Aruba Guide

Perfect weather, gorgeous beaches, shimmering seas, duty free shopping, and friendly Dutch West Indies hosts shouting “Bon Bini” (welcome) will greet you upon arrival in Aruba. Whether you come by air or sea, Aruba will capture your heart as you experience friendly hospitality in the hotels, restaurants, casinos and shops throughout the island.

In 1636 the Dutch took possession of Aruba. Shifting from an industrial economy to one promoting tourism has transformed Aruba’s landscape, skyline, and ensured their place as a major tourist attraction for visitors from around the world. Aruba’s people comprise a mixture of races and cultures, a smooth well-blended mix that produces “One Happy Island.”

The topography of the 20-mile-long island just off the northern coast of South America is as diverse as its people. The east coast is rough and rolling with breakers, caves, the natural rock bridge, dunes and deserts. The west coast has smooth, long white-sand beaches, lush flora, vibrant underwater life, and a bird sanctuary. Strong trade winds cool the island, shaping the divi divi trees in their westward slant and spawning a world-class windsurfing destination. Complete windsurfing centers dot the western coastline providing all the necessary equipment and instruction for beginner to advanced boardsailers. Swimming and snorkeling at any of the beaches is easy with a gently sloping drop-off into the Caribbean Sea. All types of water sports are available and several WWII wrecks provide premier dive sites.

Shop ‘till you drop is certainly possible in the many brightly painted, old Dutch colonial local and duty-free shops in Oranjestad and at the major hotels. The best time to shop is when there isn’t a cruise ship in port; downtown gets crowded when everyone races down the gangplank.

The many types of accommodations available in Aruba ensure something for everyone. Large, high-rise hotels, condominium units, low-rise beachfront resorts, and private homes host visitors in comfortable, affordable luxury. Casual restaurants, bars, casinos, nightlife, and international cuisine in quaint French, Italian, Chinese and South American restaurants tempt guests with fabulous entrees and special entertainment.

Aruba’s sightseeing is well worth spending a day exploring the northwestern windward coast with bold stretches of rocks and cliffs pounded by breaking seas and pre-Columbian cave markings. Drive south through San Nicholas past the new golf course to the lighthouse and enjoy the huge cacti and European architecture which sprinkles the landscape.

Old and young, families and honeymooners will find Aruba an island of surprises and imaginative individuality.

Aruba is a small Caribbean island located just north of Venezuela. Its name is derived from the Spanish phrase “oro huba” meaning “there was gold,” as the island was once known for its gold mines.

The indigenous Arawak people inhabited Aruba for thousands of years before the arrival of Spanish explorers in the 15th century. The Dutch, who were also seeking to colonize the Americas, took control of the island in 1636 and it remained under Dutch rule until 1986. During this time, the Dutch established a thriving trade industry on the island, exporting goods such as aloe, salt, and livestock.

While under Dutch rule, Aruba faced several challenges, including attacks from neighboring islands and a decline in the aloe industry. However, in the early 20th century, the island experienced a tourism boom after being featured in several Hollywood films. This led to the development of hotels and resorts, making Aruba a popular destination for tourists.

In 1940, during World War II, Aruba became an important strategic location for the Allies due to its oil refinery, which was the largest in the world at the time. The refinery was heavily targeted by German U-boats, leading to a series of attacks and sabotage attempts. Despite these challenges, the refinery remained operational and played a crucial role in the Allied victory.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Aruba experienced a surge in immigration, with people from neighboring islands and countries such as Colombia and the Dominican Republic coming to the island in search of work. This influx of people from diverse backgrounds led to a rich cultural blend on the island.

In 1986, Aruba gained autonomy within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, becoming a constituent country. This allowed the island to have more control over its own affairs, including tourism and trade. The economy continued to thrive, and in 1996, Aruba became a separate member of the United Nations.

Today, Aruba is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, and warm weather year-round. The island has also made efforts to become more sustainable, implementing initiatives such as banning single-use plastics and promoting renewable energy sources.

Despite its small size, Aruba has a rich and interesting history shaped by its indigenous roots, European colonization, and modern developments. From its early days as a gold-mining island to its current status as a top Caribbean destination, Aruba continues to attract visitors from all over the world, making it a beloved and unique part of the Caribbean.