Aruba is one of my absolute favorite places to visit!!! The water is so clear – it’s unreal. It is the perfect place to get away with your girls or for a #baecation. I’ve had the pleasure of doing both. It’s also a cool spot to check out during hurricane season because it sits outside the hurricane belt which means there is very little threat for tropical storms. I listed some quick info about Aruba below and highlights from my past trips!
STAY:
Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
During my time in Aruba, I stayed on the northern part of the island at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. It is a beautiful beachfront property located on Palm Beach. The hotel is not centrally located but we had easy access to taxis to get around. We were also able to walk along a trail to access local a beach bar (Coco Loco Beach Bar). It is a family-friendly hotel but has a separate adult-only pool (where I spent a great deal of my stay). Some PROs: Beautiful hotel and grounds with great service. CONS: not all-inclusive (although very few hotels offered this during my time there – I believe there will be more all-inclusive properties coming to the area).
EAT:
Salt & Pepper was highly recommended by locals and previous tourists! Happy we got a chance to check it out – did not disappoint. Another good recommendation is Yemanja Woodfire Grill. It was delicious
THINGS TO DO/ PLACES TO GO :
There are a lot of fun things to do while on the island. I will list some of my favs first (not ranked in any particular order)!
1. DePalm Island – nice excursion! All you can eat, drink on a private island. There are a ton of activities on the island as well – snorkeling, games, dancing lessons and more.
2. Paddle Board Yoga – this was sooooo much fun! I organized this event through Manchebo Beach Resort. The instructor was very patient and a lot of fun (Instructor: Rachel Brathen; www.rachelbrathen.com)
3. Natural Pool & Natural Bridge Tour – HIGHLY RECOMMEND! Please note – the ride to the natural pool is very bumpy. I recommend visiting with an official tour guide vs. going on your own. If you decide to go on your own, be sure to read reviews and ask the rental car company for the best vehicle to endure the ride. Also, there is a bit of a hike to and from the natural pool — so be prepared for a little workout. I recommend wearing swim shoes with a good grip on the bottom if you plan to get in (there are a lot of tiny rocks leading up to the Natural pool). Click here for more information about the natural pool and pictures.
4. California Lighthouse – major landmark for Aruba! We did not get a chance to go inside. I later learned that some tours allow you to go inside and see panoramic views of the island.
5. Foam & GLOW Party at Senor Frogs – this was super random but so much fun! If you’re looking for some good music, I highly recommend checking out the list of happenings for Senor Frogs during your time in Aruba. There are a few other cool bars in the area as well.
6. Feed the Flamingos at Renaissance Private Island*
7. ATV Tours*
8. Donkey Sanctuary*
Feel free to check out Aruba’s main tourist site for more information.
*Plan to check out during my next visit*
