There are plenty the choose from, each with their own personality, Aruba beaches rank among the cleanest, widest, and most attractive of the Caribbean. Eagle beach ranking among the best in the world. The island's entire leeward (south) coast, the island's gold coast, is filled with beaches and their attendant small and large hotels. The beaches are all public and access is easy; either through a hotel or by parking directly at the beach.
Aruba Beaches - West Side
Arashi Beach
Malmok Beach
Hadicurari
Palm Beach
Eagle Beach
Manchebo Beach
Druif Beach
Surfside Beach
Renaissance Island/ Flamingo Beach (tickets must be purchased)
Aruba Beaches - East Side
Dos Playa
Mangel Halto
Rodgers Beach
Baby Beach
Surrounding Mt. Arikok near the center of the island is a natural preserve which features some of the oldest Arawak drawings, as well as trails that showcase Aruba's great variety of plants and animals like the divi-divi and kwihi trees, rare and exotic cacti, aloe, tropical flowers, birds and iguanas. There's also an old Aruban "cunucu" house, "cas ditorta", made of mud and grass. Together with the Coastal Protection Zone, Arikok National Park encompasses 25 percent of the island.
The chapel was built in 1952 on the site of the original, and first, Catholic church built in Aruba in 1750 by a Spanish missionary, Domingo Antonio Silvestre. The bright yellow chapel is reached by a winding road lined with white crosses marking the stations of the cross. It is a special place for peace and contemplation, surrounded by the Aruban countryside.
The remains of a gold smelter that was built of natural stone in 1825 and functioned for most of the 19th century. The ruins, mainly crumbling walls and graffiti, are interesting for their historical value, but the site has no guides or explanatory material. It's said that the smelter, in it's 90 years of operation, produced some three million pounds of gold.
The lighthouse was named after a ship called the Californian, which has the distinction of having been in proximity of, and having received distress signals from, the Titanic, as she went down in icy waters in 1912. The Californian's radio operator was off-duty and asleep at the time of the disaster, and this small piece of bad karma perhaps sealed the Californian's fate. She went down in rough seas off the Aruba coast a few years after the Titanic sank, and to this day the ship is a popular dive site. Around the lighthouse are acres of stoned-filled flat land, and a area called California White Sand Dunes is very popular with kids who go dune surfing. Don't ask; it involves sliding down the dunes in any way that seems comfortable. Just wear strong jeans or trousers.
The oldest building in the country, this Dutch fortress now houses the Historical Museum of Aruba, where Caiquetio artifacts from the prehistoric past are now on display alongside remnants from the Dutch colonial period and other items of local interest. Museum open Mon-Fri from 10 a.m. to noon and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
The Natural Pool or "conchi" called "Cura di Tortuga" is a secret, hidden pool on the windward coast surrounded by rocks and is a perfect getaway for a moment of total relaxation.
The location of the pool is surrounded by some of Aruba's most rugged terrain, so visitors truly gets the feeling of having "discovered" something when their eyes focus on the site. Diving from the rock cliffs into the protected pool of ocean water is the main reason why so many venture here off the beaten path.
The capital city, located on the southern coast near the western end of the island, is extremely picturesque with its Dutch colonial architecture in pastel colors. Along the wharf, merchants come to sell fresh fish and produce right off the boats every morning. The downtown area with shopping malls surrounding it is the primary shopping area on the island. The "downtown" area has become the go to area for Foodies. Chef's Tables to casual dining you will find what you a crave.
Here you can see Arawak petroglyphs. The name is is also of Arawak origin. This isn't the only place on the island where the Arawaks drew their likenesses of people and fish and other objects, but it is the most accessible. The caves, located high in the wall of a limestone cliff, house many deep passages. The first two chambers, about as far as you can go, are damp and dark, filled with bat guano and dripping stones and graffiti along with the petroglyphs. At the front of the cave is a small concession that rents high-intensity flashlights, a definite must if you haven't brought your own. The concession is open daily 10am - 6pm.
Palm Beach is not only a hub for water and beach activities but also offers a lively atmosphere with various entertainment options. It caters to a diverse range of visitors, from families to couples, making it a popular destination on the "One Happy Island" of Aruba.
Bugaloo- Pier bar located on DePalm Pier. Casual menu for lunch, dinner & snacks. Live entertainment, & great sunsets
Moomba Beach-Beach bar located between the Holiday Inn & Marriott Resorts, Casual menu for breakfast, lunch & dinner, live entertainment & DJs. Mix of locals & tourists
Sopranos Piano Bar- Live entertainment nightly, sing along or just sit back & enjoy the music. Piano players from around the world
Eagle Beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in the world, not only for its natural beauty but also for the sense of serenity it offers. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or a spot to enjoy Aruba's spectacular sunsets, Eagle Beach is a must-visit destination on the island.
Fofoti Trees:
Eagle Beach is famous for its iconic fofoti trees, also known as divi-divi trees. These distinctive, windswept trees have become a symbol of Aruba and are often featured in photographs and postcards.
Beachfront Amenities:
The beach is equipped with amenities such as shaded palapas, beach bars, and rental services for chairs and water sports equipment. These facilities contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable beach experience.
Sea Turtle Nesting Site:
Eagle Beach is known as a nesting site for sea turtles, particularly the endangered loggerhead and green sea turtles. Conservation efforts are in place to protect the nests during nesting season.
Breathtaking Sunsets:
Eagle Beach is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. The wide expanse of the beach allows visitors to witness the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea, creating a stunning backdrop for evening strolls or romantic moments.
San Nicolas, with its mix of industrial history, cultural renaissance, and proximity to natural attractions, offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to explore more facets of Aruba beyond the popular tourist destinations.
Cultural and Artistic Hub:
In recent years, San Nicolas has undergone a transformation into a cultural and artistic hub. The town hosts events like the "Carubbian Festival," featuring local arts, crafts, music, and dance. The streets are adorned with vibrant street art, and the area is becoming known for its creative and bohemian atmosphere.
Charlie's Bar:
Charlie's Bar, a well-known establishment in San Nicolas, has become a landmark. It's famous for its eclectic décor, covered in memorabilia and messages from visitors worldwide. Charlie's Bar has a unique charm and is often visited by tourists exploring the less-traveled parts of the island.
Local Cuisine:
San Nicolas offers a taste of authentic Aruban cuisine. Local eateries and restaurants in the area serve traditional dishes, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the island's culinary delights.
Natural Wonders:
While known for its industrial past, San Nicolas is close to some natural wonders. The coastline features beautiful beaches like Baby Beach and Rodgers Beach, providing opportunities for relaxation and water activities.
