12 Reasons Why Aruba is the Best Caribbean Island Vacation Destination

We all know Aruba is beautiful, and a trip to Aruba is a guaranteed good time, but what makes Aruba the best Caribbean to visit?

Arguably, a good time can be had anywhere in the Caribbean, but there are several reasons why Aruba stands out from the crowd! To avoid writing an entire book on the charms of Aruba, this list will be kept concise. Here are 12 reasons why Aruba is the best destination for your next Caribbean vacation

1. The Aruban People

One of the main reasons why people are drawn to this small Southern Caribbean island is the people. The Aruban people are known for having a natural sense of hospitality instilled in them. Expect a friendly “bon dia” (good morning), when you encounter a local on your morning jog. And while you’re at it, don’t be afraid to ask for directions, or advice, because you’ll quickly find someone that is willing to help you out. 

The Aruban community is very diverse. Many Arubans are generally of mixed ancestry, claiming Caquetio Indian, African and European roots, but it doesn’t end there.  A vast number of Arubans originate from South America, other Caribbean islands, China, the Philippines, and about seventeen African nations! Not only does this guarantee that you will find a friend that speaks your language, but it also makes for a very tolerant and accepting culture.

You’re a Guest Here, Not Just Another Tourist

Aruba doesn’t treat you like a transaction. Locals genuinely want you to enjoy their island, and they expect you to treat it with care in return. That mutual respect makes the experience meaningful.

Multilingual, Multicultural, Multi-Awesome

Papiamento, Spanish, Dutch, English—Aruba speaks your language. But more importantly, cultures blend here in a way that feels natural. It shows in the food, music, and the warmth of the people.

^{A smile always awaits you here!}

2. Safety

When deciding on the location for your next Caribbean vacation, safety should definitely be used as an important deciding factor. Aruba is considered one of the safest islands in the entire Caribbean. In terms of personal safety, the local community is accepting of visitors from all over the world, making our locals far more hospitable than those of some other destinations.  And on macro safety, Aruba lays south of the hurricane belt, so our chances of getting hit by one are slim to none. With one of the lowest crime rates in the region, Aruba is the kind of place where you can rent a car, leave the resort, and feel completely comfortable discovering local neighborhoods and natural spaces.

3. Our Drinking Water

You can drink our water right from the tap! In some popular Caribbean travel destinations, this would be unheard of, but in Aruba, it is perfectly safe. Aruba does not have natural freshwater sources. It is for this reason that drinking water is created by desalinating sea water at our local water plant WEB. This very extensive process produces very clean water to help us stay hydrated during our countless sunny days, and will give you great relief since you can drink away without having to worry.

4. The Great Weather

First of all, did you know Aruba is outside of the hurricane belt? Yup! While other islands get rained out or shut down for storm season, Aruba keeps the sun shining. Year-round. Visiting Aruba is your best bet for ensuring great weather during your Caribbean vacation. But we don’t just get more sunny days, the weather in Aruba is more comfortable and better as well. Here in Aruba, we’ve been blessed with the perfect combination of the radiant sun and the famous trade winds, which help keep you feeling cool year-round.

^{We have the most sunny days!}

5. Our Top Rated Beaches

Aruba’s pristine white sand beaches are some of the most beautiful beaches not just in the Caribbean, but in the entire world. Don’t believe us? Check out our video proof! Whether you’re in the mood to lie out and soak up the sun on the world-renown Eagle Beach, or if you’re a thrill seeker wanting to ride the crystal waves at Andicuri or Dos Playa, Aruba has a beach that will appeal to everyone. 

Beaches That Match Your Mood

From the powdery calm of Eagle Beach to the lively pulse of Palm Beach, Aruba offers a beach for every kind of guest. Want a local vibe? Baby Beach. Looking to unplug? Tres Trapi. They’re all clean, safe, and easily accessible.

^{Fototi Tree at Eagle Beach.}

6. Our Rich Culture

Many guests of Aruba are unaware of the rich cultural presence here on the island. Art and heritage are integral parts of what shaped Aruba into the wonderful destination it is today. A big part of the cultural development here in Aruba is through its local art. The best way to explore art on the island is visiting events such as: the Aruba Art Fair.

Visit Aruba in January for the largest cultural event of the year, Aruba Carnival. This event dates all the way back to 1954 when parades were a lot smaller, but just as much fun as they are today, more than 62 years later.

Other can’t-miss cultural happenings are: the Dande Festival, and the weekly Bon Bini Festival.

If you are in Aruba during the month of March, be sure to celebrate our National Anthem and Flag Day with us on March 18. The events held on this day, really give visitors an insight into the local customs and delicious local cuisine!

7. Ease of Travel

Traveling to Aruba is easy! The Aruba Airport has more than 100 direct flights weekly from 14 North US gateways and one-stop connections from almost every city in the USA and Canada. Aruba also has international flights from a selection of European and Latin American countries!

Not only is it easy to get to Aruba, if you are traveling with the US Dollars, but you also do not need to change your currency. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

^{An aerial view of Oranjestad.}

8. Our Infrastructure

The well-established infrastructure makes it easy to travel through all areas of Aruba. All towns are accessible by car which gives guests the freedom to explore Aruba in its entirety! Public transportation in the form of buses and taxis are also readily available on the island.

^{Arubus public transportation at Eagle Beach.}

9. The Wide Variety of Accommodations

There is a home away from home available for every type of guest! Aruba boasts a wide variety of hotels and resorts, apartments and condos, private homes and villas, and timeshares. Whether you are a loyal timeshare owner, or you like to visit a different place to stay every time, Aruba has the perfect accommodation for you.

^{Resorts at Palm Beach.}

10. Cruise Friendly

If you are visiting Aruba on a Caribbean cruise, you’re in luck! The Port of Aruba is centrally located in downtown Oranjestad, so dining and shopping are at walking distance! Explore the capital of Aruba while picking up unique souvenirs along the way, or schedule a tour right from your ship. We assure you that you will be craving more Aruba as soon as you get back on your ship! 

^{The Cruise terminal and Oranjestad.}

11. Fun & Adventure

You will never have to worry about having nothing to do during your Aruban vacation (unless doing nothing is what you came here for)!  There are fun activities for guests of all ages. Explore Aruban fauna at The Butterfly Farm, and Philip’s Animal Garden. Make a splash at the many water sports centers along the beaches. Discover the Arikok National Park to see a side of Aruba you have never encountered before. The fun truly doesn’t end. Who expected there to be so much to do on such a small island?

12. The Food

As previously mentioned, the Aruban community is a very culturally diverse group of people. One of the benefits of this is that we have a variety of restaurants serving food from all over the world. Caribbean, Colombian, Dutch, Italian. You name it, chances are, we serve it! Dining has never been this fun and exciting. If you are visiting Aruba during the Eat Local restaurant week, make sure to take advantage of the special prices offered by participating restaurants.

Real Food, Not Just Resort Buffets

Aruba’s food scene is full of character. Snack on pastechi or sit down at Zeerovers. Book a night at Caya House or Infini for something upscale. It’s diverse, rooted in culture, and always worth savoring.

^{Carni Stoba by the Old Cunucu House.}

In Conclusion: Aruba is Small, and That’s a Good Thing

Aruba is easy to get around. You can see the whole island without wasting time. That means more exploring, more eating, more relaxing, and more connecting. No stress required.

Book Your Trip Today

There’s a reason we’re called the “One Happy Island”, and it’s because we truly are the best destination in the Caribbean. We’re sure you are eager to book your trip to the One happy island right now, and we don’t blame you! Bring your significant other, the kids, or come alone. A trip to Aruba is certainly worth experiencing.