Aruba: The Ultimate Warm Getaway in January

Relax on the beach. When I book a warm getaway in January, I typically want to sit on a beautiful beach and relax with a great book and frozen pina colada in hand. Aruba has no shortage of beaches to do just that.

• Palm Beach: The most famous spot in Aruba, with two miles of white sand and crystal clear water. Most of the high-rise hotels are on this beach. You can also find restaurants, bars, water sports and shopping here. There’s a great boardwalk that makes it easy to walk home from dinner or check out the many wonderful resorts on Palm Beach.

• Eagle Beach: Home to some of the low-rise hotels, it is the widest beach in Aruba and is less crowded than Palm Beach. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

• Natural Beaches: For those who want to venture off the beaten path, many natural beaches abound. Baby Beach on the southern tip of the island is a local favorite, as is Arashi beach, near the lighthouse. I enjoyed checking out many of the smaller beaches during my morning walk along the Malmok Boardwalk, easily accessible from the resort area.

Try a Water Sport. If your idea of a warm getaway in January is more active and adventurous, snorkeling, paddleboarding, tubing, kite surfing and kayaking are all popular water activities in Aruba.

Explore the Wild Side. The north coast of Aruba is natural and uninhabited. Exploring this gorgeous area is a must-do for anyone visiting the island. You can opt to rent a Jeep, take an ATV or UTV tour. Hike or horseback ride through the area to explore the natural bridges, caves, rock formations and pools. Prepare to get dusty as you explore this unique area!

Take a boat ride. Getting out on the water is a great way to experience the island. Whether you want to fish and snorkel or sip champagne at sunset, there’s a boat trip for you in Aruba.

Visit the Spa. What a treat to schedule a relaxing massage or facial while on vacation! I visited the spa at The Ritz-Carlton Aruba for an afternoon of pampering on my recent warm getaway in January. After my luxurious treatments, I was able to relax in their lovely steam room, sauna and hot tub. I especially loved the local aloe sugar scrubs that were provided and the tasty spa waters and treats available.

Check out the Murals in St. Nicholas. The town of St. Nicholas is known for its beautiful street art, with colorful murals splashed across all the local buildings. Combine a trip here with a visit to nearby Baby Beach to experience some of the island’s art and culture scene.

Azar: This chic spot near the high-rise hotels has such an epic selection of appetizers that we didn’t even order entrees! We can’t stop talking about the charcoal octopus that’s so tender you can cut it with a spoon and the grilled scallops with yellow chili, parmesan and crispy potatoes.

Papiamento: This gorgeous restaurant is located in a 100-year-old Aruban cunucu house. Dine in a magical courtyard with a swimming pool and giant trees strung with lights. Enjoy the delicious food options, the fantastic wine cellar and Pappa’s cigar lounge. You can even ask to go into the wine cellar and select your own bottle!

Royal Aruba: If you love innovative food and fine wine, dining at this intimate chef’s table in downtown Oranjestad is a must. With just 18 seats nightly, plan early to snag this hot reservation. You start the meal with a glass of sparkling wine on the balcony, meeting your dinner companions. Inside, you will be treated to five courses plus some surprises from the chef. You get to interact with the chef throughout the meal as he cooks and plates the dishes. This is a meal you won’t forget!

Lima Bistro: This stylish restaurant features upscale Peruvian food with an Aruban twist. Don’t miss the delicious ceviche and crudo appetizers made with fresh local seafood!

Madame Jeanette: This Aruban restaurant has been serving guests for over two decades in its beautiful courtyard setting. We loved the Almond Grouper and Bang Bang shrimp.

Flying Fishbone: Dine with feet in the sand at this gorgeous beach restaurant in Saveneta that specializes in seafood.

Divi Sushi Bar and Lounge: At the Ritz-Carlton, we love to enjoy sushi and gin and tonics at the Divi Bar. Madame Janette’s sushi roll is craveable! End the night with some banana spring rolls for dessert for the perfect sweet treat.