With the countless picture-perfect backdrops, gorgeous weather, a steady warm breeze, and clear turquoise waters… it’s easy to find romance in Aruba. However, with so many different options and perhaps not as much time as you’d hoped for, it is essential to make the most out of your time on the island.

Whether you’re looking for romantic strolls on the beach, candlelit beachfront dinners, discovering Aruba’s natural beauty, or an adventure for two, couples can craft an unforgettable time together on our One Happy Island!  In Aruba, every day can truly be Valentine’s Day.

Check out our ideas of the best things to do and create your perfect romantic experience in Aruba:

Finding romance in Aruba would simply not be complete without a beautiful beachside stroll. There are many beaches to fall in love with and they are all worth paying a visit to. One of those must-visits is Eagle Beach. This wide stretch of soft white sand has been named one of the best beaches in the world time and time again. It’s a perfect place for an afternoon or early evening stroll, just in time to take in Aruba’s breathtaking sunset.

If you like to take a walk on the wild side, make your way to the NorthEast Coast. You’ll witness plenty of beautiful green cacti, vegetation, rugged rock formations, and as you approach the coast, you will see the dramatic, darker blue waters clash against the rocks, an impressive sight to see. With many trails and sights to discover there is plenty of walking to be done in this area. We specifically recommend visiting Aruba’s National Park as it has plenty of beautiful views. Other hiking areas include: Hooiberg, Alto Vista Chapel, and the North coast near the California Lighthouse and Westpunt.

Book yourselves a couples massage and full spa day! What better way to get a relaxing, zen-filled experience and unwind! Enjoy a specialized spa or wellness treatment from Hilton Aruba‘s eforea Spa or Renaissance Aruba’s Okeanos Spa.

Select the perfect spa for you and your lucky plus one.

Simply find a quiet spot on the beach to sit and gaze, or, if you want to elevate the sunset glow experience even further, book a catamaran or sail cruise to witness the beauty from out on the water.

Hungry? Try one of these beachfront restaurants or beach bars with a Caribbean sunset view to remember!

View the sunset times in Aruba so you can plan out your sunset date perfectly.

For all of those thrill-seeking partners, Aruba has got plenty for you to explore! Some sights and attractions in Aruba tend to be a little hidden and take a true adventure to get to (psst – add these 7 places to your list). There are many ways to get there, whether you prefer to rent a jeep, a UTV for two, or to take a tour led by a professional guide, you will find the right one for you. Explore and discover Aruba’s beauty together on a rugged adventure… but don’t forget to take a dip in one of the natural pools to cool off! There is truly so much to see: ride through Arikok National Park, visit the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, the Alto Vista Chapel, discover caves and the less populated, untouched wild beaches on the East coast.

And for the true cultural enthusiasts, browse our downtown guides for things to do in Oranjestad and in San Nicolas (also known as Sunrise City). You will also want to add Etnia Nativa to your list, Aruba’s only residential dwelling to open its doors and offer visitors a personal and interactive tour to tell our island’s story through an anthropological approach. Your tour will delve into archeology, medicinal herbs, native shamanism, art, and much more!

View an extensive list of tours and activities to choose from.

Imagine toasting in celebration of your love for one another with a bottle of fine wine as the sun goes down, and enjoying a magical moonlit dinner on the beach. Nothing quite tops a dreamy dinner in paradise with your toes in the sand, no matter how cliche it may seem, it is a must-do when on the island.

However, with that being said, romantic dining in Aruba is not only limited to beach dining, there are plenty of other dreamy options to be found! For instance, try a restaurant nestled in charming historic buildings of downtown Oranjestad, or opt for dining in a lush and cozy tropical garden with twinkling lights draped overhead.

Browse our recommended romantic dining options and view a full restaurant guide here.

Go on a catamaran or sailboat cruise. Choose from a variety of different cruises, whether you are in the mood for snorkeling, drinks, sunset gazing, or a romantic private dinner!

Here are some great sailboat or catamaran operators to choose from: Octopus Aruba, The Tranquilo, Delphi Watersports, Pelican Adventures, Red Sail, and Around Aruba Tours.

View more options for a fun day out on the water!

When in doubt of what to do, spend the day relaxing on Aruba’s warm and sunny, white-sand beaches. Try the one and only dreamy Eagle Beach or venture further away to Mangel Halto and get lost in the mangroves.

Get a closer look at Aruba’s breathtaking beaches.

If you are looking for more things to do in Aruba browse our site and start planning your romantic vacation with us.

Main featured photo by: Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort

We’ve rounded up a list of some of our favorite spots for ‘brunch-ing’ in Aruba. Check out our recommendations below and let the mimosas flow!

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The famous Diana’s Pancakes has teamed up with Chef Fred and moved to the De Olde Molen (The Old Mill)

Browse more dining options in Aruba.

*Brunch times may vary, please contact restaurants directly for confirmation or more details.

One of the best ways to kick off the new year is to plan an upcoming trip to get away and enjoy new experiences and surroundings. Are you considering Aruba as your next destination? Check out some of the best ways to enjoy yourself and make the most out of your Aruba vacation!

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season has officially made its comeback and we are very excited, to say the least! After a long two-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, Aruba is more than ready to welcome back our beloved Carnival season, and, this year our island is celebrating 69 years of Carnival! If you are lucky enough to be on the island don’t miss out on one of Aruba’s most treasured traditions. Get ready, it’s ‘Carnaval’ time, time to celebrate in the streets! View the 2023 Carnival schedule here so you don’t miss out on any of the big parades and fun.

Spend the day (or every day for that matter) lounging on the beach with no agenda, just pure relaxation. Grab your towel, pack a cooler, and head to the nearest beach, there’s truly nothing better! Check out our list of some of our favorite beaches to visit, or, if you’re feeling a bit daring, check out these wild and beautiful beaches found on the East Coast for a day of island adventure.

For those who love to stay active and have fun out on the water, discover fun watersports and activities to add to your list.

Many of Aruba’s annual events are making their comeback this year and we are so happy to see it! Check out our events section closer to your arrival date to see what is being offered during that time. Have a little sneak peek at some upcoming events and fun to be had:

Good food, flowing drinks, and great company makes for the perfect start to the new year! Here’s a little taste of the dining options to be found in Aruba:

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

Beach Dining: Barefoot, Hilton Aruba’s Sunset Concierge Dining Experience, Element’s Restaurant, Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant, Ricardo’s, Water’s Edge Restaurant, Pelican’s Nest Seafood & Grill, and Gilligan’s Seafood Shack

Downtown and/or Garden Dining: Quinta del Carmen, El Gaucho, Driftwood, Renaissance Marketplace, and Lucy’s Aruba

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

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 quite a unique experience to opt for a more local and authentic accommodation during your vacation. Vacation rentals are a great option if you’re looking for that “home away from home” feeling and want to have a more quiet and intimate stay.

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

Turn off all of the noise and chaos in your life and go get yourself a massage. Not only is a massage a great way to unwind, but so are facial treatments as well as a manicure and pedicure. Prioritizing self-care in the new year is the way to go!

Check out the extensive spa treatment menu for Hilton Aruba’s eforea Spa. Their menu includes specialty wellness treatments with a local touch. Try their Sacred Sounds Massage or Eforea Astronomy Experience, which incorporates a massage under the stars, stargazing, and guided meditation with healing crystals and sage. It doesn’t get much more zen than that.

Another spa absolutely worth trying on the island is Renaissance Aruba‘s Okeanos Spa.

Skincare tip – Don’t leave the island without our local Aloe skincare products, your skin will thank you later! Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory or one of the Aruba Aloe stores.

View more things to do and see in Aruba.

‘Tis the sea-sun for spending time with loved ones and spreading cheer! Although we know the holidays are really meant for enjoying each other’s company and celebrating all the good that surrounds us, buying a wee little present here or there for a friend or family member definitely can’t hurt the holiday spirit! Matter-of-fact, I’m willing to bet it will get you and the lucky recipient in a holly jolly mood in no time!

So, if you plan on gift-giving this year, how about making it thoughtful and unique? And, what better way to top off your holiday shopping than by supporting the community of Aruba at the same time?

Browse a selection of local companies found in Aruba and have a glance at their products below:

Note: The majority of these local companies are only available to shop while on the island, however, a select few do offer international shipping. So, if you’re on the island this month happy holiday shopping! Otherwise, be sure to add these stores to your list so you can visit them during your future Aruba vacation, and bring home a small gift for your friends or family (or yourself, wink)!

Handmade artisan soap, created with nothing but all-natural, organic ingredients (including oils, butters, natural additives and exfoliates). Try their “Eagle Beach” made from coconut oil and aloe, the relaxing “Lavender” bar, or one of their newest additions, “Tres Trapi” showcasing a little sea turtle often found swimming there.  Each special soap is beautifully presented with great artistic detail and has its very own beauty or wellness remedy. You can find the Holistika Raw Soap store in Palm Beach near Gianni’s and their newest (and bigger) store, Raw Modern, including a wide range of products and gifts to shop, located in Palm Beach area directly off of J.E. Irausquin Blvd.

Shop here

The Atelier Aruba displays authentic Aruban art, all handcrafted by 7 talented local artists. You can also find clothes, handbags, jewelry, handblown glass items, and more! This store is located in the high-rise hotel area of Palm Beach at Paseo Herencia Mall. Take a peek at some of the work by artists DCB Art and Aruba’s Hands by Gaby.

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Gorgeous hand-dyed products, done shibori style (super cool). Specializes in baby, kids’ clothing, and home accessories (think napkins, towels, etc.). Oh, and if you’re looking to cleanse your aura and welcome all the good vibes this upcoming year make sure to purchase the new Palo Santo and Selenite kit!

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This talented female duo creates handmade and customized driftwood signs found right here on the wild and beautiful beaches of Aruba! Each piece of work they create is incredibly unique, vibrant and gives you all the happy island vibes you’re looking for! Who doesn’t need a little bit of “One Happy Island” vibes at their home? Browse their work below and contact them with your personal request! Keep in mind they are a small team so you will need to place your order well ahead of time and these signs are only available in Aruba (no international shipping at this time).

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You will find this gallery of unique handmade art in Renaissance Mall, featuring 8 local artists. From handmade ceramics to oil paints and driftwood pieces. You’ll find local artists Helena Hoes, Juan Carlos, Kim Violenes, and more! Take a peek at some of the work by artists Helena Croes and MesArt Photography.

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Why shop at just one store when you can shop at a number of different stores all in one place? Every month (usually the first Sunday of the month) the Aruba Ostrich Farm hosts a local farmer’s market with a variety of different local artisans and farmers showcasing and selling their unique and creative products. You will find jewelry, candles, hot sauce, murals, home decor, plants, and much, much more!

Shop here 

Shopping for someone with a sense of humor? The Sticker Lady designs and creates decals displaying witty phrases in Papiamento (and sometimes in English). These decals are put on an array of different items such as key chains, tote bags, wine glasses, t-shirts, magnets, coffee mugs, and more! Her products are unique and make for the perfect little gift so that one can keep a little bit of Aruba to themselves no matter where they are!

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Myah’s homemade products are a hit during the holiday season! While she offers a variety of small gifts and fun, unique items to shop for, her true specialty is her homemade Ponche Crema and soy wax scented candles! Her fresh-made Ponche Crema comes in a variety of flavors (there are 9 to choose from), stick with Original (you can’t go wrong), or, opt for one of her other popular flavors, such as Coffee, Coconut, Red Velvet, or even Pumpkin Spice! PS – Ponche Crema is like the Aruban version of Egg Nog, you’ll find it’s a bit thicker with a different flavor. It makes for a rich, smooth and delicious holiday cocktail (or dessert). The perfect gift to bring over to your family or friends over the holidays to share a little taste of Aruba!

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Gloria creates beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry with handpicked sea glass from Aruba’s shores. Her jewelry makes for the perfect gift for a fellow Aruba and/or beach lover! This way you can safely and responsibly take a memory of Aruba’s beaches with you to keep forever, without disturbing or destructing our island’s environment, as taking seashells, coral or sand is forbidden. All of her work is handcrafted and one-of-a-kind sustainable jewelry, truly capturing the essence of Aruba. This holiday season she has crafted little Christmas trees out of sea glass! She has various pop-ups at resorts such as Hyatt and Manchebo, as well as Paseo Herencia Mall.

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Find perfect and useful gifts all while helping to sustain the environment! Choose from a variety of natural and organic handmade makeup, suncare, and now even deodorant, face masks, and more! Each product is made up of only organic ingredients, that’s right zero chemicals, parabens, or preservatives! In need of reef-friendly sunscreen for your beach days? Aruba Life Organics is the place to shop!

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The perfect gift to give to someone heading to Aruba for vacation who would like to stay on track with their personal fitness goals and healthy lifestyle, all while still having fun in paradise! The owners, a dynamic duo, offer personal training sessions, fun and active hotel activities (one taking place at Hilton Aruba Resort), and company training sessions! So, whether you are on the island short-term or a long-term local resident, they can and will absolutely accommodate your needs!

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This art gallery and creative center located in downtown Oranjestad, hosts a variety of local arts & craft workshops. Sadly, due to the challenges of COVID, Cosecha was forced to close its stores (both in San Nicolas and this downtown location in Oranjestad). However, their doors are still open for scheduled workshops (only available at select times). Have a creative and artistic person you’re shopping for? Purchase them a spot at one of Cosecha’s fun art workshops for when they’re on the island! Make sure to contact Cosecha directly as their courses and schedules are apt to change at any time.

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A stationery bookstore brought to life by two local sisters who are passionate about writing and office materials, staying organized, encouraging creativity, and brightening up your workspace with captivating products! Some products even include words and phrases in Papiamento to give that real local touch. Everyone and anyone could use a little inspiration and color in their lives right about now, making gift shopping at Paper Sisters super easy! You may just want to pick up a 2022 planner for yourself (wink)!

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Handcrafted jewelry for ocean lovers, pearl enthusiasts and true mermaids! The artist’s jewelry is minimalistic and dainty, yet so incredibly beach chic… often incorporating different types of pearls, stones and seashells! You can’t help but pick something out for yourself whilst shopping for others, it’s okay if you do, it’s called self-care! Mersea Jewelry has moved, the store is now located on the beautiful grounds of Boardwalk Boutique Hotel!

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Got any plant lovers or green thumbs in your life? Baki is the perfect gift idea! This small local company decided to build “bakis” (small planter boxes) to encourage the culture of self-sustainability by planting your very own produce, flowers, plants or whatever your heart desires! Pretty cool, right?

Shop here

Note: Many resorts host weekly markets where local artists will have their work on display for you to shop! Check with the front desk or concierge of your resort for more information.

We would like to emphasize this is just a small list of the many local companies here on the island that can use your support, there are plenty more for you to discover and shop this holiday season!

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season has officially made its comeback and we are very excited, to say the least! With the recent (and long-anticipated) announcement of the return of Aruba’s Carnival, we felt it was the perfect time to share a little Aruba Carnival 101 knowledge, for those of you who have not yet experienced the most colorful, grand affair of the year.

Carnival on Aruba is not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January, February and sometimes even into March, the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. Each year when Carnival ends people are already preparing for the next one, brainstorming for new group themes, costume designs, composing winning road march tunes, building parade floats, electing queens…you get the gist. View the 2023 Carnival schedule.

After a long two-year hiatus due to the COVID pandemic, Aruba is more than ready to welcome back our beloved Carnival season… and, this year our island is celebrating 69 years of Carnival! If you are lucky enough to be on the island don’t miss out on one of Aruba’s most treasured traditions. Get ready, it’s ‘Carnaval’ time, it’s time to celebrate in the streets!

The official beginning of Carnival season begins on November 11th, however, the actual Carnival activities and parades don’t begin until after New Year of the following year.

Carnaval season is sparked by the first parade to hit the streets of Oranjestad, Parada di Flambeu (Torch Parade), better known as Fakkel Optocht. In the past this parade was filled with burning torches, which now have been long replaced by millions of bright, colorful (and often flashing) lights. Those participating or performing in the parade accessorize these lights however possible, whether it is on their hats, shirts, heads, shoes…some opt to decorate their bodies with glow-in-the-dark paint.

The loud beats of traditional carnival music, singing and hip swaying immediately take over and the island is officially in full Carnival mode. The Carnival schedule is jam-packed with weekly events, leaving little excuse to miss out. It continues with Jump-ins, King and Queen Elections, Calypso, festivals, contests, live music, celebrations for children, parties (pre and after) and of course the most popular, parades.

Some of the most favored parades are the Lighting Parade in Oranjestad and the Jouvert Morning (Pajama Parade) which takes place in the wee hours of the morning in San Nicolas. Parades and festivals take place both during the day and during the night, leaving you much to choose from, there truly is something for everyone.

There are even children’s parades to include the little ones in the fun. Some of the annual children and youth Carnival highlights include the Queen Election, Calypso & Roadmarch and the Grand Children’s Parade in Oranjestad and San Nicolas.

The island does not close out Carnival with just one grand parade; the Grand Carnival Parade has always been celebrated in both Oranjestad AND San Nicolas, making for TWO amazing final parades (because one just isn’t enough). On Saturday morning, the people in the streets of San Nicolas dance, sing and parade until the sun goes down. And on Sunday when the sun comes back up the festivities continue in Oranjestad, lasting until the evening and for some, even longer.

Believe it or not, Carnival does come to an end. It ends at the Oranjestad Harbor just before the start of Catholic Lent, with the old ritual of the Burning of King Momo, a human-sized decorated doll that represents our earthly desires.

Don’t let the Aruba Carnival whirlwind pass you by, check out the 2023 Aruba Carnival Schedule and let the Carnaval 69 festivities begin!