Aruba is the smallest and most Western island of the Dutch Antilles, which, known locally as the ABCs, also include Bonaire and Curaçao. Aruba is a popular cruise destination, and it's little wonder why. The beaches are so perfect they're almost cliched: miles of white, sandy beaches, turquoise waters and the requisite year-round sun. Over a million visitors arrive on this tiny island each year, enticed by its luxury resorts, first-class restaurants, 24-hour casinos and excellent watersport facilities.
Most visitors stay either in the capital, Oranjestad, or just to the north in one of the many resort complexes on Eagle and Palm beaches. The remainder of the island is much less developed and in the arid interior there is nothing more substantial than cacti and divi-divi trees, contorted by the consistently strong trade winds. For those who need more than sunbathing to get their kicks, there are plenty of activities available on the
island. There is good diving and snorkelling along the reef on the protected leeward coast and the windsurfing is excellent a little further north at Fisherman's Hut. Deep-sea fishing can also be arranged through many of the hotels.
Key Facts
Language:
The official languages in Aruba are Dutch and the native Papiamento. English and Spanish are taught in school and are also widely spoken. Some French is also understood.
Passport/Visa:
All passports must be valid for period of intended stay. It is highly recommended that travellers always have six months' validity on their passports after departure. Visitors must hold sufficient funds, onward or return tickets, and all documents for next destination. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. Travellers departing from the USA must present a valid passport to immigration authorities. Most visas can be extended up to a total of 180 days per calendar year.
Currency:
The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The Florin is tied to the US Dollar. US currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad.
Electricity:
Electric current in Aruba is 127 volts, 60Hz. Flat two and three-pin plugs are standard.
Travel to Aruba
Overview
Windsurfing and kite surfing are undeniably two of the biggest drawcards for visitors to Aruba, with the island providing some of the best conditions possible in the world for these two sports. Whether a beginner or an expert, there are spots suitable for everyone as well as plenty of schools and shops that provide lessons and equipment hire. Further water-based activities include snorkelling and diving along the shallow, world-class coral reefs, tubing, banana-boating, and much more.
Holidaymakers with a yen for horseback riding can indulge themselves in Aruba's topography, which provides plenty of adventurous and enjoyable excursions, from sand dunes to arid desert plains. Riding experience is not required to join a guided outing from one of the two main horse-riding operators, Rancho Notorious and Rancho Del Campo. Most excursions take in the island's sights and landmarks, such as the Arikok Hills, the lighthouse and natural
bridge.
A visit to the waterfront in Oranjestad is all it takes for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts to hire themselves a private boat with captain and crew, for a day or a few hours, to set out to sea in search of game. The island's temperate offshore waters boast a wide variety of Atlantic game fish, including white and blue marlin, Barracuda, Shark, Blackfin, Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna. In high season charters may be difficult to come by, so it may be wise for visitors to book ahead through their hotels.
And of course, for the less actively inclined, there are miles and miles of pristine white beaches, fringed with palm trees and ringed with warm, bright blue water.
Climate in Aruba
With an average temperature of 82°F (28°C) all year round and never dropping below 68°F (20°C), Aruba is constantly hot. Luckily, visitors are kept relatively cool by the constant trade winds. The peak tourist season is between mid-December and mid-April, and if travellers can visit outside this period, they can expect room rates to be almost halved. Rainfall is infrequent, but if it occurs at all it's usually between October and January. Travellers can visit Aruba all year round with great weather, but to avoid the busiest times, it's best to go in late April or early May.
Health Notes when travelling to Aruba
There are no special health requirements for visitors to Aruba, but travellers coming from yellow fever infected countries need an immunisation certificate. Aruba has experienced occasional outbreaks of dengue fever, a flu-like illness transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes that favour densely populated areas. The use of insect repellent is advised. Visitors are warned that some types of fish, including some tropical reef fish, are poisonous when eaten, even cooked. Medical care is good in Aruba, which has one hospital, and four modern medical centres spread over the island. Health insurance is recommended; food and water are considered safe.
Safety Notes when travelling to Aruba
Crime is not a major problem in Aruba and most visits are trouble-free. However, visitors are still advised to take common-sense precautions, such as locking valuables in the hotel safe and taking care when walking home at night.
Duty Free in Aruba
Travellers to Aruba do not need to pay customs duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, one litre of alcohol and gift articles to the value of AWG 400.
Doing Business in Aruba
Oranjestad is the main business centre in Aruba and the focus for the island's growing international financial services. English is considered to be the language of business. Meetings are generally held in formal settings such as offices or conference centres; smoking and chewing gum are not acceptable. Handshaking is customary for introductions between both men and women; female business associates should be treated with as much respect as men and often hold high positions in companies. Punctuality for meetings is required. Business hours are 9am to 5pm.
Communication in Aruba
The international dialling code for Aruba is +297. Visitors with unlocked phones can purchase local SIM cards and all of the destination's resorts and hotels offer WiFi, as do many of its cafes and restaurants.
Tipping in Aruba
A 10 or 15-percent tip is usually included on restaurant, bar and room service bills in Aruba. Otherwise, a tip should be added, usually 10 to 20 percent depending on the service. There is an 11-percent room tax on hotel bills. Taxis should be tipped around 15 percent and porters expect a tip of US$1 per bag.
Passport/Visa Note
All passports must be valid for period of intended stay. It is highly recommended that travellers always have six months' validity on their passports after departure. Visitors must hold sufficient funds, onward or return tickets, and all documents for next destination. As part of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI), all travellers travelling between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda, and the Caribbean region are required to present a passport or other valid travel document to enter or re-enter the United States. Travellers departing from the USA must present a valid passport to immigration authorities. Most visas can be extended up to a total of 180 days per calendar year.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
United States passport holders must have a passport valid for period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian nationals require a passport valid for period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK nationals require a passport valid for period of intended stay and may stay for 90 days without a visa.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals require a passport valid for period of intended stay, but no visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a passport valid for period of intended stay, but no visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealanders require a passport valid for period of intended stay, but a visa is not needed for a stay of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African nationals must hold a passport valid for period of intended stay, and a visa. Holders of a valid multiple entry 'C' or 'D' visa issued by a Schengen member state can stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
Tourist Offices
Aruba Tourism Authority, Oranjestad: +1 800 862 7822 or http://www.aruba.com
Aruba Embassies
In the United States:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for Aruba): +1 202 244 5300.
In Canada:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Aruba): +1 613 237 5030.
In the United Kingdom:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Aruba): +44 (0)20 7590 3200.
In Australia:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for Aruba): +61 (0)2 6220 9400.
In Ireland:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Dublin, Ireland (also responsible for Aruba): +353 (0)1 269 3444.
In New Zealand:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand (also responsible for Aruba): +64 (0)4 471 6390.
In South Africa:
Royal Netherlands Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Aruba): +27 (0)12 425 4500.
Foreign Embassies in Aruba
American Embassy
US Consulate General, Curacao (also responsible for Aruba): +599 (0)9 461 3066.
Canadian Embassy
Consulate of Canada, Curaçao (also responsible for Aruba): +599 (0)9 560 9936.
British Embassy
British Consulate General Amsterdam, Amsterdam (also responsible for Aruba): +31 70 427 0427.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to Aruba
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Aruba, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Aruba. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Aruba, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Aruba. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
Note: Zika is a risk in Aruba. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Aruba. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Aruba, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Aruba. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Aruba include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Aruba’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Aruba may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Aruba, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Aruba for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Aruba. Learn how to protect yourself.
Alert Level 2, Practice Enhanced Precautions
Zika Virus in ArubaAugust 29, 2017Zika virus (or Zika) has been reported. Public health officials have reported that mosquitoes are infected with Zika and spreading it to people.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG). The Florin is tied to the US Dollar. US currency is accepted everywhere and other major currencies can be exchanged at banks. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and there are ATMs in Oranjestad.
Aruba International (AUA) Queen Beatrix International Airport http://www.airportaruba.com
Location: Oranjestad The airport is located two miles (3km) southeast of Oranjestad.
Time: GMT -4
Contacts: Tel: +297 524 2424.
Getting to the city: Local buses leave regularly to Oranjestad from bus stops just outside the airport property. Tour buses can take passengers to their required destination. Taxis are also available.
Car rental: Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Alamo, Budget and Hertz.
Airport Taxis: Taxis are available from the airport.
Facilities: The airport has a variety of shops including duty-free shopping, several restaurants and snack bars. A bank offers banking services seven days a week. A VIP lounge is available.
Parking: Short or long-term parking is available with hourly rates beginning at AWG 3 and daily rates starting at AWG 30.
Overview of the Attractions in Aruba
Windsurfing and kite surfing are undeniably two of the biggest drawcards for visitors to Aruba, with the island providing some of the best conditions possible in the world for these two sports. Whether a beginner or an expert, there are spots suitable for everyone as well as plenty of schools and shops that provide lessons and equipment hire. Further water-based activities include snorkelling and diving along the shallow, world-class coral reefs, tubing, banana-boating, and much more.
Holidaymakers with a yen for horseback riding can indulge themselves in Aruba's topography, which provides plenty of adventurous and enjoyable excursions, from sand dunes to arid desert plains. Riding experience is not required to join a guided outing from one of the two main horse-riding operators, Rancho Notorious and Rancho Del Campo. Most excursions take in the island's sights and landmarks, such as the Arikok Hills, the lighthouse and natural
bridge.
A visit to the waterfront in Oranjestad is all it takes for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts to hire themselves a private boat with captain and crew, for a day or a few hours, to set out to sea in search of game. The island's temperate offshore waters boast a wide variety of Atlantic game fish, including white and blue marlin, Barracuda, Shark, Blackfin, Bluefin and Yellowfin Tuna. In high season charters may be difficult to come by, so it may be wise for visitors to book ahead through their hotels.
And of course, for the less actively inclined, there are miles and miles of pristine white beaches, fringed with palm trees and ringed with warm, bright blue water.
San Nicolaas
San Nicolaas is the industrial centre of Aruba, and the island's oldest and largest town. Until the late 19th century it was a small fishing village but all this changed with the mining of phosphate on the island, and more recently the discovery of oil off the coast of Venezuela. The town provides a glimpse of old British-Caribbean charm and contains a handful of restaurants and shops, most notable in a section of the town's main road that has been turned into a promenade. There are a few popular beaches to the east of the town that offer good swimming and snorkelling opportunities and are suitable for families.
Arikok National Park Oranjestad
Arikok National Park encompasses a significant chunk of the interior and a long stretch of the northern coast. The park has miles of well-marked hiking trails and this, for most, is the best way to discover it. Between the towering cacti and the contorted divi-divi trees lie the best preserved Indian cave paintings on the island, deserted plantation houses, and the ruins of an old gold mine. There are also two ancient Aruban adobe huts, made entirely from materials found on the island, which have been carefully restored using traditional building techniques. The huts give a fascinating insight into the life of Arubans before they were able to import many useful materials into the country.
Website: http://www.arubanationalpark.org
Aruba Beaches
Just north of the capital, Aruba's best stretch of beaches extends four miles (7km) between Eagle Beach and Palm Beach. The endless golden sand and crystal-clear shallow water has attracted crowds and with them the high-rise, luxury hotel complexes that line the beach. There is no shortage of bars and restaurants to choose from and beachgoers are able to hire all sorts of toys, including kayaks, windsurfers, snorkelling gear and catamarans. North of Palm Beach there are many colourful reefs and shipwrecks to entice divers and snorkellers. Some shallower reefs are so close to the shore that it's possible to walk out into waist-high water to look at the sponges and coral.
Natural Pool
Also known as 'Conchi' or 'Cura di Tortuga', Aruba's Natural Pool is a must-see tourist attraction. It is formed from a depression in the surrounding volcanic rock, and filled by the spray of the tide smashing into the deserted coastline below. The Natural Pool is a unique geological formation, and a tranquil place to spend the day swimming. The pool is situated in the heart of Aruba's most rugged terrain, and is inaccessible by car; however, visitors can hire or charter a Jeep to take them there, or hike there, or (most romantic of all) get there on horseback.
Windsurfing
Aruba, blustered by the Caribbean winds, is regarded as one of the best places on earth to windsurf. It is almost always sunny and just as often windy, with an average wind speed of 20 knots, making for an almost guaranteed chance of getting great windsurfing conditions on even a short trip to the island. The water temperature makes it possible to stay out in the water for hours, seeing as it rarely falls below 75°F (24°C). There are challenging, gusty spots for more experienced windsurfers, as well as calmer, more consistent areas for beginners. The most popular site for windsurfing is Fishermen's Huts, located at the end of Palm Beach.
Scuba Diving
Aruba's underwater realm draws scuba and snorkelling enthusiasts from all over the world to explore its famed shipwrecks and fascinating coral formations. The island's dive sites include the largest wreck in the Caribbean, the renowned Antilla. The waters abound in exotic marine life, including moray eels, lobsters, sea turtles, dolphins, sting rays, and a wide variety of tropical fish. Most divers base themselves at hotels on Palm Beach to access the best dive sites, which lie along the western and southern coasts. There are more than 40 sites serviced by numerous operators on the island, offering experiences for everyone from complete beginners to the more experienced divers.
Golf
Golfing in Aruba is an experience that merges relaxed sporting enjoyment with a celebration of the island's wildlife. A world-class golf course, the 18-hole, par 71 Tierra del Sol, is situated on the northwest tip of the island. It was brilliantly designed by the renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones II to take full advantage of its natural surroundings. Golfers take a swing watched by wild green parakeets perched on organ-pipe cactus, and lizards basking on the rocks. The fourth hole is alongside a saltwater pond inhabited by a variety of exotic bird species, while burros graze beside the fifth hole. Aruba's endangered burrowing owls perch on coral caves near the sixth.
Public Holidays in Aruba
2020
2021
Betico Croes Day
Thu. January 25
Thu. January 25
New Year's Day
Mon. January 1
Mon. January 1
National Anthem and Flag Day
Mon. March 18
Mon. March 18
King's Day
Sat. April 27
Sat. April 27
Good Friday
Wed. April 10
Tue. April 2
Easter Monday
Sat. April 13
Fri. April 5
Labour Day
Wed. May 1
Wed. May 1
Ascension Day
Tue. May 21
Mon. May 13
Christmas Day
Wed. December 25
Wed. December 25
Boxing Day
Thu. December 26
Thu. December 26
Port of Call - Oranjestad
Oranjestad Port Photo credit: Photocapy
On the south coast of Aruba, Oranjestad is the island's capital - a port of call warmed by glorious sunshine, lapped by turquoise waters and lined with miles of white, sandy beaches. The dock is in the northern section of town and attracts many cruise ships bringing passengers from all over the world to enjoy this island's charm.
Oranjestad offers a great selection of first-class restaurants, boutiques and shopping complexes, as well as 24-hour casinos and excellent water sports facilities to entertain cruise passengers. And if there's still time, there are a couple of interesting museums in town, and a visit to the nearby Eagle and Palm beaches wouldn't go amiss either.
Cruise ships dock at one of the three terminals operated by the Aruba Ports Authority and there are Tourist Information desks inside for any passenger queries. The port has three berths for mega cruise ships and two for medium sized ships. The maximum water
depth in Oranjestad is 32ft (9.7m) and there is over 4000ft (1240m) of docking space.
Shopping in Oranjestad
In the port terminals, there are several outlets selling a variety of local and Caribbean handicrafts and souvenirs, such as exquisite crystal, Dutch Delft (pottery) and locally dyed batik prints. Oranjestad town centre is within walking distance and boasts excellent boutiques and shopping complexes. Duty is very low, generally making shopping good value for money - most shops price in both Florins and US Dollars.
Dining in Oranjestad
Wacky Wahoo's Restaurant - fresh seafood caught that day, crabcakes, fresh vegetables, and bold Caribbean flavours.
Papillon Restaurant - classic French recipes with a Caribbean flair, famed for its pan-fried Grouper with garlic and herbs.
Cuba's Cookin' - try the plantain chips with guacamole, and wash it down with a fresh Mojito.
Things to do in Oranjestad
Visit the gold mill ruins of Balashi and Bushiribana
See Indian drawings in Fontein Cave and Arikok
Explore the Tunnel of Love cave complex
Snorkel the waters off Malmok Beach
Aruba Ports Authority
Tel: +297 523 4300
http://www.arubaports.com
Tourist Information is available from inside the port terminals.
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Aruba, a beloved haven for American and European adventurers, has etched its place as a treasured destination over the decades. Amidst the diverse array of Caribbean islands, Aruba has managed to retain its irresistible allure. The island’s warm-hearted locals exude exceptional
Aruba, a beloved destination for global travelers, has long captivated visitors with its breathtaking beaches and welcoming hospitality. Yet, beyond the sun-drenched shores and pristine waters lies a cultural tapestry that thrives with vibrancy. As you plan your next trip to this
If you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, why not consider a visit to the One Happy Island of Aruba? That moniker didn’t spring from just anywhere, and you’ll see that for yourself. This friendly, cosmopolitan destination is one of the ABC islands, alongside Curaçao and
ith arresting architecture, blindingly white beaches, and chromatic coral reefs, the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) are synonymous with paradise. As if these sister islands weren’t lovely enough, they also enable travelers to tick their culture, gastronomy, and
“Bon dia!” Louella Brezovar says in greeting, which mean “Good Day!” in Papiamento, Aruba’s native language. Brezovar grew up in Aruba before setting out on an international career in hospitality (now in its impressive 34th year) that eventually brought her back to her homeland
Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA) is expanding with a project called Gateway 2030, including new gates, check-in areas, upgrades and more restaurants and bars. Construction for Gateway 2030 has already
Aruba has slightly relaxed its local health measures, according to the island’s tourism authority. Most notably, the island has officially ended the curfew it implemented in August
Two digital health pass platforms are getting new trials this week, as JetBlue has begun using the CommonPass platform on flights to Aruba and Singapore Airlines kicks of a trial program with Travel Pass
The travel industry has changed in more ways than we can count, but it’s also put that much more emphasis on the decision of where to stay. There’s so much more thought that goes into the choice of accommodation, and for some, the idea of a smaller, boutique stay is that much more appealing as an oasis from large crowds
Aruba, the Pacific Islands, Bhutan, Timor-Leste and Mongolia have all been added to the UK quarantine-free travel list. Guests arriving from the countries will no longer be expected to self-isolate for two weeks from Saturday.
The world is not our oyster right now. American passport holders find themselves in a position they are not used to being in—faced with limited vacation options this summer, many are choosing to stay local, while others are simply pining after their international counterparts who have more options.
The 14-day isolation requirement from 04:00 BST also now applies to people arriving from the Netherlands, Monaco, Malta, Turks and Caicos, and Aruba. It comes after France's prime minister acknowledged infection numbers were going "the wrong way".
Tourist hotspots around the world face a daunting challenge: how to bring in much-needed visitors while keeping COVID-19 out. Why it matters: As the summer season heats up in the Northern Hemisphere, that’s a multitrillion-dollar question. Few places on Earth are more dependent on international arrivals than Aruba, where tourism accounted for 86% of GDP in 2018. Live videos showed sunny if
Grab a daiquiri and enjoy an island vacation from your couch. Let’s face it: Jetting off to Aruba sounds extra nice right now. While we’re all staying home in order to do our part to combat the spread of coronavirus, it’s easy to feel the pangs of wanderlust. Luckily, the Aruba Tourism Authority has a number of ways to enjoy the island’s culture and natural beauty all from the comfort of home. The
For decades, thanks in no small part to the Beach Boys’ song “Kokomo” (“Aruba, Jamaica, oh, I wanna take you”), Aruba has been synonymous with paradise for American travelers. Even though Aruba sits just north of Venezuela, in the far south of the Caribbean, that doesn’t dissuade cruise ships from stopping at the island’s capital city, Oranjestad, or time-share vacationers
The sparkling clear waters of Curacao, just like the more famous nearby Aruba, are an excellent place to scuba dive, snorkel and swim. Along with Bonaire, they make up the Dutch-owned ABC islands and enjoy balmy temperatures outside of the hurricane belt. Along with idyllic, secluded beaches and luxurious hotels, Curacao is also home to many different must-see attractions that give it a
Carnival Cruise Line ships keep coming to the rescue. One of the cruise line’s ships heading toward Miami made a detour to come to the aid of a small fishing boat. Seven passengers were successfully rescued after reportedly spending two days stuck at sea. Carnival Horizon was returning to Miami from Aruba on Friday when they were alerted
It's time to shake the sand out of the golden envelope for a fresh set of awards -- TripAdvisor has announced its best beaches in the world for 2019. Ranked by traveler reviews and ratings, the list is made up of 25 idyllic spots in the likes of Aruba, Cuba, Turks and Caicos and Spain. But it's a secluded beach off the coast of Brazil that comes out on top in the TripAdvisor
Whether you’re a bird nerd or a crazy cat person, there’s a destination with a high concentration of your favorite animal beckoning you to visit. Maybe your newest bucket list addition will be the Instagram-perfect island in Aruba teeming with friendly flamingos
A Dutch island in the southern Caribbean, Curacao conveniently sits below the hurricane belt, making it appealing for travelers who can do without the angst of weather delays during the Atlantic hurricane season that continues through the end of November. Seventy miles east of Aruba and 35 miles north of Venezuela, the cosmopolitan island is a melting pot on bold
The stunning Caribbean features some of the world’s most picturesque destinations. Guests can visit the volcanoes of St. Kitts, take a dip in the blue rock pools in Aruba, dive shipwrecks in Grand Cayman or explore the majestic Hato Caves in Curaçao. A relatively new addition to some Caribbean itineraries is Havana, Cuba. Royal Caribbean takes their guests deeper than any other
The Dutch island of Aruba has a coastal landscape contrasting some of the best beaches in the world with a desert landscape of cacti, aloe plants and dramatic divi-divi trees. Aruba is south of the Caribbean’s Hurricane Belt, which eases the minds of honeymooners booking travel during the Caribbean’s hurricane season, which generally peaks August through October.
Conveniently sitting outside the hurricane belt, just 50 miles east of busy Aruba, laid-back Curaçao boasts vibrant architecture and history, multicultural neighborhoods, white sand beaches and iridescent turquoise Caribbean water. Here are 13 of the most fun things to do there
JetBlue is offering the technology to customers flying between Boston and the Caribbean island of Aruba this month. The airline announced on Wednesday that it would test the new software on the route from Boston’s Logan International Airport in partnership with Customs and Border Protection
U.S. health officials have added two more Caribbean islands to a Zika travel alert for pregnant women. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention put Aruba and Bonaire on the list Thursday. There are about 30 destinations with Zika outbreaks, mostly in the Caribbean and Latin America
