Aruba is so wonderful even The Beach Boys encourage a trip to this “One Happy Island” and I couldn’t agree more!!
1. The Weather is Always Amazing
This is a dream for any vacationer! If you’re worried that poor weather could spoil your vacation, look no further. Aruba isn’t called ‘One Happy Island’ for nothing! Generally, it’s sunny and pleasant all year long. Aruba is not located on the hurricane belt like many other Caribbean islands; therefore, the weather is usually very predictable. This makes it the perfect location for weddings, big events, family reunions, or simply the ideal getaway.
2. It is Clean and Safe
Aruba is a very clean island! We felt incredibly safe the entire time. Of course, it’s always important to use common sense and stay alert while traveling, but we didn’t feel worried while exploring the island.
Getting our rental car was incredibly easy, and it was a quick drive to our Airbnb. The resorts and hotels are in great areas, close to many restaurants and shopping places. However, we decided to stay in a more budget-friendly place further inland, allowing us to drive around to different parts of the island.
The beaches are meticulously maintained, and as you explore further from the resorts, you’ll find that there are no artificial lights that can harm sea turtles or other animals. Additionally, the tap water is safe to drink!
3. Fairly Inexpensive
As mentioned before, we stayed at an Airbnb located further inland than the resorts, called Montana Eco Resort. It was a great location, clean, and felt safe! This was the most affordable place we have ever stayed in, at around $50 a night, and it was fantastic! The food and excursions are also reasonably priced compared to other islands or resort towns.
4. There is TONS to Do (Something for Everyone)
There are so many exciting things to do on this island. Here’s a list of some of the activities that might peak your interest!
• Swim in the gorgeous blue water (Eagle Beach was our favorite spot)
• Spend some time in Oranjestad exploring the towns
• See flamingos at De Palm Island or Renaissance Aruba Private Island
• Take an Aruban jeep tour
• Arikok National Park and Natural Pool
• Natural Bridge
• California Lighthouse
• Casibari Rocks
• Alto Vista Chapel
• Sunset boat ride
• Submarine tour
• Windsurfing, kayaking, and wing foiling
• Gambling, shopping, and exciting nightlife
5. Water is Crystal Clear
The water is unbelievable in Aruba. Turquoise and clear blue water everywhere you look. If you’re looking for relaxing waveless beaches look no further!
6. So Many Diverse Animals
There are so many fun animals to spot on this beautiful island. If this excites you, spend a day at the donkey sanctuary or enjoy time with the flamingos! Aruba is also home to the beautiful bright blue whiptail lizard. It’s a real treat to see one of these fast creatures! Last but not least, try to spot sea turtles. We visited in the first week of June, just as the sea turtles were hatching. Aruba has done excellent work in keeping these animals safe by building blockades around the nests and creating a safe path for them to reach the ocean.
7. Fairly Inexpensive
As mentioned before, we stayed at an Airbnb located further inland than the resorts. It was a great location, clean, and felt safe! This was the most affordable place we have ever stayed in, around $50 a night in a fantastic location! The food and excursions are also reasonably priced compared to other islands or resort towns.
8. Chairs and Umbrellas for Rent
A chair and umbrella may not be important to many people; however, my husband and I are definitely on team ‘shade.’ We both burn quickly and turn darker than a tomato in the sun. No matter how much sunscreen we lather on, the sun always seems to target us! This, coupled with my husband’s dislike for being covered in sand, was the perfect reason to rent an umbrella and chairs. We initially tried the towel-on-the-sand route, but Aruba can get windy, and we didn’t last long. I couldn’t recommend this more if you’re like us 🙂
8. Not Super Touristy
In my opinion, nothing is worse than being surrounded by tourists on a hot day at the beach. Thankfully, we enjoyed the beaches completely to ourselves on more than one occasion.
9.Quick Flight from the Mainland
From John F. Kennedy airport the flight was less than 5 hours and Aruba is located within the same time zone! This made any jet lag almost unnoticeable.
Note: After security at the airport you must pass through customs. Be cognizant of time as you pass through security, customs, and a potential third security check.
10. Variety of Food
Aruba is owned by The Netherlands and is home to many Dutch nationals. That being said, the island boasts of a variety of foods including South American traditional cuisine, fresh seafoods, Dutch pancakes, and more. Two of our favorite places included:
• Eduardo’s Beach Shack- yummiest açaí bowls!
• Señor Burrito Mexican Grill- this was off the beaten path next to a gas station. It was a super random hole in the wall that ended up hitting the spot PERFECTLY.
Hopefully you can now see why Aruba needs to be on top of your island bucket list!
Non Rev Roamer 