Caribbean Netherlands travel guide
Caribbean Netherlands Tourism | Caribbean Netherlands Guide
You're Going to Love Caribbean Netherlands
As one of the three Dutch countries that make up the ABC Islands in the southern Caribbean Sea, Aruba is a picture-perfect vacation destination.
The pristine beaches that encircle the island have gentle sea breezes and glorious white sand, while historic shipwrecks offer unforgettable diving opportunities.
Arubans are naturally charming people and welcome tourists with open arms. The local language Papiamento has influences from Dutch, Portuguese, and Spanish; however, English is widely spoken.
What to do in the Caribbean Netherlands
1. Explore the Wonders of Arikok National Park
The reserve stretches across 13 mi² from the eastern coastline and includes protected ocean pools, limestone formations, caves, and overland trails.
2. Unwind on Eagle Beach
Widely regarded as one of the best beaches in the world, swaying Fofoti trees provide relief from the balmy Caribbean sun.
3. Look Out from California Lighthouse
The 98 ft tower was constructed after the S.S. California ship sunk in the late 19th century and has unbeatable 360° views of the island.
4. Take to the Water at Magel Hato
A secluded bay protected from ocean swells, there is no better place in Aruba to enjoy snorkeling, paddle boarding and kayaking.
5. Tour Aloe Museum
The factory and museum provides insight into the cultivation process of aloe vera succulents. See how the healing plants go from farm to export products that are shipped across the world.
When to visit the Caribbean Netherlands
Tropical weather year-round makes it a pleasant climate at any time, though there is some rain between October and December. From January to March, Aruba celebrates Carnival season with street parties, parades, and plenty of traditional food.
How to Get to the Caribbean Netherlands
Entry requirements
It's possible to enter Aruba without a visa for nationals of the European Union, Canada, the United States, Australia, Japan, Brazil, and the United Kingdom, among others. A valid return or onward departure ticket must be presented upon arrival as well as a signed ED card (embarkation and disembarkation).
Plane
Flights land at Queen Beatrix International Airport and include routes from Miami (American Airlines, Surinam Airways), Toronto (Air Canada, Sunwing Airlines, WestJet), Amsterdam (TUI Airways, KLM), Bogotá (Avianca, Wingo), and Curaçao (Aruba Airlines, Divi Divi Air, EZ Air, Winair). Long-distance flights from the United States can be purchased for around 252-306 AWG (140-170 USD) while regional services within the Caribbean cost roughly 171 AWG (95 USD).
Popular airports in the Caribbean Netherlands
Popular airlines serving the Caribbean Netherlands
Where to stay in the Caribbean Netherlands
The majority of resorts are located in the Palm Beach district and this is great for families and tourists wanting beachfront amenities. The neighborhood of Monserat is nestled just behind Palm Beach and offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, though still with large-scale accommodations. Downtown Oranjestad has a mix of hotel options and is dubbed the "Caribbean Amsterdam" with colonial architecture and diverse restaurants. Hadicurari Beach in the north provides a more isolated experience with fewer crowds.
Where to stay in popular areas of the Caribbean Netherlands
Most booked hotels in the Caribbean Netherlands
How to Get Around the Caribbean Netherlands
Public Transportation
Public buses are commonly caught from one side of town to the other, while downtown Oranjestad also has a free single-track electric tram system. Taxis are popular for travelers wanting private journeys, with a medium-distance ride costing around 36-54 AWG (20-30 USD).
Bus
An extensive 10-line network spans almost the entire island and connects the capital to San Nicolas, Savaneta, Paradera, Noord, and Santa Cruz. The services run from approximately 6:00 am until 9:00 pm Monday through Saturday, with reduced schedules operating on Sundays. An unlimited one-day pass can be bought for roughly 18 AWG (10 USD).
Car
Renting a car opens up the option to visit remote destinations and beaches across the island. Global rental agencies, as well as local providers, have offices in central Oranjestad in addition to the airport. Cars are available from approximately 63-81 AWG (35-45 USD) per day.
The Cost of Living in the Caribbean Netherlands
Groceries are relatively cheap with a loaf of bread costing roughly 4 AWG (2.20 USD) and a dozen eggs around 4.70 AWG (2.60 USD). A 7-day prepaid SIM card loaded with 1.3 GB of data costs around 30 AWG (17 USD), so staying connected won't be a problem. Both AWG and USD cash are widely accepted in most shops as well as credit cards. Meals are also reasonably priced on the island.