Summer is off to a good start… especially if a trip to Aruba is on the agenda!

Although we have a constant breeze to help cool you off from that strong Caribbean sun, Aruba can still experience a bit of a Summer and early Fall heat wave, making these days feel a bit more toasty compared to other months!

However, there’s no need to fret, as there are a few things that will help you survive this summer heat! Some of our summertime heat survival suggestions: sunscreen, a stylish hat, floating in the sea, a cold & refreshing beverage, and last but not least… ice cream!

Let’s check out 8 dushi (sweet) ice cream spots to help you stay cool in Aruba this summer!

The Chill Down: So many options, so many locations, so convenient… so yummy! Not only do they have what seems to be an endless amount of mouthwatering gelato and ice cream flavors but they also serve breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner and have daily happy hour! Quaint gelato shop meets chic, hip outdoor lounge.

Find this Sweet Spot: Palm Beach on the high-rise hotel strip in between Amore Mio and Craft, De Palm Pier by Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill, and Paseo Herencia (outdoor mall).

Time to Get Your Scoop: Open daily, Palm Beach Location: 7 AM – 1 AM, De Palm Pier Location 10 AM – 9:30 PM, and Paseo Herencia Location: 4 PM – 11 PM.

Find out more.

The Chill Down: You better come to M’s Crêpe Shack with an appetite because it is not just your typical serving of ice cream… yes, as you may have guessed from the name, it is served with a Crepe! Choose from sweet or savory crepes, ice cream, fresh fruit smoothies, coffee and more. Not only will you indulge in a delicious treat but you will get to enjoy is beachside, it doesn’t get much better than that!

Find this Sweet Spot: Next to Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant, poolside at Casa del Mar Beach Resort.

Time to Get Your Scoop: Open daily, 7 AM – 5 PM.

Find out more.

The Chill Down: You cannot visit Aruba without visiting this small (yet famous) colorful beach shack (totally ‘Instagramable’)! Serving healthy and delicious smoothies, vegetable juices, fresh fruit, acai bowls, lunch items, and yes, specialty ice cream… known as Coco Whip!

Find this Sweet Spot: On Palm Beach by Playa Linda Beach Resort, at La Cabana Beach Resort and Eduardo’s Hideaway is located in Noord.

Time to Get Your Scoop: Mon – Sat, 7:30 AM – 4:15 PM and Sunday, 8 AM – 4 PM.

Find out more.

The Chill Down: Ritz is known as the OG of ice cream and snack spots in Aruba, open since 1938, it has always been a local favorite. Quick and convenient, you can pop in for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and of course ice cream – the real star of the show! You may be familiar with soft serve ice cream but here in Aruba it’s known as a “Super”!

Find this Sweet Spot: Located off of L.G. Smith Blvd. in the shopping mall strip, near D Shop.

Time to Get Your Scoop: Open daily, 6:30 AM – 11 PM.

Find out more.

The Chill Down: A fresh gelato shop on the island that is absolutely worth trying! Have you spotted those amazingly delicious half coconut shells filled with gelato? You can find those here! Not only do they serve a variety of gelato flavors but you can also indulge in fresh fruit smoothies and sushi.

Find this Sweet Spot: Near the neighborhood of Saliña Cerca in Noord, just a small drive from the Palm Beach area.

Time to Get Your Scoop: Mon-Wed and Fri, 3 PM – 10 PM, Closed on Thurs, Sat – Sun, 12 PM – 10 PM.

Find out more.

The Chill Down: Conveniently located in the Palm Beach area, if you are taking an after-dinner stroll or heading to the movies make sure to stop by Mimo’s stand! Serving their unique ice cream rolls with an array of delectable toppings and mouth-smacking sauces.

Find this Sweet Spot: Paseo Herencia (outdoor mall) in Palm Beach, their stand is located just across from The Lazy Turtle restaurant!

Time to Get Your Scoop: Open daily, 5:30 PM – 11:0 PM (in the plaza) and 2:00 – 11:00 PM (streetside)

Find out more.

The Chill Down: Serving fresh artisanal gelato and sorbet, it is the perfect sweet treat to end your day or cool off with during a day of fun under the sun! While you’re at Marriott’s trendy and chic lobby you may as well check out their amazing sushi options at the bar too!

Find this Sweet Spot: The Lobby of Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino.

Time to Get Your Scoop: Open daily, 11 AM – 12 AM.

The Chill Down: Did you hear Fat Tuesday has made its way down to Aruba? Serving frozen beverages infused with liquor, they have plenty of refreshing tropical flavor combinations, yum! Nestled in between several hot spots in the heart of Palm Beach, this newest addition to Aruba’s nightlife is in a prime location. They are open for daytime fun until the wee hours of the morning, so stop by to cool down from the hot island weather and have some fun while you’re at it!

Find this Sweet Spot: The Village, just across from Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino

Time to Get Your Scoop: Sunday – Thursday 11 AM – 1 AM, Friday – Saturday 11 AM – 3 AM

Find out more.

Bonus: If you are having a lazy beach day and can’t get yourself to go anywhere (totally understandable)… keep an eye open for the ice cream truck! It usually stops by Arashi Beach, Boca Catalina and sometimes Eagle Beach!

If you spot this truck:

Run, run as fast as you can, and make sure to get your cold treat before the ice cream man heads off to his next stop!

Article last updated on June 24, 2022

Want to give your superhero what he deserves this Father’s Day?

Sometimes it can be difficult to determine what makes dad happiest, deciding how to best honor the special dad in your life on this day is not always the easiest.

If you are lucky enough to be in Aruba for Father’s Day, whether you are his son, daughter, wife, or partner… make the most out of your day together!

Take a look at some of the best things to do in Aruba to make dad happy!

View 2022 Father’s Day special offers and celebrations.

Is he into adrenaline pumping island excursions? Or is he more of a bookworm kind-of-guy, relaxing under a palapa on the beach? Or perhaps his favorite hobby is food? No worries, we’ve got something for every dad out there!

Is dad a cigar lover? As any cigar aficionado will tell you, cigars are a hobby, not a habit. If your dad fancies cigars be sure to check out the following places in Aruba to find and experience quality, premium cigars! Oh, and excellent rum too!

Try the Humidor Aruba in Palm Beach, check out our experience to get an inside look at this venue. Or, head downtown to mingle with the locals at Ruba Reggae Authentic Cigars and Cocktail Lounge.

Mmm mm food… how could you go wrong with this tactic? With so many delicious and drool-worthy dining options in Aruba you are sure to win dad’s heart!

View Aruba’ yummy dining specials for Father’s Day here.

Your dad is going to need something refreshing to wash down all that food, am I right? Try one of these happy hour spots or beach bars.

To say every dad loves beer would be quite stereotypical. Perhaps your dad is more of a wine lover instead? Well, Kukoo Kukuku has something for him too! How does a Wine on Down the Road Tour sound?

Some dads just want to have fun. You know, like sing his heart out on the microphone or cut a rug on the dance floor… does that sound like your dad? If so, tonight is the night – don’t be embarrassed, embrace his fun side and allow him to be the star of the show!

There is so much fun to be had in Aruba when the sun goes down:

Kukoo Kunuku Dinner & Nightlife Tour

Karaoke Party Bus

Chogogo Party Bus

Karaoke Night at Ricardo’s

Just a man, the sea and his fishing rod. Sometimes the simplest things in life can bring the greatest joy. If he’s up for some company, book a fishing charter for two for the day. Nothing beats some quality time out on the water, especially if that water is the mesmerizing Caribbean Sea! Don’t forget to pack a cooler filled with snacks and cold ones for the day.

If you end up catching a big one… bring it to Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant downtown by the marina and they will prepare it exactly to your liking!  Now that is a true sea-to-table dinner… yum!

Check out Aruba’s fishing charters.

Give dad the rest, relaxation, and pampering he deserves and probably oh-so-desperately needs! Whether he could use a massage for that backache, a facial to freshen and illuminate his skin, or a mani and pedi to get beach-ready (yes, dads need to get beach-ready too!) view spas in Aruba here.

If you find none of these ideas speak to you or that special dad in your life… then grab your towel, pack a cooler, and head to the beach! There is nothing better than a day at the beach!

Whatever you decide to do, remember to enjoy each other’s company and relax! After all, you are in warm, sunny, and happy Aruba!

Discover more of all there is to do in Aruba! 

From fine dining to cheap eats, international to traditional Aruban and Caribbean dishes, you can find a huge array of options for brunch, lunch and dinner in the downtown Oranjestad area. And, if you find yourself on the Southern end of the island, we’ve also included a must-try spot in downtown San Nicolas, that you simply cannot miss out on!

Let your culinary vacation journey begin, bon appétit!

El Gaucho first opened up in 1977, and is one of the oldest and most famed restaurants on the island. Known for their juicy Argentine cut steaks charcoal-grilled to perfection, such as their famous Gaucho steak (an 18 oz sirloin), if you are a meat lover… you’ll think you’re in heaven! In addition to their impressive meat selection, you’ll find an extensive wine list and their delicious homemade sangria, cheers!

PS – More into seafood? Try their calco stoba (conch stew), a local specialty!

Nestled in between quaint and historic buildings downtown, Yemanja‘s menu is unique, extremely extensive, and truly has something to offer for everyone. From seafood to meat, and even vegan, each dish is well-executed, created with only the best and most fresh ingredients… making for a beautiful work of art! Chef and owner Joyce is the mastermind behind Yemanja’s culinary concept and often adds new items to their menu to keep it exciting and fresh, check out their menu here. We urge you to come experience Yemanja for yourself.

Lucy’s has everything you’re looking for! Fun, laid-back vibes, relaxation, mouth-watering food, daily happy hour (their cocktail selection is super fun and like none other), views, a family-friendly atmosphere, and weekly specials. Their most famous weekly special is Taco Tuesday of course, a must-try! They’re located across from Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, alongside the marina, providing a lovely view of the sea and passing boats and cruise ships.

Located in the heart of downtown Oranjestad, Driftwood is one of the oldest standing restaurants in Aruba, and for good reason! They serve great seafood and traditional Aruban delicacies in a rustic ambiance of their natural driftwood dining room, making for a true local dining experience.

PS – Driftwood has their very own fishing charter, so as you can imagine, what they catch is what you can expect to find on your plate, now that’s sea-to-table goodness!

With your choice of top-grade meat carved to your liking tableside, it’s no wonder L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House is one of the top-ranked steak houses time and time again. In addition to juicy cuts of meat, they offer fresh seafood and international dishes. Want a nice wine to pair with that dish? They serve over 120 different wines by the glass to complement any one of their menu items. They also have a unique cocktail cart experience, where a mixologist will create your cocktail right at your table! 

PS – If you have any late-night (or early morning) cravings their lounge area is open until 6 AM serving a late-night menu (yes, you read that right, 6 AM). They are located at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort.

This cute and casual little spot is filled with a colorful Caribbean ambiance, you will find nothing but happy vibes and super delicious food! Serving a variety of seafood and local dishes with a true Caribbean flair, West Deck will surely have you coming back for more! Also, do make sure to try one of their specialty cocktails (or two). West Deck is located on Governor’s Bay Beach, just past Renaissance Marketplace and Wilhelmina Park.

Looking for a pleasant, charming and cozy downtown dining experience? Look no further! Stop by Suikertuin for brunch, lunch, dinner, or drinks and soak up the quaint and historic vibes in this little restaurant on one of the oldest streets in Oranjestad. In the back they have a lovely outdoor terrace, making for the perfect place for their Saturday brunch or high-tea experience. In addition, they also offer daily lunch and dinner specials.

Wilhelmina Restaurant is a casual, elegant restaurant, not easily spotted from the street, their restaurant offers a beautiful romantic “speakeasy city garden” ambiance, located in a quaint part of downtown on Wilhelminastraat. They serve delicious creative plates not seen anywhere on the island, from fresh seafood, the best certified black angus steaks, to homemade fresh pasta. The quality and presentation of their dishes are unmatched. Simply put, Wilhelmina is a dreamy and impressive find in the downtown area not to be missed!

You won’t find this hidden local gem in Oranjestad, O’Niel’s is located on the Southern end of the island in downtown San Nicolas, also known to locals as Sunrise City. Stop by O’Neil’s for a mouth-water lunch or dinner that will surely hit the spot! They are known for serving hearty meals that hit the spot, including local dishes such as oxtail, cabrito stoba (goat stew) and fresh grilled grouper and snapper. While this spot may be a bit out of the way depending on where you’re staying on the island, take it from us, it is absolutely worth the trip! Explore downtown San Nicolas while you’re there.

Italy of the World is intimate, small, cozy, and personable… the owner is your chef and your waiter! Perhaps what makes it most fun is that you are eating in a traditional Cunucu house (one of the oldest to be standing on the island). Yes, Italian cuisine in a local Aruban Cunucu house, who would’ve thought? Dishes are rich, decadent and bursting with flavor. Pair your fresh pasta dish with one of their many wines that decorate the walls from the ground up. You’ll find this charming restaurant just across from Fort Zoutman.

Craving traditional local dishes and fresh seafood? The Old Fisherman serves just that! With their own unique and fun Caribbean flair of course. This local gem is a family-owned restaurant and takes pride in serving fresh sea-to-table dishes. They now offer two locations, one in downtown Oranjestad across from the cruise ship terminal and one in the high-rise hotel area in Palm Beach.

One of the newest additions to the downtown area, Lima Bistro is located alongside the marina offering a spectacular view with a fresh, modern and stylish vibe. This new restaurant surely adds some culinary pizazz to the area and we are here for it! Chef Teddy puts on quite the show with his vibrant and mouth-watering dishes, specializing in International cuisine influenced by his Peruvian upbringing, Lima’s menu, presentation and service is exceptional! Ceviche, crudo and tiradito lovers look no further… this is the place for you! However, don’t worry there are plenty of other selections on the menu that are sure to awaken your tastebuds.

Dushi Delicious, also known as Dushi Deli, is not your usual breakfast place or coffee shop. This unique and vibrant little dig is nestled in between the shops of main street, making for the perfect pit stop during a day of shopping or a great ending point to rest your legs and quench your thirst! You’ll find delicious breakfast and lunch items on their menu, including plenty of healthy options and even refreshing cocktails for those looking for a happy hour!

Browse more restaurants in Aruba.

If you’re in the works of planning your Aruba vacation and at a bit of a loss of where to start, you’re in the right place. We are here to share some of our recommended things to do when it comes to exploring the island and enjoying fun activities. Check out our suggestions below and don’t forget to add them to your vacation agenda!

Are you ready to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer? You can do so by driving a jeep (or another 4×4 vehicle) or opt for a more active way and go hiking! There are plenty of natural sites and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild East Coast of the island, it is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches. PS – Don’t forget to purchase a day pass and spend the day at Aruba’s National Park.

Browse island tours and choose from one of the many guided tours or opt for a self-guided tour.

Important reminder: When exploring (especially via a 4×4 vehicle), always stay on the marked path or road before you, this is to ensure the safety and protection of our island’s nature! Please keep in mind much of our island’s wildlife is not always easily spotted by the naked eye.

One of the best ways to enjoy a day on the ‘One Happy Island’ is to spend it out at sea, surrounded by sparkling turquoise water, swimming with the colorful marine life and soaking up the warm sunshine… living your best life. Want to spend the day lounging on the sun deck sipping a refreshing cocktail? Or perhaps you’re in for a little underwater snorkeling adventure to discover the beautiful marine life? Or how about a romantic sunset dinner with your loved one?

Browse catamaran and sail cruises.

In the mood to have a more private cruising experience? Rent an Aqua Donut for the day with Octopus Aruba or book a private charter!

Take advantage of Aruba’s perfect water and steady wind conditions.  Windsurfing or kite surfing with Aruba Active Vacations is an experience you do not want to miss out on!  It’s wild, extremely fun and after getting up from the water for the first time you are hooked and sure to come back for more!  There is no other place than to try it with than Aruba Active Vacations, they are the longest-running kiteboarding school in Aruba.  With their great experience and guidance, you will be in the best hands.

There is so much fun to be had in Aruba when the sun goes down… and even more fun when you hop aboard a colorful and crazy party bus! There are a variety of different party bus tours to choose from, including Karaoke, Bar Hopping, Dinner & Nightlife, and more!

Browse fun party bus and bar-hopping tours.

Try one of the most popular watersport sensations, paddleboarding. Requiring some real balance and coordination, it is worth mastering! Look down on Aruba’s underwater life from above the water, experience true relaxation, and achieve a serious workout while you’re at it!

The best places to go paddleboarding are Palm Beach or in the waterways by the mangroves near Mangel Halto (Spanish Lagoon area). You will find it is the perfect place to get lost in nature and see a completely different side to Aruba!

Want to turn your zen up a notch? Try SUP yoga on Palm Beach. Not familiar with SUP yoga? It takes place on an extra-wide surfboard (stand-up paddleboard). Whether you are a beginner or expert, it’s an awesome and calming experience. You are sure to love the view of the crystal clear blue waters surrounding you!

Don’t forget to take a break from those long, hard days lounging on the white sandy beaches of Aruba and have ourselves a change of scenery! Yes, it’s time to put that frozen cocktail down and head downtown! Take your pick from downtown Oranjestad or San Nicolas (or for the best experience, we recommend visiting both).

In our island’s capital, Oranjestad, you will find colorful, vibrant, historic buildings inspired by Dutch Colonial architecture with a Caribbean twist. Make sure to visit a museum or two, such as Ft. Zoutman and the National Archaeological Museum. And of course, there’s plenty of shopping and dining to be done, too!

On the Southern end of the island, you’ll find San Nicolas, also known as Sunrise city, as the sun rises, so does the vibrant atmosphere and culture of this beautiful city in Aruba! This city is filled with happy people, beautiful art & culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. As you enter downtown, you are welcomed with colorful vibrant art murals decorating the streets, making for a perfect backdrop to your vacation snapshots! Don’t forget to visit the Museum of Industry, situated in the water tower, to learn about Aruba’s historical rise with regard to the island’s industrial development. A day of exploring always calls for a good meal, and you’re in luck, this quaint little city is also home to some of the best local Caribbean restaurants!

Take a virtual tour of downtown Oranjestad and San Nicolas.

As you venture around the island, you’re bound to come across wildlife on a daily basis with all of the iguanas, small lizards, goats, colorful birds, and wild donkeys hanging around. There are also plenty of venues to visit to meet and hang out with animals, such as the Donkey Sanctuary, The Butterfly Farm, Ostrich Farm, and Philip’s Animal Garden! When exploring the island, please remember to do so cautiously, as much of our wildlife is difficult to spot with the naked eye, in particular our local burrowing owls, known as Shoco, learn more here.

Escape life above water and head under the sea! Grab your snorkel gear (you can rent it from Aruba Active Vacations or S.E. Fly N Dive), pack a cooler, and visit one of the many beaches perfect for snorkeling! 

Prefer a guided tour? Hop aboard one of these sailing or catamaran cruises and enjoy an afternoon of snorkeling in crystal clear water with plenty of sunshine! Or join a power snorkeling tour with Seabob Aruba or Octopus Aruba.

While we haven’t been able to experience Aruba’s Carnaval season in what seems like… forever, we have been patiently waiting for the day of its return! And, being halfway through 2022, we can feel the next Carnaval approaching sooner than later! There have been many discussions among the organizers and it is expected that they will release an announcement with the official date soon. With this being said, make sure to stay tuned and check back to our website for any important announcements. Until then… start gearing up (mentally) for the most colorful and grand affair of the year, it is truly a celebration like none other!

Browse our site for more things to do and see in Aruba.

Planning a trip to Aruba? Renting a car during your stay is one of the best ways to discover all that the island has to offer. Be sure to check out visitaruba.com for our recommended natural attractions, sights, landmarks, beaches, and restaurants worth visiting.

And, in order to explore our island how and when you want to, browse car rentals in Aruba for rates and booking, and start planning your island adventure today! 

Recommended car rentals in Aruba:

Thrifty Car Rental

Avis Car Rental 

Super Car Rental

Drive 4 Cheap Car Rental

Mitoo Car Rental

Aruba Top Drive

Amigo Rent A Car

Value Car Rental

Tropic Car Rental

Budget Rent A Car

Econo Car Rental

Jay’s Car Rental

Royal Car Rental

Discover more of all there is to do and see in Aruba.

Main featured photo by Drive 4 Cheap Car Rental