdes Grotto showing caves and religious aspects
San Nicholas Noord
Known for Golf, Natural parks and Beaches
Get away from the bright lights and busy northern beaches and head to Aruba’s southern region for island charm, exciting surfing and cultural attractions.

Reasons to visit

  • Lourdes Grotto
  • Guadirikirt Cave

Popular places to visit

Aruba

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