Aruba
Lapped by the warm waters of the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is framed by alabaster-white sand beaches and wind-sculpted fofoti trees. Beyond the shoreline, this Dutch Caribbean island offers inland adventures in Arikok National Park, a vibrant arts scene in San Nicolas, and the lively rhythms of steel drums and calypso at the weekly Bon Bini Festival. This is the island to relax on the beach, unwind in nature, and join the party, too!
With its intertwined trunk, the fofoti tree creates a striking silhouette against the turquoise waters of Eagle Beach.
Sunlight shines through Quadirikiri Cave’s two chambers, illuminating the cave floor.
Discover Aruba’s unique natural pool, known as “Conchi,” within Arikok National Park.
Crispy on the outside, soft within, patacónes deliver when it comes to texture and flavor.
Must-Do: Covering nearly 20 percent of Aruba’s northeast region, Arikok National Park showcases the island’s natural beauty. Adventures unfurl in this rugged, desert-like landscape, with everything from horseback riding and off-road four-wheel-drive tours, to hiking trails that wind through the park between the towering cacti. Climb California Lighthouse for sweeping ocean views, discover ancient Arawak paintings at Fontein Caves, or watch a movie at the free monthly “cinema in the park,” held outdoors beneath Aruba’s star-filled sky.
Eat: Aruba’s cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of Dutch, Venezuelan, African, and Indian influences. For a taste of Venezuela, stop by the bright-yellow, no-frills food truck, Tia Rosa Snack, serving up legendary (and arguably the best on the island) patacónes—sandwiches made with flattened fried plantains instead of bread. Expect to queue, but the reward is a delicious Venezuelan-style sando oozing with flavor. For a romantic meal, book a table at Papiamento, set in a more than 100-year-old Aruban cunucu house. Be sure to try keshi yena, considered the island’s national dish: stuffed cheese filled with meat, raisins, and olives.
Day Trip: For a fun family day out, take the short ferry ride to De Palm Island. With access to body drop slides, banana boat rides, a lunch buffet, and twice-daily snorkel tours, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. You can also try SNUBA or upgrade to a VIP palapa or cabana for the chance to meet the island’s elegant flamingos.
