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Maybe you first heard of Aruba from the breezy, upbeat Beach Boys tune Kokomoko. Or perhaps the island’s warmth reached you through someone else’s sun-soaked travel stories. Or even someone's IG stories! However Aruba came onto your radar, one thing’s for certain: hearing about the destination is not the same as seeing the divi divi trees sway in the warm island breeze yourself. So we’re making the case to pack your bags and go.
But first, some must-knows.
With communities from popular travel destinations like Barcelona and Hawai’i expressing concerns about overtourism, paired with global concern about CO2 emissions and travel carbon footprints, it’s important to be mindful of where and how you choose to unwind, and for that choice to never be at the expense of anyone. Folks can rest assured knowing that, in addition to Aruba’s innovative sustainability and societal measures — like keeping beaches public so everyone continues to get equal access, a ban on sunscreens with oxybenzone to protect the coral reefs, and a sustainability entry fee to deepen initiatives set in motion — tourism is also the primary industry supporting the island’s economy, and your visit keeps that system thriving.
AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R25ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R45ekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeAruba is also one of the most convenient Caribbean destinations for travelers based in the United States of America. Thanks to U.S. pre-clearance, visitors go through customs before returning to the States, meaning you can step off the plane back home like it’s a domestic trip. Other appealing tidbits to the island include:
USD is accepted across Aruba — so you can cross off exchanging currency from your typical pre trip to do list.
Aruba is touted as one of the safest island destinations, making it the perfect destination for those dipping their toes into solo travel, first time travelers, and families.
The island is located outside of the hurricane belt (unlike other Caribbean islands) and boasts consistent warm weather year-round, making it suitable for all occasions — from Spring Break to Winter escapes, low season and high.
The main languages spoken in Aruba are Papiamento and Dutch, but English is also widely spoken and understood.
Aruba is referred to as One Happy Island. And it really does live up to its name!
Now for the specifics: Here’s your travel guide to Aruba!
courtesy of the Raddison BluStay at the Radisson Blu Aruba
Just around the corner from the vibrant Palm Beach, the Radisson Blu Aruba is modern, comfortable, and infused with laid back charm, offering the ultimate retreat for relaxation. But once you’ve rejuvenated with the many amenities available — like lounging in the two different pool areas, unwinding at the full service spa, or zenning out at one of the hotel’s yoga offerings — the buzzy Palm Beach strip is walking distance away and ready to ignite your sense of adventure. Spend the day popping into the vibrant shops with artisanal Arubian offerings like skincare made with locally grown Aloe Vera, or explore the variety of restaurants — from Dutch to Asian fusion and many cuisines in between. The options are endless, and you’ll never run out of things to do. Talk about the best of both worlds!
As for the accommodation itself, rooms at the Radisson are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with expansive bedrooms, kitchens with dining areas, and living rooms ideal for families, groups of friends, or anyone who thrives with more space — over packers, I’m looking at you. Thoughtfulness trickles throughout the property, particularly at the restaurants. Guests can caffeinate at The Clover, an independently operated cafe featuring cakes, coffees, and a curated grocery store for late night snacking, in addition to the infinity poolside Sunset Bistro, where the view is just as scrumptious as the food. Finally, there’s the Acqua Breeze Pool Bar, offering a selection of casual eats, like burgers and fries, and Caribbean inspired cocktails — that can be made virgin, of course. You can also find the resident resort cat, Blu, sunbathing by Acqua Breeze, capping off the charming and welcoming vibe the hotel exudes.
Caraibi - Aruba
Davide Camesasca/ Aruba Tourism AuthorityTake in the View at California Lighthouse
Known as the tallest structure in Aruba, the California Lighthouse offers some of the best panoramic views on the island. From the top, you’ll take in sweeping vistas of cactus-covered landscapes, a shimmering strip of turquoise water, and on clear days, even spot Venezuela on the horizon. Cap off your excursion at Faro Blanco Restaurant right next to the lighthouse—an Italian spot that’s especially swoon worthy at sunset.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityAdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2hekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R4hekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe Grab a smoothie at Eduardo’s Beach Shack
Serving up nature’s sweetest, and with five locations located throughout the island, the menu offers an array of refreshing fruit smoothies, decadent smoothie bowls (often topped with coconut), and poke and grain bowls for all taste preferences. Try Eduardo’s delight, a papaya, strawberry, and mint smoothie that is fantastic on its own, but particularly satisfying sipped beachside.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityWade In at Baby Beach
Baby Beach lives up to its name: no matter how far you wade in, the water rarely goes above your waist. Protected by a natural reef, the calm natured lagoon is ideal for beginner snorkelers or those who prefer floating with the waves rather than fighting with them.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityMake a furry friend at the Donkey Sanctuary
Located in the desert hills of Brigamosa, the Aruba Donkey Sanctuary is the ultimate feel good stop where more than 130 donkeys roam safely. Originally used for transport, these now-retired animals are gentle souls that cohabitate the space with peacocks and adoptable cats. The sanctuary is not only a place to spend quality time with these furry friends, but also a place to see firsthand how deeply the locals care for both animals and history.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityExplore Arikok National Park
Nearly 20% of Aruba is protected within Arikok National Park, a terrain filled with tall cacti, windmills, bat filled caves, and loads of history. One of the most awe-inspiring spots within the park is Fontein Cave, Aruba’s only cave with preserved drawings from those who once called the land home. After taking in the history of the cave, make your way down to the natural freshwater pond nearby, where the brave can dip their toes in for a fish pedicure, or the ticklish can perch on a rock and watch goats frolic nearby instead.
Sailboat anchored along the tropical shores of Aruba
Cavan ImagesAdvertisementAdvertisement#«R2uekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframe AdvertisementAdvertisement#«R4uekkr8lb2m7nfblbH1» iframeGet a new perspective from a Catamaran tour
Interested in seeing Aruba in a different light? Take to the sea. Tropical Sailing Aruba offers guests the opportunity to set sail across and snorkel over coral reefs, observe fish in their habitat, or swim in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. Tours include a delightful assortment of snacks and drinks — think ceviche, fresh fruit, and refreshing juices — accompanied by lively music and a huge deck space to sprawl out onto and soak in the Aruban sun.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityDine at Lima Bistro
Located in Oranjestad, the part of the island known for its shopping and marina, Lima Bistro is a culinary delight featuring a fresh take on Peruvian food with Caribbean influences. Led by celebrated local chef Teddy Bouroncle, who sharpened his skills at a Michelin starred restaurant, guests can expect a delicious array of familiar foods with a distinct twist — like red beets in parmesan foam or short ribs in yuca purée — that are bound to leave a lasting impression. The ultimate restaurant for any special occasion.
Aruba, San Nicolas
Streets of San Nicolas, the Aruba's second largest city, known as a company town since the opening of an oil refinery in 1924. Recently, magnificent murals were created to beautify the city and attract visitors.Flavio VallenariTake in the murals and art scene in San Nicholas
Also known as ‘Sunrise City’, San Nicholas is Aruba’s creative capital. Once the industrial sector of the island, the streets are now renowned for vibrant murals with unique features like 3D art that comes to life depending on how you look at it. Each mural also has a backstory, with many rooted in Aruban history and identity, and guests can take a guided tour of the neighborhood to get the full story.
Aruba Tourism AuthorityGet a sweet treat at Mythos
Who can ever say no to a sweet treat? Located on the Palm Beach Strip, the delightful desert spot offers Greek frozen yogurt with Mediterranean inspired toppings. From crunchy baklava bits to classic chocolate drizzles, to their take on the trendy Dubai chocolate combo, the shop operates out of a decorative blue and white minivan, adorned with Greek sculptures, transporting you to an idyllic island while on another. It sure is a sweet way to end things off.
Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue
