Ready to dive deep into the authentic Aruba experience? Click on our “Know the island like an Aruba local” guide to start your adventure.
1. Savor the Local Cuisine
As an island, Aruba boasts an abundance of fresh seafood. Local fishermen supply restaurants with daily catches, ensuring the freshest ingredients for their dishes. Grouper, snapper, tuna, and prawns are just a few examples of the seafood available.
Chefs in Aruba use various preparation methods to highlight these fresh ingredients. Grilling, steaming, and frying are popular techniques that bring out the natural flavors of the fish. The island’s proximity to the ocean ensures that every bite is a taste of the sea.
Ocean Z’s restaurant stands out as one of the premier seafood restaurants in Aruba. Located with a stunning view of the ocean, it offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
Ocean Z’s menu features an array of exquisite fish dishes. The chefs use the freshest ingredients, ensuring that every dish is of the highest quality. From grilled grouper to seared tuna, each plate is a testament to the culinary skills of the chefs.
2. Explore Beyond the Beaches
Arikok National Park
While the beaches are stunning, exploring the island’s natural beauty is a must. Arikok National Park covers nearly 20% of Aruba and offers hiking trails, caves, and indigenous flora and fauna. Entry fees are $20 for adults.
Don’t miss the chance to see the natural pool, Conchi, a hidden gem!
San Nicolas Murals
To experience Aruba’s cultural side, visit San Nicolas, known for its vibrant street art. The murals here are a colorful testament to the island’s artistic spirit. Take a self-guided walking tour and immerse yourself in this open-air gallery.
3. Join the Locals at Festivals
Carnival
One of the best ways to experience Aruba like a local is by participating in its festivals. Aruba’s Carnival, held in January and February, is a spectacular celebration of music, dance, and colorful costumes.
The grand parades and street parties offer a fantastic opportunity to mingle with locals and experience their joyful culture.
Dande Festival
The Dande Festival, celebrated during New Year’s Eve, is another local favorite.
Groups of musicians travel from house to house, singing traditional songs and bringing good luck. Join in the festivities and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Aruban people.
4. Relax at Local Hangouts
Hadicurari Beach
Hadicurari Beach, also known as Fisherman’s Huts, is a rustic beach with a unique charm. It’s particularly popular among windsurfers and kitesurfers, making it a vibrant and energetic spot.
Hadicurari Beach is located on the northwest coast of Aruba, near the high-rise hotels of Palm Beach. It’s easily accessible and is a favorite among both locals and tourists.
The beach’s rustic atmosphere and natural beauty set it apart. It’s a top destination for windsurfers and kitesurfers due to the consistent winds and favorable conditions.
Boca Catalina
For a more secluded beach experience, visit Boca Catalina. This small, quiet beach is popular among locals for snorkeling and swimming.
It’s a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle, offering crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
5. Shop at Local Markets
Cosecha
To truly visit Aruba like a local, spend some time at Cosecha, a market showcasing local arts and crafts.
Located in both Oranjestad and San Nicolas, Cosecha is the place to find unique souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and artworks. Prices vary, but you’re sure to find something special to remember your trip.
Fresh Market
For fresh produce, head to the Fresh Market in Oranjestad. This market is a favorite among locals for buying fruits, vegetables, and other local products.
It’s an excellent place to experience the everyday life of Arubans and perhaps pick up ingredients for a home-cooked meal.
Discover the Heart of Aruba
This island offers more than just stunning beaches. By exploring Aruba like a local, you’ll uncover its true essence. From savoring the best local food in Aruba to participating in vibrant festivals, your journey will be rich and fulfilling.
Aruba is the perfect travel destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. To complete your authentic Aruban experience, consider staying at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel. Their luxurious accommodations and personalized service ensure a memorable stay.
Book your stay today and immerse yourself in the true spirit of Aruba.
From cultural celebrations to sporting events to music festivals, there’s something for everyone on the island looking for Aruba events!
Find out what exciting annual events in Aruba are on the horizon for the months of June until August.
Plan your trip so you don’t miss out on any unique experiences.
Keep reading and ensure you’re well-equipped to make the most of your visit to this tropical paradise.
Cultural Events: Embrace Aruba’s Rich Traditions
Celebrate St. John’s Day
Cultural events in Aruba are rich and diverse, showcased through a variety of lively festivals and celebrations.
One of the highlights is Dera Gai (St. John’s Day, 23/06/2024), a colorful tradition where locals build towering bonfires to ward off evil spirits and celebrate the arrival of summer.
Dera Gai, meaning the ‘burial of the rooster’ in the native tongue, is a cultural celebration that has been cherished for approximately a century, featuring customary music and dance.
source: aruba.com
This festivity intertwines pagan and Christian elements, symbolizing the historical blend of Arawak indigenous customs and Spanish missionary traditions on the island.
Folk dance groups are decked out in bright yellow-and-red costumes.
Moreover, the yellow is said to represent the bloom of the local kibrahacha tree in the month of June, these groups also perform harvest dance rituals.
Sporting Events: Thrilling Competitions in Paradise
For sports enthusiasts, Aruba offers a plethora of thrilling events throughout the year.
As well as that, whether you’re a participant or a spectator, sporting events in Aruba are sure to get your heart racing.
Sail in the Aruba International Regatta
For example, a typical sporting event in Aruba is the Aruba International Regatta, which will take place from August 27th to August 30th.
source: aruba.com
The sailing competition offers excitement, activity, and contests between global yachts, catamarans, Sunfish, and windsurfers throughout the day.
Accompanied by evening entertainment including music, gatherings, and dining once the day’s races conclude.
At this time, this year’s land side location is the Regatta Village at Surfside, check availability by clicking here.
Arts & Cultural Events: Celebrating Creativity and Talent
Immerse yourself in Aruba’s vibrant arts and cultural scene with a variety of events showcasing local talent and creativity.
Clearly, these events provide a window into the soul of Aruba, highlighting its artistic prowess and cultural heritage.
Fall in love again: Aruba I Do Vow Renewal
August 14th, 2024 marks the 6th iteration of the Aruba I Do Vow Renewal Ceremony, drawing couples from across the globe to celebrate their love.
Without a doubt, you should renew your vows against the sun-set backdrop of Eagle Beach.
Attendees can anticipate an enchanting evening filled with romance and the soft touch of sand beneath their feet.
What is more, participants are encouraged to don white attire accented with vibrant Caribbean hues.
The best part is that the admission is free of charge!
Explore the Aruba Art Fair
This year, the Aruba Art Fair will take place between September 6th – 8th in San Nicolas.
It includes an art talk, workshops, a fashion segment, VIP reception, and the art fair itself.
You’ll be able to see collections from SWAY (Curacao), David Paulus (The Netherlands), Vanessa Paulina, Maria Theresa Madraiaga, Celeste Richardson (Aruba) plus many more artists (and surprise guests)!
Appreciate the Mural Festival
In addition, the Mural Festival will take place from August 26th to September 12th.
Besides, it will showcase the incredible talent of renowned mural artists from around the world.
The lineup includes: Chemis (Czech Republic), Adry del Rocio Garcia (Mexico), Bublegum (Spain), Elisa Lejuez Peters (Aruba), Elvis Tromp (Aruba), Faunagraphic (UK), Fio Silva (Argentina) and many more.
Why Aruba?
As you can see, Aruba’s allure lies not only in its stunning natural beauty but also in its vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and endless opportunities for adventure.
Unquestionably, with Aruba’s upcoming events, there’s never been a better time to plan your visit to this Caribbean gem.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation on pristine beaches, thrilling sports, or cultural immersion, Aruba offers something for every traveler.
And for the ultimate indulgence, consider staying at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel, where luxury meets tranquility in an idyllic oceanfront setting.
Book your stay today and discover why Aruba is the perfect destination for your next getaway!
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