Aruba Beaches: Places to Stay and Things To Do

Warped Divi Divi trees line the beaches while windsurfer kites fill the sky on this tiny Caribbean island that has everything you need for a perfect beach vacation. Flamingos, donkeys, ostriches and butterflies are just the beginning. Shipwrecks tucked in turquoise water, fresh cocktails enjoyed on white sand and deserts hiding natural rock pools all await you in Aruba.

Aruba Beaches: Places to Stay and Things To Do

This Dutch Caribbean island packs a punch for being only 21 miles long. Known for year-round trade winds and temperate, sunny weather, Aruba makes a perfect vacation spot for families, extreme sports lovers, couples, divers and friends. The official currency is the Aruban Florin, but USD is accepted, along with English being widely spoken in addition to the native language, Papamiento.

On the island of smiles, you don’t have to choose this or that for your beach vacation. Windsurf on Hadicurari Beach, shop in designer stores in Oranjestad or simply soak up the sun with the whole family at a world-class beach resort on Palm Beach or Eagle Beach. Daytime activities keep your feet in the sand and nighttime offers everything from gourmet dining on the beach to bustling clubs and casinos. And if that’s not enough, venture through the desert to a hidden rock pool or visit with flamingos, donkeys and butterflies with the kids. If you’re visiting during January or February, prepare for the party of a lifetime—the whole of Aruba lights up for Carnival celebrations with pageants, parades, live calypso music and parties!