How big is Aruba
How big is Aruba
Are you curious about the dimensions of this sunny island paradise and what you can discover there?
A small island with a big heart
Aruba is a compact island in the Caribbean Sea that belongs to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. With an area of about 180 square kilometers and a length of 32 kilometers, the island is ideal to explore in a few days. Despite its modest size, you’ll find a surprising diversity here: from the iconic beaches like Eagle Beach and Palm Beach to the rugged landscape of Arikok National Park.
The island is located near the Venezuelan state of Falcón and is part of the Lesser Antilles. The capital city of Oranjestad and charming San Nicolas offer cultural highlights, while at Baby Beach and Arashi Beach you can enjoy crystal clear waters. The tropical climate ensures pleasant weather all year round, which makes Aruba a perfect destination.
At Blue Bird Tours & Travel, we help you discover every corner of this island. Whether you’re interested in the flora and fauna of Arikok National Park, want to visit the California Lighthouse, or want to relax on Manchebo Beach, we’ll arrange authentic experiences that will bring you closer to the local culture. Aruba is not called One Happy Island for nothing.
Aruba’s geographical position in the Caribbean
Aruba’s place among the islands
Aruba belongs to the Leeward Islands and is located just 25 kilometers from the Paraguaná Peninsula in Venezuela. The island is not part of the Greater Antilles, but together with Bonaire and Curaçao forms the ABC islands. The geographical coordinates place Aruba outside the hurricane belt, which guarantees stable weather all year round. Unlike Sint Maarten or Sint Eustatius, Aruba is therefore protected against tropical storms. This unique position in the Atlantic Ocean makes the island particularly attractive to travelers looking for reliably good weather.
Historical discovery and colonial legacy
Aruba’s European history begins in 1499 when Alonso de Ojeda, accompanied by Amerigo Vespucci and Juan de la Cosa, discovered the island. Although Christopher Columbus himself never set foot on Aruba, these explorers followed shortly after his first voyages. The island was under Spanish control for centuries before it was conquered by the Dutch in 1636. This history explains why Aruba is now part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, even though it is a ten-hour flight from Amsterdam. The influence of the Spanish King is still visible in place names and architecture.
From the Netherlands Antilles to an autonomous country
Until 1986, Aruba was part of the Netherlands Antilles, a federation that also included Bonaire, Curaçao, Sint Maarten, Saba and Sint Eustatius. Since that date, Aruba has acquired a separate status as an autonomous country within the Kingdom. This development distinguishes the island from other Caribbean territories such as the Dominican Republic that are completely independent. The local currency is the Aruban Florin, also known as Aruban Guilder , although the US dollar is widely accepted. At Blue Bird Tours & Travel, we help you understand how this unique political position affects your trip in practice.
Accessibility and international connections
The island is easily accessible via Reina Beatrix International Airport, also known as Queen Beatrix International Airport. Direct flights from the Netherlands are offered by TUI fly and other airlines, making it easy to reach this paradise. Many visitors have American citizenship given its proximity to the United States. Aruba’s compact size means that you can be at almost any point of the island within half an hour from the airport. For car rentals, services like Sunny Cars are available, while platforms like Get Your Guide will help you organize excursions.
Accommodation for every traveller
Whether you choose the luxurious Renaissance Hotel in Oranjestad, the charming Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort on Eagle Beach, or the all-inclusive RIU Palace Aruba with its Ultra All Inclusive formula, the island offers accommodations for every budget. The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba is known for its personal service, while Blue Bird Tours & Travel works together with Caribbean Travel Designers to perfectly tailor your stay to your wishes. This combination of choices guarantees carefree enjoyment during your entire stay on One Happy Island.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What are the best beaches for snorkeling in Aruba?
For snorkeling, we recommend Baby Beach with its calm, shallow waters, ideal for beginners. Arashi Beach at the California Lighthouse offers excellent visibility and colorful fish. Tres Trapi Beach is a hidden gem for advanced snorkelers who want to enjoy the bright blue sea without crowds. Manchebo Beach and Druif Beach are also suitable for snorkeling trips. Blue Bird Tours & Travel can arrange a Catamaran Snorkel Tour for you with open bar and professional guidance to the best spots.
What culinary specialties should I taste during my visit?
The Caribbean atmosphere in Aruba comes alive in the local cuisine. Be sure to try Coconut shrimp, a classic dish found at MooMba Beach Bar and Café Rembrandt. Papiamento rum is the perfect end to a meal, made according to traditional recipes. Visit Vela Aruba for modern Caribbean fusion or enjoy fresh seafood at a beach club. The combination of Dutch, Latin American and Caribbean influences makes the food culture unique and flavorful for every budget.
Where can I admire the best rock formations on the island?
The Ayo rock formations are impressive diorite rocks with ancient petroglyphs, accessible via a short walk. The Casibari rock formations offer spectacular panoramic views after climbing the steps between the rocks. Both locations are centrally located on the island and show the unique geology of Aruba. These natural monuments can be perfectly combined with a visit to Arikok National Park where you will learn more about the flora and fauna. Aruba Outdoor Adventures organizes specialized tours to these special places.
What about the currency and payment options in Aruba?
The official currency is the Aruban Florin (AWG), also known as the Aruban Guilder , but US dollars are accepted everywhere. Many hotels like the Renaissance Hotel and Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort charge in dollars for convenience of tourists. Credit cards are widely accepted at restaurants, shops and services such as Sunny Cars. ATMs are available at Reina Beatrix International Airport and in Oranjestad. Blue Bird Tours & Travel accepts various payment methods for carefree enjoyment during your booking.
What makes the beaches of Aruba so special compared to other Caribbean islands?
Aruba is known for its snow-white beaches with powdery sand that stays pleasantly cool even in bright sunshine. Eagle Beach is regularly voted one of the world’s best beaches, while Palm Beach is livelier with water sports and beach club activities. Hadicurari Beach attracts windsurfers because of the perfect wind. The protected location outside the hurricane belt guarantees reliably good weather. The tropical climate ensures constant temperatures around 28°C, ideal for beach lovers who choose One Happy Island.
What are some accommodations with all-inclusive options in Aruba?
The RIU Palace Aruba is a top choice with an Ultra All Inclusive formula that includes all meals, premium drinks and activities. Other resorts along Palm Beach offer similar packages for those who want to enjoy completely worry-free. The Boardwalk Boutique Hotel Aruba , on the other hand, focuses on a boutique experience without an all-inclusive, but with personalized service near Eagle Beach. Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort combines Dutch hospitality with Caribbean atmosphere. Blue Bird Tours & Travel works together with Caribbean Travel Designers to find the perfect accommodation for your travel profile.
How long does a direct flight from Netherlands to Aruba take?
A direct flight from Amsterdam to Reina Beatrix International Airport takes about ten hours of flight. Airlines such as TUI fly offer regular connections, especially during the peak season from December to April. The time difference is five hours in summer and six hours in winter. Upon arrival at Queen Beatrix International Airport , you can reach most accommodations within 30 minutes. Because of the direct flight, Aruba is easily accessible for Dutch people, easier than islands such as Sint Maarten or Sint Eustatius that often require transfers.
What are the differences between the northern and southern beaches?
The north coast with Arashi Beach and Hadicurari Beach has more waves and attracts surfers and kiteboarders thanks to the stronger winds. The south coast offers sheltered coves such as Baby Beach with calm, crystal clear waters ideal for families. Manchebo Beach and Druif Beach are on the quieter west coast with less development. Divi Beach combines accessibility with natural beauty. The east at Punto Brabo is rugged with dramatic cliffs. Blue Bird Tours & Travel helps you choose which coast suits your travel goals.
Your journey, just the way you want it
Whether you dream of a private snorkeling tour, a surprise trip for a special occasion or just want to be completely unburdened, we will arrange it!
Together, we’ll put together a unique experience that perfectly suits your needs. Personalized, flexible and organized to perfection.
