Curator’s statement
Most Caribbean islands boast pristine white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, but few are as happy, bright, and welcoming as Aruba. Delivering the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and culture, a stay in Aruba guarantees a good time for any type of traveler. Enjoy endless cuisine options and fresh seafood, vibrant casinos, and a bounty of nature excursions (Thanks to 20 percent of the island being designated as a national park.) And it’s easier to get to than you think, with many daily direct flights from North America and Europe.
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Where to stay in Aruba
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Things to do in Aruba
Beaches
You can’t go wrong with any beach on the island, but these four are extra special:
Nature Attractions
Arikok National Park (Natural Bridge, Quadirikiri Cave, Ayo + Casibari Rock Formations)
Conchi Natural Pool (not reachable by car - book a jeep or horseback tour to view)
Aruba Donkey Sanctuary
Visit the flamingos at the Renaissance Hotel's Flamingo Beach
Culture + History
Oranjestad - Spend an afternoon in the island’s capital checking out the colorful Dutch architecture, historic sites, restaurants and shops.
Bon Bini Festival - Experience Aruba’s culture through music, dance and local cuisine.
Places to eat & drink in Aruba
Shrimp tacos at Lola Taqueria
Santos Coffee with Soul
All the beverages, as well as bagels, sandwiches, salads and more.
Eduardo’s Hideaway
Incredible plant-focused menu, perfect for breakfast and lunch.
Willem’s Dutch Pancakes or Linda’s Dutch Pancakes
You can’t leave the island without trying a famous Dutch Pancake — either of these options will hit the spot.
Lola Taqueria
Creative tacos on the patio.
Zeerovers
Local place on a wharf serving seafood right out of the ocean. A decidedly un-fancy, local favorite that’s perfect for a casual dinner.
Lima Bistro
South American tapas with an Aruban twist. Upscale and perfect for a celebration, romantic date or a simply delicious dinner.
Yemanja
Wood-fired grill featuring Caribbean twist on international cuisine.
Papiamento Restaurant
Appears on every Aruba list, and for good reason. Set in a 100-year-old Aruban Cunucu house, it’s part museum, part lush paradise.
Taste my Aruba
Farm-to-table/sea-to-table experience. A must during your visit.
The Old Man and the Sea
Romantic, choose from over-the-water bungalow or feet-in-the-sand dining options.
Picnic Aruba
Schedule your own beach picnic!
Travel Advisor
Amanda Brownlie
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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Jamie Padden's guide, The Ultimate Aruba Travel Guide.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Aruba.