Aruba: Fun in the Sun

Smiling faces greet you as soon as you step off the plane and into the airport, driving home the fact that Aruba really earns its title as “one happy island.”

Many people vacation in Aruba because of its soft white sand beaches and uninterrupted sunshine, but the amazing weather and breathtaking vista aside, the island is home to countless cultural gems waiting to be discovered.

Drink in the Flavor

The charming new Pepe Margo Distillery marks the first-ever craft distillery to open on the island. Housed in the historical former home of its namesake, Catarina Margarita Wever a.k.a. Pepe Margo, the house of spirits produces both rum and gin and offers complimentary tastings and tours. While the distillery is young, don’t conflate its youth with inexperience – the unique flavors and offerings here are worth a sip or two, particularly the Tesoro 1499 Spanish-style Rum and the Aruba-Distilled Gin with a hint of hops.

Heat Things Up

Another newcomer to the island, Lava Aruba Glass Studio beckons both visitors and locals to come catch a glimpse of the masters at work. The Venezuelan-born studio has migrated to Aruba to showcase stunning works of art – and the process of creating it – to a whole new populous. Interested parties can stop by the studio to not only browse the expansive gift shop (and likely leave with a souvenir) but also get a glimpse of glassblowing in action with free daily demonstrations. And when you need to cool off after a walk through the blaze, you can take a seat with a cup of coffee at the studio’s cafe.

Go Rogue

One of the best and most exhilarating ways to explore the happy island of Aruba is with a guided tour via UTV. The island’s premier tour company, De Palm Tours, is staffed with enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides who regale you with stories about the island’s past and present and shuttle you to some of the most picturesque spots on the island. Get down and dirty with the company’s off-road UTV adventure, which takes you to sights like the Baby Natural Bridge, Alto Vista Chapel, and Black Stone Beach, and make sure to have your camera handy.

Unwind and Look to the Skies

With all the exploring you’re bound to do, it’s important to find the right home base that’s in the center of it all. The Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino is a sprawling resort located smack dab in the middle of Palm Beach, arguably one of the most happening spots in Aruba. Take advantage of the docile H2Oasis adults-only pool or get a bit more rambunctious at the Lobby Bar, where you can order up one of the resort’s many specialty cocktails (the Celebrity Aruba Arriba is an island classic, but the Dirty Pickle is equally fun). Take advantage of the resort’s beachfront by going for an ocean swim or renting one of the property’s kayaks or paddleboards.

Whatever you decide, aim to book your stay during the full moon so you can experience the hotel’s full moon dinner at Atardi, the resort’s beachfront restaurant. The intimate and one-of-a-kind dinner brings together guests for a five-course menu inspired by the moon. Throughout the meal, you will be serenaded by hypnotizing music by Sunny Ray Aruba, while a spiritual guide will walk you through selecting a crystal and setting affirmations and intentions for the new moon cycle. It’s a truly grounding experience.

Pig Out

One of the most authentic ways to learn about any culture is through its gastronomy and Aruban culture is infused with flavorful food and versatile restaurants. First up, hit up Linda’s Dutch Pancakes, a breakfast hotspot that, as its name implies, serves up some mouthwatering Dutch pancakes, both sweet and savory. Next on the list, book a reservation at Azar, an open-fire cooking concept with inventive dishes you won’t soon forget. Lastly, cozy up to Mercát, another one of the Aruba Marriott’s dining destinations which specializes in Mediterranean cuisine. Here you can overlook the water and enjoy family-style plates without the need to leave the property.

After all, vacation is meant to be seamless and there’s nothing better than walking back to your room with a nice full belly.

Pro tip

Hit up Gelato & Co. at the Aruba Marriott for authentic Italian gelato and make sure to grab a local Balashi beer during your stay – when in Aruba, drink like the locals do!