Aruba Travel Wiki

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Travel to Aruba

Aruba is a small island in the Caribbean Sea that is officially a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is often referred to by its nickname: “One Happy Island.” Its location is just 29km off the coast of Venezuela. The island itself is only 10km wide at its widest point. What makes the island so different from its neighbors is that Aruba is arid and dry. It is more reminiscent of a desert than a tropical island, complete with cacti strewn across its landscape. That does provide one unique advantage. Visiting Aruba means one is almost always guaranteed to experience warmth and plenty of sunshine.

Aruba’s beaches come in many different shapes and sizes. You’ll find white sands and crystal-clear blue waters awaiting you. The sunsets are particularly spectacular and several providers offer a calendar that references the specific times for sunset so romantic activities can be planned. Be sure to see the Natural Pool, hidden in a rock formation that juts out into the ocean. It is the best day trip the island offers. You might also enjoy a drive to the California Lighthouse, a tour of the Aruba Aloe Factory, or the 7 natural bridges that can be found on the island. There is even an ostrich farm you can visit if you wish.

Nearly 20% of the island is devoted to Arikok National Park, home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the entire Caribbean. The island is also a popular destination for water sports, hosting an internationally recognized windsurfing competition each year. Diving, snorkeling, and other water sports are world-class on Aruba, as is the fishing. You can book a 5-star resort experience, tour museums, or get to know the culture better with a guest-house stay. You are in control of your holiday in Aruba, so be sure to plan the perfect adventure.

Why you should visit Aruba

Aruba is famous for its perfect climate, even when compared to other temperate southern Caribbean islands. Balmy 80 degree days, gentle trade winds, and very little rain make Aruba a dream destination. Add Aruba’s trademark turquoise waters and powdery white sand, and you have the ideal tropical vacation. Most of the island’s most popular beaches, along with resorts and casinos, are clustered on the west side. The capital, Oranjestad, is home to palm tree-lined streets with pastel buildings, shopping, and restaurants.

There’s a beach for everyone in Aruba: on the south-eastern coast of the island, Baby Beach is shallow and gentle, perfect for small children and waders. Eagle Beach has bigger waves and bustles with activity whereas quieter Arashi Beach has fewer amenities, but is more tranquil. Boca Catalina is renowned as a paradise for snorkelers. For scuba divers, the wreck of the Antilla, a German freighter ship, is the top diving destination.

When you want a break from the beach, explore the free National Archaeological Museum, the Alto Vista Chapel, built by Spanish missionaries in 1750, or take a tour of the Balashi Brewery, makers of the local beer. Families will love visiting the Phillips Animal Garden, a petting zoo in Noord, and the Butterfly Farm in Palm Beach.

If you want to try your luck at gambling, there are several casinos in the Palm Beach area and Oranjestad. Shoppers will love exploring the jewellery stores in Oranjestad, browsing through shops for Dutch products like Delft pottery and cheeses, and locally made crafts including leather products. There are ample shopping opportunities in the resorts, open-air bazaars, and the shopping districts of Oranjestad.

Take a tour or rent a jeep to explore a wilder Aruba at Arikok National Park. Sand dunes, interesting rock formations and caves are all parts of the rugged beauty in the interior of the island. Horseback riding and golf are other favourite outdoor pastimes in Aruba, and before your vacation ends, be sure to admire the famous fofti trees on Eagle Beach, a well-known symbol of Aruba.