Blissful beach mornings, romantic sunset sails, and so much in between. Aruba is a perfect Caribbean island for a couple’s escape thanks to its azure seas, brilliant beaches, dazzling resorts, and countless activities. From heart-pounding water sports to shopping and sunbathing, there are plenty of ways to get in some quality time while exploring the wonders of Aruba. Here’s our perfect five-day Aruba vacation itinerary to help get you started.
Day 1
Transfer from the airport to your hotel. After checking in, head straight to Palm Beach, one of Aruba’s world-class beaches. You probably won’t have more than a short stroll to reach it, as the majority of resorts make their home here, including Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino, The Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Barceló Aruba, and Riu Palace Antillas. On two gorgeous miles of ivory sands and calm waters, you can bask, swim, dive into myriad water sports, gaze in wonder at the unique divi-divi trees, and witness one of the world’s great sunsets.
Day 2
After a cozy breakfast at your hotel, join a guided all-terrain utility vehicle (or UTV) tour to explore Aruba’s numerous natural wonders. The island’s most remote, yet most popular natural attraction, is the soothing Natural Pool in Arikok National Park, a tranquil spot in a unique rock formation where volcanic stone forms a small depression. Also explore the Ayo Rock Formation, Blackstone Beach, Andicuri Trail, Natural Pool, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and Alto Vista Chapel on your all-day adventure.
Day 3
Rouse your partner and get up early for a day of snorkeling in the waters off Aruba, which is blessed with more sunny days than any other Caribbean island. Hit the surf at Arashi Beach, Malmok Beach, or Boca Catalina, all on the northwestern side of the island. You’ll meet barracuda, spinner dolphins, blue parrotfish, angelfish, and starfish. If you dive at daybreak, you’ll probably spot some turtles too. Just south of Arashi Reef, you’ll find the Caribbean’s largest shipwreck, the 394-foot German freighter Antilla, sunk during WWII. The wreck is in shallow waters, so snorkelers can peer right into its fractured hull.
Day 4
Change things up a little today by venturing into Oranjestad, the capital overlooking the western shores, and joining a walking tour of the city’s downtown area. Learn about the history of Aruba while seeing first-hand the Dutch influence that’s apparent throughout the city in fascinating restored landmark buildings. Check out traditional artisan crafts for sale, try some tasty Aruban specialties, and chat with locals. After the sun sets, visit an outdoor bar in town or escape back to your resort for some quality couple time.
Day 5
Get ready for a day of adventure on the Caribbean sea. Rent a WaveRunner for high-speed thrills or take advantage of Aruba’s constant trade winds and sail a Hobie Cat. Get active with some paddle boarding or learn to windsurf in the same waters that play host to international competitions. In a perfect ending to your Aruba fantasy, set sail for the evening of a lifetime on a catamaran Sunset Dinner Cruise along the scenic coastline while enjoying a Caribbean buffet-style dinner.