Aruba, a Dutch Caribbean island, is known for its white sand beaches, constant sunshine, and dry, desert-like landscape. Nicknamed “One Happy Island,” it has a laid-back atmosphere and a well-developed tourism industry that attracts travelers looking for relaxation and adventure. Keep reading to find out about the best areas to stay in Aruba.
Aruba’s history is shaped by Indigenous Arawak communities, European colonial rule, and a thriving trade economy. The capital, Oranjestad, still reflects its Dutch heritage through colorful architecture and preserved historic sites. Tourism is the island’s main industry, with many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals available for every kind of traveler.
Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital, is the best area to stay for its mix of convenience, culture, and entertainment. The city’s waterfront location offers easy access to beaches, shopping districts, and dining options. With many hotels ranging from luxury resorts to budget-friendly accommodations, it’s an excellent base for experiencing Aruba’s history, nightlife, and outdoor activities all in one place.
Beyond its beaches, Aruba offers plenty to explore. Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of the island and features rugged landscapes, caves, and natural pools. The California Lighthouse provides panoramic views, while the Alto Vista Chapel sits on a scenic hillside. The Natural Bridge, a collapsed limestone formation, remains a popular stop for visitors.
The island has a relaxed but lively atmosphere, with a mix of beach resorts, casinos, and outdoor activities. It enjoys a warm and sunny climate year-round, with an average temperature of 82°F (28°C) and little rainfall. The Queen Beatrix International Airport offers daily flights to other Caribbean islands, the United States, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, and Europe. Meanwhile, the ports of Barcadera and Playa receive thousands of cruise ships annually from around the world. For getting around, Aruba has a public bus system that covers most of the island, but renting a car is recommended for better access to beaches and attractions. You can find a cheap rental car here.
Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay on the island of Aruba, from beachside resorts to quieter local neighborhoods.
What are the best areas to stay in Aruba?
The best area to stay in Aruba is Oranjestad. The capital of this Caribbean island has most of the budget accommodations and offers shopping, nightlife, and an exciting urban atmosphere. Find accommodation in Oranjestad. On the other hand, Palm Beach offers the quintessential Caribbean experience with resorts and shopping centers. Find accommodation in Palm Beach.
Other areas to consider when deciding where to stay in Aruba are Noord and Savaneta.
1. Oranjestad
The most recommended area to stay on the island of Aruba
With access to nearby beaches, entertainment, modern infrastructure, and high-end accommodations, Oranjestad is the best area to stay in Aruba.
Oranjestad, which translates to “Orange City,” is located on the southern coast of Aruba. As the capital and commercial hub of the island, it is the most vibrant area, offering a mix of historical landmarks, shopping, and entertainment.
The city’s Dutch colonial architecture, painted in bright pastel colors, creates a distinctive atmosphere. Visitors can explore historical sites like the Green Stadhuis (City Hall), the Ecury family home—now the Archaeological Museum—and Fort Zoutman, the island’s oldest monument, which once served as a lighthouse and public clock. The Cas di Cultura, Aruba’s National Theater, annually hosts performances and cultural events.
Oranjestad is the epicenter of commerce in Aruba, with international luxury brands and modern boutiques. The Royal Plaza Mall and Renaissance Marketplace feature a mix of high-end shopping, restaurants, and bars. For nightlife fans, the area around these shopping centers comes alive in the evenings with bars and live music venues. The city also hosts colorful events like the Aruba Carnival, filling the streets with a festive atmosphere for weeks.
The area is home to many of the island’s most prestigious and luxurious hotels and mid-range and budget-friendly accommodations. The city’s tram system makes exploring easy, and its proximity to Queen Beatrix International Airport (located a 5-minute drive away) adds convenience.
Getting around Oranjestad is straightforward, with multiple transportation options available. The city’s free tram system runs through downtown, making stops at key shopping and historical sites. Public buses operated by Arubus connect Oranjestad with other parts of the island, including popular beaches and residential areas. Taxis are widely available, though they operate on fixed rates rather than meters. For more flexibility, renting a car or scooter is a good option, especially for visiting attractions outside the city. Biking is another convenient way to explore, with dedicated paths in some areas.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Oranjestad
Wonders Boutique Hotel
This adults-only hotel features an outdoor pool fed by a natural spring and is about one mile from central Oranjestad. It offers free high-speed internet access and a free daily beach shuttle.
2. Palm Beach & Eagle Beach
Best locations in Aruba for a luxury vacation
Offering stunning beaches, entertainment, shops and restaurants, Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are some of the best areas to stay on the island of Aruba.
Palm Beach and Eagle Beach make up the most popular tourist area in Aruba. Just 3.7 miles (6 km) north of Oranjestad, this stretch of coastline is ideal for beachgoers looking to relax in the sun.
Eagle Beach is known for its soft white sand and calm waters, making it a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing. It also has courts for beach tennis, volleyball, and even skydiving for those looking for an adrenaline rush. Palm Beach, on the other hand, offers a more laid-back vibe with luxury spas, shaded cabanas, high-end cafés, casinos, and bars.
The area is also home to Palm Beach Plaza Mall, the largest shopping center on the island, and the Blue Parrotfish Water Park, which features six water slides and other family-friendly attractions. The nightlife here is more upscale than in Oranjestad, with well-known nightclubs and bars serving cocktails with ocean views.
Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are linked by L.G. Smith Boulevard, with public transportation making it easy to get around.
Palm Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Aruba for a romantic honeymoon. It offers a variety of luxurious beachfront resorts designed for couples. Many properties provide direct beach access, infinity pools, and private cabanas, perfect for unwinding together. High-end resorts feature full-service spas, fine-dining restaurants, and exclusive honeymoon packages with private excursions and candlelit dinners by the sea.
Our hand-picked accommodations in Palm Beach, Aruba
The Mill Resort and Suites
The Mill Resort and Suites has a garden, a private beach area, a terrace, and a restaurant in Eagle Beach. With a bar, the 3-star hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, karaoke, and room service.
3. Noord
An excellent location to stay in Aruba
Noord is one of the best areas to stay in Aruba for travelers who want a mix of convenience, beaches, and entertainment.
As its name implies, Noord covers is on the island’s northernmost region. This district is home to some of Aruba’s most well-known landmarks, including the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, and the rocky shores of the northwest coast.
Noord is also close to some of Aruba’s top beaches, including Malmok Beach and Arashi Beach, both known for their clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The nearby Boca Catalina is a small, secluded beach perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Unlike Oranjestad and Palm Beach, Noord has a quieter, more residential feel. Its mix of private villas, boutique hotels, and larger resorts makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a peaceful stay while still being within a short drive of restaurants, bars, and shopping centers.
For golfers, the Tierra del Sol Golf Course offers an 18-hole championship course with stunning ocean views. Adventure seekers can explore the rugged coastline by off-road vehicle or take a guided tour of the sand dunes and rocky formations.
Getting around Noord is easy, with rental cars being the most convenient option for exploring the beaches, landmarks, and nearby attractions. Public buses operate regularly along the main roads, providing connections to Oranjestad.
4. Savaneta
The best area to stay in Aruba for a quiet holiday
Savaneta is one of the best areas to stay in Aruba for those seeking a stay away from the crowds.
Savaneta, located at the southern tip of Aruba near Oranjestad, is the island’s oldest town and was once its capital. It holds well-preserved traditional Aruban houses called “cas di Torto.” The area maintains a quiet, local feel, making it ideal for travelers seeking a more secluded and authentic experience.
Unlike the resort-heavy areas of Palm Beach and Oranjestad, Savaneta offers small boutique hotels, oceanfront bungalows, and locally owned guesthouses that provide a more intimate and relaxed setting. Many accommodations are on the water, offering stunning sunset views and direct beach access.
Savaneta’s coastline features calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Mangel Halto, the main beach in the area, is known for its coral reefs, mangroves, and crystal-clear waters. The Roly Bislick Olympic Pool complex is just a short distance away and includes pools, a spa, and entertainment facilities.
Savaneta is also one of the best places to enjoy traditional Aruban seafood. As a fishing hub, the town has restaurants serving fresh lobster, octopus, and other seafood dishes, often paired with local cocktails along its dock. Many of these places offer beachfront dining, making for a peaceful and scenic meal by the water.
Getting around Savaneta is simple, with frequent buses connecting the area to the rest of the island. Taxis are available, and renting a car is an option for those who want to explore more freely, especially since the area has little traffic.
5. Santa Cruz
The best area to stay in Aruba for nature lovers
Home to Arikok National Park, Santa Cruz is ideal for travelers looking to experience Aruba’s wilder side.
Santa Cruz, located in the central part of Aruba, is the best area to stay for nature lovers. This region is home to Arikok National Park, which covers nearly 20% of the island and features rugged landscapes, caves, hiking trails, and breathtaking coastal views. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering routes that pass through volcanic rock formations, natural pools, and historical cave paintings left by the island’s Indigenous inhabitants.
Santa Cruz provides easy access to some of Aruba’s most unspoiled beaches, including Boca Prins and Dos Playa, which are known for their dramatic cliffs and strong waves. While these beaches are not ideal for swimming due to strong currents, they are perfect for photography, picnicking, and enjoying the island’s untouched natural beauty.
Accommodations in Santa Cruz are more low-key compared to the resort-heavy areas on the coast. The area is known for eco-lodges, guesthouses, and small vacation rentals that emphasize a connection with nature. Many of these stays are surrounded by lush landscapes, offering a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist districts.
Getting around Santa Cruz typically requires a rental car, as public transportation is limited. The area’s rural setting means that having a vehicle is the best way to explore Arikok National Park, nearby beaches, and the surrounding countryside.
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