Aruba

Whether you want to lounge on white sand, try fresh seafood, or take a boat trip at sunset, Aruba makes it easy to enjoy island life. Here’s your full guide to where to go, what to do, and when to visit.

Population108,156
LanguagesDutch, Papiamentu
Local time5:12 PM
Flagaw flag
Currencies(AWG)
Area180 km²
Flamengos at the beach
31°C
few clouds
Feels like: 38°C

Best time to visit Aruba

Aruba is sunny all year and gets very little rain, making it one of the most weather-friendly islands in the Caribbean. It also sits outside the hurricane belt, so storms are rare. The best time to visit is from December to mid-April, when the average temperature is around 84°F (29°C). This is the high season, so expect more visitors. For lower prices and fewer crowds, consider May through early December, many travelers prefer September and October for warm water and peaceful beaches.

Where to stay in Aruba

Aruba offers a range of places to stay, from luxury beachfront resorts to quiet residential areas. Whether you're planning a relaxed vacation, a family trip, or something in between, you’ll find a spot that fits your travel style.

Palm Beach and Noord

This is Aruba’s most popular area for visitors, located within the larger Noord district. It includes high rise resorts, beach bars, restaurants, and quiet residential spots just beyond the main strip. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balance of comfort, activity, and beach time.

  • Palm Beach Strip - The heart of the action with high rise hotels, dining, and nightlife.
  • Hadicurari - A coastal area north of the main beach, good for windsurfing and fewer crowds.
  • Tierra del Sol - A golf resort community with upscale rentals and views of the sea.
Palm Beach, Aruba
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Palm Beach. Photo by Atilin. CC by.

Palm Beach, Aruba
Noord, Aruba

Oranjestad

Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, offers a more local feel with colorful buildings, shops, and the marina. It’s a good base for cruise travelers or anyone looking for culture, city access, and day trips.

  • Downtown - A walkable area near the port with boutique hotels, markets, and museums.
  • Surfside - Just south of downtown with beach access and a few casual restaurants by the sea.
Downtown Oranjestad, Aruba
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Downtown Oranjestad. Photo by Navigator334. CC by.

Downtown Oranjestad, Aruba
Surfside Oranjestad, Aruba

Is Aruba safe?

Aruba is considered one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. Crime is low and tourists are welcomed with warmth. Normal precautions apply, especially at night or in isolated areas. Locals are friendly, and solo travelers often report feeling secure across the island. The island’s roads are in good condition, but some rural areas are better explored with a four-wheel drive. Whether you are a solo traveler, couple or family, Aruba offers a safe and relaxing environment.

Top things to do in Aruba

Aruba is known for clear water, relaxed towns, and sunshine all year. From beach days to island tours and lesser visited spots, below are some of our recommendations.

Top beaches in Aruba

Aruba is home to some of the Caribbean’s best beaches, with soft white sant and calm turquoise water. These are some of the most popular beaches: Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, Baby Beach, Mangel Halto and Arashi Beach.

Boating, Aruba
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Boating, Aruba

Boating, Aruba
Flamingos, Aruba
Beaches, Aruba
Variety of beach photos, Aruba
Variety of beach photos, Aruba
Beaches, Aruba

Arikok National Park

Covering nearly 20 percent of the island, this park is home to caves, wild cacti, hidden bays, and rugged trails. You can explore on foot, by jeep, or with a guided tour. Native wildlife like goats, lizards, and birds are common along the trails.

Arikok National Park, Aruba

Roaming freely in the National Park. Photo by Misty Johnson. CC by.

Natural Pool (Conchi)

One of Aruba’s most unique attractions. Formed by volcanic rock, this remote pool sits right on the edge of the coast and is filled with clear seawater. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. Go early in the day before the crowds and bring sunscreen.

Conchi Natural Pool

Conchi Natural Pool

Nightlife in Aruba

Aruba’s nightlife is fun, with a mix of beach bars, lounges, and casual clubs. Most of the action happens in and around Palm Beach and Oranjestad, with places to enjoy live music, cocktails, and dancing. Here are some popular spots to check out after dark:

  • Gusto Nightclub - A well known club in Palm Beach with DJs, dancing, and a lively crowd.
  • The Sopranos Piano Bar - A fun spot with live piano performances and a social vibe.
  • Bugaloe Beach Bar - Overwater bar near Palm Beach, good for sunset drinks and live music.
  • Moomba Beach Bar - Popular beachfront hangout with DJs and a fun crowd near the sand.
  • XIX Lounge - Stylish bar in Oranjestad known for cocktails and a more relaxed setting.

Where is Aruba?

Aruba lies just north of Venezuela in the southern Caribbean. It is part of the ABC Islands alongside Bonaire and Curaçao. The island is relatively flat and dry, with rocky coastlines in the east and calm sandy beaches along the west. Oranjestad is the capital and sits on the southwestern coast near the cruise terminal and airport.

Fun facts about Aruba

  • Aruba is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but has its own government and local culture.

  • Aruba has some of the whitest, softest beaches in the Caribbean.

  • Flamingos roam freely on a private island.

  • Most locals speak four languages: Dutch, English, Spanish, and the local language Papiamento.

FAQ Aruba

Cities in Aruba

Oranjestad, Aruba
Aruba flag
Capital
few clouds31°C

Oranjestad

Aruba’s capital blends colonial architecture, culture, and Caribbean rhythms.

Explore Oranjestad

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