Aruba has long been synonymous with sun-drenched luxury, pristine beaches and shimmering turquoise waters, inviting travellers to surrender to its carefree, island bliss. Yet, there’s a fresh vibrancy sweeping through this “One Happy Island” that’s captivating discerning OutThere globetrotters. With the landmark passage of same-sex marriage rights, Aruba has boldly embraced inclusivity, solidifying its status as a haven for those seeking more than just indulgence. Now, it’s a destination where love and authenticity are celebrated in perfect harmony, offering a luxurious escape matched with a profound sense of belonging.
From the moment you set foot on idyllic Aruba, you’ll feel an undeniable magic in the air. This island isn’t just beautiful, it’s intoxicating. Its beaches are every bit as pristine as they appear on Instagram (no filter needed), with sand so soft it feels like silk between your toes and water so crystal-clear it almost doesn’t seem real. It’s a place you’ll easily fall in love with – and perhaps even fall in love in – whether you’re soaking up the fiery hues of a Caribbean sunset, dining barefoot under a canopy of stars, or discovering hidden coves that feel like your own private paradise.
Aruba invites you to slow down, savour the moment, and reconnect…with yourself, your partner, or simply the stunning beauty around you. But what truly sets Aruba apart is its warm, welcoming people. “One Happy Island” isn’t just a slogan; it’s a way of life. Locals greet you with genuine smiles, making you feel at home no matter who you are or who you love.
Aruba has always been a safe and inviting destination, with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office naming it the “safest island in the Caribbean” earlier this year. Aruba has also taken a significant step forward by legalising same-sex marriage, enhancing the previous status of civil partnerships for same-gender couples. This change gives queer travellers even more reasons to visit while paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for the island. While things are evolving in the region, not many Caribbean islands can say the same.
Bonbini!
The island boasts a diverse range of accommodations, from major international resorts to charming boutique hotels. On the shores of the renowned Eagle Beach, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort stands out as the Caribbean’s first and only carbon-neutral hotel. Voted the most romantic, adults-only hotel in the region, it also prides itself on LGBTQ+ sensitivity training and accreditation for its staff. Here, guests can unwind in luxurious beachfront suites with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, indulge in candlelit dinners under the stars, enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, or take peaceful sunset walks along the beach. For a truly magical experience, the resort also offers a self-guided stargazing journey.
For a more intimate, adults-only hideaway, the family-owned Boardwalk Boutique Hotel offers a serene escape nestled among coconut palms and birdsong. While it doesn’t boast sea views, it’s just a five-minute stroll from one of the island’s most photographed stretches of sand, complete with exclusive beach huts and sunbeds reserved for hotel guests.
Meanwhile, at Palm Beach, the Ritz-Carlton Aruba delivers the highest standard of international luxury. Spend your days in one of its serene beachfront cabanas, indulge in a soul-soothing spa treatment, or enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking.
Frankly, we’re completely sold. Call it ‘The Aruba Effect’, but the island is the ultimate celebration of life, love, and discovery. But if you need more reasons to book your holiday, here are a few more to consider…
Some of the world’s best beaches
Award-winning Eagle Beach is the widest of the island’s pristine white-sand shores, renowned for the softness and quality of its sand. Framed by iconic Fofoti trees – Instagram-worthy with their twisted trunks leaning towards the sea – it offers stunning ocean views. If you’re more of a swimmer than a simmerer, the island also offers exceptional snorkelling. Boca Catalina is a favourite among snorkellers, with a spectacular array of marine life including palometas, trunkfish, sergeant majors and sea turtles. For water sports enthusiasts, Arashi Beach on the island’s northwest side is perfect for windsurfing, sailing, water skiing and more. For those looking to dive deeper, Aruba is home to some incredible wreck dives, including the Pedernales, a great option for beginners at just 20 feet. For a more challenging dive, the Jane C. wreck and the Antilla wreck await intrepid explorers.
Discover culinary diversity in Aruba
Food lovers can savour the island’s unique blend of Dutch, Spanish, and South American influences, a reflection of a new wave of award-winning chefs blending traditional and modern culinary techniques. Aruba’s vibrant restaurant scene includes eight Chef’s Tables, where visitors can enjoy classic local dishes and innovative creations from young chefs putting Aruba firmly on the culinary map. From fresh seafood with Creole twists to island-inspired dishes like Caribbean-style curry goat and hearty stews with plantains and pumpkin, these chefs are transforming Aruban cuisine into something truly special.
A spirit of adventure in Aruba
Aruba offers endless opportunities for adventure. Hike through the Arikok National Park to uncover its cultural heritage sites, including stunning caves, ancient Indian rock drawings, and unusual land formations crafted from lava, quartz diorite, and limestone. The island also boasts over 350 kilometers of scenic bike trails that follow the northern coast. For those who prefer to watch the action unfold, Aruba is home to the Hi-Winds windsurfing competition each spring, the longest-running annual sporting event in the Caribbean. More than just a spectacle, it’s a vibrant celebration of the island’s adventurous spirit.
Whispered promises and sunset kisses
Whether you’re wooing, wowing, or wedding, Aruba sets the perfect romantic stage and setting for a proposal, a destination wedding (being one of the only Caribbean islands where equal marriage is celebrated) or a honeymoon. From tranquil sunset cruises to wandering through the island’s boutique vineyard, or indulging in wellness treatments featuring Aruban aloe at world-class spas, the island is made for love. Aruba is also the site of the Caribbean’s largest vow renewal ceremony, held every August (and returning in 2025) on the serene shores of Eagle Beach. With its breathtaking beauty and unmatched seclusion, Aruba offers unforgettable moments and memories.
A fabulous choice for OutThere families
Aruba is a family-friendly destination that warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ and single-parent families. The local culture, renowned for its hospitality, celebrates diversity, ensuring all families feel safe and valued. A wide range of activities awaits, from exploring butterfly farms and horse riding to relaxing on kid-friendly beaches like Baby Beach, a sheltered, shallow lagoon perfect for young children to paddle in. With so much on offer, Aruba is also ideal for multi-generational family trips. Many of the island’s resorts and attractions are inclusive and have undertaken sensitivity training, guaranteeing a positive experience for families of all kinds.
One happy island
Aruba is more than just a Caribbean paradise. Its world-class beaches, always-perfect weather and warm and welcoming culture are only a part of what makes Aruba unique. The feeling you get when you step on their sunny shores is what truly sets them apart – they call it the Aruba Effect.
www.aruba.com
Photography courtesy of the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association
