Every year, more than a million tourists visit Aruba to enjoy its world-famous beaches, partake in local events steeped in rich cultural heritage, and try out diverse experiences—from its vibrant nightlife and luxury resorts to tranquil nature spots and authentic local festivals. Because of the wide variety of sights to see and activities to try out in Aruba, many tourists choose to stay longer during their visit to experience as much of what the island has to offer. In fact, the Aruba Tourism Authority noted that the average length of visitor stay is around seven days, which is further proof of the island’s strong allure for its guests to extend their stay.
The growing need of tourists for more flexible accommodations that can also bring them closer to the local community led to a rise in number of locally operated Aruba vacation rentals. By booking these vacation rentals directly from local travel agencies, visitors are able to enjoy better deals compared to when using third-party websites that may charge exorbitant fees. This makes vacation rentals the more economical choice. What’s more, the local knowledge of property owners enables them to point tourists to events, activities, or even neighborhoods that can make their vacation much more enjoyable.
That said, different Aruba neighborhoods can offer different things to visitors. Hence, booking your vacation rental in the right neighborhood that suits your travel plans and goals can make your vacation much more memorable. If you’re planning a trip to Aruba and haven’t decided yet where to book your vacation rental, here are some suggestions for you to consider.
1. Palm Beach
Palm Beach is the center of Aruba’s tourist scene, offering an energetic atmosphere with world-class amenities. This strip is lined with high-rise hotels, pristine beaches, and bustling nightlife that’s perfect for travelers who love to stay in the heart of the action. Those seeking adventure can also enjoy watersports such as paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling readily available in the area.
Palm Beach is home to a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, which makes it an ideal spot for those looking to try out authentic Aruban cuisine while socializing with locals. Indeed, booking a vacation rental in a neighborhood near Palm Beach lets you gain convenient access to numerous establishments and resorts, making for an activity-packed vacation.
2. Eagle Beach
If you’re looking for a more tranquil alternative to Palm Beach, then choosing a vacation rental near Eagle Beach is the right move for you.
Eagle Beach is typically less crowded than Palm Beach, thus offering a more laid-back ambiance. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or travelers simply looking to spend a serene time during their stay in Aruba.
Enjoy a picnic with your family or friends under one of the divi-divi trees that punctuate the beach, or join an on-sand yoga class and meditate with the calming rhythm of the waves in your background. Whichever activity you choose, you can surely enjoy a relaxing stay in the area.
3. Noord
Noord provides a balance between a residential feel and tourist convenience. If you want to immerse yourself in the local community while still having easy access to tourist hotspots such as beaches, restaurants, and shopping centers, then booking a vacation rental in Noord ensures that you get to experience the best of both worlds.
One of the premier locations you can find at Noord is the California Lighthouse, where you can take in a scenic view of Aruba’s stunning coastline. Noord also has a large selection of restaurants offering both traditional Aruban dishes and international flavors.
This makes the neighborhood a perfect spot for those looking to go restaurant hopping, as different restaurants offering diverse cuisines can all be found within good proximity of one another. If you booked your vacation rental with a local provider, consider asking them for recommendations as well to help you find some hidden beaches or hiking trails in the area.
4. Oranjestad
As Aruba’s capital city, Oranjestad offers a combination of historical charm with modern conveniences. In the area, you’ll find colorful Dutch colonial-style mansions, museums such as the National Archaeological Museum Aruba, and a variety of shops and dining options. Touring Oranjestad’s other unique attractions such as the Wilhelmina Park and the Renaissance Marketplace is also a must for culture buffs or those curious to learn more about Aruba’s history.
The city is also the commercial heart of the island, meaning you can get access to both luxury shopping and local markets in the area. Booking a vacation rental in this neighborhood will allow you to enjoy a blend of the island’s history and contemporary lifestyle during your stay.
5. San Nicolas
San Nicolas—also known as Sunrise City—is Aruba’s cultural hub. Therefore, it’s an excellent neighborhood to book a vacation rental in if you want to witness the island’s thriving art scene or participate in local festivals.
The area is famous for its artistic flair, with colorful murals lining the streets. San Nicolas also holds a monthly event called Island Fest Aruba where visitors and locals alike can enjoy music shows headlined by local artists and bands, food stalls that offer an extensive selection of Aruba specialties, and local artisans showcasing their arts and crafts.
Additionally, just a short drive away lies Seroe Colorado, a serene area known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Seroe Colorado is also home to Baby Beach, one of Aruba’s most iconic spots, offering shallow, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
If you’re an art lover, a music buff, or simply want a place where you can feel a deep sense of community and culture, then consider booking your vacation rental right in San Nicolas. And for those seeking tranquility and stunning natural beauty, a visit to Seroe Colorado will round out your Aruba experience.
Choosing the right neighborhood in Aruba for your vacation rental can greatly enhance your travel experience. Thus, don’t forget to do your research first to see which spot suits your travel goals the best. Better yet, consider booking through a local agency. Not only will you be supporting the local economy further, but you also gain access to valuable insights such as hidden gems and must-visit spots, thus giving you a true taste of Aruba’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
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