Aruba

Eagle Beach, Aruba

Aruba: The One Happy Island

Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a small island nation that boasts a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean culture. Known as “One Happy Island,” Aruba offers visitors a perfect blend of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, diverse cuisine, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the island’s natural beauty, Aruba has something to offer for everyone.

Main Attractions and Landmarks

Eagle Beach:

Eagle Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, known for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Arikok National Park:

Arikok National Park covers almost 20% of Aruba’s land area and offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s unique flora and fauna. The park is home to hiking trails, natural pools, and stunning rock formations.

California Lighthouse:

The California Lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the island’s coastline. The lighthouse was named after the SS California, which sunk off the coast of Aruba in 1891.

Alto Vista Chapel:

The Alto Vista Chapel is a historic church that was built in 1750 by Spanish missionaries. It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Culture and Food

Aruba’s culture is a unique blend of Dutch, Caribbean, and South American influences. The island’s official language is Dutch, but most locals also speak English, Spanish, and Papiamento. Aruba’s cuisine is also diverse, with a range of influences from around the world. Seafood is a popular dish on the island, but visitors can also try local dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and pan bati (a type of cornmeal pancake).

Beaches

Aruba is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. From secluded coves to bustling hotspots, there is a beach for everyone on the island. Here are some of the best beaches to visit:

Eagle Beach
Palm Beach
Baby Beach
Arashi Beach
Mangel Halto Beach

Best Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Spots

Aruba is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The island has many dive sites and coral reefs to explore. Some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in Aruba include:

SS Antilla: This German cargo ship was sunk during World War II, and it is now a popular spot for scuba diving.
Arashi Reef: This reef is located off the northwest coast of the island and is a great spot for snorkeling.
Mangel Halto: This spot is known for its crystal-clear waters and abundance of marine life.
The Pedernales: This oil tanker was sunk by a German submarine during World War II, and it is now a popular spot for advanced scuba divers.
Boca Catalina: This spot is located near the famous Malmok Beach and is a great spot for snorkeling.

Best Time to Visit

Aruba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and a constant cooling breeze. The average temperature in Aruba is around 82°F (28°C), and the island has a low rainfall rate. The best time to visit Aruba is during the peak season, from December to April when the weather is at its best. It is also the busiest time of the year, so be prepared for higher prices and more crowds. However, Aruba is a year-round destination, and there are still plenty of things to do and see during the low season from May to November.

Best Way to Get Around

Aruba is a small island, and getting around is relatively easy. Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive. Renting a car is a great option to explore the island, and there are plenty of car rental agencies available. It is important to note that in Aruba, people drive on the right-hand side of the road. There are also buses available that travel to the main tourist areas, and these buses are cheap and reliable.

Conclusion

Aruba is a beautiful and unique island that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the island’s culture and history, or engage in outdoor activities like scuba diving and snorkeling, Aruba has it all. The island’s warm weather, friendly people, and breathtaking scenery make it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation. So, pack your bags and head to Aruba for an unforgettable experience!

Sights

Top ten sights in Aruba

Eagle Beach – This picturesque beach on the western coast of Aruba is known for its soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports or simply relax on the beach and take in the views.
Arikok National Park – This rugged wilderness area covers nearly 20% of Aruba and features diverse landscapes, including desert-like terrain, rocky coastlines, and rolling hills. Visitors can hike the trails, explore the caves, and see native flora and fauna.
Oranjestad – The capital city of Aruba is a charming blend of Dutch colonial architecture and Caribbean culture. Visitors can stroll through the colorful streets, shop at local markets, and sample the island’s cuisine.
Palm Beach – This lively beach destination on the northwest coast of Aruba is popular for its water sports, beach bars, and restaurants. Visitors can rent chairs and umbrellas, swim in the calm waters, and watch the sunset over the water.
California Lighthouse – This iconic lighthouse on the northern tip of Aruba offers panoramic views of the island and the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can climb the steps to the top of the lighthouse and take in the scenery.
Baby Beach – This secluded beach on the southeastern coast of Aruba is popular with families and those seeking calm waters for swimming and snorkeling. Visitors can rent equipment and explore the nearby reef.
Natural Pool – This natural pool, also known as “Conchi,” is located on the northeastern coast of Aruba and is accessible only by foot, horseback, or four-wheel drive. Visitors can swim in the tranquil waters and enjoy the rugged coastal scenery.
Alto Vista Chapel – This historic chapel on the northern coast of Aruba is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and those interested in history and architecture. Visitors can admire the simple beauty of the chapel and enjoy the views of the sea.
Casibari Rock Formation – These ancient rock formations in the middle of Aruba are a natural wonder and offer stunning views of the island’s interior. Visitors can climb to the top of the rocks and explore the surrounding desert landscape.
Aruba Ostrich Farm – This unique attraction on the eastern coast of Aruba allows visitors to get up close and personal with ostriches and other exotic animals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the farm, feed the animals, and learn about their behavior and habitats.

Restaurants

Top ten restaurants Aruba

Linda’s Dutch Pancakes – This affordable restaurant in Palm Beach is known for their delicious Dutch pancakes with a variety of toppings such as bacon, cheese, fruit, and syrup. Prices range from $8 to $15.
Eduardo’s Beach Shack – Located in Palm Beach, this casual eatery serves fresh and tasty seafood dishes such as fish tacos, ceviche, and shrimp skewers. Prices range from $10 to $20.
Papiamento – A mid-range restaurant in Oranjestad that offers an upscale dining experience in a charming, historic Aruban house. The menu features Caribbean and international cuisine, including fresh seafood and meat dishes. Prices range from $25 to $50.
Zeerovers – This casual seafood joint in Savaneta is famous for its fresh catch of the day, which you can choose from a selection of fish, shrimp, and squid. The food is served family-style with sides of fries and plantains. Prices range from $10 to $20.
The West Deck – A beachfront restaurant in Oranjestad that offers Caribbean and international cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu also includes salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Prices range from $15 to $30.
Wilhelmina Restaurant – Located in Noord, this restaurant serves authentic Aruban cuisine in a cozy, family-style atmosphere. The menu features stews, seafood, and meat dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options as well. Prices range from $15 to $30.
Atardi – This upscale restaurant in Palm Beach offers a romantic setting for a sunset dinner, with an oceanfront view and elegant atmosphere. The menu features fresh seafood and meat dishes, with a focus on local ingredients. Prices range from $30 to $60.
Gasparito – A mid-range restaurant in Noord that serves authentic Aruban cuisine in a charming, historic setting. The menu features stews, seafood, and meat dishes, with a focus on local ingredients. Prices range from $20 to $40.
Barefoot Restaurant – This beachfront restaurant in Noord offers a casual, laid-back atmosphere with a menu featuring fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches. Prices range from $15 to $30.
Passions on the Beach – A romantic, upscale restaurant in Eagle Beach that offers a unique dining experience with tables set directly on the beach. The menu features fresh seafood and meat dishes, with a focus on local ingredients. Prices range from $30 to $60.

Entertainment

Top ten distractions Aruba

Carnival (January to March): This annual festival celebrates the Aruban culture with parades, music, and dancing. The festivities culminate with the Grand Parade in Oranjestad. Location: various locations throughout the island.
Aruba International Film Festival (October): This annual film festival showcases local and international films, with screenings and events held in various locations throughout Aruba. Location: various locations throughout the island.
Aruba Hi-Winds (July): This annual windsurfing and kiteboarding competition attracts athletes from around the world, with competitions and events held at Fisherman’s Huts and other locations around Aruba. Location: Fisherman’s Huts and other locations around the island.
Soul Beach Music Festival (May): This annual music festival features top R&B and soul artists performing at various venues throughout Aruba, including Eagle Beach. Location: various locations throughout the island.
Aruba Wine, Food and Art Festival (November): This annual festival features local and international wines, food, and art, with cooking demonstrations, tastings, and live music. Location: Renaissance Marketplace in Oranjestad.
Aruba Ray’s Comedy Club (year-round): This comedy club features both local and international comedians performing at the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino. Location: Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino in Palm Beach.
Aruba Summer Music Festival (June): This annual music festival features local and international artists performing various genres of music, with food and drink vendors. Location: Harbor Square Arena in Oranjestad.
Aruba Art Fair (October): This annual art fair showcases the works of local and international artists, with exhibits and events held at various locations throughout Aruba. Location: various locations throughout the island.
Aruba International Regatta (November): This annual sailing regatta attracts sailors from around the world, with races and events held at various locations around Aruba, including Palm Beach. Location: various locations throughout the island.
Aruba Soul Beach Volleyball Tournament (May): This annual beach volleyball tournament attracts players from around the world, with matches and events held at Eagle Beach. Location: Eagle Beach in Palm Beach.