If you’re contemplating your next escape, here are five irresistible reasons why Aruba should be at the top of your travel list this winter. From sun-kissed beaches to exciting tours and activities, Aruba has a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. For us, trading those cold winter blues for Aruba’s mesmerizing blues is a no-brainer, however, for those who still need some convincing – let’s dive into the warmth and discover why Aruba is the ultimate winter getaway you’ve been dreaming of!

Being in Aruba during the holiday season is not too shabby. Imagine the warm sunshine, friendly people, tropical cocktails, and clear turquoise water, all while hanging on to the best parts of the holidays! Just as any month in Aruba, there are plenty of fun events and activities to partake in, but you’ll find December is extra special due to all of the jolly festive feels and decorations throughout the island.

Discover plenty of mouth-watering holiday dining specials and Christmas markets here. Planning on celebrating New Year’s Eve in Aruba and kicking off the new year in paradise? Stay tuned for New Year’s specials and parties here.

While this might seem like a quite obvious attraction to Aruba, do you know what makes our island’s beaches so special? They are all public (with the exception of Renaissance Island and De Palm Island) and are easily accessible with plenty to choose from!

Browse beaches in Aruba to start planning your sunny and happy beach days. From soft white sand beaches with palm trees swaying in the wind, to wild and unruly inlet beaches on the East Coast, we’ve got a unique mix of beaches for you to experience.

After the new year begins for many the holiday fun comes to an end. However, not in Aruba! The post-holiday season calls for more celebration and fun! In January, the island’s most colorful and treasured celebration, Carnival, takes center stage.

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season is not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January and February, the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. 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, and of course the most popular, parades.

This year our island is celebrating 70 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 2024 Carnival schedule here so you don’t miss out on any of the big parades and fun.

Not so large in size, Aruba is only about 21 miles long and 6 miles wide, making it easy to travel throughout the island and explore as much as possible.

Aruba’s terrain is very diverse and unique, there is so much natural beauty on the island to discover and immerse yourself in. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to visit Arikok National Park. Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way! You can do so by jeep or opt for a more active and environmentally-friendly 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.

Also, be sure to check out the following sights. Some of our favorite places include the Natural Pool (Conchi), Small Cave Pool, Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, Hooiberg, Alto Vista Chapel,  Spanish Lagoon, and the street art, museums and restaurants in San Nicolas.

The holiday season can be busy and take a toll on everyone. To boost your energy and well-being just in time for the new year, how about a spa day in paradise? It is a must for anyone looking for some rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Treat yourself to a day at the spa and take your vacation relaxation to the next level. 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.

Treat yourself to a massage at Okeanos Spa on Renaissance Private Island for some quality pampering and relaxation. Or, check out the extensive spa treatment menu for Hilton Aruba’s eforea Spa. Their menu includes specialty wellness treatments with a local touch. Boardwalk Boutique Hotel has an on-property spa where their local partner, Aruba Wellness Therapies offers various treatments and massages.

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.

If you’ve booked yourself a cruise to the Caribbean and have Aruba as one of your destinations, check out our guide to make the most out of your time on the island. Everything listed below is within walking distance of the cruise port terminal or only a short taxi ride away.

First things first… food of course! View our recommendations below.

The following restaurants are open for lunch and dinner:

The Renaissance Marketplace

An endless selection of restaurants, shops, and nightly live entertainment options, all offered in a festive and friendly atmosphere that we call ambient here in Aruba. The Marketplace is also home to the Wind Creek Seaport Casino, Arcade Aruba and 5 o’Clock Par & Chill, offering plenty of fun and games for both adults and kids!

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant

Great grub, famous cocktails, good music, and an authentic, fun dining experience alongside the Renaissance Marina – you can’t go wrong with Lucy’s. PS – don’t miss out on their famous Taco Tuesday!

5 o’Clock Somewhere

It’s always 5 o’Clock here (surprise). This rustic outdoor bar located at the center of the Renaissance Marketplace offers beats, bar bites, drinks, and live entertainment.

El Gaucho

El Gaucho 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!

Ricardo’s Smokehouse

Whether you’re craving delights from the sea or land, smoked or charcoal grilled, Ricardo’s, now located at the Renaissance Marketplace has it all!

Driftwood (dinner only, except for special holidays they are also open for lunch)

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.

Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant 

Just a short taxi ride away! Other than the warm welcome the first thing you cannot help but notice is the gorgeous view! Located right on the beach (Eagle Beach) Matthew’s has a picture-perfect backdrop for you to enjoy while sipping your frozen concoction. With delicious food, refreshing cocktails, friendly service, and specials, you can’t go wrong with Matthew’s!

Water’s Edge Restaurant & Bar

Also just a short taxi ride away, and located beachfront on the dreamy and famous Eagle Beach, Water’s Edge offers a romantic, yet casual toes-in-the-sand dining and ambiance. Their menu is quite extensive, also making it a great choice for families and groups. Psst – they have three daily happy hours!

Surfside Beach Bar 

The West Deck

De Suikertuin Bistro

Dushi Delicious Cafe

If you’re not leaving until later in the evening or staying the night in Aruba, in addition to the above, consider these restaurants for dinner only:

LG Smith’s Steak & Chop House 

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! 

Yemanja Woodfired Grill

Lima Bistro

Olivia Mediterranean Restaurant

Wilhelmina Restaurant

Flor de Oriente

Nusa Aruba

Que Pasa Restaurant & Winebar

Koal Aruba

Taste My Aruba

Browse more restaurant options in Aruba.

Druif Beach (by Divi)

Eagle Beach

Surfside Beach

Renaissance Private Island (Flamingo Beach)

While the island is private and reserved for Renaissance Resort guests, non-resort guests can inquire to purchase a day pass to spend the day enjoying the beaches and restaurant & bar on the island as well. Please note day pass availability is limited, often it is based on the current resort occupancy rate. Contact Renaissance Aruba directly for availability.

Beach Bar Aruba

Location: On Druif Beach, directly across from Divi Golf & Beach Resort

Surfside Beach Bar

Location: On Surfside Beach (across from Talk of the Town Hotel), near the airport landing strip and next to Barefoot Restaurant

Want to find a nearby watering hole but it doesn’t necessarily need to be located on the beach? Check out the following:

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant

5 o’Clock Somewhere

Hoya Lush Cafe

Paddock Eet Cafe

There are plenty more places on the island to grab a drink however the above mentioned bars are within nearby proximity to the cruise port terminal/downtown area.

Renaissance Mall

The Renaissance Mall is an iconic shopping mall in Aruba, where you can find all your favorite fashion brands and designers, as well as discover exciting new ones.

The Renaissance Marketplace

Situated along the cozy marina harbor and the elegant Wilhelmina Park, the Renaissance Marketplace offers culinary experiences and a wide variety of international cuisines, local stores with the most memorable souvenirs, and boutiques with the latest fashion trends. 

The Local Market (across from the cruise port terminal)

Local Shopping Stands (located just in front of the cruise port terminal as well as alongside the Renaissance Marina)

Main Street

Royal Plaza Mall

Catch a ride on the free trolley, find hole-in-the-wall restaurants and cafes, and learn about Aruban culture and history by visiting some museums. Museums to see include: Aruba’s Historical Museum (Fort Zoutman) and the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba.

Want to have a guide show you around the downtown area? Check out Aruba Walking Tours.

For those wanting to venture away from the downtown area browse Island Tours and Activities. Many operators offer cruise ship terminal pick-up and drop-off. Inquire with the company directly to ensure they have a tour time that works within your timeframe.

Casino lovers will be happy to know there are two casinos downtown, Wind Creek Crystal & Seaport Casinos.

You’ll find ATM’s spread throughout the area, some particular locations include:

Royal Plaza Mall (ATM is on the ground level)

Main Street (ATM’S are located at Aruba Bank and CMB)

There are pharmacies (boticas) located downtown:

Caya G.F. Betico Croes 103 – Located at the end of Mainstreet

Havenstraat 30 – Located behind Royal Plaza

Public restrooms:

Inside Renaissance Mall (ground level)

At The Renaissance Marketplace (on the Renaissance Ocean Suites side near the Police station)

View more things to do and see in Aruba.

After the new year begins and the holiday fun comes to an end, many people might consider this the perfect time to rest and recharge. However, in Aruba, the post-holiday season calls for more celebration and fun! In January, the island’s most colorful and treasured celebration, Carnival, takes center stage.

Carnival in Aruba is not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January and February, the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. Each year when Carnival ends people are already preparing for the next one.

Here’s everything you need to know about Aruba’s biggest celebration:

The island’s Carnival spirit is literally 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, or 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. Aruba’s Carnival schedule is jam-packed with weekly events, leaving little excuse to miss out. It continues with Jump-ins, King and Queen Elections, Calypso, contests, live music, celebrations for children, parties (pre and after) and of course the most popular, parades.

Some of the popular parades include:

Fakkel (Torch Parade)

Parada di Blaas (Children’s Balloon Parade)

Jouvert Morning (Pajama parade in San Nicolas in the wee hours of the morning)

Grand Lighting Parade (Takes place in Oranjestad at night, a parade filled with spectacular twinkling lights on costumes, floats and all around)

Parada di Luz San Nicolas (Another beautiful Lighting Parade, this time taking place in San Nicolas)

As you can see, 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.

Where to watch:

Arrive early to grab a spot behind the barriers alongside the parade route, or, if you really want to have the full carnival viewing experience (and better mingle with the locals),  join a “kavel”. For those familiar with “tailgating” at sporting events, this is rather similar.

A “kavel” is a designated spot reserved by large groups, usually under a tent with a built platform (not all are on a platform some are on the ground) including stadium-like seating or chairs. To join a “kavel” you must sign up and purchase a ticket ahead of time, admission tickets can include music, live DJ’s, food, drinks, portable bathrooms, and more. Some “kavels” provide food and open bars, while others provide coolers, refreshments and ice for you to bring your own goods and serve yourself. Who hosts “kavels”? “Kavels” are usually hosted by restaurants, bars, organizations, and families.

Tip – for those not joining a “kavel” or a reserved tent area, make your way to the area in front of Chaos bar, just past the Renaissance Marketplace and across from Wilhelmina Park, where there tends to be more open space, with less obstructing your view, again, do arrive early.

Parade routes:

It is important to note that parade routes can slightly alter each year or depending on the specific parade taking place. However, for most of the main parade events (particularly the Grand Parades) this is the general route to expect in San Nicolas and Oranjestad:

San Nicolas

Joe Laveist Sport Park – Pastoor Hendrickstraat – Torenstraat – Caya Dick Cooper – Caya Captain R. Rodger – Lagoweg – Bernardstraat – Dr. Scheapmasntraat – Pastoor Hendrickstraat – Joe Laveist Sport Park

Oranjestad

Aruba Entertainment Center – Avenida Milo Croes – Vondellaan – Rotonde Las Americas – LG Smith Boulevard – Rotonde Wendy’s Boulevard

Important Note – The routes above were valid for the Grand Carnival Parades 2023 (Carnival ’69), routes for the 2024 Carnival Parades (Carnival ’70) are still pending release.

Essential Carnival gear:

As a spectator, you will want to come to these parades prepared (trust us, it will make all the difference). Here are some essential items for our proposed “Aruba Carnival Starter Pack” so that you can enjoy your day to the fullest:

Drink tumbler – This is a must so that you can keep your beverage of choice cool all day long! Browse and order yourself a tumbler so that you don’t go thirsty.

Backpack cooler – To get to your viewing spot you’re likely to be doing some walking as many streets are closed off, rather than lug a heavy cooler around in the crowds come prepared with a backpack cooler so that you can easily bring along your beverages and snacks. Reminder: don’t forget to pack plenty of water to stay hydrated, Aruba’s sun is no joke! Browse and order a backpack cooler and leave no drinks and snacks behind!

Chair – If you aren’t one for standing up for hours on end and you are not joining a “kavel” with provided seating, we suggest you bring along a fold-up chair so that you can take a rest every now and again. Browse and order a fold-up chair so you can take it easy. PS – you can also use it for the beach.

Big hat – You may not be lucky enough to stand under a tent or shaded area, this is where a big straw hat, bucket hat or baseball cap will come in great handy.

Sunglasses – Don’t forget a pair of shades, the sun is bright out there and it will be a long day!

Reef-friendly sunblock – As mentioned before, the sun is strong, and while you may not always feel it due to the constant breeze, you’ll want to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Browse and order your sunblock to protect your skin.

Earplugs – There is one thing about Carnival that will not go unnoticed, it is extremely loud. The plethora of bands and marching bands passing by from the very beginning of the parade to the very end create quite some noise and it is impossible to get away from. If you have sensitive hearing or would like to protect your eardrums, definitely bring a pair of earplugs!

Eco-friendly body glitter or body paint – Body glitter and/or body paint of course is not exactly a necessity but it does add some extra fun pizazz, and allow you to be a part of the colorful and sparkling Carnival scene! Browse and order bio-degradable glitter.

Join a local Carnival Group:

Interested in experiencing Carnival on the other side of the road barriers? If you have it on your bucket list to participate in the Carnival madness and join in on the actual parades check out a selection of Aruba’s local Carnival Groups below and contact your group of choice directly to inquire if there is availability and for ways to purchase a ticket.

Every year there is a range of parades to join, from the casual Fakkel parade (where you only need to purchase a ticket for a small fee and receive the group t-shirt to join) or, officially join a Carnival group and purchase a ticket for a larger fee to be a part of the entire experience (participation of all the main parades, a full costume, open bar, etc.).

For more information or questions on Aruba Carnival, please visit the Facebook page of the official Aruba Carnival organization committee

Don’t let the Aruba Carnival whirlwind pass you by! View the Carnival ’70 schedule here to join in on Aruba’s favorite time of year.

*Please note the Carnival schedule, times and locations are subject to change.

Aruba has much to offer when it comes to things to do and discover. We’ve put together a list of some of the most unique and best experiences that we wouldn’t want you to miss during your stay in Aruba, in other words, you must add these to your “Aruba Bucket List”!

For all the underwater enthusiasts out there, scuba diving in Aruba is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you simply cannot miss out on. The island is known for its numerous wreck dive sites that are easily accessible by boat (some even rather close to shore), perfect for exploring the vibrant array of coral and marine life, including sting rays, moray eels, barracuda, lobsters, and other exotic sea life. If you’re lucky enough (or know where to go) you can even witness sleeping nurse sharks and dive along the beautiful and gentle sea turtles.

To discover Aruba’s best dive sites and get more details on each site, browse our dive sites section. Here you will be able to view useful information and highlights on each dive site to better prepare for your dive experience, such as the recommended diver skill level required, depth range of the site, nearby location, marine life, and more. In addition, you can view a map of scuba diving locations. Want to sign up for a diving course or join a dive tour? Contact Red Sail Aruba.

If you aren’t qualified to go diving, or, if it seems a bit too extreme for you, opt for snorkeling instead. There are plenty of amazing beaches to head to for a fun and relaxing day of snorkeling. Don’t want to head out on your own? You can also book a sail and snorkel cruise or an island tour with a snorkel stop.

This very well may be one of the coolest hidden sights on the island. Without asking a local to show you where it lies, it’s practically impossible to find! And sorry, we are not going to fully give away its location, because that would leave less of a fun adventure for you when the time comes to find it on your own. To point you in the right direction, it’s located just past Baby Beach (across the road) in the middle of a bunch of cacti, rocks and rubble (what? That wasn’t helpful enough?) One more hint: it is known as the Mangel Cora Well Tunnel. When in doubt just stop to ask a local!

Aruba’s natural beauty is unmatched and one of the best places to experience it is in Arikok National Park. Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way. Choose from one of the many trails and immerse yourself in Aruba’s beautiful nature. 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.

Some places in the park that can’t be missed include Natural Pool (Conchi), Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, Guadirikiri Cave, Boca Keto, Dos Playa, and Boca Prins. There’s plenty more to discover, view more sights and attractions in Aruba here.

View the island from a different perspective and discover the extraordinary underwater life of Aruba. Grab your snorkel gear, pack a cooler and visit one of the beaches perfect for spotting sea turtles, such as Malmok, Tres Trapi or Boca Catalina. Remember to always admire their beauty from a distance and to never touch any marine life. If you prefer a guide, you can join one of the many snorkeling tours or catamaran cruises offered on the island.

Hit the nearest grocery store, stock up on your favorite food and drinks, pack your cooler, and head to the beach! Not just any beach, Eagle Beach, one of the most sought-after beaches in the world and No. 1 in the Caribbean (a bit of a humble brag). Don’t forget to pack a big blanket or towel, a fun game, plenty of water, your favorite snacks, a beach-proof speaker for some tunes, and some reef-safe sunscreen. There’s no better place to watch Aruba’s breathtaking sunset, be sure to stay for the after-sunset glow and into the night for some peaceful and romantic star gazing.

Too lazy to shop and eager to get to the beach? There are now local picnic companies you can order from that will deliver baskets with goodies to your desired location. If picnics aren’t exactly your thing and you prefer dining at a restaurant, consider one of these beachfront restaurants.

Head to the Fontein Cave which is located in the National Park near Boca Prins. The cave is absolutely worth venturing in, as it is the only cave that has drawings of Arawak Indians on the ceilings, providing a real sense of island history to this cave. The brownish-red paintings were left by Caquetios and graffiti was imprinted by European settlers.

After visiting the cave make your way further down the dirt path and you will find the only natural freshwater pond on the island, if you dare, take your shoes off, stick your feet in, and get yourself a little fish pedicure!

The Natural Pool (also known as Conchi) is protected from the rough sea by surrounding rocks and is located in the National Park. This unique formation of rocks creates a peaceful place and is also known as Aruba’s hidden pool. For thrill-seekers, this place is excellent for taking a dip to cool off and a perfect place to capture natural beauty with your camera. It is not recommended to swim in the pool when the waves are too high as it can be dangerous, please follow the advisories on display by the national park rangers. To get to the natural pool a jeep is needed, or if you are up for a long, intense hike, walking is an alternative – prepare for rough grounds ahead!

In addition to Conchi (The Natural Pool), we also have another natural pool on our list for you to check off.  We like to consider this natural pool as the “baby natural pool”, officially known as the Small Cave Pool. It may be smaller in size, but finding and exploring this natural sight is filled with plenty of thrill and adventure. Best of all, you can reach this destination by car, just make your way to the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins and head straight to the coast’s edge. PS – Take caution, as you will need to climb down a steep ladder in order to reach the pool, this activity is not recommended for everyone, proper shoes, and a guide are recommended.

Take advantage of Aruba’s perfect water and wind conditions.  Windsurfing or kite surfing with Aruba Active Vacations is an experience you do not want to miss out on!  It’s wild and 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 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.

One of Aruba’s natural beauty standouts is without a doubt, the mangroves near the Spanish Lagoon, also known as the Spaans Lagoen. The lagoon starts on the coast near Mangel Halto and ends close to the Balashi Gold Ruins further inland.

Mangel Halto and the Spanish Lagoon area is a lush and diverse area of land and water allowing for plenty of fun activities, and most of all, escaping the crowds and enjoying some peace and quiet. You can go snorkeling at the reef nearby, or choose to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the waterways of the mangroves. You will find it is the perfect place to get lost in nature and see a completely different side of Aruba.

Come witness for yourself why San Nicolas has quickly transformed into the street art capital of the Caribbean. Thanks to the vision of Tito Bolivar, the founder of ArtisA, and the many local and international artists, art influencers, and cultural activists, Aruba is now more colorful and vibrant than ever… making for the perfect destination for those seeking artistic beauty!

New murals are added every year so make your way to Sunrise City and don’t forget your camera to snap some shots. On the way back to your resort or vacation rental stop by a restaurant for local food and vibes, we suggest checking out O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen, Neighba, Zeerovers, Marina Pirata, or Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant.

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, adorable little shocos (our island’s national symbol, Aruba’s burrowing owl, learn more here), 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, the Shoco.

Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season is simply our favorite time of year. It’s 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. 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, and of course the most popular, parades.

This year our island is celebrating 70 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 2024 Carnival schedule here so you don’t miss out on any of the big parades and fun.

No Aruba adventure would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Discover the flavors of Aruban cuisine, where the Dutch, South American, European, Indonesian, and other Caribbean islands’ influences blend together. Sample local dishes such as Keshi Yena, Cabrito Stoba, Keri Keri, Pan Bati, and Funchi, a cornmeal-based side dish (foodie tip: ask for a side of Funchi Fries with melted cheese on top). Also, don’t forget to ask for the fresh catch of the day, we recommend trying Red Snapper, Wahoo or Mahi Mahi. Visit local eateries and snack huts to savor traditional snacks like Pastechi, a delicious fried breakfast pastry filled with various savory fillings. Our foodie tip to you, don’t leave the island without trying a Pastechi. You’ll find locals lined up at neighborhood snack places for a quick breakfast bite on the go (and for good reason).

Many of these snack spots also serve plenty of other fried delights that are most definitely worth trying, such as empanadas, johnny cakes, arepas, salchipapa, krokets, and more. If you’re more into the sweet stuff, another must-try food experience on the island, thanks to the Dutch influence, is Dutch pancakes and poffertjes. As you can see Aruba is a melting pot not only when it comes to locals but also in the culinary world!

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 snack huts, 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, here are a selection of places we recommend trying so that you can experience a sample of our local Aruba eats:

Driftwood, Marina Pirata, O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen, Chupa Dede Snacks, Lings Restaurant, Fish House Island Bar & Restaurant, Nos Local Snack Truck, Candela Food Truck, Happy Day Snack, Coco Plum, Don Pastechi Factory, Flor de Oriente, Kulture Cafe, Kamini’s Kitchen, Grote Berg Snack, The Dutch Pancake House, and Neighba.

 Discover more things to do and see in Aruba.

The spookiest time of year is here. Yes, Hallow’s Eve is just around the corner! Are you ready for spine-chilling nights, screaming horror, quirky Halloween parties, fun costume contests, and of course Trick-or-Treating?

Okay, so you may not feel an actual “chill in the air” here on the lovely, sunny, and warm island of Aruba but that does not mean the month of October cannot get spooky.

This year’s Halloween festivities in Aruba officially kick off Friday, October 27th, and last through the 31st, so be sure to check out our list of things to do, so you won’t miss out on the eerie magic and mystery of Halloween in paradise! Aruba is prepared to host both family-friendly events and adult monster bashes, so everyone has the chance to enjoy this haunting and thrilling holiday on the island.

Ghosts gather here: The Movies Aruba at Renaissance Marketplace or The Movies at Gloria

Enter at your own risk: How about a mind-bending, heart-pounding thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Head to the movies and experience the terror like never before, on the big screen, with your favorite snacks, and VIP service.

Choose from terrifying flicks such as Saw 5, The Exorcist: Believer and The Nun II. Watch it at the Movies Aruba, located downtown at Renaissance Marketplace, or, at The Movies at Gloria, near Eagle Beach (low-rise resort area).

Get more frightening details

The Renaissance Marketplace will be hosting a family-friendly trick-or-treat event, ‘Haunted Mysteries in the Black Forest’ on October 29th from 5-8 PM.

Including plenty of entertainment and a spine-tingling good time with trick-or-treating, kids games, kerekentenchi, dino jump, best costume prizes, and scrumptious popcorn and cotton candy. Don’t miss the Halloween excitement!

Date & time of frightening fun: Friday 27th & Saturday 28th, 2023, happy hour starts at 6 PM.

Ghosts gather here: Gusto Nightclub at The Village (across from Hilton Aruba)

Enter at your own risk: Ladies and gents get your costumes ready! Prepare yourself for two days of horror skeleton party at Gusto, with special guest DJ’s, happy hour, skeleton decorations, and much more. Friday, October 27th and Saturday, October 28th we celebrate Halloween. Don’t forget to reserve your VIP table.

Date & time of frightening fun: Saturday 28th, 2023

Ghosts gather here: Azia Restaurant & Lounge

Enter at your own risk: Join Azia’s raved about Halloween magic, for a night filled with live music with the best DJ’s, mesmerizing dancers, costume contests, a free welcome drink, a souvenir cup, and more. Tickets can be purchased at the Gianni’s Group Office and at Azia. There will be cash prizes for the best costumes of the evening, get ready for some grown up ghoulish fun!

Date & time of frightening fun: Friday 27th, 2023, 9 PM – 2 AM

Ghosts gather here: MooMba Beach Bar

Enter at your own risk: MooMba Beach, famed for its pristine coastline and electric nightlife, is set to redefine Halloween this year. Dive into “HexXxed”, a unique beach party that promises a fresh twist on traditional Halloween festivities. Enjoy beats by DJ Diablo and exclusive deals, buy a bucket and snag an extra bottle, on the house. There will be plenty of Halloween decor, experience the beach adorned with thematic decorations – not quite a haunted house but exuding undeniable Halloween charm beachfront! Don’t forget to dress up for your chance to win best costume.

Date & time of frightening fun: Saturday 28th, 2023. Dining specials will be offered all weekend long until November 2nd.

Ghosts gather here: Craft and Fat Tuesday located at The Village (across from Hilton Aruba)

Enter at your own risk: Join us for a spooktacular Halloween bash on October 28th! The evening will be filled with fun (and creepy) costumes, mouth-watering treats, and eerie beats await! Don’t miss out on the gruesome fun!

Now the choice is up to you, which Halloween festivities will you be partaking in on our One Haunted Island? 

*This article was last updated in October 2023