Guide to Aruba
The past year and a half has reminded me of the importance of travel. In May, I took my first international trip since the beginning of the pandemic. Although I had been to Aruba once before when I was a child, I didn’t know what to expect. Every trip always hold is own experiences. Below, I’ll outline where to stay, swim and eat.
Logistics
Aruba a constituent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands with its own governing party and governor. Although things are starting to open back up and return to normal, traveling during a pandemic does require some planning.
Currency and Converter
There is no need to exchange money since Aruba readily accepts USD. They also use the same outlet as we do so no need to pack a converter.
Weather
Aruba is a beautiful, sunny and windy Caribbean island. Be prepared for wind. The best time to visit Aruba is from April-August. Rainy season is from late October to the beginning of January.
*Update: I returned to Aruba in December 2021 and it was beautiful but unseasonably rainy. In addition, since it is high season, it is quite crowded and expensive. I would recommend returning in low season for better weather.
Flight
We flew to Aruba from Atlanta with a relatively short flight time of 4 hours. Flights were under $400. Masks were required in the airport and on the plane. Delta had initially blocked off middle seats but lifted restrictions in early May. Every single seat in the plane was taken and it was a fully booked flight. Since we flew Basic, it definitely felt unexpected and a bit crowded.
COVID-19 Testing
Upon arrival to Aruba and return to the United States, a COVID-19 test is required. As of June 2021, a PCR test is required within 72 hours of arrival into Aruba and an antigen test is required within 72 hours of arrival into the United States.
We used SameDay Testing in Atlanta for the test required on the way there. Our experience was mixed. Customer service was responsive and polite but although we paid an extra $75 for a same day PCR test expected within 12 hours. However, we didn’t receive it until the next day. Keep this in mind when getting tested. Since the booking and testing process were easy and location is convenient, I’ll probably give them another chance.
Testing on the way back was convenient because there was a testing site located at La Cabana, a condo a 5 minute walk away from our condo. We reserved online here and paid $50 in person for an antigen test. Keep in mind that a PCR test is not required for re-entry into the US. A PCR test is $115 and an antigen test is $50. We got results a few hours later via email and the process was seamless.
Language
The primary languages of Aruba are Dutch and Papiamento, but most people are also fluent in English, French and Spanish. Asking for directions, checking out at the grocery store, or chatting up a local is comfortable.
Entry Requirements
Requirements
Valid Passport
Negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of arrival. You should have the email available or a printed copy to show in order to board and once you arrive.
Online Embarkation/Disembarkation Form which includes basic traveler information and your personal health assessment — your negative test needs to be uploaded here. If it doesn’t process (which happened to us), you’ll need to have a copy of the test to show officials or get tested at the airport.
Travel Insurance purchased here within the E/D Form.
*As of June 2021 (Check the Aruba website for current requirements and updates here)
Currently Aruba is open to citizen of the United States and other countries. Check this list to see if Aruba is open to your country.
Where to Stay
We stayed in an intimate 2 level condo located at Eagle Beach. The condo was simple, yet well maintained and recently built in 2020. There are larger condominium complexes nearby, but it wasn’t the energy we were looking for. We booked through Airbnb and since we stayed longer than a week, we were able to receive a 5% discount on our total booking.
Location was a big factor. The condo was only 15 minutes away by car from the airport and only 5 minutes away on foot from Eagle Beach and Super Food, the largest grocery store on the island. If you stay in Eagle Beach, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance between 5-30 minutes depending on how far you like to walk. We didn’t rent a car and felt just fine.
Aruba Beaches
Eagle Beach
Eagle Beach was a 5 minute walk from our condo and the beach we primarily spent our time at. This beach is well developed with facilities, restaurants and restrooms. Come here for aqua blue water and soft powder sand.
There are complimentary beach huts on the beach that provide the perfect amount of shade. If you wish to rent sun beds, the cost is extra. We brought our own chairs and went undisturbed. One of my favorite parts about this beach besides its crystal clear water and powdery sand is that there are segments that are undisturbed and peaceful. At some beaches I’ve been to in the past, there are peddlers, advertisers, and more which ruins the tranquil beach atmosphere. Besides a stand every few meters for snorkeling, tubing and jet skis, you’re able to relax in peace.
The famous Divi Divi trees are also located on Eagle Beach. The trees point in a southwestern direction due to the winds. I’ve also seen the trees referred to as Fofoti trees. Websites, Google, and locals all say something different so it’s up to you. The trees are beautiful and worth the visit.
Baby Beach
This beach is one of my favorite beaches. It’s a 30 minute cab ride (about $50 one way) away from Eagle Beach so a bit far, but worth the drive. This is a great option for an afternoon day trip. You can stop at Zeerover’s for lunch and then cab the rest of the way, or eat at the beach at Big Mama Grill. I talk about both below in the food section. We came for lunch at Big Mama Grill and stayed for the rest of the day. The beach features an enclosed bay with powdery white sand shallow waist height crystal clear water that was perfect for snorkeling. The beach section that’s closest to Big Mama Grill has the calmest water. The further you move towards Rum Reef, the more waves there are. There are complimentary beach huts but less here than there are at Eagle Beach so come early to get one. Otherwise, chairs are $60 to rent. Along part of the shoreline, there’s an abandoned oil refinery in view which adds to its mystique.
Tres Trapi
Come here to swim with sea turtles! Tre Trapi means three steps in Papiamento language. This is a simple beach that’s justt off of the road with a dirt parking lot. Take the tree carved stone steps down into the deep crystal clear water and look for the sea turtles. Perfect for snorkeling and swimming.
Palm Beach
A few years ago, I stayed here with my family. Palm Beach is more touristy with high rises, strip malls and casinos. Palm beach is just up the coast from Eagle Beach so if you can, I’d recommend staying in Eagle Beach instead. If you prefer a bit more noise, Palm Beach is a great option.
Arashi Beach
We didn’t get a chance to visit Arashi Beach, but a few locals highly recommended it to us. It’s said to have beautiful white sand beaches and calm crystal clear water perfect for snorkeling. I will definitely visit Arashi Beach when I return.
Flamingo Beach
Honorable mention for Flamingo Beach. Flaming beach is located on a small private island courtesy of Renaissance Hotel in Aruba. There are two options to experience Flaming Beach: purchase a day pass or be a guest at the hotel. The day pass is $125/day and includes your boat transfer, lunch and a drink. The hotel costs between $250-$500 per night. We chose to forgo this experience since it is a bit expensive but may consider it on our next trip. Consider Flaming Beach if you’re interested in some beautiful Instagram pictures.
Attractions
Aruban Donkey Sanctuary
This sanctuary helps wild animals who are injured or abused and creates a safe haven for them to live. Located in Santa Cruz and open from 9am-4pm. You can also donate on their website to support the donkeys. We didn’t get a chance to go but we did see donkeys grazing on the way to a natural pool. More information here.
Casibari Rock Formations
An archeological site with cool rock formations. You can climb Casibari and see Hoiberg in the distance.
Mt. Hooiberg
Hooiberg means “haystack” in Dutch. This site is the second highest peak in Aruba (after Mt. Jamanota). We climbed 562 steps to the top to a cactus wonderland with views of Oranjestad. It was a great workout and well worth the climb. The climb was quite hot so I’d recommend sunscreen, water, and a protective sunhat since a strong breeze could take your hat away.
Arikok National Park
The National Park covers about 20% of the island. We didn’t get a chance to explore the National Park but I’d recommend renting a 4x4 or taking a tour into the park. There are natural pools and plenty of hiking trails throughout. The park is open from 8am to 4pm and tickets cost $11 which contribute to the conservation and preservation (see ticket pricing here). More information about the park can be read here.
Food
Super Food Plaza
Super Food was a 5 minute walk away from our Airbnb and is the best grocery store on the island. The grocery store is large and extremely well stocked with fresh food, prepared food, snacks and household items. We preferred to cook so came here regularly to stock up on groceries for lunch and dinner. Try the stroopwafels and pastechi.
Daily Fish
Our favorite place to grab a quick lunch. They have fresh raw fillet and whole fish that you can choose to have fried or grilled. Each fish also comes with your choice of sauce. They have small salads and other small dishes that you can take to go for your meal or to save later. We loved the moscardini or fried baby octopus. If you love seafood, come here.
Big Mama Grill
Beach food can disappoint — it can be overpriced, slow and greasy. Big Mama Grill, did not disappoint. We got the grilled red snapper with plantains and plain johnny cakes to share. Johnny cakes are typically eaten with meat but we got ours plain, much to the confusion of our waiter. We loved the johnny cakes! It is important to note that the restaurant is loud and chaotic so you may be ignored for a little bit. Lastly, don’t lose your bathroom ticket!
Restaurant options are limited at Baby Beach. The other restaurant we considered was Rum Reef since they have a slightly higher rating on Google, but our taxi driver insisted and dropped us off at Big Mama Grill instead.
Poke-Ono
Poke-Ono is a Japanese/Hawaiian inspired restaurant. They serve poke bowls, sushi, bao and more. This spot was a 15 minute walk away from Eagle Beach and was a nice walk along the ocean. We came here for lunch when we wanted a break from cooking. This spot was slightly difficult to find because they didn’t have a website and the address was wrong on Google. For reference, here’s the address J.E Irausquin Blvd 260 Oranjestad, Aruba and their website is now live. The restaurant is located in the lobby of Blue Aruba Rentals. We ordered the “Herbivore” Bao and Miso Salmon Poke. Here is the menu. Each day of the week has its own promotion so check beforehand. I love poke and Japanese food so I would definitely return here.
Santos
We loved slow mornings in Aruba, eating a leisurely breakfast and then going for a morning swim. Breakfasts usually consisted of an acai smoothie with Sambazon packets from Super Food and granola. On mornings where we craved a breakfast out, we would walk 25 minutes to Santos. Santos is a beautiful coffee shop with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a nice place to sit and relax in the early morning. In the later morning, it get can get crowded. They also serve lunch, snacks and milkshakes (which I didn’t get a chance to try).
Passions on the Beach
It’s hard to miss Passions on the Beach. Passions is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everyday around 5pm, waitstaff meticulously set up the beach for dinner. Food is slightly pricey but good. I like how they have half portions or full portions. The half portions are worth the price and a decent sized portion. For the best sunset dinner view, come here. I’d recommend making a reservation so you can get a front row table. Take off your shoes, watch the sunset and relax. Despite the name, it’s a great spot for friends, family and couples. We also came here a few times in the morning for a casual pre-swim coffee.
Zeerover’s
I mentioned Zeerover’s above under the Baby Beach section. We didn’t get a chance to come here, but it came recommended as a great place to get fresh seafood on the beach. It was a bit far from us, but we may venture over next time. It’s located in Savaneta, Aruba’s first capital in a fisherman’s wharf.
*December 2021 Update: We got a chance to try it on our trip back and it did not disappoint! The line is quite long in high season but it is worth the wait. The menu is simple, consisting of a daily fish and shrimp and a choice of sides including fries, cornbread, plantains or onions. Wait in line and once you get to the front, they’ll tell you the catch of the day. Order by kilo, pay, and then take a seat by the water. They bring your food out to you in a giant basket and you get to eat with the sea breeze. Great food and a place to relax before heading to Baby Beach to swim!
Eduoardo’s Beach Shack
Located closer to Palm Beach, this is the place to get healthy light bites such as juices, acai bowls and smoothies then hit the beach.
Fine Dining
As a small island, Aruba has some amazing fine dining. Infini and Senses Fine Dining are great gastronomic experiences to consider for a special occasion or date night.
Conclusion
I enjoyed my trip to Aruba and will definitely be back. Aruba is the ideal beach getaway for swimming and relaxing. I hope this guide was informative and you enjoy your next trip to Aruba!