ARUBA is the ultimate Dutch Caribbean getaway for fun and rejuvenation! It’s beautiful beaches and coral reefs attract beachcombers and divers from all over the world. The locals refer to Aruba as “One Happy Island.” As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I enjoyed this island many times and enjoy sharing tips on Aruba beaches and highlights.
Aruba Background
Lying in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is located just 29 km (18 mi) north of Venezuela. It’s part of a cluster of 2 nearby islands called the ABC’s, along with Bonaire and Curacao. Collectively, these 3 islands are part of the Kingdom of Netherlands and considered Dutch Caribbean destinations.
In comparison to other Caribbean islands, the ABC’s lie outside Hurricane Alley and have a unique climate. Overall, it’s a desert landscape with succulent plants, such as, cactus. The climate almost guarantees sunshine and hot days for the beach. Even more, the pleasant Trade Winds blow through Aruba, for a refreshing constant breeze. Aruba’s landscape is generally flat and without a river. Therefore, the island desalinates the ocean for its water supply.
Aruba is world renowned for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
Most of the beaches lie on the southern and western sides of the island, because this area is sheltered from large ocean currents. People come from all over the world to snorkel, dive and swim here. Also, the ABC’s unique terrain is home to endemic flora and fauna. For example, the beautiful Aruban Whiptails (a small lizard) with blue markings scamper throughout the beaches and brush. Endemic plants here are cacti, such as, Melocactus and Opuntia. The Caesalpina coriaria Tree also locally known as the “Divi-divi” is drought tolerant and an iconic symbol of Aruba. (first photo) It always leans southwest from the Trade Winds.
Oranjestad, Aruba’s Travel Hub
I visited this port-of-call many times and always found it a great place to unwind. Colorful with its pastel colonial buildings, Oranjestad is a great travel hub for exploring the island. Renaissance Mall it the most popular place for shopping with over 60 shops, restaurants and a casino. Featured brands galore here, for example, Gucci, Michael Kors, and Louis Vuitton. Additionally, the Casa del Mar Resort is near the city center with an ocean view.
For eclectic, international restaurant options, I go to Renaissance Marketplace. With outdoor seating available, my favorites are Dutch Pancake House, Cuba’s Cookin’, Cafe the Plaza and Hung Paradise. There is something for everyone here. Overall, it’s a great hub from which to enjoy the island. Also, in front of the Renaissance Hotel, get your selfie in front of the iconic I heart Aruba sign.
Easy Bus or Taxi for Island Transportation
Near the cruise terminal is a Bus Stop in Oranjestad that goes to most of the hotels and beaches. I usually catch the bus or taxi with others to the beaches.
Aruba Beaches and Highlights
There are many beaches to choose from in Aruba, so it’s best to research for your own interests. Just 5 km from Oranjestad is the island’s most popular beach, Palm Beach. Low-rise resorts line the beach. So, it has more amenities but is more crowded. Overall, it’s gorgeous with an ongoing 2-mile stretch of white, sandy beach.
South of Palm Beach is the most beautiful and quieter Eagle Beach. This is where I always go and get a cabana or chair and umbrella. The waters and sands are sublime with many restaurants and bar beaches.
Three of the best beaches for snorkeling are in northwestern Aruba near each other. Arashi Beach is at the northernmost point of the island near California Lighthouse. Then, going south are the Boca Catalina and Malmok Beaches, also, excellent for snorkeling. Overall, their rocky, limestone shorelines with reef make them a great place for snorkeling.
There are unique beaches for everyone in Aruba. On the southern tip of the island is Baby Beach. The turquoise waters remain shallow (less than waist deep) and calm with a man-made breakwater. So, it’s known as being the best kids’ beach in Aruba. Flamingo Beach is at Renaissance Island, owned by Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino. Guests of the resort have free access to the island by boat taxi. Others are able to purchase a day pass for some vibrant flamingo sightings on the beach.
Shipwreck Diving or Snorkeling
Aruba’s crystal-clear waters make for incredible diving and snorkeling, especially to see sunken shipwrecks. Known for its high Trade Winds, many ships have found their fate at the bottom of the sea near Aruba. For example, three popular shipwreck snorkeling sites are the following: SS Antilla, Baboo & Kappel.
SS Antilla is the second largest shipwreck in the Caribbean. As a German U-boat for attacking The Netherlands, its Captain intentionally sank the ship, rather than surrender it to the Dutch. From Eagle or Palm Beach, boat rides go to the snorkeling site of SS Antilla. Overall, I enjoyed my time here seeing my first shipwreck underwater and the beautiful tropical fish. However, I came up against choppy waters and limited visibility due to the Trade Winds making for quite the adventure.
Aruba’s Only Mountain
Mt. Hooiberg is a 165 m (51 ft) volcanic formation in the middle of the island. The Dutch word hooiberg translates to haystack, referring to the resemblance. 662 concrete steps take you to the top of this mountain for a panoramic view of the island
Aruba’s Natural Land Bridge
On Aruba’s northeast rugged coast are stunning geological formations. A popular landmark is the Natural Land and Baby Bridge rocks. The coral limestone bridges formed from erosion. The Natural Land Bridge was one of the largest of these types in the world, 23 feet above the sea. However, in 2005 it collapsed. Today, there is the smaller Baby Bridge next to the collapsed one. The area is beautiful and intriguing for hiking and photography.
Overall, Aruba Beaches and Highlights
Aruba is the ultimate Dutch Caribbean getaway. There is something for everyone to enjoy its unique landscapes, beaches and culture. Its turquoise tropical waters and warm Caribbean breeze rejuvenate and restore visitors to their happy selves. And thus, the reputation for Aruba continues: One happy island!
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