Aruba in September – One Happy Island

I am already regretting starting this series of posts. As I look out of my window and see the pouring rain my urge to wander is getting stronger.

This week I’m covering Aruba; a beautiful island just off the Venezuela coast.

I’ve been to Aruba twice in September which seems to be a great time to go. Not just because of the weather – which is fantastic all year round  (it has a practically constant temperatures of 82 degrees) but because it’s slightly quieter since the college kids (who love to party in Aruba) are back at school.

Aruba forms part of the Lesser Antilles. It’s approximately 19 miles long by 9 miles wide so it’s quite a small island but don’t let that put you off. It’s so diverse and caters for a variety of tastes – whether you’re a party animal or enjoy a quiet beach holiday. 

Where to stay

My favorite resort in Aruba is The Tamarijn which is an all inclusive on Druif Beach. This resort is divine. Beach front rooms, nine restaurants, seven bars and in perfect position for exploring the island. The Tamarijn has a sister hotel just up the road called the Divi (after the tree) which can also be used as part of the package. The Divi is more expensive but in my opinion The Tam is much better value as you have the beach front rooms and access to Ginger and Paparazzi – two of the best restaurants on the island!

If you want a bit more of a party atmosphere then head further up the island where you will find the Marriott, Hyatt and Holiday Inn surrounded by lots of bars and chain restaurants (hooters, tgi’s etc). This area is frequented more by American clients where Druif Beach tends to have more European guests.

Oranjestad
Oranjestad is the historical Dutch capital city where the tall multicoloured houses of Wilheminastraat stand amongst designer stores that would make any shopaholic drool. Stores such as Gucci, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Mango and Ralph Lauren all offering tax free shopping. It’s no wonder its a must stop destination for the cruise ships.

DePalm Island

I was a little skeptical of going here. However, I am so pleased I went. We had the most amazing time – the snorkelling is to die for as there are literally hundreds of parrot fish flocking around the Island.  We also did the sea trek tour which involved donning a diving suit and walking across the sea bed – a bit strange but a must if you love snorkelling or diving.  It was also an all inclusive island so we didn’t have to worry about taking cash with us.

{parrot fish}

{pics from the sea trek}

The Paddock 
This is a great outdoor cafe/bar/restaurant in downtown Oranjestad. I don’t know what it was about this place but I loved it. A real quirky spot, ideal for a cool beer after a hard morning shopping. Prices are reasonable with meals from $10 and a bottle of beer around $3

California Lighthouse
The California Lighthouse is located near Arashi Beach on the northwest tip of Aruba. This lighthouse was named after the steamship California, which wrecked nearby on September 23, 1891 – Wikipedia

 

Baby Beach
This beach is fantastic…especially if you’ve got children as the waters are warm and still. It’s on the south eastern end of the island and is dotted with Divi trees.

Shipwrecks

There are LOADS of shipwrecks along the coast of Aruba. Check here for a list.

{pic of the Antilla shipwreck taken whilst on a trip with Aruba Helitour}

{pic of Malmok Beach wreck}

More Pics…

There are plenty of other things to do in Aruba such as a visit to the North part of the island, natural bridge, baby bridge and there is SO much that I’ve left out of this post.

I could go on but I thought instead I’d try something a little different. If you have a question about Aruba please leave it below and I’ll answer…that way we can get a conversation going. Likewise, if you’ve been to Aruba or you live there – tell me where your favourite place to go is etc

Click HERE to view an article I wrote for Buzz magazine on Aruba.