11 Romantic Things To Do in Aruba
Nothing says romance quite like the epic sunsets and pristine, isolated beaches of Aruba. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary trip, or couples getaway to this exquisite Caribbean island, you won’t have to look far for romantic things to do in Aruba.
One of the ABC islands in the Leeward Antilles, Aruba is an independent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
With its small size and easily navigable shores, this beautiful, compact island is a charming and intimate destination for romantic travel. Here you’ll find romantic resorts and serene beaches, along with a vibrant island culture and fun-filled nightlife.
Is Aruba Good for Couples?
A prime location for destination weddings and honeymoons, Aruba is well known as a hotspot for couples. With luxurious adults-only resorts, breathtaking natural beauty, and romantic waterfront restaurants, this beautiful island is the perfect destination for couples looking to dial up the romance.
11 Romantic Things to Do in Aruba
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, destination wedding, or couples getaway in Aruba, you’ll find plenty of romance on the menu. Check out our top recommendations below!
1. Reconnect & Relax at a Romantic Resort
When it comes to romantic travel, it’s important to choose accommodations that set the atmosphere and meet your needs.
Luckily, Aruba offers some of the world’s most luxurious and romantic resorts. These upscale, adults-only resorts cater to couples and newlyweds with pristine private beaches, delicious fine dining, and unbeatable service.
For an unforgettable, honeymoon-worthy stay, try Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort or Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba. At Bucuti & Tara, you’ll enjoy breathtaking grounds and luxurious guest rooms, along with a resort-wide focus on romance, serenity, and wellness. Meanwhile, Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba features private beaches in the heart of bustling Oranjestad. Book your stay at the adults-only Renaissance Marina Hotel for the perfect mix of exciting nightlife and relaxation.
2. Romantic Restaurants
There’s nothing quite like an upscale meal to set a romantic mood. In Aruba, you’ll have your pick of incredible restaurants offering everything from ocean views to candlelit elegance.
At Madame Janette, you’ll dine al fresco in a beautiful garden and enjoy traditional European dishes with a touch of Caribbean flair. If ocean views are a must-have, Flying Fishbone is a surefire hit! You’ll eat with your toes in the sand as you enjoy the ocean breeze. Finally, classic date-night restaurant Elements Aruba is an adults-only, oceanfront oasis complete with private romantic dining.
What is Aruba Best Known For?
Aruba has plenty to offer, but the island is best known for its magnificent white sand beaches, colorful Dutch colonial architecture, and picture-perfect weather. If you want to escape the crowds of the more popular all-inclusive locations throughout the Caribbean, Aruba also tends to be the less crowded option. Just keep in mind that most of the resorts come at a premium.
Aruba’s idyllic weather is fairly consistent year-round, making it a fantastic choice any time you travel. The island enjoys averages in the 80s during most months, but you’ll find the coolest temps (mid-70s) in January, and the hottest temps (low 90s) in September.
3. Explore Oranjestad
When you think of Aruba, chances are you picture the colorful, Dutch colonial architecture of vibrant Oranjestad. This bustling town offers a unique, upbeat energy and is jam-packed with exciting nightlife, casinos, cafes, restaurants, and shopping.
To get a sense of Aruban culture, be sure to explore the charming streets of Oranjestad. Discover the island’s rich history on a guided walking tour or just take it at your own pace. To beat the crowds, plan your visit for a day when cruise ships aren’t in port.
How Many Days Do You Need To Enjoy Aruba?
For a relaxing stay, plan for at least 5-7 days in Aruba. If hitting the beach is your main priority, five days will allow three full days to soak up the sun. However, there’s more to Aruba than the beaches alone! If you’re interested in exploring the island and its rich island culture, consider an extended stay of at least a week.
Aruba is also conveniently located outside of the hurricane belt, limiting the potential for problematic storms. The island experiences its rainy season in November, with short, sporadic rainfall. If you travel to Aruba during this month, you may see some rain showers. However, compared to many of its Caribbean neighbors, Aruba is still relatively dry even during its rainiest month.
4. Arikok National Park
Aruba may be known for its white sand beaches, but the beauty of this stunning island goes far beyond its shores. Adventurous couples are sure to enjoy the allure of Arikok National Park, where you’ll find hiking trails, wildlife, tidal pools, caves, and more.
To optimize your time, book a Jeep safari tour, UTV excursion, or see the park on horseback. You’ll enjoy a fun-filled day of cave swimming, snorkeling, and experience Aruba’s lesser-known desert landscape.
5. Go Dancing/Enjoy the Nightlife
Turn up the heat when you dance the night away under the bright Aruban stars! While Oranjestad is well-known for its vibrant nightlife scene, you’ll also find an array of nightclubs, dance clubs, bars, and lounges in Eagle Beach and Palm Beach.
Grab a taxi from your resort or choice, or book a nightlife tour to sample all the island has to offer. With a dedicated driver to ensure your safety, you’ll meet other party-goers and experience some of Aruba’s most exciting nightlife.
6. Sunset Sail
For an unforgettable, romantic experience, book a sunset sail on the crystalline waters of Aruba.
Enjoy cocktails, small plates, or a multi-course meal onboard as you watch the Aruban skies light up in vibrant shades of pink, orange, and yellow. Be sure to book your sail ahead of time to ensure your time slot and lock in your price.
7. Couples Massage
If your idea of romance involves a healthy dose of rest and relaxation, indulge in a day of indulgence at one of Aruba’s luxurious full-service spas.
Located at Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa on the shores of Eagle Beach, Spa Del Sol offers an array of facials, body treatments, massage, and other spa services. Book a single service for a romantic treat, or indulge in a full-on spa day. Book ahead to secure your spot!
8. Day Trip to De Palm Island
For a fun-filled day of adventure, recreation, and exciting water recreation, take a day trip to De Palm Island.
Purchase a Day Package, and you’ll enjoy all-inclusive food and adult beverages and see the island’s beautiful Chilean and Cuban flamingoes. Snorkeling gear, snorkeling tours, unlimited banana boat rides, water slides, and other daily activities are also included in the price of admission.
To up the romance, consider exciting extras like a Snuba experience or private cabana rental. Both are available at an additional cost.
9. Flamingo Beach
Aruba is famous for its beautiful flamingoes, and as such, it’s a common misperception that you can find them on virtually any Aruban beach. In reality, these elegant birds are exclusive to the aptly named Flamingo Beach.
If you’re staying at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba (mentioned above), admission to Flamingo Beach is included in your stay. If you’re staying elsewhere, you can still purchase a day pass that includes lunch, a beverage, and of course, access to the island’s beautiful flocks of flamingos.
Be aware that Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba caps day pass availability when the resort is at high capacity, so if you’re traveling during a high season and Flamingo Beach is a top priority, be sure to book your accommodations at this resort.
10. Bungaloe Beach Bar & Grill
For loads of fun and low-key vibes, Bungaloe Beach Bar & Grill is the place to be! Located on beautiful Palm Beach, this oceanfront bar and grill serves up laid-back island romance in the form of live music, a friendly atmosphere, and of course, its idyllic beachfront scenery.
Bungaloe Beach Bar & Grill is open daily and serves guests on a first-come, first-serve basis. Reservations are only available for groups of 10 or more.
11. California Lighthouse
On the northwestern shores of Aruba stands a century-old lighthouse known as the California Lighthouse.
Here you’ll enjoy romantic, sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and experience some of the island’s rich history. To get there, rent a car or take a direct bus from Oranjestad to Arashi Beach. The dramatic, panoramic views are well worth the 20-minute drive!
Ready to Book Your Romantic Aruban Adventure?
If you’re ready to book a destination wedding, honeymoon, or romantic couples’ getaway in Aruba, contact us here to get started!