Highlights from Aruba

  • Spending a day at Baby Beach where the water is calm
  • Watching the sun set over the ocean as many days a week as I wanted; they were gorgeous
  • Finding wifi to be able to work while sitting 10 feet from the ocean
  • Watching airplanes land at Surfside beach
  • Seeing an abundance of marine life at Malmok beach

About Aruba

Aruba is a small island paradise in the southern Caribbean, located just off the coast of Venezuela. Known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and year-round sunny weather, Aruba is a favorite for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Despite its size, Aruba offers a mix of experiences, from vibrant nightlife in Oranjestad to tranquil desert landscapes and hidden coves along the coast. The island’s unique culture blends Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin influences, giving visitors a taste of colorful architecture, local cuisine, and festive traditions.

Fun fact: Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe and sunny destination nearly all year long.

About My Time in Aruba

Back in March of 2024, I spent a month on the island of Aruba. My time was filled with sunshine, sand, and some of the most beautiful crystal clear blue water I've ever seen. I stated further inland (which I regret) but it was expensive to stay along the water. The island isn’t very large, so even being inland, I was still only a 30 minute walk to the beach.

While I was in Aruba, I went on many adventures. I took an ATV tour through the desert, took a submarine to the bottom of the ocean, and spent the day at an adventure park on a smaller island off the coast.

The Top Things to Do in Aruba

Aruba has so much to offer! If you like rest and relaxation, you can lounge by the beach, get a massage, or get your nails done. If you like adventure, you can go ATVing through the desert, riding a submarine to the bottom of the ocean, or splashing around at a water park. There is no shortage of a good time in Aruba.

Mingle with Flamingos

If you're going to Aruba, you likely want to see the flamingos. Well, it's not so easy to do and will cost you. I wasn't able to pet or feed them but I was able to see a few clearly through the fence at De Palm Island.

Check out my blog post for more details on how to see them up close!

Read the blog

Ride ATVs through Arikok National Park

Since I was traveling solo, I felt most comfortable driving around the desert with a group, so I booked an ATV tour to explore several areas like black stone beach and Bushiribana Ruins. I highly recommend this trip! And driving the ATV was so much fun!

Book Your Own Tour

Watch Incredible Sunsets on the Beach

Just look how gorgeous this is! Oranjestad, Aruba is the perfect place to head to beach to watch sunsets like this!

Take a Day Trip to De Palm Island

Or two! I wish I had gone to De Palm Island way sooner! On the island, you can swim in the ocean, snorkel, ride banana boats, go on amusement park slides, and more. Plus food and an open bar is included!

P.S. this is 1 of 2 places you can see flamingos in Aruba

Book Your Day Trip

Where to Stay in Aruba

Malmok - it's near Palm Beach, but away from the hustle and bustle of Palm Beach; plus Malmok Beach is great for snorkeling

San Nicolas - if you're looking for a quieter spot, try San Nicolas away from the cruise port and main tourist zone; it's located near one of the best beaches on the island, Baby Beach

Find the best spots below!! 👇

Oranjestad

Stay in downtown, and stay closer to the water; that's where all the shops, restaurants, and things to do are; plus tours will pick you up in this area; keep in mind the cruise port is located here

Palm Beach

This is one of the most popular spots in Aruba, for its beaches, things to do, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and more

Travel Tips for Visiting Aruba

  • Best Time to Visit: Aruba is sunny year-round, but peak season is from mid-December to mid-April. One of my favorite things about Aruba is that it's outside of the hurricane belt, so you don't need to worry about that.
  • Getting Around: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore the island, especially for beaches and Arikok National Park (you'll need 4x4 or an ATV to explore the park).
  • Currency: The Aruban Florin (AWG) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: Dutch and Papiamento are official languages, but English and Spanish are commonly spoken. You'll likely hear all of them in one day!
  • Safety: Aruba is considered very safe, with low crime rates compared to other Caribbean islands. Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and you should be fine.
  • Packing Essentials: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, comfortable shoes for exploring, a swimsuit, light clothing, and snorkel gear (I promise you'll use it).

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs about Aruba

Do I need a visa to visit Aruba?

Most travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe do not need a visa for stays under 30 days. Always check the latest travel regulations from your home country before your trip. Official regulations will come from the country where you have a passport.

Is Aruba expensive?

Aruba is moderately priced. Dining and accommodations can vary, but there are options for mid-range budgets.

How safe is Aruba for solo travelers?

Aruba is very safe for solo travelers. Stick to public areas at night and follow basic travel precautions.

What is the weather like in Aruba?

Aruba enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, averaging 82°F. Rain is rare and usually short-lived.

How was Aruba as a digital nomad?

I loved the island of Aruba as a digital nomad. There are many places to work from, and I even managed to work from the beach at a restaurant that had Wi-Fi strong enough to lounge in a chair near the water. 

What is the vibe in Aruba like?

Aruba is very laid back like most islands or beach destinations. While there were some single people, there were a lot of couples and families on the island. I stayed in a hostel but in a private room, however I was able to meet other young women to hang out with.

Digital Nomad Diaries from Aruba

  • Top Things To Do in Aruba

    There's no shortage of things to do, like ATVing to snorkeling to lounging on the beach and more

    Read more 

  • How to See Flamingos in Aruba

    Find out the only 2 ways to flamingle with flamingos while in Aruba

    Read more