Welcome to Aruba, an island paradise that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. As a mom who loves finding experiences for the whole family while still getting a taste of local life, I’ve found Aruba to be a fantastic destination. Let’s explore what makes this Caribbean gem so special.
Getting to Aruba
Reaching Aruba is quite straightforward, especially if you’re coming from North America. Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) in Oranjestad serves as the main gateway. You’ll find many direct flights from major U.S. cities, particularly on the East Coast. It’s a relief to know that the return journey includes clearing U.S. customs right at the Aruba airport. This can save a lot of time, but I always suggest arriving at least three hours before your flight, just in case the process takes longer than expected. I learned this the hard way once, nearly missing my flight!
Moving Around the Island
Aruba is quite easy to navigate, and you have a few good options for getting around. If you plan to stick to a few main areas, the public bus system, Arubus, is a cost-effective choice. It connects most of the popular tourist spots, and a day pass is a great deal if you intend to hop around a lot. Taxis are readily available, too, especially in tourist hubs, but for any time-sensitive trips, like getting to a dinner reservation, booking ahead is a smart move.
For families or those who like the freedom to explore at their own pace, renting a car is ideal. While big rental companies are available, I’ve found that sometimes locally owned businesses can offer great service. Remember that many local agencies don’t have offices right at the airport, but they usually provide transportation to pick up your vehicle. If you’re staying in one place for most of your trip, you might even arrange for them to deliver the car to your resort.
Where to Stay
Aruba offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. For families looking for a comfortable base, the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel offers a charming experience. It’s a family-run spot with private casitas that feel quite homey, complete with kitchenettes and barbecue grills. I appreciate having these amenities when traveling with kids; it makes meal times so much simpler. The hotel is also close to Palm Beach, where you can easily access water sports.
If you prefer an all-inclusive experience, the Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive resorts provide a wide array of dining and activity options right on the property. They have a generous stretch of beach that’s perfect for leisurely strolls. For those seeking a more sustainable and luxurious option, the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is renowned as the Caribbean’s first carbon-neutral hotel. It’s an adults-only escape known for its top-notch service and prime beach location.
Another unique option is the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort. It offers two distinct experiences: the adults-only Marina Hotel and the Ocean Suites. A major draw here is the complimentary water taxi access to Renaissance Island, famous for its pink flamingos. Even non-guests can purchase day passes for this exclusive spot, which boasts private cabanas and a tranquil beach atmosphere. It’s quite a memorable sight, seeing those flamingos right on the beach!
Exploring the Island
Aruba may be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to attractions. For nature lovers, Arikok National Park is a must-visit. It covers a significant portion of the island and showcases its rugged beauty, including natural pools, caves, and impressive rock formations. While renting a Jeep to explore on your own is an option, I’d recommend opting for a guided tour, especially if you’re not used to off-road driving. The terrain can be quite challenging, and it’s much more relaxing to let someone else handle the driving while you enjoy the scenery. Tours often take you to fascinating spots like the Quadirikiri Cave, where sunlight filters through openings in the roof, and the Fontein Cave with its ancient Arawak drawings.
A quintessential Aruban experience is a catamaran cruise. Watching the sunset from the water offers a breathtaking perspective of the island. Many companies offer sunset sails that include snacks and drinks, making it a perfect, laid-back activity for the whole family. Some cruises also stop at historical shipwrecks, like the WWII-era Antilla, which is quite impressive to see from the water.
For beach enthusiasts, Eagle Beach is consistently ranked among the world’s best. It’s a wider, more serene beach compared to the bustling Palm Beach, offering plenty of space to relax. You can rent chairs and umbrellas if your resort doesn’t provide them. I love the peaceful atmosphere here; it’s ideal for just unwinding and soaking up the sun.
Baby Beach is another fantastic option, especially for families with young children. Its large, lagoon-like shape creates very shallow, calm waters, making it incredibly safe for little ones to splash around. It’s a bit of a drive from the main tourist areas, but the tranquility and safety are well worth it.
Don’t forget to explore Oranjestad, the capital city. It’s a vibrant hub with colorful Dutch colonial architecture, excellent shopping, and historical sites. Taking a stroll through the downtown area, you can find everything from high-end designer stores to charming local souvenir shops. The city also has a trolley that provides a convenient way to see some of the key landmarks.
Tasting Aruba
Aruba’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of local flavors and international influences. For a truly authentic seafood experience, a visit to Zeerovers in Savaneta is highly recommended. This popular spot, situated right on a pier, offers the freshest catch of the day, often cooked simply and served at picnic tables. Watching the fishing boats come in while you enjoy a meal is part of the charm. I’ve found that ordering by the pound is a great way to sample a variety of their offerings, and sharing a bucket of local beer with the fresh seafood is a quintessential island experience. Just remember they are closed on Mondays.
For healthier options, Eduardo’s has become a go-to. What started as a small smoothie stand has grown into several locations, serving up delicious and customizable fresh juices, smoothies, and bowls. They are perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up after a day in the sun.
For a taste of traditional Aruban cuisine, Papiamento Restaurant is a unique choice. Housed in a historic cunucu house, it offers a romantic dining experience, either in its antique-filled interior or on the poolside terrace. They serve local specialties, including the much-loved keshi yena, Aruba’s national dish. It’s a wonderful way to experience the island’s heritage through its food.
If you’re looking for a quick local bite, The Pastechi House in downtown Oranjestad is the place to go. They specialize in pastechi, a popular Aruban snack similar to an empanada, with a variety of savory fillings like cheese or conch.
What’s the best time to visit Aruba?
The sweet spot for visiting Aruba is generally from February to August. During these months, you’ll typically find pleasant weather and potentially lower prices compared to the peak season. The period from May to September is also a good bet, as it falls after the busy winter travel season for many, meaning better deals and fewer crowds. While it will be warm, the refreshing ocean waters and the constant trade winds keep the temperatures very comfortable, usually holding steady in the mid-80s Fahrenheit. I always make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen during these warmer months.
The island does experience a rainy season from October to January, with November often seeing the most rain. However, these showers are usually short bursts rather than all-day downpours, so they rarely disrupt plans for long. Aruba’s high season runs from December through March. This is when resort occupancy is highest, and it’s wise to book accommodations, rental cars, and popular excursions well in advance. This period also coincides with Carnival festivities, which are a vibrant display of parades, music, and elaborate costumes, typically peaking in January and February.
Are there any local markets to explore?
Yes, absolutely! Given Aruba’s connection to the Netherlands, you’ll find some interesting Dutch influences, even in the local supermarkets. I always make a point to visit a local market to see what’s available. Super Food is a popular choice where you can pick up items like stroopwafels, gouda cheese, or even the island’s famous Hot Delight sauce, made with Aruban Madame Jeanette peppers. It’s a fun way to get a small taste of local flavors to enjoy during your stay or to bring a little bit of Aruba home with you.
Aruba truly offers something for everyone, from its stunning beaches and natural wonders to its delicious cuisine and friendly atmosphere. I hope this guide helps you plan your own unforgettable family adventure on this beautiful island.
Explore Places to Stay in Aruba
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