If it’s good enough for The Beach Boys, it’s good enough for me. The band’s iconic 1988 song “Kokomo” kicks off a lyrical list of must-visit Caribbean islands with Aruba, which makes sense given its nickname is “one happy island.” On a recent four-day visit, Aruba lived up to that moniker. Its climate was warm and windy. Locals were incredibly friendly. And we lost track of time drinking daiquiris, swimming in turquoise waters, and exploring secret cave pools. There’s paradise, and then there’s Aruba. Below are some sights, restaurants, bars, and hotels you can’t miss on your next visit to the happy island. Alexa, play “Kokomo.”
What to See
Jeep Tour
One of Aruba’s top attractions is a natural pool called the Conchi. Located deep within Arikok National Park, the best (and really only) way there is via an off-road vehicle. ISLA Tours offers several jeep tour packages, including a customized private tour and half-day adventure. Our driver picked us up from our hotel and, on the way to Arikok, took us to his favorite pastechi (an Aruban-style empanada) spot called Huchada Bakery. Then we entered the park and wound through bumpy roads (fair warning: bring motion sickness medicine if you are prone to nausea) to Conchi, which was one of the most beautiful swimming holes I’ve ever seen. We also stopped at the Fontein and Quadirikiri caves. After leaving the park, our guide brought us to Mangel Halto Beach, one of the best snorkeling spots in Aruba, for a quick dip before returning back to the hotel.
Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa
If you came to Aruba to relax, which of course you did, a spa day is a must. Spa del Sol at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa has the best setup of any wellness center on the island. Beach huts offer unparalleled water views, so you can gaze out at the sugar-white sand beaches while getting massaged. As a guest of the the spa, you also have access to the resort’s private beach cabanas, where you can get food and drinks delivered. Sip on piña coladas, and go for a dip on a quiet part of Eagle Beach.
Sunset Sail
The best way to experience Aruba? On the water, of course. Red Sail Sports offers a sunset cruise aboard their luxury catamaran. You’ll get a stunning view of Aruba’s coastline while munching on freshly made hors d’oeuvres and taking advantage of the open bar.
Oseree Lumière Bikini
Where to Eat
Infini
The eight-course meal at Infini is hands down the best culinary experience on the island of Aruba. You are greeted upon arrival with a glass of bubbly and an amuse-bouche, which are enjoyed on the restaurant’s patio during sunset. Once it gets dark, you move inside to the beautifully designed dining space, where Chef Jeanclaude Werleman presents dishes inspired by local flavors. This is a chef’s table concept, so be prepared to interact with other diners and staff.
Lima
Lima is an intimate restaurant in the heart of Aruba’s capital city of Oranjestad. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the marina boardwalk leading to Lima, before settling in for a dining experience that combines traditional Peruvian and Aruban flavors. Ceviche is a menu highlight, and consider the strawberries with cream for dessert.
Pika’s Corner
We were the only tourists at Pika’s Corner, which is always a good sign. The restaurant serves up Aruban local cuisine and homemade sangria. Some standout dishes were the karni stoba, balchi di pisca, and quesillo. They also do delivery and takeout, so you can take your food to-go, and eat on the beach.
MISA Los Angeles Olena Top
MISA Los Angeles Rita Pants
St. Agni Woven Bon Bon Bag
Where to Drink
Zeerover
Be prepared to wait at Zeerover—but just know it’s worth it. If you’re looking for an authentic lunch option where locals eat, this fish and beer spot is a must. Enjoy the catch of the day—which could be snapper or barracuda—with an ice cold local beer, and take your meal to a picnic table overlooking the beautiful Aruban waters.
Atardi
You come to Atardi for the ambiance. They really lean into the open concept layout, setting up tables on the beach. There is shoe storage, so you can be barefoot while enjoying a cocktail or chilled glass of white wine. It goes without saying, but try and book a table right at sunset. The drinks are great, and if you get hungry, the food menu is helmed by chefs Rafael Hernandez and Adrian Florez, and focuses on seafood like Chilean sea bass and Caribbean lobster tail.
Rum Reef Cocktail Bar & Grill
The Rum Reef Cocktail Bar & Grill has become TikTok famous—and that’s for good reason. Offering spectacular views of Baby Beach, one of Aruba’s most beloved beaches, the bar’s infinity pool is the perfect way to drink and swim at the same time.
Rabanne Chain Hoop Earrings
My Beachy Side Hand Crochet Mini Dress with Faux Leather Scoop Motifs
Neous Maia Ruched Cady Mules
Where to Stay
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel
If you favor a boutique hotel over a big resort, Boardwalk is where you want to stay. Family-run and stunningly gorgeous, Boardwalk is just steps from Palm Beach and has 49 private casitas on the property, which has been landscaped to feel like a tropical oasis. (And it really does.) The Coco Cafe offers healthy smoothies and tasty brunch platters incorporating locally sourced ingredients. The pool is fantastic, there is a daily happy hour, and hammocks are strung everywhere to ensure maximum relaxation.
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
Situated right on Palm Beach, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is an eight-story complex with a pool that has cascading waterfalls, an adults-only cabana pool, 10 bars, and several restaurants, including a Starbucks. The beach cabanas alone are reason enough to stay here, but the resort also has the largest casino on the island and a great gym.
The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba
The Ritz-Carlton is also perched along Palm Beach and features 320 rooms, including 55 suites with balconies. The staff here is amazing, the lobby bar is one of the best on the island, and the beach-side dining experience is particularly stellar. The beach chairs are complimentary, but you have to wake up early in order to snag one.
Tombolo 'Conched Out' Cabana Top
Tombolo 'Conched Out' Mini Shorts
Staud Alba Ballet Flats
Beauty Picks
Victoria Beckham Beauty The Concealer Pen with TFC8®
Formulated with Augustinus Bader’s signature TFC8 complex, this concealer pen nourishes as it camouflages and dries to a natural, breathable finish.
Undefined R&R Sun Elixir Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Glow Oil
Meant to be used anywhere you need a little extra protection, this multipurpose SPF oil combines vitamin C, rosehip, milk thistle, and more to support the skin’s barrier and impart a healthy glow.
NOYZ Sh**ty Day Eau de Parfum
Bad days don’t exist in Aruba. But in case you need a pick-me-up, how about a heady spritz of ocean air, salted fig, and lavender? Sh**ty Day is fresh yet deep, with a blend of woody and earthy notes that can transform any dreary day into a brighter one.
