Welcome to the sun-kissed shores of Aruba, some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen! Here I will share with you our 5 day Aruba Itinerary and a few add-ins I wish we did now that I went and experienced this beautiful island. From beachfront bliss to cultural escapades, Aruba beckons with open arms, promising an unforgettable escape from the ordinary. So pack your sunscreen and sense of wanderlust, as we dive into my handcrafted Aruba itinerary, curated just for you! 
Where to Stay in Aruba
Aruba is known for it’s resorts. Aruba has grown immensely in popularity and now houses an abundance of high rise hotels. Although, a beautiful resort where you don’t have to think and worry about a thing is such a nice experience, we decided to venture out to enjoy the island from more of a local point of view.
We decided to use Aruba Happy Rentals and rent our own little bungalow so we could have more of a private and tranquil experience on this very busy island. The resorts can also be pricy and this bungalow only cost under $150 a night. So if you’re looking to escape the crowds or travel on a budget, check out Meraki Casita or one of the other 45 rentals that Aruba Happy Rentals has to offer on the island of Aruba.
Best Rated Hotels in Aruba
If you are looking for a hotel with beach access, here are some of the best rated hotels for your Aruba Itinerary (click on the link to explore the hotel ratings and pictures).
Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort – Located on Eagle Beach, this adults-only resort offers luxurious accommodations, pristine beaches, and exceptional service.
Ritz-Carlton, Aruba – Situated on Palm Beach, this elegant resort boasts spacious rooms, world-class amenities, and breathtaking ocean views.
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino – A popular choice on Palm Beach, this resort features a sprawling pool area, a lively casino, and multiple dining options. (we spent time here and it was beautiful.)
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino – Another Palm Beach favorite, this resort offers upscale rooms, a beautiful beachfront setting, and a wide range of activities for guests of all ages.
Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino – With its prime location on Palm Beach, this resort offers stylish rooms, a vibrant casino, and a variety of dining options.
What to Know about Traveling to Aruba
Aruba is often referred to as “One Happy Island” and for good reason. Aruba is part of the Lesser Antilles in the southern Caribbean Sea, just north of the coast of Venezuela. It is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Aruba boasts a rich cultural heritage influenced by its indigenous Arawak roots, Spanish and Dutch colonial history, and diverse immigrant populations. You’ll find a blend of languages, including Papiamento, Dutch, Spanish, and English, spoken throughout the island.
The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Aruba also offers a range of activities to put on your Aruba itinerary including snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, hiking, and exploring its unique desert landscapes.
The Weather in Aruba
Aruba enjoys a tropical marine climate with relatively constant temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C) throughout the year. Aruba experiences very little rainfall, with most of it occurring between October and January during the island’s brief rainy season.
Aruba’s sun is VERY STRONG. It is very easy to get sunburn, therefore make sure you pack an abundance of high quality sunscreen with a high SPF.
Prepare for Travel to Aruba
Book Accommodations Early: Aruba is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons, so it’s advisable to book your accommodations well in advance.
Check Travel Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary travel documents and are aware of any entry requirements, visa regulations, or any travel warnings.
Currency and Payments: The local currency is the Aruban florin (AWG), but US dollars are widely accepted. It’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases.
Transportation: Consider renting a car (we used rentalcars.com) or utilizing taxis, public buses, or organized tours to explore the island. You can also use Get Transfer to book yourself a ride from the airport to your hotel.
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances, including trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or travel disruptions.
Get an eSIM for unlimited data. I use Airalo where all you have to do is download the app and sign up.
Areas in Aruba
If you rent a car in Aruba you should explore the island, as it is not that big and has a ton to offer. Here is a breakdown of the different sections of Aruba and there highlights.
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Palm Beach and Eagle Beach:
- Located on the northwest coast, Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are among the most popular areas for tourists.
- Palm Beach is known for its high-rise hotels, luxury resorts, casinos, and vibrant nightlife.
- Eagle Beach is famous for its pristine white sands, calm turquoise waters, and picturesque Divi Divi trees.
- Both beaches offer a wide array of water sports, beachfront dining options, and relaxation opportunities.
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Oranjestad:
- Oranjestad is the capital city of Aruba and serves as the commercial and cultural hub of the island.
- It features colorful Dutch colonial architecture, historic landmarks, museums, galleries, and bustling shopping districts.
- Visitors can explore Fort Zoutman, shop for souvenirs at Renaissance Mall, and immerse themselves in local culture at the Aruba Historical Museum.
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Noord:
- Noord is a residential and tourist area located close to Palm Beach.
- It offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling Palm Beach area but still provides easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions.
- Noord is home to attractions like the California Lighthouse, Tierra del Sol Golf Course, and the Butterfly Farm.
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San Nicolas:
- Situated on the southeastern coast, San Nicolas is Aruba’s second-largest city and an emerging cultural and artistic hub.
- It boasts colorful street murals, art installations, and a lively carnival atmosphere.
- Visitors can explore local art galleries, attend cultural events, and sample authentic Aruban cuisine in San Nicolas.
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Arikok National Park:
- Arikok National Park encompasses nearly 20% of Aruba’s land area and offers diverse landscapes, including rugged coastlines, desert terrain, and limestone caves.
- Visitors can hike scenic trails, explore ancient Arawak petroglyphs, and discover unique flora and fauna.
- Highlights of the park include the Natural Pool, Fontein Cave, and Boca Prins Beach.
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Savaneta:
- Savaneta is a tranquil fishing village located on the southeastern coast of Aruba.
- It offers a laid-back atmosphere, picturesque beaches, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
- Visitors can explore historic sites like the Savaneta Church and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Day 1
Settle in on Eagle Beach or Palm Beach
Welcome to One Happy Island and the first day of your 5 day Aruba itinerary! You will arrive into Queen Beatrix International Airport, which is a smaller airport an easy to navigate. Right outside you will see all of the rental car hubs where you can pick up your rental car (book a rental car here) and hit the road!
If you are not renting a car than you can get a private airport transfer here or a shared airport transfer here.
Head to your accommodation and drop off your bags, most hotels will keep your bags if your room is not ready yet. Put on your bathing suit and lets head to Eagle Beach or Palm Beach!
Many hotels and resorts along Palm and Eagle Beach offer rental services for beach chairs and umbrellas to their guests. If you’re staying at a nearby hotel, inquire at the front desk or concierge about beach amenities and rentals.
Our rental provided us chairs and a cooler so we were able to bring them with us and lay out where we chose (there are trees on the beach where you can find shade if you don’t have an umbrella.)
Eagle and Palm Beach offer excellent conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The calm, turquoise waters are perfect for snorkeling adventures, allowing visitors to explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life just offshore. You will see many huts along the beach where you can pay for different day activities.
For dinner, lets head to “the strip” along in the high rise area along Palm Beach. Here you will find an abundance of restaurants, shopping, and fun places to explore at night. Some great dinner spots in this area are Daniels Steak & Chop House, Azar, and The Soprano’s.
Day 2
Baby Beach & Roger’s Beach
Let’s start day 2 of our 5 day Aruba itinerary with Eduardo’s Beach Shack. We loved this spot, as it is right on the beach and offers a ton of options such as acai bowls, avocado toast, and other sweet treats on the go.
Today were heading to baby beach on the southeastern side of Aruba. Baby beach is a little cove that has some of the clearest water you will see in the whole world! This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Aruba which makes it a must to put on your Aruba itinerary, but also one of the most touristy so you will want to get a head start.
Right next to baby beach is Rogers beach, which has a similar atmosphere. These beaches have such clear, shallow waters that it makes them ideal for snorkeling. Beach beds, windscreens and snorkel gear are available at a rental fee.
Let put the town of San Nicolas on the Aruba itinerary for lunch. This is an atsy gem. There are street murals all over the colorful buildings which makes it really fun to walk around and explore.
For lunch we popped into a Caribbean style restaurant called “O’Niel Caribbean Kitchen” where we got some amazing jerk chicken. If you want to stay within walking distance of baby beach you can have lunch at Rum Reef or Big Mamas Grill located right on the beach!
Now that we watched the beautiful sunset over the southern coast of Aruba, it’s time for dinner. Lets head to Zeerovers, a local fisherman’s wharf that catches fresh seafood daily! This is a casual spot, so coming in your beach gear is totally fine! Make sure to ask for the catch of that day at this Arubian gem!
Day 3
A Day on the Water
Booking a boat day on your Aruba itinerary is an absolute must. With options ranging from snorkeling tours to sunset cruises and private charters, there’s something for everyone.
We chose to do this luxury boat cruise from Noord and it was amazing! We had a full open bar, and freshly grilled lunch, and a ton of water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and rope swinging.
As for the different companies to book through, Jolly Pirates stands out for its lively atmosphere and pirate-themed adventures, while Red Sail Sports offers diverse sailing and snorkeling excursions to iconic sites like the Antilla shipwreck. De Palm Tours and Pelican Adventures provide knowledgeable guides and quality equipment, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences. For a unique sailing experience, Octopus Aruba offers tours aboard a traditional schooner, showcasing Aruba’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
No matter what kind of boat tour you choose, spending a day or evening on the water is a must in Aruba. The water is too beautiful not to explore!
If you want to lay on the beach during the day, consider doing a sunset boat tour. Aruba sunsets are truly one of a kind and you will not regret seeing the sun go down on the water. This is something I wish we added to our Aruba itinerary.
Day 4
ATV tour of Aruba’s North Side
Although we didn’t end up renting ATV’s on our Aruba itinerary, we really wish we did. As we were exploring the north side of Aruba we saw an abundance of people riding ATV’s and it looked like a great time.
Exploring the northern end of Aruba is an exhilarating journey through rugged landscapes, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. With the addition of an ATV tour, adventurers can delve deeper into the island’s diverse terrain and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
We started our day 4 on our Aruba itinerary by visiting Aruba’s California Lighthouse. The California Lighthouse offers unrivaled panoramic views of the northern coast, showcasing the rugged terrain, pristine beaches, and the vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea.
From there we headed to Andicuri, Boca Catalina, and Malmok Beaches along the northern coastline. These beaches are a lot less touristy than Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Baby Beach.
Check out Pika’s corner for dinner for some authentic Arubian food after you watch the sunset (of-course!)
Day 5
Hike and Explore Oranjestad
Let’s start the morning off with a hike on the last day of our 5 day Aruba itinerary. Let’s head to Mt. Hooiberg which is Aruba’s second-highest peak, offering a challenging hike with rewarding panoramic views of the island. The trail consists of approximately 562 steps leading to the summit, where hikers can admire sweeping vistas of Aruba’s coastline and interior landscapes. They even say you can see Venezuela from the top. This is a short, but rewarding start to your day.
Next on your 5 day Aruba itinerary, let’s head to the town of Oranjestad. Discover the capital city’s vibrant culture, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visit colorful street markets, explore Fort Zoutman, and stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with shops, restaurants, and boutiques. Get a late breakfast and explore the shops.
We have to put one fancy dinner on our Aruba itinerary. Koal is a great restaurant with some traditional Caribbean food, Fresco is an amazing italian spot located in the Renessaince Hotel, or try Azar for a fantastic steakhouse.
Other Things to Add to your Aruba Itinerary
1. Visit Arikok National Park:
- Arikok National Park showcases Aruba’s rugged natural landscapes, including desert terrain, limestone caves, and dramatic coastal cliffs. You should put this on your Aruba itinerary if you like to explore hiking trails, discover unique wildlife, and admire breathtaking vistas of the island’s coastline.
2. Snorkel or Dive at Shipwrecks:
- Aruba is home to several shipwrecks, including the Antilla and the Pedernales, which have become popular sites for snorkeling and scuba diving. Check out the shipwreck through a snorkeling tour or even a submarine expedition on your Aruba itinerary.
3 Enjoy Water Sports:
- Aruba’s consistent trade winds make it an ideal destination for water sports on your Aruba itineraru. Try your hand at windsurfing, kiteboarding, paddleboarding, or parasailing along the island’s pristine shores.
4. Experience Local Cuisine:
- Indulge in Aruba’s culinary delights, from fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties to international cuisine influenced by Dutch and Latin American flavors. Don’t miss traditional dishes like keshi yena, pan bati, and pastechi.
5. Sunset Cruises:
- Put a romantic sunset cruise tour along Aruba’s coastline on your Aruba itinerary, sipping cocktails and watching the sun dip below the horizon. Many cruises offer live music, dinner, and entertainment, creating a memorable evening experience.
6. Horseback Riding:
- Explore Aruba’s scenic landscapes on horseback, riding along sandy shores, desert trails, and lush countryside. A horseback riding tour on your Aruba itinerary offers a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
From sun-soaked beaches to exhilarating adventures and cultural experiences, Aruba offers something for everyone to enjoy, ensuring an unforgettable vacation in the Caribbean paradise.
I hope this helps you plan your Aruba itinerary. Aruba is certainly one of the most beautiful islands to visit, with growing popularity for good reason. Make sure to follow me on Instagram or to stay updated with all my recent trips and let me know your plans for Aruba! Happy Travels!
-Becca