Family Travel Ideas

10 Reasons To Visit Aruba – A Caribbean Island Hidden Gem

There are so many reasons to visit Aruba island! If you are looking into planning your next Caribbean vacation, you will find lots of fun things to do in Aruba.

10 Reasons To Visit Aruba - There are so many things to do in Aruba, a Caribbean Island hidden gem

Fun things to do in Aruba

Have you been to the Caribbean? We have visited the Bahamas, St. Lucia, St. Thomas/St. John, Curacao, and more, and we can’t wait to add Aruba to our travel list! There are so many reasons to visit Aruba, this is truly “One Happy Island!”

Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino

Why visit Aruba?

Aruba is a small island off the coast of Venezuela, located in the majestic Caribbean Sea. The island is only 20 miles long, but that doesn’t take away from the amazing white sand beaches, vibrant culture, turquoise waters, and gorgeous weather.

Before you plan your trip to Aruba, be sure you know what the rules are regarding entry. Here is a list of the government-mandated entry procedures to go to Aruba.

Boat docked on the beach in Aruba

10 reasons to visit Aruba

Looking for a week of family fun? A romantic getaway? A girl’s vacay? No matter what you’re looking for in a vacation, Aruba’s got it. There’s truly something for everyone!

1. Get some sun, sand & surf at Aruba’s best beaches

Aruba’s beaches are perfect for everyone. You’ll love basking in their 82-degree average weather, getting some sand in your toes, and surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and more. The west coast is lined with resorts and bustling with activity. The opposite side is not for swimming but affords a tranquil beach setting that is less traveled.

2. Aruba activities and excursions

With plenty of activities available in Aruba, you’ll never be out of things to do. Various companies across the island offer scenic tours, horseback rides, fishing, golf, skydiving, water sports, museums, and more.

3. Slots, Poker & Blackjack at Aruba’s casinos

You can get your gamble on at one of Aruba’s 12 casinos. Most are in large resorts in Palm Beach or the country’s capital, Oranjestad.

Top hotels with casinos in Aruba:

4. Enjoy an all-inclusive resort

Aruba has plenty of resorts, but some like to take the all-inclusive route. Take a look at some of Aruba’s top-rated all-inclusive resorts on Orbitz. I have been drooling over the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, a highly-rated beachfront property with all-inclusive options.

5. Take in a little retail therapy

Shopping in Aruba is plentiful with everything you need, all at about 10-35% lower price than in the U.S. Shop for the top brands, jewelry, electronics, apparel, beachwear, souvenirs, and cosmetics at upscale malls and downtown shops. The Renaissance Mall has high-end merchandise, while the Palm Beach Plaza Mall, Aruba’s largest, has just about everything.

6. Wildlife and natural wonders in Aruba

Visit one of Aruba’s natural habitats and sanctuaries. Choose from Arikok National Park, Bubali Bird Sanctuary, Ostrich Adventures, A Butterfly Farm, and even natural caves, rock formations, and pools. These are unique things to do in Aruba that are kid-approved.

If you are looking for a fun activity, you can head to Flamingo Island and check out the flamingos on the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino property! This is one of Aruba’s well-known popular things to do.

See the flamingos on flamingo beach Renaissance island in Aruba

7. Aruba bars and nightlife

“When the kids are away…” Tourists and locals mingle at casual beach bars, happy hours, and cocktail parties. They are found up and down the southwest coast. You can also jump on a barhopping bus or walk the strip as it comes alive at night.

8. Spas in Aruba for total wellness

Massage services are synonymous with vacation, at least in my book! Many of the resorts have spas in them where you can relax and rejuvenate. Wraps, body scrubs, massage, aromatherapy, yoga, and fitness centers are all available. Check with your hotel or resort to book spa services.

Oranjestad Aruba seaside

9. Eat where the locals at in Aruba

There are plenty of great restaurants in Aruba, but one of my favorite things to do when I travel it to taste the local cuisine. You’ll find every type of food served in resorts and restaurants on the island, but be sure to sample the local delights downtown and off the beaten path: plantains, empanadas, seafood, meats, rice, and stews. Here are some suggestions for local eats in Aruba.

Caribbean Carnival celebration costumes

10. Head to Aruba Carnival!

If you’ve never been to Carnival in the Caribbean, you’ve got to get yourself out there! These traditional events are full of life. Celebrate Carnival in Aruba in November through February, and take part in fancy pageantry costumes, live music, and grand parades that shut the cities of Oranjestad and San Nicolas down!

These are some of the best places to visit in Aruba!

There are so many great reasons to visit Aruba. This island is full of life and as we learn more about it, our travel bucket list grows! I will make it a point to take an Aruba vacation before my days are over, believe that! For Aruba travel information, visit their website or connect with the island of Aruba on Facebook.

More Caribbean travel and vacation ideas

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