Aruba 3 Day Itinerary
Aruba 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Beaches and Island Introduction
Morning
- Palm Beach: Start your day with a relaxing morning at Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s most popular beaches. Enjoy the white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Breakfast: Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants along the beach, such as The Flying Fishbone or Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill.
Afternoon
- California Lighthouse: Visit the California Lighthouse, a historic landmark that offers stunning views of the island’s western coast.
- Butterfly Farm: Stop by the Butterfly Farm to see a variety of colorful butterflies from around the world.
Evening
- Oranjestad: Head to Oranjestad, the capital city, and explore its vibrant streets, shops, and restaurants. Try some local cuisine at Gostoso or The Old Cunucu House.
- Cruise Ship Terminal: If you’re interested in shopping, visit the Cruise Ship Terminal, which offers a variety of stores and souvenir shops.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Morning
- Arikok National Park: Explore Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island. Hike through the park’s rugged landscape and spot local wildlife.
- Guadirikiri Cave: Visit the Guadirikiri Cave, a fascinating natural wonder with ancient Arawak paintings.
Afternoon
- Baby Beach: Spend the afternoon at Baby Beach, a secluded cove perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Take a guided tour to explore Aruba’s vibrant marine life. Several operators, such as Red Sail Sports or Dive Aruba, offer equipment rentals and lessons.
Evening
- Philips Animal Garden: Visit the Philips Animal Garden, a non-profit organization that cares for injured and abandoned animals.
- El Gaucho Argentine Steakhouse: Enjoy a delicious dinner at El Gaucho Argentine Steakhouse, known for its tender steaks and Argentine-inspired dishes.
Day 3: Culture and History
Morning
- National Archaeological Museum: Learn about Aruba’s rich history and culture at the National Archaeological Museum.
- Fort Zoutman Historical Museum: Visit Fort Zoutman Historical Museum, which showcases the island’s military past.
Afternoon
- Casibari Rock Formation: Explore the unique Casibari Rock Formation, a series of giant boulders that resemble a cityscape.
- San Nicolas: Head to San Nicolas, a charming town on the southeastern coast, and visit its colorful street art scene.
Evening
- Cosecha Restaurant: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Cosecha Restaurant, which serves contemporary Aruban cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.
- Moomba Beach: End your trip with a relaxing evening at Moomba Beach, known for its picturesque sunsets.
Things to Know
- Visa Requirements: Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Aruba. Check with the Aruban Government’s website for specific requirements.
- Currency: The Aruban florin (AWG) is the local currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Language: The official languages are Dutch and Papiamento, but English is widely spoken.
- Transportation: Rent a car or take taxis to get around the island. Some hotels also offer shuttle services.
Additional Tips
- Sunscreen and Water: Don’t forget to pack sunscreen with high SPF and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Respect Local Environment: Help preserve Aruba’s natural beauty by respecting protected areas and not littering.
- Learn About Island Culture: Take the time to learn about Aruba’s rich history, culture, and traditions to make your trip more meaningful.
Accommodations
Aruba offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments. Some popular options include:
- Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort & Casino
- Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino
- Brickell Bay Beach Club & Spa
Remember to book your accommodations and tours in advance to ensure availability.
Have a wonderful trip to Aruba!