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Aruba
Caribbean
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Visit Aruba
Aruba, often referred to as "One Happy Island," is a captivating Caribbean paradise that beckons travelers with its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cultural mix, and a landscape that offers more than just the typical seaside experience. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, this small island is part of the Lesser Antilles and is renowned for its stunningly clear turquoise waters and powdery white sands, particularly along the famous Palm Beach and Eagle Beach. These beaches are not only perfect for sunbathing and swimming but also offer a plethora of water sports activities, from windsurfing and kitesurfing to snorkeling and scuba diving among vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
Beyond its idyllic coastal allure, Aruba presents a unique blend of cultural influences, with a rich heritage rooted in Arawak, Spanish, and Dutch histories, which is reflected in its architecture, language, and cuisine. The capital city, Oranjestad, is a vibrant hub of activity where pastel-colored Dutch colonial buildings line the streets, housing museums, shops, and cafes. The city's bustling markets and lively festivals, such as the annual Carnival with its extravagant parades and costumes, provide visitors with a taste of local life and an opportunity to engage with the friendly Aruban community, known for their warm hospitality.
For the adventurous, Aruba's rugged interior offers a stark contrast to its beachfront vistas. The Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of the island and is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife and native plants. It's a fantastic place for hiking, with trails leading to natural pools, ancient cave paintings, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the coastline. Jeep tours and horseback rides are popular ways to explore this arid landscape, dotted with dramatic rock formations and remnants of historical gold mines. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, immerse yourself in local culture, or explore the natural beauty of the desert terrain, Aruba provides a diverse range of activities and experiences that make it a perfect getaway for any traveler.
Aruba Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
77°F
82°F
11
February
77°F
82°F
7
March
76°F
82°F
11
April
77°F
89°F
11
May
79°F
89°F
11
June
79°F
89°F
11
July
79°F
89°F
11
August
79°F
89°F
2
September
79°F
89°F
18
October
79°F
89°F
11
November
77°F
86°F
11
December
77°F
82°F
13
Need to Know Before You Go To Aruba
Nickname:
One Happy Island
Primary Language:
Papiamento
Time Zone:
America/Aruba
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A, Type B, Type F
Annual Visitors:
1 million
Primary Export:
Refined petroleum
Busiest Travel Months:
January, February, March
Quietest Travel Months:
October, September, November
Find your Next Adventure in Aruba
Explore Aruba
Iconic Landmarks
California Lighthouse
- Named after the S.S. California, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the island's western coastline.
Arikok National Park
- This national park covers nearly 20% of the island and features unique geological formations, indigenous flora and fauna, and historical cave paintings.
Natural Bridge
- A naturally formed coral limestone arch that was a famous attraction until its collapse in 2005, with the remains still visited today.
Alto Vista Chapel
- Known as the "Pilgrims Church," this small, bright yellow chapel is one of Aruba's most serene and historically significant sites.
Oranjestad's Historical Buildings
- The capital city is home to brightly colored Dutch colonial architecture, including the historical Fort Zoutman and the Willem III Tower.
Eagle Beach
- Famous for its white sands and turquoise waters, this beach is also known for its nesting sea turtles and picturesque Fofoti trees.
Cultural Experiences
Carnival in Aruba
- Experience the vibrant colors, energetic music, and elaborate costumes during this annual festival that transforms the island into a lively parade of festivities.
Bon Bini Festival
- Held every Tuesday at the historical Fort Zoutman, this festival offers a taste of Aruban music, dance, and cuisine, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage.
San Nicolas Art Scene
- Explore the revitalized streets of San Nicolas, Aruba’s cultural capital, adorned with striking street art and murals, and home to numerous galleries and cultural events.
Dande Festival
- Celebrate the New Year with the locals through the Dande festival, where traditional music and songs are performed to wish happiness and prosperity.
Aruba Aloe Factory Tour
- Learn about the history and production of aloe vera on the island, a vital part of Aruban heritage, at one of the oldest aloe companies in the world.
National Archaeological Museum Aruba
- Discover Aruba’s indigenous roots and colonial past through well-preserved artifacts and exhibits in a restored historical building in downtown Oranjestad.
Outdoor Adventures
Arikok National Park
Explore this protected area that covers nearly 20% of the island, featuring unique geological formations, indigenous flora and fauna, and historical sites.
Snorkeling at Boca Catalina
Dive into the clear, turquoise waters of Boca Catalina to discover vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
Kitesurfing at Hadicurari Beach
Known as the Fisherman's Huts, Hadicurari Beach is the perfect spot for kitesurfing, offering excellent wind conditions and shallow waters.
Hiking to the Natural Pool
Trek through rugged terrain to reach this secluded, naturally formed pool of ocean water known as "Conchi" or "Cura di Tortuga," surrounded by volcanic rock.
Jeep Safari Tour
Embark on an adventurous jeep tour to explore the island's remote landscapes, including the desert-like terrain and hidden coves.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Mangel Halto
Paddle through the calm, clear waters of Mangel Halto, a perfect spot for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike, with rich marine ecosystems just below the surface.
Off the Beaten Path
Arikok National Park
Explore the rugged landscapes, indigenous flora and fauna, and historical cave paintings in this expansive natural reserve.
Seroe Colorado
Visit the southern tip of Aruba for stunning views of natural bridges and less crowded beaches.
San Nicolas
Known as Aruba's "Sunrise City," this area offers vibrant street art, a less touristy atmosphere, and cultural festivals.
Spanish Lagoon
Ideal for kayaking and bird watching, this quiet lagoon offers a peaceful retreat from the more popular tourist spots.
Fontein Cave
Discover ancient Arawak Indian drawings and unique geological formations inside this small but fascinating cave.
Boca Prins
A remote beach area perfect for adventurers looking to explore dunes and enjoy dramatic coastal views away from the typical beach crowds.
Aruba Fun Facts
- Aruba is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, but it has its own distinct culture and governance.
- The island is located outside the hurricane belt, which contributes to its popular year-round sunny weather.
- Aruba's official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, but many locals also speak English and Spanish.
- The island's currency is the Aruban Florin, although U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
- Aruba is known for its white sandy beaches, particularly Eagle Beach, which is often ranked among the best beaches in the world.
- The Divi-Divi trees, iconic to Aruba, are naturally shaped by the trade winds into a distinctive southwest bend.
- Aloe Vera is a major export of Aruba; the island is often referred to as the "Island of Aloe."
- Aruba has a desert-like landscape with cacti and rock formations, contrasting sharply with its turquoise seas.
- The island celebrates Carnival with a grand parade featuring vibrant costumes, music, and dance, similar to Brazilian and Caribbean Carnivals.
- Aruba's natural bridge, a coral limestone formation, was a famous attraction until it collapsed in 2005, but the site remains popular for visitors.
Featured Picture Gallery
Iguanas are Native to Aruba and Love to Scurry Along the Beaches
Flamingo Beach is Common Tourist Destination to See Local Flamingos
Take a Dive into the Clear Water of the Caribbean Sea
Immerse Yourself in the Colorful Architecture of Aruba
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