With miles-long white sand beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and the natural wonders of Arikok National Park, Aruba is an idyllic destination for a tropical vacation. When it comes to finding the best hotels in Aruba, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you’re seeking luxurious beachfront resorts with breathtaking ocean views or charming boutique hotels nestled in the heart of Oranjestad, this Caribbean gem has accommodations to suit every preference. Explore Aruba’s wind-sculpted desert landscapes, indulge in thrilling wreck diving spots, and bask in the year-round sunshine. From the vibrant capital, Oranjestad, with its array of attractions, to the hidden gems scattered throughout the island, Aruba offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Although a large number of tourists flock to this island, it is more adored by the honeymooners and the couples planning to have their destination wedding in one of Aruba’s beaches. While the gentle waters of the northern coast lures swimmers, and the rough east coast offers dramatic vistas and caters to the surfers. This rugged island has adventure in abundance. Moreover, if you are booking flights to Aruba between January and February, you can catch carnivals full of music, dance, food, parades, and contests.
Here are some of the best hotels in Aruba:
- Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino is a luxurious resort with a casino, multiple pools, and a private beach. (Image)
- La Cabana Aruba is a family-friendly resort with a water park, multiple pools, and a beach bar. (Image)
- Playa Linda Aruba is a romantic resort with a secluded beach, a pool, and a spa. (Image)
- Ritz-Carlton Aruba is a luxury resort with a golf course, multiple pools, and a private beach. (Image)
The weather in Aruba is tropical semi-arid and remains hot all year round. The average temperature ranges from 24°C to 33°C. The hottest month of the year is September, when the temperature is 33℃ maximum and an average low of 28℃. You might want to avoid September and instead plan your vacation between December and March. Book a flight to Oranjestad in advance to get a good deal. Since it is the peak tourist season, the price of hotels and resorts get expensive.
When To Visit Aruba
The climate of Aruba is tropical semi-arid, ensuring hot and sunny weather throughout the year. However, it’s important to note that the island can be hot, oppressive, extremely windy, and occasionally overcast. If you’re looking to visit Aruba, it’s worth considering the weather patterns. September tends to be the hottest month, with maximum temperatures reaching around 33°C and an average low of 28°C. For a more comfortable experience, you may want to avoid visiting in September and instead plan your vacation between December and March when temperatures are more moderate. Additionally, it’s advisable to book your flight to Oranjestad well in advance to secure a good deal, especially since it’s the peak tourist season. Keep in mind that during this time, the prices of hotels and resorts may be higher, so exploring options and finding the best hotels in Aruba that fit your budget is recommended
Places To Explore in Aruba
There are many beautiful beaches scattered around the island. Tourists bask in the sun, swim in the waters, and surf in the waves in Aruba. Apart from the outdoor adventure, Aruba has several other attractions, including national parks, historic sites, wildlife, and abundant natural beauty. If you are wondering what to expect from this tiny slice of paradise, here is our guide to vacation in Aruba. Check them out!
Aruba Beaches
Tourists flock to the island to lay on a beach chair, soak in the sun, sipping coconut water, and marvel at the white sands and turquoise waters. Whether you want to visit the world-famous Palm Beach or the ever-crowded Eagle Beach, you are in for a visual treat. Each beach in Aruba offers a long stretch of uninterrupted white sands and clear jade waters. Tourists looking for a more peaceful and secluded beach, should visit Manchebo. Due to its converging currents, it offers a combination of both calm and challenging waves.
Surfers in the island prefer the beaches of the east coast, where the weather in aruba is perfect for surfing. The currents are tougher and waves rise high, making these beaches ideal for experienced surfers. Among them, Bachelor’s Beach, Dos Playa, Boca Grandi, Black Stone Beach, Boca Prins, and Boca Andicuri have strong currents and larger waves. Due to its stronger currents and high swells, swimming is strictly prohibited here. Only windsurfers and kite surfers prefer to visit these beaches to unleash their inner adventure spirit.
Arikok National Park
Arikok National Park covers 20 percent of the island. It houses caves, dunes, unique rock formations, and towering cacti-covered arid terrain. Walk on the trails to see large boulders with Indian paintings, known as Ayo, and the Casibari boulders. Another highlight of the park is the ruins of a natural bridge at Anicouri, which was formed due to wave erosion. However, it collapsed in 2005. You can find a similar bridge nearby.
Head to the waterfront to visit the remains of a 19th century gold smelter Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins. The park is also home to several native wildlife, including lizards, snakes, parakeets, goats, iguanas, etc. Visitors to the park also swim in the natural pool here and visit the California lighthouse.
California Lighthouse
You may have seen California Lighthouse in many Aruban tourist brochures and postcards. The lighthouse was named after the S.S. California, which sank near the coast. The lighthouse is surrounded by rugged beauty. The area has several sand dunes, known as California dunes and cacti. Although visitors are not allowed inside the lighthouse, you can still admire the surrounding vistas. This tallest structure in Aruba is located at Hudishibana near Arashi Beach and is one of the top tourist attractions.
There is a restaurant called La Trattoria el Faro Blanco and Tierra de sol Resort, Spa & Country Club. The surface by the shore has sharp rocks sticking out of the ground, making it tough to walk on it. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear while visiting the lighthouse. Exploring this historic landmark is one of the best things to do in Aruba.
Eagle Beach
Not only does Eagle Beach in Oranjestad boast the white sands and jade-hued waters of the Caribbean, but it is also home to the renowned Fofoti tree, famous for its unique shape sculpted by the constant trade winds. This picturesque beach is a must-visit, where tourists capture selfies with the stunning Caribbean backdrop. Widely regarded as the widest beach in Aruba, Eagle Beach offers an expansive stretch of beauty.
In addition to its breathtaking scenery and iconic Fofoti trees rooted in the sands, Eagle Beach is also a haven for sea turtles during their nesting season. Certain sections of the beach are protected by barriers to ensure the safety of the sea turtles and their nests. It’s worth noting that sea turtles are an endangered species and are strictly protected by law. For an unforgettable stay near this natural paradise, consider the Eagle Aruba Resort & Casino, located in close proximity to Eagle Beach, offering a comfortable and convenient base to explore the wonders of Aruba.
Aruba Aloe Factory & Museum Tour
One of the top things to do in Aruba is to take a trip to the Aloe Factory and Museum. It provides insight into the aloe production process of the island nation along with its 160-year old history of aloe vera cultivation. The factory provides complimentary tours to visitors in different languages, including English, Spanish, Dutch, and Papiamento (native language of Aruba).
In the 20th century, Aruba became the most important producer and exporter of aloe vera in the world. This 150-acre plantation in Hato is the oldest aloe company in the world. The museum also organizes various interactive exhibitions and video tours that share the story of aloe in Aruba. Visitors can also stock up aloe skin care and sun cream products from the gift shop.
Also Read: 10 Most Enchanting Fairytale Places In Scotland
Bottom Line
Aruba is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, stunning natural landscapes, captivating wildlife, and rich history, making it a top destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience. When it comes to finding the best hotels in Aruba, you won’t be disappointed. With so many options to choose from, you can ensure that your stay on this enchanting island is nothing short of exceptional. Whether you’re looking for luxurious beachfront resorts or cozy boutique hotels, Aruba has it all. So, while planning your Aruba trip, make sure to consider the best hotels in Aruba to enhance your overall vacation extravaganza.
