Aruba Vacation Guide: Flamingos, Sunset Seafood and Caribbean’s ‘One Happy Island’
From flamingo encounters to waterfront dining, this Caribbean gem delivers unforgettable moments
Welcome to the Caribbean’s “One Happy Island!” Located about 15 miles north of Venezuela, this 20-mile-long paradise boasts untouched beaches, colorful Dutch architecture, a quaint capital city and lively local energy.
Begin your visit with butterfly magic
Start your day interacting with nature at the Butterfly Farm, home to a lush garden, waterfalls and hundreds of exotic butterflies flying around you. As you explore with a guide, you’ll learn about the life cycle of these beautiful winged creatures. If you’re lucky, one may even land on you.
Savor fresh seafood with a waterfront sunset view
As dusk approaches, enjoy dinner with a waterfront view at Purebeach Restaurant & Bar, part of the Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort. Try their crispy mahi mahi tacos or corvina cerviche, then treat yourself to the beloved coco dushi (Aruban coconut ice cream) for dessert. Afterward, wander over to the nearby Eagle Beach to relax and enjoy the colorful sunset.
Marvel at the vibrant buildings in Oranjestad
These colorful structures, often two stories tall, are a result of Dutch architecture mixed with Caribbean flair. You’ll find most of them in the main plaza and on the famous shopping street Caya G.F. Betico Croes, which is home to shops and cafes.
See the flamingos on the 40-acre Renaissance Island
This picturesque island is part of the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort and is home to stunning private beaches. The good news for guests: Complimentary water taxis leave every 15 minutes so you can experience the island’s beauty for yourself in the blink of an eye!
Admire the waterside views as you relax on an adults-only beach
Several of the island’s resorts offer these experiences, which are meant to be peaceful, laid-back and romantic for couples.
Bonus: Imagine you’re in Aruba right at home!
Feel whisked away to Aruba with a drink inspired by Rum Reef Cocktail Bar and Grill and breathtaking videos of the island’s landscape.
Tropical delight!
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup ice
- 1/4 cup white cranberry juice drink
- 1/4 cup pineapple-coconut rum
- 2 Tbs. blue curaçao
- 1/4 cup seltzer
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, juice, rum and blue curaçao. Cover; shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into iced-filled glass. Top with seltzer. Garnish as desired. Serves 1.
Virtual tour
Appreciate the natural beauty of Aruba’s azure waters and white sandy beaches as you watch the 360° videos posted at Aruba.com/uk/virtual-360-tour.
This story first appeared in the February 23, 2026, print issue of Woman’s World magazine.
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