Aruba vacation - Dutch Caribbean with a special flair

Aruba stands out from other Caribbean islands with its cultural diversity, beautiful beaches and welcoming atmosphere. The island combines Dutch, Caribbean and South American influences and offers visitors a varied experience - from outdoor activities to culinary discoveries. Find out more from us for a dream vacation on Aruba.

The Dutch Caribbean: Aruba and its special identity

Aruba is one of the few Caribbean islands with a Dutch background. Together with Curaçao and Bonaire, it forms the "ABC islands", which are known for their multicultural history. Its location - just 40 kilometers from Venezuela - shapes life on the island. The mixture of European, South American and Caribbean influences can be seen in the architecture, language and traditions.

Aruba vacation: beaches that are among the best in the Caribbean

With its fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters, Aruba is one of the top destinations for vacations in the Caribbean. One of the beaches was named the best in the region by TripAdvisor. In addition to relaxing hours by the sea, there are numerous water sports options - from snorkeling and kitesurfing to kayaking tours. The island relies on sustainable offers that are operated without a motor.

Outdoor adventures in Aruba: mountain biking and more

In addition to the beaches, Aruba also offers challenging activities on land. Mountain bikers in particular will find ideal conditions here: On the north side of the island, 54 kilometers of new trails have been created that are perfect for challenging tours. The trails are sustainably designed and lead through the island's varied landscape. So if you have only booked a flight and hotel, you will find plenty of options on the island.

Culinary delights in Aruba: variety from street food to fine dining

Aruba's cuisine is just as diverse as its culture. From street food with Caribbean flair to exclusive restaurants with upscale gastronomy - the island's culinary spectrum is vast. Visitors can enjoy authentic dishes while on vacation and get in touch with the locals in local restaurants. The price of a meal in a local restaurant starts at around 10 euros per person.

Tourism as the island's livelihood

Tourism is the most important economic sector in Aruba and accounts for around 90 % of economic output. To meet the increasing demand, two new hotels were opened in December and January - the "JOIA by Iberostar" and the "St. Regis". Local products such as the "Aruba Aloe" aloe vera skincare range also contribute to the economy. Production takes place entirely on the island, from the plant to the finished cosmetics.

Safe travel in Aruba

Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. Crime is hardly an issue, so visitors can move around freely. Women and families can also stay on the island without any concerns. The hotels are open plan, so you can move along the beaches or through the city without being confined to secluded resorts. For anyone booking a vacation, Aruba offers a successful mix of nature, sports, culture and hospitality. Whether beach vacation, active vacation or culinary voyage of discovery - the island has something for everyone.

Where is Aruba located?

Aruba is part of the Dutch Caribbean and is located in the south of the Caribbean, just 40 kilometers off the coast of Venezuela. The island is part of the so-called ABC islands - together with Curaçao and Bonaire - and geographically belongs to South America. Politically, however, Aruba is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Thanks to its location outside the hurricane belt, Aruba offers a stable, sunny climate all year round. The island is easily accessible via international flights and is a popular destination for visitors from North and South America as well as Europe. With its white sandy beaches, cultural diversity and relaxed atmosphere, Aruba stands out from other Caribbean islands and is a fascinating mix of Dutch, Caribbean and South American lifestyle.

Aruba sights - these highlights are not to be missed

Aruba offers more than just beautiful beaches. The island impresses with a varied landscape, cultural treasures and unique natural wonders. Here are the best places and sights you should have seen on Aruba:

1. Eagle Beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean
   Eagle Beach is one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and delights with fine, white sand and turquoise-blue water. The famous Divi-Divi trees, whose characteristic growth form is shaped by the trade wind, can also be found here.


2. Arikok National Park – Discover Aruba's wild side
   Arikok National Park covers almost 20% of the island and boasts a rugged landscape of cacti, cliffs and caves. The Guadirikiri and Fontein caves, which contain ancient rock paintings by the Arawak indigenous people, are particularly worth seeing.


3. Natural Pool “Conchi” – Hidden natural wonder
   A secluded natural pool, enclosed by rocks in the middle of Arikok National Park, offers a unique bathing experience. The pool, also known as Conchi, can only be reached by 4x4, on foot or on horseback.


4. Oranjestad – The colorful capital of Aruba
   The island's capital, Oranjestad, combines colonial architecture with modern flair. Particularly worth seeing are Fort Zoutman, the oldest building on the island, and Wilhelmina Park, where wild iguanas can be observed between March and September.


5. California Lighthouse – Spectacular view of Aruba
   The California Lighthouse in the north of Aruba offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island. Named after the sunken steamship California, the lighthouse is a popular sunset spot.


6. Baby Beach – Caribbean paradise for families
   This crescent-shaped, gently sloping beach in the south of the island is perfect for relaxed swimming and snorkeling. The calm water and fine sand make Baby Beach particularly family-friendly.


7. Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins – Traces of the gold rush era
   The ruins of the Bushiribana gold mill tell of the island's gold mining past. They not only offer a glimpse into history, but also a picturesque backdrop overlooking the sea.


8. Alto Vista Chapel – spiritual retreat
   This small, yellow chapel from the 18th century is one of the oldest churches in the Caribbean. Surrounded by cacti and overlooking the sea, it is a peaceful place away from the tourist centers.


9. Mangel Halto – an insider tip for snorkelers
   A hidden bay with mangroves and clear water, offering perfect conditions for snorkelers and divers. Here you can observe tropical fish and coral reefs at close range.


10. San Nicolas – Aruba's street art capital
    The former industrial and port city of San Nicolas has developed into a creative center. Colorful murals by international artists turn the city into an open-air art museum that gives a completely different impression of Aruba.

These places show that Aruba has much more to offer than just beaches - from nature and history to culture and adventure.