If you’re contemplating your next escape, here are five irresistible reasons why Aruba should be at the top of your travel list this winter. From sun-kissed beaches to exciting tours and activities, Aruba has a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. For us, trading those cold winter blues for Aruba’s mesmerizing blues is a no-brainer, however, for those who still need some convincing – let’s dive into the warmth and discover why Aruba is the ultimate winter getaway you’ve been dreaming of!
Festive cheer and things to do
Being in Aruba during the holiday season is not too shabby. Imagine the warm sunshine, friendly people, tropical cocktails, and clear turquoise water, all while hanging on to the best parts of the holidays! Just as any month in Aruba, there are plenty of fun events and activities to partake in, but you’ll find December is extra special due to all of the jolly festive feels and decorations throughout the island.
Discover plenty of mouth-watering holiday dining specials and Christmas markets here. Planning on celebrating New Year’s Eve in Aruba and kicking off the new year in paradise? Stay tuned for New Year’s specials and parties here.
Sunny, warm beaches
While this might seem like a quite obvious attraction to Aruba, do you know what makes our island’s beaches so special? They are all public (with the exception of Renaissance Island and De Palm Island) and are easily accessible with plenty to choose from!
Browse beaches in Aruba to start planning your sunny and happy beach days. From soft white sand beaches with palm trees swaying in the wind, to wild and unruly inlet beaches on the East Coast, we’ve got a unique mix of beaches for you to experience.
Carnival Season
After the new year begins for many the holiday fun comes to an end. However, not in Aruba! The post-holiday season calls for more celebration and fun! In January, the island’s most colorful and treasured celebration, Carnival, takes center stage.
Aruba’s ‘Carnaval’ season is not just a one-day, one-week or even one-month event. During January and February, the entire island lives and breathes Carnival. The Carnival schedule is jam-packed with weekly events, leaving little excuse to miss out. It continues with Jump-ins, King and Queen Elections, Calypso, festivals, contests, live music, celebrations for children, parties, and of course the most popular, parades.
This year our island is celebrating 70 years of Carnival! If you are lucky enough to be on the island don’t miss out on one of Aruba’s most treasured traditions. Get ready, it’s ‘Carnaval’ time, time to celebrate in the streets! View the 2024 Carnival schedule here so you don’t miss out on any of the big parades and fun.
Easy to explore
Not so large in size, Aruba is only about 21 miles long and 6 miles wide, making it easy to travel throughout the island and explore as much as possible.
Aruba’s terrain is very diverse and unique, there is so much natural beauty on the island to discover and immerse yourself in. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to visit Arikok National Park. Our island’s national park covers about 20% of the island and is the perfect place to explore the diverse natural beauty that Aruba has to offer. Simply purchase a day pass at the park’s visitors center and be on your way! You can do so by jeep or opt for a more active and environmentally-friendly way and go hiking. There are plenty of natural sites and attractions (caves, gold ruins, wild beaches, hiking trails, natural pools, and more) on the wild east coast of the island. It is sure to leave you fascinated by just how different it is from the other side of the island, which is home to the majority of our island’s resorts and calmer beaches.
Also, be sure to check out the following sights. Some of our favorite places include the Natural Pool (Conchi), Small Cave Pool, Fontein Cave and Freshwater Pond, Hooiberg, Alto Vista Chapel, Spanish Lagoon, and the street art, museums and restaurants in San Nicolas.
Slow down and recharge for the new year
The holiday season can be busy and take a toll on everyone. To boost your energy and well-being just in time for the new year, how about a spa day in paradise? It is a must for anyone looking for some rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Treat yourself to a day at the spa and take your vacation relaxation to the next level. Turn off all of the noise and chaos in your life and go get yourself a massage. Not only is a massage a great way to unwind, but so are facial treatments as well as a manicure and pedicure.
Treat yourself to a massage at Okeanos Spa on Renaissance Private Island for some quality pampering and relaxation. Or, check out the extensive spa treatment menu for Hilton Aruba’s eforea Spa. Their menu includes specialty wellness treatments with a local touch. Boardwalk Boutique Hotel has an on-property spa where their local partner, Aruba Wellness Therapies offers various treatments and massages.
Skincare tip – Don’t leave the island without our local Aloe skincare products, your skin will thank you later! Visit the Aruba Aloe Factory or one of the Aruba Aloe stores.
View more things to do and see in Aruba.
