The island of Aruba , the “One Happy Island,” is a paradise known for its award-winning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and year-round sunshine.
Aruba’s location south of the Caribbean (only 15 miles north of Venezuela coastline). This terrific location makes Aruba less likely to be effected by hurricane season. Aruba island is only 20 miles long but offers some of the best beaches in the world. TripAdvisor ranked Aruba’s Eagle Beach as the No. 1 beach in the Caribbean and No.3 in the world in 2025. After visiting several other Caribbean islands, I too agree that this ranking is well deserved!
I visited the island Aruba with my family for this first time back in 2012 and it still remains one of my favorite places in the Caribbean to visit today. In this first visit, our son’s were 12 and 10 years old and we found that this island provided a little be of everything for everyone.
We had the best time on Palm and Eagle beach, enjoyed a full island guided tour, did some horseback riding and explored the northern part of the island that includes its natural pool. In subsequent visits we took a snorkeling tour and enjoyed Aruba’s beautiful warm waters!
If you love This 4-day Aruba itinerary is a perfect blending of relaxation and adventure.
Day 1: Relax on Palm Beach or Eagle Beach
Start your Aruba Island getaway by soaking in the beauty of Palm Beach or Eagle Beach, one of the island’s most famous spots. Known for its soft white sand and calm turquoise waters, Palm Beach has been recognized by organizations like TripAdvisor for its pristine beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. We have been to many beautiful beaches and Aruba’s beach will always be in our top 5!
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Morning at Palm Beach | Lounge under a palapa or rent a beach chair. Take a dip in the calm waters or try paddleboarding. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch by the Beach | Enjoy fresh seafood at The Pelican’s Nest, a beachfront restaurant offering stunning ocean views and dishes like grilled mahi-mahi. |
| 2:00 PM | Afternoon Relaxation | Continue relaxing at Palm Beach or stroll along the water to explore nearby shops and cafes. |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner on Palm Beach | End the day with a sunset dinner at Atardi, known for its romantic beachfront setting and delicious seafood. |
Day 2: Explore Aruba’s Hidden Gems
Discover Aruba beyond the beaches with a full island tour. From rugged coastlines to charming towns, this day offers a glimpse into the island’s diverse landscapes.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Island Tour Begins | Join a guided tour to explore highlights like the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, and the Casibari Rock Formations. |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch in San Nicolas | Stop in San Nicolas for a local lunch at Zeerovers, a casual eatery serving fresh fish straight from the sea. |
| 1:30 PM | Natural Wonders | Visit iconic spots like Baby Beach, Arikok National Park, and the rugged Natural Bridge ruins. |
| 4:30 PM | Relax on the Beach | Return to Palm Beach or Eagle Beach for some late-afternoon sun and a refreshing swim. |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner by the Water | Enjoy dinner at Barefoot Restaurant, where you can dine with your toes in the sand and savor Caribbean flavors. |
Day 3: Jeep Adventure and Natural Pools
Day 3 of your Aruba Itinerary is all about adventure! Explore Aruba’s rugged terrain with a thrilling jeep tour and visit the island’s famous natural pools.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Jeep Adventure Begins | Embark on a guided jeep tour through Arikok National Park. Traverse rocky trails and learn about Aruba’s unique geology. |
| 10:00 AM | Swim in the Natural Pools | Cool off in Aruba’s natural pools, known for their crystal-clear water and dramatic surroundings. |
| 12:30 PM | Picnic Lunch | Enjoy a packed lunch provided by the tour company or stop at a local spot for a quick bite. |
| 2:00 PM | Afternoon Market Shopping | Head to Oranjestad’s local market to shop for souvenirs, crafts, and Aruban aloe products. |
| 6:30 PM | Dinner in Oranjestad | End the day with dinner at Yemanja Woodfired Grill, famous for its flavorful dishes and relaxed atmosphere. |
Day 4: Snorkeling and Final Beach Bliss
Wrap up your trip with a snorkeling tour and one last beach day. Aruba’s clear waters and abundant marine life make for an unforgettable experience.
| Time | Activity | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Snorkeling Tour | Join a catamaran or boat tour to snorkel at popular spots like the Antilla Shipwreck and Boca Catalina. Equipment and refreshments are typically included. |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch on the Boat or Beach | Enjoy lunch as part of your tour or head back to shore for a casual meal at a beachfront café. |
| 2:00 PM | Beach Time | Spend your last afternoon relaxing at Eagle Beach, named one of the best beaches in the world by Conde Nast Traveler. |
| 6:30 PM | Farewell Dinner | Celebrate your final evening at Papiamento Restaurant, set in a beautiful garden with a mix of Caribbean and European cuisine. |
Conclusion
Aruba is not only stunning but also one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean, making it ideal for all travelers. With its award-winning beaches, rich culture, and endless activities, your 4-day escape will leave you refreshed and inspired. Ready to pack your bags? Aruba awaits!
Other unforgettable cities to consider for a 3-4 day vacation!
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Barcelona, Paris, Lisbon, Amsterdam
