Many of the most popular destinations in the Caribbean are dominated by all-inclusives and in some cases it is not even safe (or just not pleasant) to leave the resort.
Aruba is diverse in accommodations, is compact and extremely safe; the perfect island for a DIY beach vacation!
People are friendly. Most, if not all, speak English. The dollar is widely accepted (you may get change in Aruban florins or a mixture), and it’s outside the hurricane belt. Here are tips for what to do in Aruba—whether you’re a solo traveler, on a romantic getaway or a family trip. STAYING IN ARUBA Aruba has a ton of resorts, but we recommend staying on Palm Beach. Here you’ll find most of the island’s tourist attractions. In this area there are tons of resorts lined up next to each other, each with its own pool (or pools), and then behind each pool is the beach. However, you don’t have to shell out the big bucks for excellent accommodations in Aruba–there are plenty of affordable vacation rentals on Airbnb.
Aruba has a ton of resorts, but we recommend staying on Palm Beach. Here you’ll find most of the island’s tourist attractions. In this area there are numerous resorts lined up next to each other, each with its own pool (or pools), and then behind each pool is the actual beach.
However, you don’t have to shell out the big bucks for excellent accommodations in Aruba–there are plenty of affordable vacation rentals on Airbnb.
WEARING SUNSCREEN IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY
As with any vacation to the Caribbean, it’s a really good idea to wear sunscreen. So, save yourself some time and pack suntan lotion in your suitcase (30 SPF and up is best!).
Since Aruba is a windy place, many travelers make the mistake of thinking that the sun isn’t strong.
Remember that Aruba is also very close to the equator. The closer you are to the equator, the more direct sunlight is going to pass through the atmosphere. Plus, the white sand on Aruba’s beaches reflects the sun’s rays.
If you’re planning to go swimming, make sure to bring enough sunscreen to reapply after you get out of the water.
**As of July 2020, Aruba instituted a ban on suntan lotions that include oxybenzone. This chemical is unfortunately harmful to both coral and marine life. Therefore, when you go to buy lotion for your trip, be sure to purchase coral reef-safe sunscreen. WATER SPORTS AT PALM BEACH Go tubing for an afternoon and get whipped around over the waves.
Or go parasailing! Often times the highlight of the entire trip. It is thrilling being so high above the water. You might even see turtles swimming below and will surely have an awesome view of all of Palm Beach!
For all your watersports adventures (parasailing, tube rides, banana boat rides, jetskis, paddleboarding, waterskiing, wakeboarding and more)
TRY THE SNORKELING There are many great places to see fish and other marine life around the island. There are even several shipwrecks near the shore which make great spots to snorkel.
There are several tour companies offering snorkel tours around the island.
However you choose to do it, don’t miss the chance while you’re there.
You can book a snorkeling trip with Skyview Watersports Aruba TALK WITH THE LOCALS Aruba’s motto is One Happy Island, and it is an accurate one. The locals in Aruba are wonderful and very friendly.
They love to tell you all about the island, it’s history, and give you tips on what to see during your visit.
So if given the opportunity, strike up a conversation with your bartender or tour guide, or whomever else you come into contact with.
Most will be happy to talk with you and you’ll get to know the people and the island in a more intimate way.
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