With its picturesque beaches, lively culture, and endless sunshine, Aruba is a dream destination for any traveler who wants to experience the ultimate Caribbean holiday. A week here puts you in the best position to realize your ideal seaside vacation. At the same time, this gives you ample time to get to know Aruba and find out why many tourists consider the island their favorite holiday destination. To make the most of your first trip, here’s a week-long itinerary that will allow you to savor the best that Aruba has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
After arriving at the Queen Beatrix International Airport, it would be best to head to your planned accommodation on the island. Our VacationAruba team can help you pick a locally owned and managed vacation rental that suits your itinerary during your holiday. We have a selection of villas, houses, and condos that are located on or near Eagle Beach, Gold Coast, and Tierra del Sol, among other areas on the island. Booking directly with us ensures that you’ll get personalized service and the best possible rates for your accommodations. It’s also a way to directly support locally owned businesses while getting your money’s worth. Once you get to your home for the holidays, take your time to relax and enjoy your surroundings.
After getting your bearings, it’s best to start your exploration of the island with a stop at one of its most popular spots: Eagle Beach. This spot is known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot to unwind after your journey. Here, you can rent a beach chair and umbrella, relax, and soak up the sun. There are plenty of good restaurants near Eagle Beach where you can have dinner. One option is Passions on the Beach, an establishment that offers delicious seafood and stunning sunset views. It’s an ideal choice if you want a perfect introduction to Aruba’s culinary delights.
Day 2: Exploring Oranjestad
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Start your second day with a visit to Oranjestad, Aruba’s vibrant capital. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, the Oranjestad presents colorful streets that you can get lost in. Here, you can marvel at the Dutch colonial architecture and explore Fort Zoutman and the Historical Museum of Aruba to learn about the island’s rich history. If you’re going to head out a bit later in the day, don’t forget to put on sun protection so you can freely explore the area without worrying about sunburn.
For lunch, you can opt to eat at The West Deck, a space that offers great views of the ocean and a variety of local dishes. Then, go shopping at Renaissance Mall and Marketplace and choose from a mix of products made by local and international brands. To cap the day, take a sunset cruise along the coast. Many operators offer cruises that include dinner and drinks. It’s a fantastic way to see the island from the water and enjoy a beautiful Caribbean sunset.
Day 3: Adventure in Arikok National Park
Image source: https://www.aruba.com/us/explore/arikok-national-park
An early morning off-road adventure to Arikok National Park is a great way to kickstart your third day in Aruba. The said park covers almost 20% of the island and features unique wildlife, caves with ancient rock drawings, and stunning natural formations like the Natural Pool. When the sun is at its peak, stop for lunch at Boca Prins, a quaint bar and restaurant within the park. After lunch, continue exploring or relax at one of the park’s secluded beaches, such as Dos Playa.
Wind down after an active day by returning to your accommodation to freshen up. Then, dine at Barefoot Restaurant, which offers a romantic, toes-in-the-sand dining experience with a menu featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine. Alternatively, you can also try your hand at cooking if your vacation rental or accommodation offers kitchen facilities and you want to dine at home.
Day 4: Water Activities and Snorkeling
The middle of the week is a great time to go snorkeling and explore Aruba’s vibrant underwater world. The Antilla shipwreck, a WWII German freighter, is a must-see spot, along with other great sites like Boca Catalina and Malmok Beach. After dipping your toes in the water, return to the mainland for lunch, then head to Palm Beach to continue your water activities. Here, you can rent a jet ski, try parasailing, or take a paddleboarding lesson. Stay close to the water even as you eat dinner by choosing to dine at Pelican Pier Bar. Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while watching the sun set over the Caribbean Sea.
Day 5: Cultural Exploration in San Nicolas
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Take a break from the beaches on the morning of day 5 by visiting San Nicolas, Aruba’s second-largest city. You can spend your time here strolling through the streets adorned with colorful murals. It’s also a convenient time to drop by the San Nicolas Community Museum to immerse yourself in the local culture and history. After a quick tour, have lunch at Charlie’s Bar, a beloved local spot known for its eclectic decor and delicious food.
If you’re missing the postcard-perfect island beaches, spend your time after lunch at Baby Beach. This area is famous for its calm, shallow waters that make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families with kids. For a taste of traditional Aruban cuisine, check out The Old Cunucu House for dinner. This will give you the opportunity to try local dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and stoba (stew) in a charming, historic setting.
Day 6: Relaxation and Spa Day
After days of adventure, it’s time to relax. Book a spa day at one of Aruba’s luxurious resorts. Then, continue your relaxation by lounging at your rental villa’s pool or finding a shaded spot on one of the many beaches on the island. Order a tropical drink or two and enjoy the tranquility while enjoying picturesque views and consistently good weather.
Day 7: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure
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Your final morning on the island can be spent shopping for souvenirs. Visit the local markets in Oranjestad for handmade crafts, jewelry, and local products like aloe vera goods. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, such as The Dutch Pancakehouse, where you can try a variety of sweet and savory Dutch pancakes. After lunch, take a final stroll along the beach or relax by the pool. Afterward, pack your bags and prepare for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have a bit more time to take a final stroll along the beach before you head to the airport. Of course, it’s always an option to customize this itinerary as you see fit. Armed with local knowledge from our team at VacationAruba, you can come up with a holiday that will fit your schedule and priorities. Plan your Caribbean holiday today with us and enjoy your first of many visits to Aruba.