7 Reasons to Visit Aruba
Aruba, affectionately dubbed “One Happy Island,” is far more than a haven of stunning beaches. It’s a place where thrilling off-road adventures meet tranquil beachside dining, offering a slice of paradise for every kind of traveler. In this post, we'll dive into the top 7 reasons to visit Aruba, straight from the locals who know it best.
#7 - Perfect Weather Year-Round
Aruba’s weather is the kind of perfection that makes you question reality. With temperatures lounging comfortably around 82°F year-round and an almost permanent residency of sunshine, it’s like the island made a pact with the weather gods. Trade winds keep the air crisp and pleasant, ensuring you’re never too hot, even when the sun’s at its zenith. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail on the beach or exploring hidden coves, the weather is your constant, perfect companion. Forget seasons; Aruba offers a perpetual summer where every day feels like a postcard-worthy escape.
#6 - Aruba is A Cultural Melting Pot of Food
Ask any local where they're from, and you’ll get a response that’s as layered and intriguing as the island itself: “Aruba, but my roots trace back to Dutch and/or Caribbean and/or Latin American countries.” This mosaic of heritage—Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American—paints a vivid picture of Aruba’s soul, nowhere more so than in its cuisine. The island’s food scene is a vibrant carnival of flavors, a testament to its rich cultural tapestry. Dive into this culinary adventure where Caribbean zest, Dutch heartiness, and Latin American passion converge. Here are the must-try dishes that capture the essence of Aruba’s unique gastronomic landscape:
Keshi Yena: A traditional Aruban dish made with cheese stuffed with spiced meat, often chicken or beef, mixed with vegetables and raisins.
Fried Plantains: A popular side dish, sweet and savory, often served with various main courses.
Pastechi: A tasty pastry filled with cheese, meat, or fish, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
Seafood Delights: Fresh catches like lobster, grouper, red snapper, and shrimp are staples, often prepared with local spices and herbs.
You can savor these unique dishes at The Old Man and the Sea restaurant at Aruba Ocean Villas or at one of the many other incredible local dining spots. Each bite tells a story, each meal a journey, and every restaurant a chapter in the rich, flavorful narrative of Aruba.
#5 - Vibrant Nightlife
Aruba's nightlife is a vibrant tapestry of entertainment, offering something for every taste and preference. Whether you're in the mood to dance the night away or simply relax with a cocktail by the beach, Aruba delivers. Notable spots include:
Bars and lounges
Oliver’s Lounge: Nestled between the beach cabanas and the lobby at Aruba Ocean Villas, this new adults-only lounge offers fancy cocktails in a lush garden setting with a boho-chic atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for both hotel guests and visitors to unwind in style.
MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant: Famed for its laid-back vibe, live music, and breathtaking sunset views, MooMba is a beloved hangout for both locals and tourists. Sunday evenings are particularly lively, featuring top local bands and in-demand DJs. Popular with the younger crowd, MooMba is conveniently located between the Marriott and Holiday Inn.
Pelican Nest: For a more relaxed beachside experience, Pelican Nest on Eagle Beach is a local favorite. It offers a lively ambiance with occasional live bands and DJ performances, along with delicious food and drinks. Situated on Pelican Pier, it’s a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter yet equally enjoyable evening by the sea.
Nightclubs
For those who love to dance, Aruba's nightclubs offer a mix of local and international music, with state-of-the-art sound systems and lighting. Top clubs include:
Gusto Night Club Aruba: This trendy nightclub features a spacious dance floor, VIP areas, and a variety of music genres, from EDM to Latin beats.
South Beach Aruba: Inspired by Miami's nightlife, this club offers a chic environment with outdoor seating, dance floors, and regular themed parties.
Live Entertainment
Many hotels and resorts in Aruba offer live entertainment, from traditional Caribbean tunes to international acts. But if you want to experience where the locals go for live music, skip the tourist spots and head to these favorite hangouts:
Café Chaos: Situated right across from the Renaissance hotel, this Dutch pub has been serving up live music, craft beer, and cocktails since 2000. It’s a beloved watering hole for locals, regularly showcasing the island’s best rock and alternative bands. From Nirvana to Coldplay covers, the music scene here is as eclectic as it is electric, making Café Chaos a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Aruba’s vibrant nightlife.
Pam Pam Restaurant: Tucked away at Perle d’Or apartments, a hybrid of hotel and student dormitory for Dutch college kids who’ve made Aruba their temporary home. This hidden gem transforms into a lively stage for jazz and salsa nights, drawing in local salsa dancing groups and savvy visitors. It's a well-kept secret, unknown to the hordes, making it the perfect spot for a night of dancing without the crush of a crowded floor.
#4 - Underwater Wonders
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with life and eerie, majestic shipwrecks that whisper tales of the past. Each dive is a chapter in an epic story, offering an unforgettable adventure that’ll make you question why you ever spent your vacations on dry land. Notable diving spots include:
Antilla Wreck: One of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean, this sunken German freighter from World War II is now home to a variety of marine life and corals. It's an iconic dive site that’s a must-visit for any diver.
Mangel Halto: Known for its calm and clear waters, Mangel Halto is perfect for both snorkeling and diving. The reef is rich with colorful fish, sponges, and corals, making it a vibrant underwater garden.
Jane Sea Wreck: This 250-foot cement freighter sits upright on a sandy bottom and is surrounded by coral formations. It’s a fascinating dive site with plenty of marine life, including barracudas and turtles.
Pedernales Wreck: Ideal for beginners, this partially submerged oil tanker was torpedoed during World War II. The wreckage is spread out, providing an interesting habitat for fish and corals.
#3 - Experience Rustic Luxury Overwater Villas in the Caribbean
Villa Kita Bonita at Aruba Ocean Villas
Just a three-hour flight from Miami, Aruba Ocean Villas offers a taste of paradise that feels worlds away. Here, you can stay in world-class overwater villas, where stunning ocean views and boutique accommodations redefine luxury. Picture this: waking up in an overwater bungalow or beach cabana—the only ones in Aruba—surrounded by the gentle lull of the sea and the lush, Garden of Eden-like ambiance.
Aruba Ocean Villas is more than just a place to stay; it’s a sanctuary, perfect for special occasions like engagements, weddings, and anniversaries. It’s the kind of place where every detail is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream.
#2 - Thrilling Off-Road ATV Adventures
For those with a thirst for adventure, Aruba’s rugged landscapes are a dream come true. Off-road ATVs and UTVs are your ticket to exploring the island’s hidden treasures, from dramatic cliffs to secluded coves. Both self-guided and guided tours are available, offering an exhilarating way to experience Aruba’s natural beauty up close—a perspective you won’t get from a typical car rental.
If you prefer to go solo, book your adventure with George Cycles. They offer a range of options, including full-day rentals of ATVs, UTVs, motorcycles, and scooters. For guided tours, Aruba Cine Tours comes highly recommended, providing expert guidance and an insider’s look at the island’s best-kept secrets. Don’t forget your camera! The off-road trails lead to some of the most breathtaking vistas, perfect for capturing the memories of your thrilling exploration.
#1 - The Beaches
Aruba’s beaches are legendary, and rightly so. Eagle Beach, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, is a perennial favorite, consistently ranking among the world’s best. Palm Beach is the lively heart of the island, a vibrant stretch where water sports enthusiasts and beach bar aficionados find their paradise. Baby Beach, with its shallow and serene waters, is a haven for families with young children.
For a more tranquil escape, head to Mangel Halto Beach. It's no longer the hidden gem it once was, but it still holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Tucked away from the tourist throngs, this beach boasts calm, turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling, diving and kayaking. The absence of beach bars and restaurants adds to its charm, offering a peaceful retreat. Instead, the area is dotted with charming Airbnbs and delightful local takeaway spots that are well worth exploring.