Turquoise water, white-sand beaches and year-round sunshine make Aruba feel unmistakably Caribbean. But when you take a look at a map, you may be surprised by just how far south the island is located.
Aruba sits in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of South America. Together with neighboring Bonaire and Curaçao, Aruba is part of the group of islands often called the ABC Islands.
This location helps give Aruba a Caribbean experience all its own. It makes the island an inviting choice for travelers dreaming of warm weather, beautiful beaches and plenty of natural beauty to explore.
Where Is Aruba on the Map?
Aruba is located in the southern Caribbean, approximately 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. The island lies west of Curaçao and Bonaire and well south of many of the Caribbean destinations travelers may be more familiar with.
Aruba is also part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, giving the island a distinctive blend of Caribbean warmth, Dutch influence and a multicultural identity shaped by generations of people who have called the island home.
And while Aruba may be small (only about 17 by 20 miles long), there is plenty packed into those miles.
From the colorful streets and shops of Oranjestad to white-sand beaches, desert landscapes, natural wonders and adventures on land and sea, exploring Aruba can feel different depending on which direction you choose to venture
Is Aruba Part of the Caribbean?
Yes! Aruba is a Caribbean island and a popular destination for travelers looking for a tropical escape.
Because Aruba sits so close to South America, its location sometimes surprises first-time visitors. But the island is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and offers many of the experiences travelers picture when planning a Caribbean vacation: beautiful beaches, clear blue water, warm weather, watersports, island flavors and plenty of opportunities to simply slow down and enjoy the view.
Aruba's southern location also contributes to some of the characteristics that distinguish it from other Caribbean islands.
What Makes Aruba Different From Other Caribbean Islands?
No two Caribbean islands are exactly alike, and that's part of the fun of choosing where to go.
Aruba combines its beaches and Caribbean Sea with a surprisingly diverse landscape. Beyond the shoreline, you'll find rugged desert terrain, towering cacti and the dramatic scenery of Arikok National Park.
The island's culture is just as varied. Dutch and Caribbean influences meet Latin American traditions and flavors from around the world, creating an island experience that extends beyond the beach.
And when you are ready to return to the water, Aruba offers everything from swimming and snorkeling to sailing, diving, or simply finding your favorite spot in the sand.
What Is the Weather Like in Aruba?
Aruba is known for warm temperatures, abundant sunshine and cooling trade winds, making it a popular Caribbean destination throughout the year.
Its location in the southern Caribbean also places Aruba outside the main hurricane belt. While no tropical destination can guarantee perfect weather, Aruba's location and generally dry climate are among the reasons travelers consider the island for Caribbean vacations throughout much of the year.
That means there isn't just one season for experiencing Aruba. A winter escape, spring vacation, summer family trip or romantic getaway in the fall can each offer a different reason to trade everyday life for island time.
Is Aruba a Good Choice for a Caribbean Vacation?
If your idea of a Caribbean vacation includes beautiful beaches, warm weather, activities on and off the water, great food and plenty of ways to make the trip your own, Aruba gives you a lot to work with.
Families can spend their days between the beach, pool and island adventures. Couples can slow things down with sunset views and dinner by the water. More adventurous travelers can head out to explore Aruba's natural landscapes or discover what lies beneath the Caribbean Sea.
And you don't have to choose just one version of Aruba.
Experience the Caribbean at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives
At Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives, the Caribbean isn't somewhere you have to travel to once you arrive in Aruba. It's right outside your door.
Spend your mornings by the sea, cool off with a swim, try a new watersport, explore the island and return in time for dinner, drinks, and an Aruba sunset.
With the shared amenities at our two all-inclusive resorts and access to an array of dining, activities and amenities, you can experience more of the Caribbean on vacation while leaving plenty of room to simply enjoy being here.
Aruba may sit a far distance from your door, but once your toes hit the sand, you'll know you've arrived home.
Ready to discover Aruba? Explore Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives and start planning your Caribbean escape.
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