Want to avoid the usual go-to spots among our island’s visitors, mingle with the locals and explore the lesser-known parts of the island? Check out our ideas so that you can get the most out of your Aruba vacation all while staying off the beaten path.

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with choosing to stay at a beachfront resort with paradise and endless Piña Coladas at your fingertips, it is an invaluable experience to opt for a more local and authentic accommodation and location during your vacation.

With that being said, if you would like to get a true feel for the island’s culture, we suggest steering clear of the popular resort areas and heading inland to the real local neighborhoods of Aruba. And, if you’re feeling extra daring, keep going to the outskirts of the countryside, also known as the ‘mondi’, where you are surrounded by nothing but peace and nature. Sure, the drive to the beach may be a bit further, however, there is no need to fret, it will never be too far away as our island is only about 21 miles long and 6 miles wide.

Tips: Walk to the local snack place for your morning pastechi, head to the small supermarket on the corner for your daily groceries, and don’t forget to visit the local bar down the street for a cold beer after a long day under the strong sun.

Browse vacation rentals, apartment resorts and boutique hotels for an authentic island stay.

The culinary scene in Aruba is incredibly impressive for such a small island in the Caribbean. While there are plenty of exceptional restaurants nearby the resort and downtown areas, it is most definitely worth seeking out the more under-the-radar casual dining spots located throughout different areas of the island. There are a number of restaurants without all the thrills and frills and food trucks galore that are sure to impress all of your foodie senses and cravings.

For a true taste of the island’s diverse flavors, we suggest trying one (if not all) of these Aruba eats:

Marina Pirata, O’Neil Caribbean Kitchen, Chupa Dede Snacks, Lings Restaurant, Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant, Nos Local Snack Truck, Dushi Deli, Candela Food Truck, Happy Day Snack, Coco Plum, Don Pastechi Factory, Kulture Cafe, Nisbon Snack, Kamini’s Kitchen, Grote Berg Snack, My Good Idea’s Takeaway, and De Suikertuin Bistro.

To discover more food trucks on the island check out this list for some of our favorites.

PS: There are plenty more worthy dining experiences in Aruba, this is just a small selection!

There’s something rather invigorating about going on a spur-of-the-moment island adventure on your own. No tour guide, no group, no strict schedule or agenda, simply exploring the island at your own pace, when and how you want to. Take the time to browse our site and blog for suggested places to visit and things to do, create your own adventure, and don’t forget to take your phone along to have a GPS map on hand.

If you’re not too sure which sites and attractions are best to visit, we recommend downloading  Action Tour Guide’s Aruba Self-guided Tour App with audio and GPS. Once you’ve downloaded the app simply hop in your car or get to walking, and let the adventure begin!  Note: It works offline and the tour is valid for a lifetime.

A trip to Aruba isn’t complete without a local nightlife experience! There are plenty of fun bars and clubs in the high-rise resort area, but, for a different night out we suggest switching it up and heading to a local watering hole. Enjoy the night by mingling with locals, and if you dare, make your way to the dance floor to practice your bachata or salsa moves. Not much of a dancer? Partner up with a local and follow their lead until you get the swing of it!

Here are some places to consider venturing to: Flor de Oriente, Sandra’s Garden, Cafe The Old Dutch, Lekker, Alfie’s, or, try a nearby Chinese restaurant. Fun fact: Did you know many Chinese restaurants on the island turn into late-night spots for fun, music and drinks? All you need to do is take a seat at the bar and see where the night takes you!

Discover more things to do and see in Aruba.

Discover what’s new in Aruba with our list of suggested activities and experiences. From partying like a local at the latest weekly cultural event to exploring the island’s natural beauty and indulging at a new dine-worthy restaurant, you won’t want to miss out on these new things to do!

Dushi Aruba This Way – Party Like a Local!

Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort has recently introduced their latest weekly event, “Dushi Aruba This Way” – Party Like a Local! It takes place every Thursday on the beach at Renaissance Aruba Ocean Suites.

Experience true Aruban culture with this exciting theme night featuring a delicious all-you-can-eat BBQ with a local twist. Enjoy a mixology bar ready to show off the latest trends with their handcrafted cocktails, local artists with some lovely souvenirs to take back home, and a Carnival show with an interactive local brass band.

Don’t miss out, for only $55 per person at Renaissance Ocean Suites Beach on Thursday nights, starting at 6:30 pm!

Get more colorful details.

Blu Bar

We’ve got good news to share, in fact, it’s so good it has our mouths watering just thinking about it. It’s always exciting when a new restaurant opens its doors on the island, but it’s especially exciting when it checks off all our boxes, fulfilling our foodie dreams and expectations!

A brand new (pop-up) restaurant, Blu Bar, located at Radisson Blu Aruba has just opened its doors. Offering authentic Peruvian fusion cuisine with a modern twist. While the menu specializes in fresh and vibrant ceviches and tiraditos, it also offers other seafood-centric dishes and International cuisine. The refreshing and upscale atmosphere and picturesque view of the resort‘s pool and lush gardens add to the dine-worthy experience.

You may have noted the phrase “pop-up” earlier, and yes, you’ve read that right –  the restaurant cuisine and concept are open to change in the future, allowing for more culinary surprises and creative concepts. Not many pop-up restaurants are offered on the island and certainly not at resorts, making Blu Bar a very refreshing addition to the culinary scene! Worry not, if you’ve already fallen in love with their Peruvian fusion and international dishes it is not going anywhere anytime soon!

PS: Blu Bar has weekly specials that you do not want to miss out on: Sangria O’Clock Mondays, Winesday with live entertainment, and Friday Bar & Bites Happy Hour.

Make your reservation now or get more dine-worthy details.

Action Tour Guide App

Want to explore the island at your own pace, when and how you want to? Check out Action Tour Guide’s Aruba Self-guided Tour App with audio and GPS. Simply download the app and hop in your car or get to walking, and let the adventure begin! 

Note: It works offline and the tour is valid for a lifetime.

Get more details on your upcoming island adventure.

Sea Glass Hunting 

Make your way to Sea Glass Island with Captain Anthony of Tranquilo Charters on their pontoon boat, and spend the day leisurely combing the shores for sea glass. The finds are always super unique and interesting, you’ll come across plenty of pretty blues, ambers, multi-colored pieces, marbles, and much more! Perhaps the most fun part of sea glass hunting is guessing the mysterious story behind each unique piece. Don’t forget a bag so you can take them back home with you to create some fun and beautiful island art!

Fun fact: Taking sea glass back home from Aruba is legal, as it is manmade, not a natural element of the environment. However, taking sand, sea shells, and coral back home from Aruba is not permitted.

Get more details on this beachy and artsy activity.

Oasis Farm Aruba

For all the green thumbs and sustainability enthusiasts out there, you must add this under-the-radar local organic farm to your vacation agenda. Head to Pos Chiquito (just South of the airport) to find the Oasis Farm Aruba, and experience this authentic local organic farm filled with peaceful and tropical vibes. The farm is open every day from 8 AM – 6 PM, entry to their oasis is $20 and entry to their market is free.

Not only is the oasis experience and tour a very special one, but the farm also offers yoga classes including breakfast made from their very own fresh produce!

Get more details and learn more about green efforts on the island.

For more fun things to do in Aruba browse our site.

Book a cruise for your group of family or friends for an intimate and memorable birthday celebration! Spend the day out on the Caribbean Sea and enjoy the mesmerizing views, go snorkeling, indulge in an open bar, delicious food, and end the day with a breathtaking Caribbean sunset.

Browse and book cruises here.

Good food, flowing drinks, and great company makes for the perfect birthday recipe! Here’s a little taste of dining options in Aruba…

Fine Dining: Blu Bar, Aqua Grill, Sunset Grille, L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House, Faro Blanco

Beach Dining: Barefoot, Hilton Aruba’s Sunset Concierge Dining Experience, Element’s Restaurant, Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant, Ricardo’s, Water’s Edge Restaurant

Garden and/or Downtown Dining: Quinta del Carmen, Yemanja Woodfired Grill, El Gaucho, Driftwood

There are plenty more mouth-watering restaurants we recommend trying while on the island, browse them here!

Start your birthday off with a healthy, zen-filled morning. Visit Aruba’s National Park and choose from one of the many trails and immerse yourself in Aruba’s beautiful nature! You are sure to leave with a clear mind and good energy, a great way to start off your next year of life!

Get some hiking inspiration here and be sure to check out our virtual hike!

Craving a bit more island adventure? Download the Action Tour Guide App to explore the island at your own pace, when and how you want to. It’s a self-guided Tour App with audio and GPS. Simply download the app and hop in your car or get to walking, and let the adventure begin!

After that hike, you’ll be needing to treat yourself to a good hearty meal, and what better way to get the birthday celebration going with brunch and endless mimosas?! Brunching is a great way to relax and indulge… making for a perfect birthday and vacation activity! Yes, we just called brunch an activity (because, well… it is). But where to brunch?

Browse some of the top brunch spots on the island to consider for your birthday celebration!

Cheers! It’s your birthday and you just happen to be in paradise! Feeling rather parched and ready to start the celebration? Grab your friends and go beach bar-hopping and make sure to check out our list of 15 Happy Hour Spots for more details on happy hour deals. Tip: Make sure you stay for the breathtaking sunset glow hour!

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! Suggestion: Try Kukoo Kunuku’s Wine On Down the Road tour for a night of mouth-watering dishes, excellent wine, and good company with a little dash of crazy, of course!

Browse fun party bus and bar-hopping tours here.

There are plenty of fun and adventurous water activities to try, making for a fun day out on the water! If you’re feeling rather adventurous, try wind or kite surfing or deep-sea fishing. Want to take it down a notch and try something a bit more relaxing? Try paddleboarding or SUP Yoga.

Pick and choose the perfect water activity for you!

How can you pick just one of Aruba’s beautiful beaches to visit when there are so many to fall in love with? You can’t! That is exactly why we suggest spending a day or two beach hopping. Pack a cooler with your favorite food and drinks, grab your friends, and hop in your rental car to celebrate your special day just how you should – soaking up the warm sunshine and swimming in Aruba’s pretty blues! Check out our list of suggested beaches to visit.

Discover more fun things to do in Aruba.

We’ve got good news to share, in fact, it’s so good it has our mouths watering just thinking about it. It’s always exciting when a new restaurant opens its doors on the island, but it’s especially exciting when it checks off all our boxes, fulfilling our foodie dreams and expectations!

Radisson Blu Aruba has just unveiled the newest addition to their F&B lineup, and it is without a doubt dine-worthy! Blu Bar, a pop-up restaurant, offers authentic Peruvian fusion cuisine with a modern twist and international flair. While the menu specializes in fresh and vibrant Peruvian eats, such as ceviches and tiraditos, as well as seafood-centric dishes, it also offers a variety of elevated meat, vegetarian and vegan entree dishes to satisfy the palates of all diners. Each entree is served with unique and creative sides complimenting the main attraction perfectly.

You may have noted the phrase “pop-up” earlier, and yes, you’ve read that right –  the restaurant cuisine and concept are open to change in the future, allowing for more culinary surprises and creative concepts. Not many pop-up restaurants are offered on the island and certainly not at resorts, making Blu Bar a very refreshing addition to the culinary scene! Worry not, if you’ve already fallen in love with their Peruvian fusion and international dishes it is not going anywhere anytime soon!

Blu Bar’s ambiance is modern, chic, and spacious with plenty of unique architectural detail. The panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows surround diners from just about every angle and give an incredible indoor-outdoor feel. The view looks out onto the resort‘s illuminating pool and lush gardens.

Foodies are sure to flock to this inviting atmosphere in no time. It’s a lovely dining option for all, whether you are staying at Radisson Blu, a nearby resort, a vacation rental, or you are a local, you need to put Blu Bar on your dining list! Try it for your next date night or even for a social business meet-up.

Tip: Gather your group of friends and grab a seat at their fun and eccentric bar for cozy vibes and sip-worthy libations.

The menu includes a variety of authentic Peruvian and tasty seafood appetizers to select from, all created with fresh, vibrant, and colorful ingredients. The dishes are so good that you may choose to share a selection of appetizers with your group and enjoy a tapas-style dinner. However, if you are a diner with more of an appetite (and don’t like sharing), their entrees are sure to satisfy your hunger and all of your foodie cravings! View Blu Bar’s dinner menu to get all of the mouth-watering details.

Appetizer highlights

Ceviche Blu: Catch of the day marinated in leche de tigre, red onion, Peruvian aji, cancha crujiente, sweet potato puree, and maiz mote.

Tiradito Nikkei: Thinly sliced, fresh blackened tuna, bathed in homemade oriental sauce served over pineapple and mango relish.

Beef Tataki: Lightly seared, thinly sliced beef in ponzu sauce, coriander pesto, charred leek mayo, and microgreens.

Want to split an appetizer with your plus one? Try the Cold Seafood Platter: Lobster tail (4 oz), prawns (2 pc), fish ceviche, remoulade sauce, charred lemon and pica di papaya. Served with smoked salmon cream cheese and totopos – perfect for two!

Entree recommendations

Cowboy Pork: 12 oz Cowboy Pork glazed with blackberry jam, served with fufu (mashed ripe banana, onion & butter) and popcorn tajine butter seasoning.

Pan Fried Local Fish Fillet: Local fish of the day served on sugar snap pea puree, sprinkled Dukkah nuts, pineapple mango pico de Gallo, charred lemon, and coriander microgreens.

Stuffed Chicken: Locally seasoned airliner chicken infused with ranch cream cheese. Served on a bed of potatoes and leek puree with zhug (cilantro sauce), cherry tomato confit, sprinkled with Dukkah nuts.

Looking for a Vegetarian or Vegan option? Try their flavor-packed Cauliflower Steak: Open flame cauliflowers marinated in aji panca. Served with modern ratatouille, tomato-bell pepper chutney, Dukkah nuts and coriander microgreens (Vegetarian, Vegan)

Aside from the bold flavors and presentation, what makes their entrees really stand out is the unique and outside-of-the-box international touch on each dish. Whether it’s dukkah spices from the Middle East, fufu mash hailing from Africa, or an unusual Peruvian take on the otherwise traditional Argentinean chimichurri, Blu Bar’s chef and culinary team are exceptionally innovative and clearly enjoy pushing the culinary boundaries in a delicious way!

To quench your thirst, Blu Bar offers a well-thought-out (and not too overwhelming) wine and cocktail menu to compliment each dish as it should. Select a bottle of crisp and refreshing Albariño to pair with your ceviche or tiradito, or, opt for one of their handcrafted cocktails, such as the Pisco Punch… either way you can’t go wrong – cheers! Oh, and let’s not forget about dessert, you can browse their sweet grand finale menu here.

In addition to their regular offered menu, Blu Bar also offers weekly theme nights, including special food and drink deals, as well as live entertainment. Mark your calendars because Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays just became a whole lot more exciting!

Sangria Mondays:  Savor their homemade sangria, priced at only $6 per glass and $25 per pitcher. PS – it’s truly homemade, the recipe is based on their F&B Manager Leonie’s Grandmother’s recipe!

Winesday with Amy: Includes a live music performance by singer Amy Sorinio and Dollars to Florin on their special bubbles and wine bottles menu, now that’s a deal, wine lovers!

Fridays are for Bar & Bites (coming soon): Enjoy a special happy hour menu including various small plates and wine, cocktail & beer options.

Blu Bar not only invites you for a lovely dinner experience, but they are also open for breakfast, serving traditional breakfast dishes fused with local cuisine. Try their Keri-Keri Benedict or the Super Breakfast including endless mimosas.

Blu Bar is located at Radisson Blu Aruba in Palm Beach, open daily, serving Breakfast from 7:00 – 11:00 AM and Dinner from 5:00 – 11:00 PM.

View more information on Blu Bar or make a reservation.

Are you curious as to what the benefits are of choosing to stay at an all-inclusive versus a non-all-inclusive resort in Aruba? Are all-inclusive resorts really worth it?

We’ve put together a brief guide so that you can learn more about the all-inclusive scene in Aruba and determine whether or not this is the ideal resort choice for your vacation.

All-inclusives are perfect for vacationers who want to stay on a predetermined budget while enjoying all of the lovely unlimited perks and having no particular daily agenda in mind (other than ultimate relaxation of course). Get access to everything you need for just one set price. There is no need to head to the ATM throughout your stay to constantly withdraw more cash, or feel the need to carry your credit card everywhere you go. This will allow you to enjoy your day-to-day vacation with comfort and ease. Paying one set price ahead of time may also make it easier for you to set a small budget aside for any additional tours, shopping and other activities you would like to try that are offered outside of the resort.

As for what’s available within the resort grounds, you’ll have just about everything at your fingertips. Including indoor and outdoor lounges, live entertainment, resort activities, health and fitness centers, spas, casinos, several swimming pools, direct beach access, and a variety of dining options available day and night to quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger. With easy access to so much, you will find it is almost unnecessary to leave your resort. However, Aruba has so much diverse beauty and culture to offer that exploring outside of the resort grounds is strongly recommended! Discover all the things to do and see in Aruba.

In comparison, staying at a non-all-inclusive resort results in a cheaper booking rate since only your room rate is included (unless a special package is booked). In turn, this leaves you with more room in decision-making with regard to how and where you want to spend your money. For instance, perhaps you’re a foodie at heart, and your ideal vacation is venturing to as many different local restaurants across the island as possible. Or, maybe you happen to be a thrill seeker and want to fill your days with tours, activities, beach hopping, and plenty of island adventure! There are many beaches, sites, attractions, and restaurants to visit in Aruba, and if you opt for a non-all-inclusive you may have more of an incentive to experience those things.

There is no wrong choice when deciding between an all-inclusive and a non-all-inclusive resort, it really just depends on your interests, desires, and vacation goals.

Families

With the endless activities, amenities, facilities, and easy access to dining, choosing to stay at an all-inclusive with your family is really a no-brainer. Perhaps you’re traveling with young children for summer vacation or you have a big family reunion planned, an all-inclusive is bound to keep the kids busy (and happy), while offering plenty of fun and relaxation for the adults too.

One of the biggest stressors of traveling with kids and large families is how to keep everyone fed and happy (all while remaining within budget of course). All-inclusives serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, and offer a variety of different restaurants, cuisines, and bars throughout the property. Does your group have different food preferences? No problem! You are bound to find something that will cater to everyone’s taste.

Couples

Looking for a romantic getaway for two? Sometimes you just need to get away and spend some quality time with no real agenda in mind, other than enjoying each other’s company. And, all-inclusives allow you to do just that! Whether you are planning your honeymoon or a quick, relaxing escape from the real world, an all-inclusive resort may just be the answer. Many resorts include spas, quiet adult-only pools, swim-up bars, dreamy beachside or poolside dining, and much more. Enjoy your vacation days with no worries, no stress, no plans to be made, just lounging, recharging, and finding romance in paradise – there’s no better place!

Large Groups

Take the stress of too much planning and sticking to a certain schedule away by choosing an all-inclusive for your group. From reunions to wedding groups, business groups, and getaways with friends, staying at an all-inclusive resort is a smart and easy choice. There are plenty of fun activities and endless dining (including open bars) options that are sure to cater to each member of your group. If you are visiting the island for a special event, such as a wedding or business trip, the resort can host your event and all of the members of your group can stay there as well, how convenient is that? Many resorts also have special packages available for large groups, offering additional activities, outside tours, and special rates. Browse and contact a resort directly to inquire for more information.

Holiday Inn Aruba Resort

Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort

Divi Village Golf and Beach Resort

Divi Dutch Village Beach Resort

Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort

Barcelo Aruba

RIU Palace Aruba

Manchebo Aruba

Note: Many of the above resorts offer both all-inclusive and non-all-inclusive booking options.

If you’ve come to the conclusion that booking an all-inclusive is not for you, yet you still desire a vacation experience with convenience at your fingertips, a great alternative is to stay at a timeshare. Browse Aruba timeshare rentals for pricing, availability and booking. You may also want to opt for a smaller and more quiet accommodation, such as an apartment resort or boutique hotel.

Browse more accommodations in Aruba to start planning your vacation.