Aruba—an island where the sun shines almost every day and the turquoise waters beckon you to relax. From stunning beaches to vibrant local culture, Aruba has it all. I recently spent a few days exploring this beautiful island, and here’s how I spent my time on a trip full of unforgettable experiences.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation at Eagle Beach

We arrived in Aruba ready for a few days of fun in the sun. We decided to explore the island on our own, so we picked up a rental car from Sunset Rental Car. The service was smooth, and soon we were on our way to start the adventure.

Our first stop was Superfoods, a local supermarket where we grabbed some essentials—water, snacks, and a few items to keep us fueled during our travels. After stocking up, we headed to our home for the next few days, the La Cabana Beach Resort & Casino. The resort is located right by the famous Eagle Beach, offering beautiful ocean views and easy beach access.

After checking in, we wasted no time hitting the sand. Eagle Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches on the island—soft white sand, clear blue water, and plenty of space to lounge. It was the perfect way to unwind after our flight.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to an amazing meal at Las Ramblas. Honestly, this was the best food we had the entire trip. The flavors were incredible, the ambiance was perfect, and it was the perfect way to end our first day in Aruba.

Day 2: Flamingos, Hammocks, and Beachside Bliss

We spent Day 2 at Renaissance Island, known for its private Flamingo Beach and stunning luxury resort, Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort.

The famous flamingos greeted us immediately, and we had a blast feeding them while snapping photos.

The island offers so much to do beyond the flamingos. We spent time lounging in hammocks, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves, and relaxing beachside.

The highlight of the day was a spa experience I’ll never forget. We booked massages right over the ocean—there’s something so special about hearing the waves crash against the shore while getting a massage. Pure bliss!

lunch was served right to our chairs on the beach. The food was fantastic, and it was the perfect way to enjoy a lazy afternoon by the water.

Later, we took a trip to San Nicolas, a charming town known for its colorful street art. Walking around the area, we were amazed by the murals and vibrant atmosphere.

We spent the late afternoon at Baby Beach, which was a tranquil paradise.

Back at our resort, we had dinner at Passions on the Beach, just across the street from La Cabana. Dining with our toes in the sand and watching the sun dip below the horizon was the perfect way to end the day. The food was fantastic, and the sunset views made it an unforgettable experience.

Day 3: Adventure and Exploration

On Day 3, we got up early to beat the crowds and make our way to Tres Trapi. We brought our own snorkel gear and picked up a couple of noodles from a local shop to help us float. Once we were in the water, we spotted a sea turtle just past the rope—such an incredible sight!

Next, we headed over to the California Lighthouse, where we enjoyed panoramic views of the island.

Afterward, we visited Casibari Rock Formation, a series of massive rocks that you can climb for even more spectacular views.

We also made sure to jump in the Cave Pool nearby—a refreshing dip after a hike.

From there, we explored the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, remnants of the island’s gold mining history, before heading to the Natural Bridge—a stunning rock formation carved by the sea.

By afternoon, we were back at Eagle Beach, where we visited the famous Divi and Fofoti Trees. These iconic trees stand tall against the backdrop of the beach and are perfect for photos.

We wrapped up the day with a sunset sail with Red Sail Aruba from Palm Beach. The sail was relaxing, with appetizers and an open bar, making for an unforgettable experience as we watched the sun set over the horizon.

For dinner, we stopped at Pelican Nest before heading back to our resort. The food was excellent, and the relaxed atmosphere made it the perfect end to our adventurous day.

Day 4: A Dutch Breakfast and Goodbye

Our final morning in Aruba began with a delicious Dutch breakfast, a mix of savory and sweet treats. It was the perfect way to start the day before we headed back to the airport.

As we boarded the plane, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for all the memories we made. Aruba exceeded all our expectations with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.

If you’re planning a trip to Aruba, I highly recommend renting a car to explore the island at your own pace. Whether you’re lounging on the beach, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in local cuisine, Aruba is an island that offers something for everyone.

Until next time, Aruba! You were truly paradise.