Explore Aruba in a Day: Your Ultimate Road Trip Guide
Aruba is beautiful but small: at just 32km (20 miles) long and 10km (6 miles) across its widest point, a road trip around the island is probably the furthest thing from your mind when planning your trip. However, with an eclectic mix of stunning beaches and unique desert terrain, driving around this Dutch Caribbean destination will certainly impress. Therefore, renting a jeep, packing your swimsuit and sunscreen, and exploring the island on your own terms in just one day is highly recommended.
Around the Island Road Trip
Start and End in the Highrise Hotel Zone
While driving the entire island would take you less than an hour, consider taking your time to spend the day exploring. Begin your trek near large chain hotels like the Hilton, Hyatt, or Marriott. With the east side of the island mostly composed of the Arikok National Park, the focus here is on the western side.
Aruba’s main roadways are all paved, safe, and fairly flat. Driving can be a bit tricky at times due to the island’s plentiful roundabouts. Keep in mind that cars already driving through the roundabout have the right of way. There are plenty of gas stations, markets, and eateries along this route, and note that Aruba’s gas station pumps are full-service: you’ll be asked to pay first, and an attendant will pump your gas for you.
Stop 1: Grab a Beachside Breakfast on Eagle Beach
To enjoy a tranquil beach experience, take the less than 10-minute drive to Eagle Beach via J.E. Irausquin Blvd. Eagle Beach is home to the island’s famed Divi trees and is celebrated as one of the prettiest beaches on the island. While dining options may be limited along this beachfront strip, you can enjoy a beachside meal at Passions on the Beach, located at the Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Take a few hours to soak in the sounds of the waves crashing on the bright white sands, but remember to bring your own beach towel or chairs, as chairs along this stretch are typically reserved for hotel guests.
Stop 2: Take a Photo in Front of the “I Love Aruba” Sign
Remain on J.E. Irausquin Blvd, head southwest, then merge onto Loyd G. Smith Blvd to reach the iconic “I Love Aruba” sign. This simple yet eye-catching red and white sign is a must-see for visitors. It’s especially popular among those arriving on cruise ships, so be prepared for some company. Parking can be scarce, so planning ahead is advisable.
Stop 3: Get Some Retail Therapy at the Local Flea Market and Shops
Just a short distance from the sign, you’ll discover several shopping opportunities. Start at The Local Market Aruba, conveniently located across from the cruise terminal in front of the Valero Blvd gas station. Vendors here sell everything from t-shirts and tote bags to local spices. For more substantial shopping, the Royal Plaza Mall is only a five-minute walk away. The pastel-hued buildings of this multi-level mall highlight the island’s original Dutch architecture and offer everything from luxury brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Rolex to unique local souvenir shops.
Stop 4: Grab a Local-Style Lunch at Zeerovers
If all that shopping has you dreaming about lunch, hop on Rte 1 for a 20-minute drive south to the beloved local eatery, Zeerovers. This no-frills dockside restaurant serves a small assortment of fresh shrimp, fish, fries, and beer. Each morning, local fishermen head out to see what they’ll catch for the day. Their haul is cleaned on-site and then fried, with prices based on weight—definitely a flavorful and filling experience.
Stop 5: Get Cultured in San Nicolas
Continue south to your final stop of the day: the San Nicolas neighborhood. Park at the nearest paid lot, and prepare to walk around for a couple of hours. San Nicolas is the island’s most vibrant area, with over 54 murals decorating its walls and buildings.
Local tour operators, including historian Leon Kratos, have worked hard to maintain the authenticity of this area, once nicknamed “Chocolate City” due to its historical ties to workers from nearby islands such as Jamaica and Grenada during the era of the Standard Oil Refinery. Walking tours provide insights into the area’s colorful past, allowing visitors to appreciate its rich history.
After a long day of sightseeing, it should take no more than a 35-minute drive back to your hotel. Just hop on Rte 1 and Lloyd G. Smith Blvd for a reversal of your original route.
