Must See Places and Best Things to Do in Aruba

Known as "One Happy Island," Aruba is a sun-drenched jewel in the southern Caribbean that lives up to its name. With its constant trade winds providing a welcome breeze, stunning white-sand beaches, and a vibrant culture that blends Dutch, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, it's the perfect escape from the everyday. Whether you're chasing adventure in its rugged national parks or simply want to unwind with a cocktail by the turquoise sea, Aruba in 2026 offers an unforgettable island experience.

Palm Beach: Sun, Sand, and Sophistication

If your idea of paradise involves long stretches of powdery white sand, crystal-clear water, and every amenity at your fingertips, then Palm Beach is your destination. This lively area on the northwest coast is the heart of Aruba's tourism, home to glamorous resorts, chic beach clubs, and an endless array of water sports. It’s a place where you can be as active or as relaxed as you wish, with the gentle Caribbean Sea always just a few steps away.

Best foodie finds

Palm Beach is a food lover's dream, offering everything from barefoot-on-the-sand casual to upscale dining. Don't miss the chance to try fresh-caught red snapper or mahi-mahi at one of the beachfront restaurants. For a special night out, many of the resorts host world-class chefs serving international cuisine. For something more casual, grab a delicious fruit smoothie or an arepa from one of the many beachside shacks.

Getting around

The beauty of Palm Beach is its walkability. The main strip, J.E. Irausquin Boulevard, runs parallel to the beach and connects most hotels, restaurants, and shops. For trips further afield, the "Arubus" system is efficient and affordable, and taxis are always readily available.

Oranjestad: A Capital of Colour and Charm

Step into a real-life postcard in Aruba's capital, Oranjestad. The city is a dazzling spectacle of brightly coloured Dutch colonial architecture, with ornate facades painted in pastel shades of pink, blue, and yellow. It’s a fantastic place to spend a day wandering through the streets, discovering boutique shops, and soaking in the unique blend of European and Caribbean history.

Culture & landmarks

Hop on the free, open-air trolley that loops through the downtown area for a perfect overview of the city's highlights. Make sure to visit Fort Zoutman, Aruba's oldest building, which now houses the Historical Museum. The nearby Renaissance Marketplace offers open-air shopping and dining with lovely views of the marina.

What to eat

Oranjestad is the perfect place to sample authentic Aruban cuisine. Look for restaurants serving keshi yena, a flavour-packed dish of spiced meat stuffed into a hollowed-out ball of Edam cheese. For a classic breakfast or lunch, find a café offering Dutch-style pancakes (*pannekoek*), which come in both sweet and savoury varieties.

San Nicolas: Aruba's Artistic Soul

For a completely different vibe, head to the southern tip of the island to San Nicolas. Known as the "Sunrise City," this is Aruba's cultural and creative hub. Once a bustling oil refinery town, it has reinvented itself as a vibrant outdoor art gallery. The streets are alive with massive, colourful murals painted by local and international artists, making it a must-see for anyone interested in art and authentic local culture.

Street food + must-do experiences

The best way to experience San Nicolas is by simply walking around and discovering the art. Afterwards, dive into the local food scene. This is the best place to find a food truck or small eatery selling pastechi, a beloved Aruban snack of deep-fried pastry filled with cheese, meat, or fish. No trip to San Nicolas is complete without a stop at the legendary Charlie's Bar, a quirky institution that's been serving locals and travellers for decades.

Cultural Etiquette and Smart Travel Tips

Arubans are known for their warmth and hospitality. A simple "Bon bini" (Welcome), "Bon dia" (Good morning), or "Danki" (Thank you) will be greatly appreciated. The island runs on "island time," so embrace a more relaxed pace. Tipping is customary; 10-15% is standard for good service at restaurants if a service charge isn't already included.

What to Pack

Packing for Aruba is all about sun and sea. Bring lightweight clothing, plenty of swimwear, and a wide-brimmed hat. The sun is strong, so reef-safe sunscreen is a must to protect both your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem. A reusable water bottle will help you stay hydrated in the heat, and a light jacket or cardigan is perfect for cooler, breezy evenings.

Staying Connected

Navigating the colourful streets of San Nicolas or finding that hidden gem of a restaurant is so much easier with data on your phone. Instead of racking up expensive global roaming charges from back home, consider an E.Tel Travel eSIM. You can get it set up on your phone before you even leave Australia, giving you affordable, high-speed data the moment you land. It's the smartest way to use maps, book tours, and share those incredible beach photos without a second thought. Find out more at https://apply.etel.com.au/travelesim/aruba.

Final Thoughts

Aruba is far more than just its world-class beaches. It's an island of vibrant art, rich history, and genuinely happy people. From the polished glamour of Palm Beach to the colourful heart of Oranjestad and the creative spirit of San Nicolas, Aruba offers a diverse and delightful Caribbean adventure waiting to be discovered.