Dream escape: Aruba
Powder-soft sand, crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets are what you’ll find in this heavenly oasis
Nestled in the Caribbean Sea just 15 miles north of Venezuela is the stunning island of Aruba. With its gorgeous, untouched beaches, quaint capital city, colorful Dutch architecture and perfect temperatures, this 20-milelong stretch of paradise offers something for everyone.
Start your day by basking in the sun’s rays on Eagle Beach, a lovely spot perfect for both relaxation and adventure. “A very beautiful beach that’s good for swimming and water activities,” says a reviewer from Ohio. “We booked parasailing here, and it was amazing! There is also a restaurant with great burgers and a bar serving up tasty drinks mixed by very friendly staff. You can also rent chairs to relax under the palapas.”
To admire Aruba’s underwater beauty, head to Arashi Beach, one of the island’s best snorkeling spots.
Says Karen M on TripAdvisor.com, “We snorkeled for several hours and saw a variety of fish and red cushion sea stars!”
After toweling off, make the drive 15 minutes south to visit The Butterfly Farm ($16 per person). “It has a lovely population of butterflies from around the globe in a pleasant garden setting, with guides to provide keen insights on the flutterers,” says a reviewer from California. “There’s usually fresh fruit out for them to eat, and you can dip your fingers in the fruit to help you ‘catch’ butterflies, which will land on your hand to eat.”
End your day by strolling through the capital city of Oranjestad. There, you can admire local art, shop for unique souvenirs like locally distilled rum and wood carvings, try Caribbean dishes and visit the port for a stunning view of the sunset.