Extensive Aruba Travel Guide + 10 Day Itinerary – Popular Attractions, Hidden Gems, and MORE!

Aruba is HANDS DOWN mine and Jared’s FAVORITE island of all time (at least out of all the ones we’ve been to). We love it so much because it’s so easy to get to (you can take a direct flight from JFK), perfect weather year-round, and just an all around beautiful, clean, island. This past time visiting was our second time to Aruba, and while I am going to include things from both visits, this recent trip was geared towards this blog post and I will be including an exact itinerary as to what we did on our ten day’s in Aruba. If you’re looking to book an upcoming trip to Aruba or curious to know if this is the right island for you, get ready, because I am about to provide some valuable insight and some (fire) recommendations to help make the most of your time in Aruba.

A little bit about Aruba…

Aruba is a small tropical island located in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. It is a popular vacation destination, known for its stunning beaches, perfect weather, and endless activities. The best time to visit is from January to September which is generally considered their dry season. The island has a very tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the low 80s to the mid-90s year-round (I mean come on how could one be sad in this environment?!). Now I know that may seem hot to some, but when I say there is always a constant, slight breeze, I am telling you there is no better weather than here. Aside from the perfect weather and beautiful beaches, Aruba has a ton more to offer, and they don’t call it “One Happy Island” for nothing! Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Aruba has something for everyone.

Getting Into Aruba + Travel Restrictions

When traveling to Aruba, you can enter the island by air or sea. The Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is the main airport on the island and hosts major airlines with direct flights from various cities in the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America. The airport also has several car rental agencies, taxis, and shuttle services available for transportation. Additionally, one can arrive by sea via cruise ship or private yacht. Aruba is a popular port for many cruise lines and has a modern port facility located in the capital city, Oranjestad. Citizens of many countries, including the United States and Canada, do not need a visa to enter Aruba for stays of up to 30 days. However, you will need a valid passport to get into the country.

This past time we went to Aruba, the requirements to get in were either a vaccine passport, OR a negative COVID test for those who were not vaccinated. Along with that we had to fill out an online application to get in AND purchase insurance (prompted at the end of the application) due to COVID regulations. I am not entirely sure what the requirements are these days, considering restrictions are constantly changing. However, you can find more info here on the official Aruba website. Be sure to always do your research and make sure you know the travel requirements before booking any trip outside of the country!

Cost, Currency, and Language

Obviously the cost of traveling to Aruba will depend on a variety of factors, depending on your travel style, preferences, and budget. On average, travelers can expect to spend around $150-$250 per day for mid-range expenses. You can expect to spend more money on travel to Aruba during the peak tourist season and less during the low season. It’s always a good idea to create a budget before you go and to be mindful of your spending while traveling.

The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban florin (AWG), and one florin is divided into 100 cents. The exchange rate between the florin and the US dollar is fixed at 1.79 florins per 1 US dollar. You can exchange US dollars, euros, and other major currencies for Aruban florins at banks, currency exchange offices, and some hotels. However, all places pretty much accept the US dollar and other major currencies, although it is recommended to exchange your currency to the local Aruban florin for better value.

Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted in Aruba, especially at tourist-oriented businesses. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, as not all businesses accept credit cards and you never know when you’ll need to tip. ATMs are widely available on the island, and you can use them to withdraw Aruban florins or US dollars.

The official language of Aruba is Dutch, but the most commonly spoken language is Papiamento. English and Spanish are also widely spoken on the island, particularly in the tourism industry.

Transportation

As I mentioned earlier, the airport and seaport has several car rental agencies, taxis, and shuttle services available for transportation. Many hotels and resorts also offer a free shuttle service to and from the airport, and some offer shuttle services to popular attractions around the island. You will notice many people on UTV’s, scooters, bikes, and quads. Although this is not ideal for transporting your luggage back and forth and showing up to your dinner reservation, it definitely is a fun way to navigate the island during the day.

We rented a Jeep from Jay’s Rental Company and this was a 10/10 great experience. We were able to take the Jeep all throughout the island and even into the dunes on the back side of the island where most people take a UTV. If in your budget, I would HIGHLY recommend this option as you can have a full car or take the door sunroof off for the same experience.

I also want to mention what we quickly discovered the first time on the island, THERE ARE NO UBERS IN ARUBA so keep that in mind! AND, you should download Google Maps before you get there because Apple maps DO NOT WORK HERE and you will definitely be needing a GPS at some point in time.

Where We Stayed

Aruba is known for its white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and year-round sunshine – three of my favorite things that we wanted to make sure we could capture. This past time visiting, we traveled with a large group of people and split a STUNNING penthouse condo at Blue Aruba Rentals, that we had rented through AirBnb. I can’t currently find the listing on Airbnb, but here is the site to book through them directly. We absolutely LOVED this place – I would 100% stay here and book with them again. It was in the perfect location with food options, multiple pools (and an infinity pool), directly across from the beach, and right in the middle of everything. Blue Aruba Rentals is best for guests who prefer a more private and independent vacation experience. Their rental properties range from condos to luxury villas, and they offer a variety of amenities such as private pools, fully equipped kitchens, and hotel-like services. Blue Aruba Rentals guests typically value having their own space and the flexibility to plan their vacation according to their own preferences and schedule. 10/10 experience.

The first time around, we stayed at The Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino – this is where you go to see the famous flamingos. The hotel is made up of two distinct properties: the Renaissance Marina Hotel and the Renaissance Ocean Suites. The Marina Hotel features amenities such as a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options and a private white sand beach. The Ocean Suites is an adults-only property that offers private balconies with ocean views, and access to the Renaissance Marina Hotel facilities. The hotel also features a casino, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beautiful garden. It is known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations. Additionally, it’s a popular choice among couples and business travelers.

If you’re looking for a smaller, more secluded area, we’ve also stayed at Beach House Aruba Apartments for another part of our stay. (We really wanted to get to experience the flamingos but we are also such airbnb people so we booked them both and I’ll get into that later on.) This is an absolutely stunning place to stay with an outdoor swimming pool, directly across the beach, with daily housekeeping, and great wifi. This is the perfect spot to stay if you’re traveling with a loved one or looking for a more homey-like, private setting. This is a cool, unique spot, in a great location.

Below are a few other popular options for places to stay in Aruba. This is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other hotels that are also popular, but these are some of the most well-known and highly-rated on the island. These include:

• The Ritz-Carlton – Located on Palm Beach in Aruba, the Ritz-Carlton is a luxury hotel which features many amenities such as a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and a private white sand beach. It offers a variety of room and suite options, as well as villas and bungalows for guests to choose from. The hotel is known for its excellent service and luxurious accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton is a popular destination among tourists looking for a luxurious and relaxing vacation.
• Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a hotel also located in Palm Beach. Guests can enjoy a variety of casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and slot machines right in the hotel’s casino. Additionally, the hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool, a fitness center and a full-service spa. This is a popular choice among couples, business travelers and those looking for a luxurious vacation.
• Hotel RIU Palace – The Hotel RIU Palace features similar amenities as the two listed above, and is also part of the RIU Hotels & Resorts chain which offer all-inclusive services and facilities. The hotel is known for its excellent service and comfortable accommodations with a stunning view of the ocean and huge swimming pool with a swim-up bar. The spa and fitness center offer a range of services and activities to help guests relax and stay active during their stay. Hotel Riu Palace Aruba is a popular destination among tourists looking for a high-end, all-inclusive resort experience in Aruba.
• Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino – The Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino is a 4.5-star hotel located on Palm Beach in Aruba. (If you couldn’t tell by now, Palm Beach is an extremely popular/good place to stay). It’s known as one of the most popular hotels on the island for its beautiful location on the beach, its wide range of amenities, and top tier service. The Hilton Aruba is a popular destination among tourists looking for a high-end, luxurious vacation in Aruba.
• La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino – La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino is a hotel located in Eagle Beach, Aruba. The hotel features amenities such as a spa, fitness center, multiple dining options, and a private white sand beach. It also offers a variety of room and suite options, as well as villas and apartments for guests to choose from. The hotel also features a casino, an outdoor swimming pool, and a beautiful garden. The hotel is known for its live music and happy hour outside on the pool deck everyday at 5:00 (so much freaking fun). This one is a popular choice among families and budget-conscious travelers.
• Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort Aruba – Buciti & Tata Beach Resort is also located on Eagle Beach. The hotel is an adults-only property and it is known for its beautiful and intimate setting. Here, they offer a variety of room options for guests to choose from, including standard rooms and suites. The hotel is also known for being eco-friendly, and it offers a variety of sustainable practices such as solar panels and water-saving measures. It’s a popular choice among couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic and relaxing getaway!
• Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort – Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort is a hotel located in Palm Beach, Aruba. The resort is known for its beautiful location on the beach and its spacious and comfortable suites. They offer an all-inclusive package which includes meals, drinks, and activities. It’s a popular choice among families and budget-conscious travelers looking for an all-inclusive option.
• The Mill Resort & Suites – The Mill Resort & Suites is a hotel located in Palm Beach, Aruba. The hotel features all the amenities and offers a variety of room options for guests to choose from. This is a popular choice among families and budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable option in Palm Beach!

10 Day Itinerary

What To Do

Aruba has many popular attractions, including its crystal clear beaches, water sports, golf courses, casinos, and you guessed it, shopping! The island is also home to a number of natural parks and reserves, which offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and other outdoor activities. There are endless things you can do on the island but here are some of my favorites and must-dos:

Beaches –

Aruba is KNOWN for its beaches. There are endless beach spots to explore in Aruba and they are all generally safe for swimming and offer a variety of activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and sunbathing. SPF IS A MUST!! (A lesson that I will NEVER be able to learn.) Do not be fooled by the breezy cool air – if you’re a fair skin gal like myself, you will instantly burn within the first 10 minutes of being out in the sun… must I show you a pic? Yes. Because this is a very serious subject – one of our friends blistered the entire trip and had to stay inside and cover up for the rest of the stay. I will also throw in that the ARUBA ALOE is one of a kind aloe vera made right on the island on one of my favorite brands. We always stock up when we go and it really does work wonders. It’s a bit on the pricey side but absolutely worth it IMO.

Here are a few of the most popular beaches in Aruba:

• Eagle Beach – This wide, white-sand beach is one of the most popular in Aruba. It’s known for its clear turquoise waters and is a great place for swimming and sunbathing. There are also several restaurants and bars in the area for anyone looking to spend the day exploring.
• Palm Beach – Located on the western side of the island, Palm Beach is a popular spot for tourists. It’s a long, wide beach with soft white sand and crystal clear water. There are several resorts and hotels in the area, as well as restaurants, bars, and shops. This is a popular place to be with tons of things to do.
• Manchebo Beach – Located on the western side of the island, Manchebo Beach is a smaller, more secluded beach. It’s a great spot for relaxation and offers good snorkeling and swimming.
• Baby Beach – Located on the eastern side of the island, Baby Beach is a small, sheltered beach with calm waters. It’s a great spot for families with young children, as the water is shallow and there are no strong currents.
• Arashi Beach – Located just off the road to the California Lighthouse, offering beach huts, a fun bar and large parking area. Restrooms and showers available at the small beach snack restaurant.
• Boca Catalina – Located on the northwestern tip of Aruba, white sand beaches and calm, placid waters. It’s known to be the top snorkeling spot of the island, and where dolphins are said to be seen.
• Mangel Halto – A “secret” beach located through the mangrove trails. The beach is surrounded by mangroves and is a favorite among locals for a relaxing day on the beach. It is also known as a perfect snorkeling and shore diving spot due to the calm and shallow waters.
• De Palm Island aka Flamingo Island – Palm Island is an actual island so you have to have a 5 to 10 minute ferry ride from the mainland to the island. The island includes a small beach where you can lounge and rent cabanas, eat, and of course, see the stunning flamingos up close and personal.

UTV Tours –

One of my most recommended things to do in Aruba would be to rent a UTV. Whether you rent it on your own or take a group tour, it’s such a fun and exciting experience for everyone. UTV’s are off-roading vehicles, which typically involve riding a four-wheel drive utility vehicle over rough terrain, through forests, and along beaches. You will constantly see people riding around on UTV’s the entire time you’re in Aruba. It’s a very popular thing to do here because of the huge desert on the back of the island that you can explore. Many UTV tours in Aruba also include stops at natural and cultural attractions, such as caves, natural bridges, and ruins. Rentals and tours generally last for several hours and are suitable for participants aged 16 and older. Most tours include a guide and all necessary safety equipment, such as helmets and goggles.

Both times we went, we decided to do the tour on our own, however, if you have never driven at UTV or don’t feel comfortable exploring the island on your own, I would recommend doing the tour with a larger group and tour guides. We tried two different rental companies on each visit and we loved George’s. They were in a convenient location, safe, and had many options of vehicles to choose from. Keep in mind you are going to want to wear clothes you don’t mind ruining because it is dusty and dirty riding around the desert. We were COVERED in dirt both times we went and I ended up throwing out my shirt at the end of the trip because I couldn’t get the stains out. If you’re interested in taking a UTV tour in Aruba, there are several tour operators to choose from. When booking a tour, be sure to ask about the route and any stops that are included, as well as the level of difficulty and any age or other restrictions that may apply.

Arikok National Park & Natural Pool –

Arikok National Park is a protected area located in the eastern part of Aruba. It covers about 20% of the island and is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including cactus, iguanas, and many species of birds. Arikok National Park is a popular destination for tourists, who come to explore the island’s natural beauty and learn about its history and culture. The park is open to the public daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, and there is a small admission fee to get in. There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging in difficulty from easy to challenging, as well as several guided tours available for those who are interested. In addition to hiking and exploring, there are many other activities to enjoy in the park, including birdwatching, horseback riding, and snorkeling in the natural pool.

The Old Cunucu House is a restaurant in the park that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The dinner menu includes a range of dishes, such as steaks, chicken, and seafood. The park also has several facilities, including restrooms, picnic areas, and a visitor center where you can learn more about the park’s history and ecosystem on your visit.

If there is one thing you MUST do when you come to Aruba, it’s go swimming/snorkeling in the natural pool at Arikok National Park. Since the last time we visited, they’ve changed the rules in which you are no longer able to get there by UTV. You can only enter the park with a pass and then get to the natural pool by car. If you follow the signs you will see the pool entrance which you then have to walk down a ton of stairs to get there. Keep your personal belongings in the car and get ready to take a nice dip and also jump off the rocks. This is my absolute FAVORITE spot in Aruba, that many people don’t usually experience.

Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling –

This signature tour is a full-day sailing and snorkeling adventure that includes stops at several of Aruba’s most popular beaches and snorkeling spots. The tour includes a stop for lunch at a beachside restaurant and the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. Jolly Pirates also offers a half-day snorkeling tour, which includes a visit to a shipwreck and several snorkeling spots. The tours are suitable for participants of all ages and include all necessary equipment, such as snorkels and fins. If you’re interested in taking a sailing or snorkeling tour with Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling, it’s a good idea to book in advance, as tours can fill up quickly. You can book a tour right online through the company’s website.

Visit The Butterfly Farm –

The Butterfly Farm Aruba is a beautiful, interactive butterfly exhibit, located in Palm Beach. The farm features a variety of butterfly species from all over the world, and you can learn about the butterfly’s life cycle, habitat, and behavior through guided tours that they offer throughout the day. The exhibit is designed to be both educational and entertaining, with plenty of opportunities to observe the butterflies up close and take photos. They are all over and will even land right on your shoulder! Not to mention the stunning koi fish pond that me and Jared were obsessed with. This is such a beautiful and peaceful activity to do while looking for a unique and memorable experience in Aruba.

Hang With The Flamingos –

Flamingos in Aruba can be found at the Renaissance Private Island, a small private island that is part of the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. The island is home to a flock of Caribbean flamingos, and guests of the resort have the opportunity to visit the island and see the flamingos up close. The flamingos are free to roam around the island, and visitors can take photos and observe them from a safe distance.

To get to Flamingo Island, you need to take a water taxi from the resort’s marina, which is located in Oranjestad. The water taxi ride takes around 15 minutes and is free for guests of the resort. Once you arrive on the island, you can explore the beaches, swim, snorkel, and observe the flamingos. Note that access to Flamingo Island is limited to guests of the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, and reservations may be required BUT (we learned this later on) you are able to purchase a day pass here. Keep in mind though, tickets are only available to purchase for the following day and go on sale at 7am. You’ll definitely want to set an alarm as the tickets sell out within minutes (hence why we booked a night here, surly this is how they get you).

California Lighthouse –

The California Lighthouse is located in a scenic area, with views of the surrounding countryside and the ocean. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island. The lighthouse is open to the public daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, and there is a small admission fee. In addition to the lighthouse, the area around the California Lighthouse is home to several other attractions, including a museum, a gift shop, and a restaurant. The area is a popular spot for tourists, who come to take in the views, learn about the island’s history, and enjoy the local food and drink.

Shop/Buy Some Local Art –

Aruba has a vibrant art scene with a range of local artists showcasing their work. Visitors can find various types of art in Aruba, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry. There are plenty of places to buy local art in Aruba if you’re into that kind of thing. ArtisA Gallery was one of my favorites and such a unique and stunning gallery full of different artists’ work that I would totally recommend you checking it out.

Go To The Casino –

Aruba is well known for its casinos, and there are several casinos on the island, including those located in hotels and resorts. These casinos offer a wide range of games, including slot machines, blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps. They also often host live entertainment and special events. It’s important to note that you must be at least 18 years old to gamble in Aruba and remember to always gamble responsibly!

Luxury Shopping –

Aruba offers a variety of luxury shopping experiences for visitors, with high-end brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier. You can find them in shopping centers like the Renaissance Mall and the Paseo Herencia Mall. Additionally, there are several upscale boutiques and jewelry stores located throughout the island, particularly in areas such as Palm Beach and Oranjestad.

Vlog from our first Aruba trip

Where To Eat

Aruba has a diverse culinary scene, with a range of restaurants offering local and international cuisine from casual cafes to upscale dining establishments. I have complied a list of my favorite places we ate at and that you should consider trying while in Aruba.

Breakfast

• The Dutch Pancake House – The Dutch Pancake House is a popular restaurant in Aruba that serves a range of Dutch-style pancakes (also known as crepes), as well as other dishes such as sandwiches, salads, and soups. The pancakes are made with a variety of fillings, including sweet and savory options, and can be topped with a range of toppings such as fruit, nuts, and chocolate. This is such a good spot that I highly recommend but be prepared to wait in line for a while.

• Dushi Bagels and Burgers – Serves a range of sandwiches, burgers, and bagels. The menu includes a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. Many of the ingredients used at Dushi Bagels and Burgers are locally sourced and the restaurant is known for its friendly service. We came here multiple times for breakfast and lunch!

Brunch

• Lolas – A Mexican inspired taqueria perfect for breakfast/lunch especially if you are looking to explore the town and shop around after. The restaurant is known for its delicious tacos, friendly service, and casual atmosphere. They have a range of seating options, including indoor and outdoor tables. This is also an awesome spot to rent scooters through the Bird app and ride around the strip.

Lunch

• The West Deck – This is a hidden gem. It’s about a 7 minute ride from the airport and a perfect place to stop on the way to your hotel/airbnb. It’s a casual lively dining spot located right on the beach. I highly recommend trying their coconut shrimp and some of their tropical drinks.

• The Bread Basket – A lunch spot directly on the beach in a cute little area right in the center of town. This is a perfect, casual, food spot if you’re looking to grab a quick bite, delicious food, and want to munch in your swimwear. I got their tuna sandwich and it was SO YUMMY.

• Po-Ke Ono – Po-Ke Ono is the best sushi and poke bowls on the island in Aruba that serves poke bowls, sushi burritos, and other Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. I ate here so many times for lunch when we were here! It is located on the right side of the Blue Aruba Resort right by Eagle Beach.

• Zeeover – If you’re a fish lover, you need to come here. It’s on the opposite side of the island, but it’s fresh off the boat. You can see them bring it in about every 15 minutes. They cut, weigh, and cook the fish right in front of you. This is a good spot to hit if you are out with the UTV’s looking for a place to stop.

• Big Mama Grill – This is located right on Baby Beach and a family known restaurant who are known for being dressed up as the Flintstones. If you’re out here for a beach day, it’s the perfect place to stop for a quick snack and some frozen drinks after lounging on the hot beach all day. You HAVE to go and get their gelato here (it’s the same as the one in town but I swear it just hits different!)

Dinner

• Fred’s/Royal Aruba – One of the coolest, most unique dining experiences you could ever get. Formally known as Fred’s, Royal is a fine dining experience where the chef cooks and prepares a 5 course meal right in front of your own eyes and takes you on an experience with exquisite food. 10/10 I cannot recommend this enough. If there is any dinner I can recommend that you do in Aruba, IT’S THIS ONE! And be prepared, you will be there for 3.5 hours – so plan accordingly! I also should mention it’s pretty hard to get in here so I would recommend trying to book months in advance.

• Infiniti – Another one of a kind dining experience similar to Royal, Infiniti is a 12 Course Chef’s impression dining experience. We haven’t experienced this one ourselves yet, but it was recommended to us numerous times and we have heard nothing but great things about this place. It is located right at Blue Residences on Eagle Beach.
• Driftwood – Such a good dining experience! Driftwood Aruba is a hotel located in Eagle Beach, Aruba. It is a small and intimate, family-owned and operated hotel, known for its beautiful and tranquil setting, excellent service and comfortable accommodations.
• Screaming Eagle – Screaming Eagle is such a unique and romantic dining experience where you eat dinner in bed. Literally, there are private king sized beds that you sit on and eat a private dinner. This was such a cool experience we did for Jared’s birthday the first time around.
• Giannis – This one may be a little controversial, but this place is totally overhyped in my opinion. It is beautiful inside, with a great atmosphere, but the food is… mediocre. Definitely a tourist trap. This Italian dining place is famously known for its cheese wheel. Where the servers come out with their cart and cook pasta in a cheese wheel right at your table. Take that as you will, it’s definitely fun to experience, but there are much better places to eat at. (If you’re local and looking for a good cheese wheel experience, go to D’Amelios Italian Eatery in Waterbury, CT. 10/10 they do such a better job IMO).

• Azia Restaurant/Lounge – A popular delicious Asian Caribbean restaurant, Azia is a fancy dining restaurant and lounge that is one of my favorite places to eat at. It’s located in the same plaza as Lolas, and Gusto. Their corn and dumplings were to die for! They feature a combination of traditional and contemporary dishes with a touch of modern cuisine. The restaurant is all around a stunning place inside and out, and the experience is always a 10/10.

• Bohemian Restaurant – French flair with a pinch of bohemian magic, Bohemian Restaurant is an upscale dining establishment located in Aruba. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with a menu that features a combination of traditional and contemporary dishes, prepared with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its excellent service, beautiful decor and a romantic atmosphere, it’s considered as one of the best restaurants in Aruba. They offer a variety of options such as seafood, steak, and vegetarian options. Additionally, they have a great wine selection and a full bar service.

Dinner On The Beach/Water

• Azzuro – A gorgeous Italian restaurant right on the water. They also do a cheese wheel here. Azzurro Restaurant is known for its delicious Italian cuisine, attentive service and romantic atmosphere. The menu features a variety of traditional Italian dishes such as pasta, risotto, seafood, and meat dishes. They use fresh and locally-sourced ingredients, and also have a great selection of wines to complement the meals. The restaurant also features a beautiful terrace with ocean views, and it’s a great spot to enjoy a romantic dinner or a special occasion.

• Flying Fish Bone – Flying Fishbone is a seafood restaurant known for its delicious seafood dishes, beautiful setting, and excellent service. The menu features a variety of seafood options, such as grilled fish, lobster, and conch fritters, prepared with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant also features a beautiful terrace with ocean views, and it’s a great spot to enjoy a romantic dinner or a special occasion. They also have a full bar service, and they offer a variety of tropical drinks and cocktails.
• Passions On The Beach – If you’re looking for a good dinner on the water (LITERALLY) this is where you have to go. Passions on the Beach is a seafood and steak restaurant known for its delicious seafood and steak dishes, beautiful setting, and excellent service. The menu features a variety of seafood options, such as grilled fish, lobster, and conch fritters, as well as steak options like filet mignon and ribeye. The restaurant is situated on the beach and offers a casual, open-air dining experience, with stunning views. It’s considered as one of the best seafood and steak restaurants in the island, and it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals looking for a casual and relaxed dining experience on the beach with a menu that offers a variety of options. Be sure to make a reservation before sunset because it is STUNNING.
• Atardi Beach Dining – Atardi is a beachfront seafood restaurant. It is known for its delicious seafood dishes, beautiful setting, and excellent service. The menu features a variety of seafood options, such as grilled fish, lobster, and conch fritters, prepared with fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is situated on the beach and offers a casual, open-air dining experience, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. It’s also considered as one of the best seafood restaurants in the island, and it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals looking for a casual and relaxed dining experience on the beach.

• Pelicans Nest – Dinner on the pier. Pelican Nest Beach Club is a beach club and restaurant located on the beach, and it’s known for its beautiful setting, excellent service and delicious food. The menu features seafood and Caribbean cuisine with a variety of options such as grilled fish, lobster, and conch fritters. They also have a full bar service, and they offer a variety of tropical drinks and cocktails. The beach club offers loungers, umbrellas, and beach beds for customers to enjoy the beautiful view and the tropical weather. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals, looking for a relaxing and casual dining experience.

Where To Drink

Aruba is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a range of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from. Here are a few things to do if you’re looking for a night out in Aruba:

• La Cabana – The best happy hour, with live music, a big bar, multiple swimming pools, a water slide, and much fun for everyone! You can’t go wrong here. We came here multiple times! La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino in Aruba offers a daily happy hour at its beachfront bar. During happy hour, which typically takes place in the late afternoon, the bar offers discounted prices on a selection of drinks such as beer, wine, and cocktails. The exact hours and specials offered may vary, so it’s best to check with the hotel or the bar directly for the most current information.

• Gusto Club – Gusto Club Aruba is a night club known for its lively, party atmosphere, and its great music. The club features a dance floor, a full bar, and a VIP area. They offer a variety of music genres such as Latin, Top40, and hip hop. It’s a popular destination among the locals and tourists looking for a night out, to dance and socialize. The club has a dress code, and they usually have special events and promotions throughout the week.

• YOLO – YOLO Club Aruba is a day and night club known for its party scene, dance floor, full bar, and music. The club also offers a variety of theme nights and events, such as ladies’ night, and karaoke night. It’s a popular destination among the locals and tourists looking for a night out, to dance and socialize. We thought this was going to be a fun brunch spot but the music was so unbearably loud it was not enjoyable and we actually ended up leaving . I would stick to the night scene here.
• Sopranos Piano Bar – Sopranos Piano Bar is a bar known for its lively atmosphere, live entertainment, and excellent service. The bar features a piano, usually with a pianist or a band playing a variety of music genres such as jazz, pop, and lounge music. The bar also has a full bar service, and they offer a variety of drinks and cocktails.
• The Mill – The Mill Bar is a bar located in The Mill Resort & Suites, in Aruba. The bar is open daily, and it serves a variety of tropical drinks, cocktails, beer and wine. It’s a perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink while enjoying the weather and the beautiful view. The bar also features live music or DJ’s on certain nights. It’s a popular destination for a casual and relaxed place to hang out, have a drink and enjoy the night. They are also open until 4am!
• MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant – MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant is a beachfront restaurant and bar. The restaurant is known for its beautiful setting, excellent service and delicious food and drinks. The menu features a variety of seafood and Caribbean cuisine options, such as grilled fish, lobster, and conch fritters. They also have a full bar service, and they offer a variety of tropical drinks and cocktails. The restaurant is situated on the beach and offers a casual, open-air dining experience, with beautiful views of the Caribbean Sea. It’s a popular destination for tourists and locals looking for a casual and relaxed dining experience on the beach.
• Nos Clubhuis – Nos Clubhuis is a beach bar known for its lively atmosphere, great music and party atmosphere. The bar is situated on the beach, and it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists looking for a casual and relaxed place to enjoy a drink or a snack while enjoying the beautiful view of the Caribbean sea.
• Hadicurari – Hadicurari Beach is also home to a beach bar, where visitors can enjoy a variety of tropical drinks and cocktails while taking in the beautiful views and watching windsurfers and kite surfers ride the waves.

What To Pack + Checklist

If you’re planning a trip to Aruba, you’re in for a treat! The island is home to beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and a range of activities and attractions for travelers of all ages. Whether you’re interested in soaking up the sun on the beach, exploring the island’s natural beauty, or trying your luck at one of the casinos, there’s something for everyone in Aruba.

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UNTIL NEXT TIME,

TAYLOR ONZE