Aruba: Everything You Need to Know
Updated: May 10
You've seen the photos: Aruba's stunning beaches, impossibly blue water, and breathtaking sunsets are the stuff of postcards. But there's so much more to this Dutch Caribbean island than gorgeous vistas.
The perfect Caribbean escape, Aruba offers an island paradise full of natural beauty and unspoiled luxury. Located in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a part of the ABC Islands, alongside Bonaire and Curaçao. Just 18 miles from Venezuela, the island is known for having a tropical climate with warm weather year-round. This makes it a perfect place to escape when winter's chill sets in back home. Aruba also boasts less rainfall than any other Caribbean destination. Overall, Aruba is a world-class destination with delicious food, gorgeous beaches, and incredible luxury accommodations.
Why Visit Aruba
If you are looking for an island vacation that is as beautiful as it is interesting, Aruba should be your first choice. Whether you're looking for an adventure or just want to relax and unwind, Aruba has something for every vacationer. Additionally, it's easily accessible from the United States. Plus, its friendly culture, diverse cuisine, and endless beaches make it one of the most charming destinations in the Caribbean.
Travelers can find a little bit of everything — from local food specialties to cultural events like Carnival and Dia di San Juan. Experience the thrill of off-road adventures or go snorkeling alongside sea turtles. Take a relaxing walk on Eagle Beach, then enjoy delicious Caribbean cuisine at one of Aruba's many restaurants. In short: There are plenty of reasons to visit this island paradise!
Know Before You Go:
When to Visit: December through April is the high season for Aruba. It's the coolest, driest time of year, with average highs in the low 80s and lows in the mid-70s. Additionally, Carnival celebrations are held in January and February. May through November is hurricane season, but Aruba rarely gets hit by a big storm. If you decide to visit during this season, be sure to get travel insurance for your trip.
Currency: The currency in Aruba is the florin (AWG). If you want to tip in cash or try out one of Aruba's delicious street food vendors, it's best to bring some local currency.
Language: While English is widely spoken and understood around Aruba, it's not an official language—Dutch is instead!
For up-to-date COVID restrictions check out the Aruba Tourism Website
What to Do In Aruba
Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, there's no shortage of activities on the island. Aruba is a quick-to-see, slow-to-feel destination with many activities to keep you busy while you're here. It has some of the Caribbean's best beaches and seaside resorts as well as interesting cultural and historical attractions. What it lacks in size—the island is just over 100 square miles—it makes up for in personality and diversity.
The island has many beautiful beaches, notably: Eagle Beach, Baby Beach, Arashi Beach, and Palm Beach. On top of this, beach lovers can enjoy all kinds of water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, or sailing on the windy seas surrounding Aruba's natural features like lagoons, islands, and cays. The island also offers easy access to many reefs and shipwrecks that attract snorkelers and divers, who are sometimes joined by curious sea turtles. Furthermore, there is an abundance of activities for families with children, including swimming lessons and the butterfly park.
Where to Eat In Aruba
Now that you know a bit about what to do and see in Aruba, let's dive into the food scene. Aruba offers outstanding fresh and local seafood as the ocean surrounds the island. Don't miss out on trying some of the local restaurants, as they serve some of the best food you'll find anywhere in the Caribbean. Avid food lovers will be pleased to know that Aruba has many restaurants serving traditional Dutch fare as well as some mouthwatering local cuisine like pastechi (deep-fried pocket bread stuffed with cheese) or Stobá di piská (seafood stew).
Below are some restaurants, bars, and cafes—all with excellent food—where we'd recommend eating.