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Tall palm trees and sun umbrellas line up along the coast of a beautiful tropical beach

Aruba travel guide

Blessed with stunning beaches, plenty of water sports, beautiful scenery and landscapes to explore, it’s easy to see why Aruba is often called the 'Happy Island'. With an all-year-round sunny climate, tempered by a gentle breeze, Aruba is a delightful place to relax and unwind. Time your trip right and you can also take in one of the best carnival experiences available outside of Brazil.

Beaches in Aruba

In Aruba, you can find some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. Honoured with white, pristine sand and rocked by gentle waves, you'll have to work hard to decide which idyllic spot you want to lay your sun towel. Eagle Beach, renowned worldwide, consistently ranks in the global top three by travel writers and critics.

Best beaches in Aruba

Aerial view of long and narrow white sand beach and clear blue sea
Photo credit: Aruba Tourism Authority

Eagle Beach

Located on Aruba’s northern coast, recognised as the widest beach in Aruba, and often ranked in the top three beaches in the world, Eagle Beach is a must-visit. This shoreline boasts white, sugar-like sand to dip your toes into and tranquil, calm waters that are idyllic for swimming in.  

The frequently photographed fofoti tree takes centre stage at Eagle Beach, one of many beautiful, natural attractions drawing visitors.

However, Eagle beach doesn’t just attract humans, as it is also home to most of the nests of the island's four turtle species.  

This little slice of paradise is easily accessible by car and has all the amenities you could hope for, including: parking, watersports and authentic Aruban restaurants on the waterfront. 

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Strong waves crashing against the rocks

Andicuri Beach

Situated along Aruba’s east coast, Andicuri Beach is one of the island's most secluded spots. This shoreline is surrounded by limestone cliffs that provide shade from the sun. While the choppy waters are unsuitable for swimming or snorkelling, they attract avid bodyboarders and kitesurfers, with local competitions often held here.

This rugged, beautiful beach lacks facilities, so be sure to bring your own snacks and drinks.

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Pink flamingo on white sand tropical beach on a sunny day

Flamingo Beach

If you’ve ever seen an advert for Aruba, you might think flamingos roam freely across the island. However, they congregate in one area: Flamingo Beach.

This unique beach is on Renaissance Island, a private island accessible only by boat. Guests at the Renaissance Aruba Resort have unlimited free access, but others need to purchase day passes in advance. Children under 12 can visit for free, but they are only allowed between 9 and 10 AM to minimise disturbance to the birds.

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Aruba geography

Aruba is a small (32km long and 10km wide) and mostly flat island in the southern part of the Caribbean. Most of the island’s terrain consists of a wild, barren countryside called mondi. There are no rivers on Aruba so irrigation is limited, which gives the landscape a desert-like appearance with cactus forests and woody scrublands mixing with the large boulders scattered across the surface.

However, the island isn't all flat and steep-sided; isolated hills break up the skyline. The highest point is Mount Jamanota with an elevation of 189m above sea level. A popular attraction, The Hooiberg (Dutch for haystack), dominates the centre of the island at 180m high. Those of you feeling energetic can take the 550-plus steps to the summit where you'll be rewarded with fabulous views of the surrounding countryside. During the climb, there's a good chance you'll encounter wild goats, colourful lizards and parakeets.

On the northwestern tip of the island at Hudishibana lies the California Dunes nature reserve. This area features a pockmarked limestone shoreline and rolling dunes, offering a serene spot to relax and enjoy breathtaking sea views, accentuated by the nearby California Lighthouse.

Aruba history

Diverse cultural influences have shaped Aruba from its first known occupation by South American Indians around 2500 BC to its current status as a thriving tourist destination. The Arawak Indians, who were the island's first inhabitants, led simple lives in coastal villages, fishing and crafting. Their legacy endures in the rock and cave paintings at Fontein Cave in Arikok National Park and the Ayo Rock Formation. These early influences are reflected in Aruba's rich food, architecture, and culture.

In 1499, Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda discovered the island, starting 137 years of Spanish occupation and control. During this period, many of the native Indians were sadly enslaved to work on plantations and the area also became a hot location for piracy and smuggling. During the 17th century, the Dutch West India Company recognised Aruba’s strategic importance and took control. Apart from a small spell of occupation by the British in 1805, Aruba has been and still is linked to the Netherlands.

Despite a very fleeting gold rush in 1824, the Island’s economy has been largely based around agriculture and fishing. In the 1920s, an oil refinery was built near San Nicolas; with immigrants arriving from North America, Europe and other parts of the Caribbean. It quickly established itself as the largest employer on the island, becoming the epicentre for the diverse cultural mix found today. The first tourist ships started arriving in the late fifties, but it took until the latter years of the last century before tourism really took off, becoming the dominant economic force.

In 1986, a popular Aruban political activist, Betico Croes, succeeded in separating Aruba from complete Dutch rule, when it became an autonomous country in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Aruban population has never seemed inclined to obtain full independence and to this day remains a part of the Netherlands with its foreign affairs and national defence controlled from there.

Wildlife in Aruba

Aruba’s warm and dry climate means that the majority of its native animals are birds, making this island a bird-watching paradise. One of Aruba’s most extravagant, colourful and noisy birds, the prikichi, is blessed with dramatic vibrant green feathers and yellow-orange heads. It’s almost impossible to miss them.

Aruba is also home to beautiful birds of prey, including the warawara which bears resemblance to an eagle. Along with brown pelicans, egrets, herons and seven different types of tern. Aruba loves birds so much that even their national animal is the shoco; a small, endangered burrowing owl.

Aruba's weather creates an idyllic environment for reptiles, hosting half of all lizard species, including the blue aquatic Kododo Blauw and the Pega Pega, named for the suction pads on their feet. Indigenous species include the near-extinct cascabel rattlesnake, the leaf-toed gecko, and the whiptail lizard. Additionally, a variety of turtles and iguanas also reside on the island.

If you’re a lover of fluffier creatures then don’t fear, Aruba has you covered. The island is also home to animals that were brought over by settlers, such as the cottontail rabbit from Venezuela and sheep, goats and donkeys from Spain.

Activities in Aruba

Aruba, with its breathtaking scenery and wide range of adventurous activities, is the perfect island for everyone. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie who loves watersports or someone who enjoys trekking through the wilderness, Aruba has it all. You’ll find endless excitement and adventure, ensuring you'll never be bored on this idyllic island.

Watersports

Diving in Aruba

Aruba's clear, warm seas, teeming with diverse underwater attractions like lush seagrass beds, thriving coral reefs and numerous shipwrecks, make it an ideal destination for diving enthusiasts. With a variety of shore-based dive centres and resorts, the island offers professional instruction and support for divers of all levels, including those seeking Wreck Diver certification.

While the mature reefs offer diverse marine life to explore, the most sought-after dive sites in Aruba are the numerous shipwrecks scattered along the coastline. One standout is the SS Antilla, a German cargo ship intentionally sunk in 1940. Resting in just 14 metres of water, it's hailed as the Caribbean's premier shipwreck dive and is particularly well-suited for beginners.

Surfing in Aruba

Aruba has great all year round weather, often accompanied by a steady gentle breeze which provides consistent, but not too dramatic waves; creating an island paradise ideal for beginners or addicted surfing enthusiasts. From a surfing perspective, the beaches fall into two categories: idyllic in the west and rugged on the east coast generating waves on which to learn or challenging waters for more seasoned professionals.

With its year-round favourable weather conditions and gentle breezes, Aruba creates an ideal surfing environment suitable for both beginners and addicted surfing enthusiasts. Beaches on the west coast offer calm waters for learning, while those on the rugged east coast provide challenges for professionals.

We recommend Malmok Beach with its shallow clear waters, perfect for beginners to hone their surfing skills. Hadicurari Beach or Fisherman’s Huts is both home to the Caribbean’s largest windsurfing competition and is a mecca for surfers. Boca Grandi, on the southern tip of Aruba, offers challenges for skilled surfers. Whether you're a novice or an adrenaline junkie, Aruba provides the perfect backdrop for surf-based fun.

Windsurfing & Kitesurfing in Aruba

Aruba offers the Caribbean's longest high wind season, with consistent speeds of 20 knots all year ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Two of the most popular spots - Malmok Beach and Fishermen’s Huts - are perfect for beginners and a great place to introduce yourself to this exciting activity, with 400m of shallow warm waters and light winds.

Aruba's reputation as a windsurfing destination is further cemented by the annual Hi-Winds World Challenge, attracting top athletes from around the world. If it’s good enough for them, then it’s good enough for you.

Sailing in Aruba

A gentle, flat sea brushed by calm winds makes Aruba an ideal place to indulge in the pleasures that coastal sailing can offer. Create your own private, intimate trip or join others for a fun-packed party cruise - the choice is yours. Numerous day and night excursions offer the chance to unwind in serene settings, providing ample opportunities to leisurely enjoy your time.

What better way to spend the day than gliding over sun-kissed waters on a pristine sailing ship, viewing majestic beaches from a unique perspective while enjoying quality food and sipping cocktails as the sparkling waters roll by?

Not your thing? Then take a dip and go snorkelling to admire the hidden reefs and shipwrecks beneath the surface.

A wide variety of boats are available for charter by individuals or groups for varying durations. Alternatively, join a scheduled all-inclusive cruise catering to all ages. For those wanting to embrace their inner Long John Silver, pirate-based jaunts offer BBQs and themed activities for a thoroughly swashbuckling experience.

Fishing in Aruba

Do you like secrets? Are you hooked on fishing? If the answer is yes, you need to head to Aruba. Its calm, southern location protects it from the big storms that can occur in the Caribbean and its gentle, warm waters make it an enticing, largely ignored, attraction for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

While jumping on a boat to go deep-sea fishing is the most popular choice, shore-based or even fly fishing options are also available.

The species found around the island include sailfish, black and yellowfin tuna, marlin, barracuda and bonefish to name a few. Because of the plentiful stocks of fish, charting a boat can be done from most coastal locations; where knowledgeable local guides take pleasure in navigating you to the best fishing spots.

Our recommended places to start your memorable fishing experience are Malmok Beach on the northern tip of Aruba; Renaissance Marina, a short jaunt from the capital, Oranjestad; Manchebo Beach in the southwest and finally Spanish Lagoon in the south. Wherever you choose, you're guaranteed a catch to be proud of.

Canoeing & Kayaking in Aruba

Kayaking offers a unique way to get close to nature and Aruba's wildlife by paddling atop the calm, clear waters. Popular excursions explore the mangrove lagoons at the island's southern tip.

While kayak rentals and guided tours abound, Savaneta in the southeast is a prime spot to learn the basics before an informative guide leads you to favourite spots like Mangel Halto or Spanish Lagoon. These tours provide opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, beaching and dining too - allowing you to experience Aruba's top attractions from an alternative perspective on the water.

Land activities

Golf in Aruba

Whether you’re an avid golfer or you just want to have an afternoon of fun spent playing a game or two with friends; there are three eclectic golf courses to choose from on the island of Aruba.

The most pristine, and the only 18-hole course on the island, is Tierre del Sol. Situated on the northwest tip of Aruba near the Tierre del Sol Resort spa and country club, this golf club offers breathtaking views of the ocean and features waterfalls on the course. Tierre del Sol welcomes guests staying at any resort in Aruba and uses state-of-the-art technology, including a GPS yardage system, to give players a virtual view of the course and electronic scoring. Throw away those pencils and scoring cards.

Located in the Divi Village Golf and Beach Resort, the smaller 9-hole Links at Divi Aruba is a stunning and challenging course. Beautifully landscaped, it hugs the shoreline, providing stunning views to soften the impact of those occasional but inevitable poor shots. After your game, relax in Mulligan’s Bar & Restaurant or sample some gourmet food in the appropriately named Windows on Aruba, with views of the course and sea.

For something slightly different try Aruba’s oldest course, the Aruba Golf Club. Built in 1941 for the workers at the Lago Refinery, it has little grass on the fairways and uses oiled sand for greens. To add to its quirkiness and charm, you may also find that you've been joined on your round by the occasional wild goat or donkey.

Cycling & Mountain Biking in Aruba

For those of you wanting to negate some of the indulgent and calorific delights offered by Aruba, then hiring a bike or joining a cycling tour offers a healthy way to explore the island and discover places a pure beach lover will never see.

The Aruban government has invested in a 350km cycling infrastructure of paths, lanes and trails and there are several companies providing bicycles and safety equipment as well as structured tours. So why not take the scenic route up to the California Lighthouse, where after passing by Eagle, Hadicurari and Malmok beaches you can take a well-earned break and enjoy some amazing views. Alternatively, go bird watching by cycling to the Bubali Bird Sanctuary.

Whatever your preference, grab plenty of water and a helmet; rub in lots of sun protection and get those legs moving for some energetic outdoor fun.

Walking and Hiking in Aruba

Whether you want to maintain your fitness or just love walking and being in the great outdoors; Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Aruba’s natural and rugged landscapes. Encompassing 20% of the island and providing 29 miles of walking routes, Arikok National Park should be at the top of your list of places to go hiking in Aruba. One of the most popular spots to visit within the park is the Conchi natural pool. Take a treacherous walk up a well-worn, pebbled path to reach this natural wonder and treat yourself to a well-earned dip in the water.

Probably the most notorious walk in Aruba is climbing the 562 concrete steps that lead up to Hooiberg (Haystack) mountain. Located in the centre of Aruba, once you reach the top, this 165 meters above sea level mountain provides 360-degree views of the beautiful island and on clearer days, you can see the coast of Venezuela.

Whilst the six trails within the park are clearly signposted, we recommend you obtain the services of a local guide who will enhance your experience with entertaining facts as you explore the dunes, hills, caves and abandoned mines.

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Room

Adults
(18+)
1
Children
(0-17)
0
Children's ages at time of return