Aruba is a place of perfection. The views, the food, the vibe –it’s all undeniably unique and incredible to experience. We could write a book on reasons we love this tiny, happy island, but we decided to highlight 10 things that make Aruba so special to us.
1. Sunshine. Every. Single. Day.
If you’re looking for a place with perfect weather, you really can’t do better than Aruba. Temperatures almost always hover around 80 degrees, thanks to cooling trade winds. Aruba consistently ranks as having the least amount of rainfall in the Caribbean — an average of about 16 inches per year. Plus, the island lies on the outside fringes of the hurricane belt, so hurricanes rarely touch Aruba’s shores.
2. Aruba has one of the most ethnically diverse populations in the world.
Much of the population is fluent in English, Dutch and Spanish—as well as the local language, Papiamento.
3. It has amazing fusion cuisine.
Aruba’s culinary scene is a melting pot influenced by 90 on-island nationalities. Most dishes are a delicious mix of Caribbean, African and European cuisines. The Aruban diet has been strongly influenced by Indonesian roots and Dutch colonization, with dishes like bami and nasi goreng, loempia (their giant version of spring rolls), and Dutch treats like bitterballen (croquets).
4. Aruba is the wreck diving capital of the Caribbean.
How many places can you snorkel and find a piece of history? Go deep and discover two WWII ship wrecks: SS Antilla and SS Pedernales. Not only will you take in some of the most well-preserved wrecks of the Caribbean, you’ll see colorful coral formations and a lively sea ecosystem of fish surrounding the wrecks. If snorkeling isn’t your speed, Funjet also offers the Atlantis Submarine Expedition tour, where you can see the wrecks and stay dry.
5. Feel free to venture out.
All-inclusive resorts make vacation super easy, but to experience Aruba’s fabulous cuisine and culture beyond the resort, many travelers choose to forgo a dining plan at their resort. Many resorts are within walking distance to nearby food markets, restaurants, shopping areas, and other popular activities on the island. Exploring the area gives you the chance to meet the friendly locals, take in the scenery, and find hidden gems and souvenirs at local businesses. You can also add Funjet’s Aruba Island Tour to your booking to see the whole island in one day!
6. There’s plenty of wildlife and some surprising species, too.
Iguanas and tropical birds are just a few of the local animals you may run into during your stay on the island. Wild donkeys and goats can also be found in Aruba. Locals commonly raise the four legged critters, but over the years the population grew in the wild after many went astray. Oh, and don’t forget the plentiful ostrich farms.
7. Aruba offers something for every type of traveler.
Families seeking more than a traditional vacation experience will discover countless kid-friendly attractions and activities throughout the island. Resorts and hotels offer tours, special kids’ programs, and all-day camps for families and children. However, the island is also perfect for girls’ trips and couples, with the perfect mix of sultry nightlife and secluded, romantic spaces.
8. Nearly 20% of the island is a dedicated national park.
While the southwest side of Aruba is mostly flat with gorgeous shoreline, the northeast side features more rugged terrain and a national park. Arikok National Park is home to dramatic coastlines, natural bridges, and one of the island’s best natural features: the Natural Pool. Known to locals as “Conchi,” the pool is a pristine, secluded swimming hole protected by a wall of volcanic rock. When you tag along for Funjet’s Baby Beach Jeep adventure, you can see all of Arikok’s best features on an off-road tour.
9. See hundreds of baby turtles make their voyage to the sea.
Aruba is home to several species of sea turtles, and visitors walking Aruba’s beaches from March to November will likely encounter areas cordoned off to protect turtle nests. See the tiny hatchlings make their way down the beach, plunge into the sea, and make their first str
okes towards their feeding grounds.
10. Aruba’s white sand beaches are barefoot friendly, even at the hottest hour of the day.
The unique crushed coral and shell composition of Aruba’s fine, powdery white beaches keeps the sand comfortably cool, even during the hours when the sun is most intense. That means long walks along the shoreline are perfect at any time of day–flip-flops optional.
Sound dreamy? Start planning your getaway now with our Aruba sale. Want even more details about Aruba? Go here.
