Mini Guide | Aruba
One Happy Island
Known by the locals as ‘One Happy Island’ this little piece of the Caribbean lives up to its name. You can count on year round warm weather, world class beaches, and amazing activities for any age.
We saved up all our vacation time to spend two weeks in paradise in December 2021. Our days were spent exploring the island and relaxing on the white sand beaches. We had more than our fare share of delicious food and sunny days. It was the perfect getaway from a bitter cold midwest winter.
Aruba holds a special place in our heart. This guide is to help you plan your holiday to Aruba, One Happy Island.
Where to Stay
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Oranjestad is the capital city of Aruba and is situated just west of the airport in the middle of the island. There is so much to see in the capital and many great restaurants. Oranjestad is a great spot to take a break from the beach and check out the history of the island and do some shopping. We stayed in Oranjestad and it was perfect for us because the central bus station was located there so we could easily get around the island without a car or renting a taxi.
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Home to major hotel chains and luxury resorts, you won’t have to lift a finger on your holiday in Noord. Most of the hotels are steps away from the world class white sand beaches. We spent a lot of time in this area exploring the different beaches and restaurants. If a luxury beach holiday is calling your name I recommend staying in Noord.
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Located in the southern part of the island this area is home to more locals than tourists. It will be much quieter and more private staying in Savaneta. There are no big hotel chains or resorts here, but there are many Airbnb options in this area. You will need a rental car to comfortably get around the island if you choose to stay in Savaneta. The best part about staying here, Zeerovers is nearby!
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Located on the southern tip of the island, San Nicholas is home to the oldest pub on the island and some stunning beaches. There are no big hotel chains or resorts here but many options for boutique stays hosted by the locals. The quiet community is perfect to escape the large crowds of tourists in the north. Although there are buses that go through the area, I would recommend getting a rental car if you plan to stay in San Nicholas.
Transportation
There are so many way to travel around this small island. There is one main road that goes to each end of the island. It is quite busy as all vehicles use this road.
Public Busses
Great price, reliable and goes all around the island.
Rental Cars
Better option if you are wanting to beach hop on your holiday
Taxis
Perfect option if you are staying at a hotel and want to venture out a few times during your stay.
Charter Busses
Mostly used as party busses or transportation for day trips and tours around the island.
Top three beaches of Aruba
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Ranked number seven in the world for best beach, this gorgeous stretch of white sand is exactly what tropical holiday dreams are made of. Also home to the famous Fofoti Tree.
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Known for calm waters, this is the perfect spot to rent some snorkel gear and dive in. You can rest under the umbrellas and grab food and drinks at the cabana bar.
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Paradise cove. Surfside beach is much more quiet than many of the the other beaches we visited on the south side. It is nestled in a cove so there are little to no waves and it’s mostly shaded. The water is also more shallow the further you go out.
Outdoor Activities
Hike- Mt. Hooiberg
Explore- Arikok National Park
Bike- California Lighthouse
Relax or Play- De Palma Island
Aruba is the perfect island getaway anytime of year. Whether you want to lounge on their world famous beaches, explore the history of the little island or hike around the national park, Aruba promises an unforgettable holiday for any age.
