Aruba: My Happy Island With the Perfect Beaches
Sailing into Oranjestad with the colorful Dutch buildings and flamingos flying overhead feels like entering a postcard. My perfect day starts at Eagle Beach before 9 a.m. – those famous fofoti trees and powder-white sand are even better in person. I rent loungers at the public section (free entry, umbrella and chairs are great value) and float for hours.
Around noon I taxi to Palm Beach for the high-rise energy and lunch at Eduardo's Beach Shack – the truffle tuna poke bowl and acai bowls are insane. Afternoon is either baby beach snorkeling in the calm lagoon or a sunset catamaran with Aruba Bob's snorkel-and-drinks tour (open bar and best crew ever – totally worth it). Dinner is always at The West Deck on the Linear Park – grilled wahoo with Creole sauce and plantains while the sun melts into the sea.
Getting Around Aruba
Cruise terminal is a 5-minute walk to downtown Oranjestad. Taxis to Eagle and Palm Beach are reasonably priced. Public bus is a bargain. Many people rent jeeps for the day.
- Eagle Beach: Taxi or budget-friendly bus
- Baby Beach: 45-min drive, best with rental or tour
- Palm Beach: Quick taxi ride
Positively Worded Word of Warning
Aruba's famous trade winds are nature's air-conditioning – let them cool you down and keep the beaches mosquito-free while your hair does its best Beyoncé impression!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eagle Beach really that good?
A: Top-3 beach in the world for a reason – go early!
Q: Best keshi yena?
A: The Old Cunucu House – stuffed cheese heaven.
Q: Safe to walk at night?
A: One of the safest islands – yes!