Aruba is white sand beaches + perfect weather year-round + ABC Islands gem. 4-5 days perfect.
Top Things to Do in Aruba
1. Eagle Beach (consistently top-10 beach in world)
Cost: Free.
Powder white sand + divi-divi trees.
2. Palm Beach (most resort-lined)
Cost: Free.
2 miles of beach. Most jet skis + parasailing.
3. Day trip Arikok National Park
Cost: USD 12 entry.
18% of Aruba is protected. Conchi natural pool.
4. Snorkel Antilla Wreck
Cost: USD 60-90 snorkel tour.
WWII German freighter wreck.
5. California Lighthouse + sunset
Cost: Free.
Northwest tip. Best sunset on island.
6. Walk Oranjestad (capital, Dutch colonial)
Cost: Free.
Pastel houses + local food markets.
7. Eat at White Modern Cuisine or Madame Janette’s
Cost: USD 50-100/person.
Best fine dining.
8. Drive ATVs to Natural Pool (Conchi)
Cost: USD 80-120.
Adventure through Arikok.
9. Aruba Aloe Factory tour
Cost: USD 11.
World’s oldest aloe company (1890).
10. Sail to Mangel Halto reef
Cost: USD 60-90.
Best snorkeling on island.
11. Day trip Curacao or Bonaire (other ABC islands)
Cost: USD 200-400.
30 min flight.
12. Eat keshi yena (Aruba stuffed cheese)
Cost: USD 15-25.
National dish – melted cheese stuffed with meat.
13. Take a Black Stone Beach hike
Cost: Free.
Volcanic black stones. Off the beaten path.
14. Watch flamingos at Renaissance Private Island
Cost: USD 99 day pass.
Wild pink flamingos. Day pass for non-hotel guests.
15. Visit Alto Vista Chapel (1750)
Cost: Free.
First Catholic church on Aruba.
Practical Tips for Aruba
Sun protection: Caribbean sun is intense. Reef-safe sunscreen, hat, UV shirt essential.
Beaches: All beaches in Caribbean are public by law. Hotels may try to gate access – know your rights.
Tipping: 15-18% at restaurants. All-inclusive often have service charge included. Tip housekeeping $5-10/day.
Hurricane awareness: Travel insurance critical June-November. Watch weather forecasts.
Where to Stay in Aruba
All-inclusive resorts dominate the Caribbean. Boutique hotels in historic centers offer more authentic experience. Book 4-6 months ahead for peak season (December-April).
FAQ
Is Aruba safe for tourists?
Aruba is generally safe in tourist areas. Standard travel precautions apply – watch valuables, avoid going alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
How many days do I need in Aruba?
Aruba deserves at least 5-7 days. Most travelers do all-inclusive resorts that include activities.
What’s the best time to visit Aruba?
December-April is high season (peak weather + peak prices). May-November is hurricane season (lower prices, more risk).
Do I need a passport?
Yes – US passports required for Caribbean travel. Most countries allow visa-free entry for 30-90 days for US passport holders.
What’s the currency?
USD widely accepted. Local currencies also used. Use ATMs for cash. Cards accepted at hotels + resort restaurants.
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