With perfect year-round weather, incredible white-sand beaches, and tons of unique activities and things to do, Aruba is a magnet for honeymooners.
From thrill-seekers looking for that latest adrenaline rush to spa enthusiasts hoping to relax and rejuvenate at a magnificent resort, it's easy to see why so many couples are attracted to this gorgeous Caribbean island.
Below you'll discover 10 of our must-do activities and experiences for couples soon to embark on their honeymoon to "One Happy Island."
1. Strolling white sand beaches
Aruba boasts some of the finest beaches in the Caribbean (and possibly the entire world). The powdery white sands are perfect for daily hand-in-hand strolls, while the warm turquoise waters and gentle waves along the leeward coast are ideal for swimming and relaxing. Be sure to visit Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and Arashi Beach, a favorite among locals.
2. Exploring the island via UTV on an off-road excursion
The island's northeastern section is home to dramatic rocky terrain, making it a fantastic place for off-road adventures. One of the best ways to explore Arikok National Park and the island's rugged landscape is by driving a UTV. Through De Palm Tours, couples can jump behind the wheel of this unique 4x4 vehicle and zoom around massive rock formations, undulating hills, and scenic coastline.
3. Enjoying a candlelight dinner at Atardi Restaurant at Aruba Marriott Resort
Couples can dine with their feet in the sand at Atardi, an acclaimed alfresco restaurant located right on Palm Beach. On top of a front row view of the sunset, newlyweds can expect a stellar wine and cocktail menu, plus exceptional seafood specialities like macadamia-crusted grouper and blackened Mahi-Mahi. Simply put: This is one of those magical dining experiences you'll fondly look back on for many years to come.
4. Trying your luck at Stellaris Casino
This popular casino -- the island's largest at 15,000 square feet -- features more than 500 state-of-the-art slot machines and 32 gaming tables. Guests can also expect favorites like roulette, Caribbean stud poker, three card poker and blackjack, plus plenty of events like poker tournaments and Bingo nights. Conveniently located at Aruba Marriott Resort, Stellaris Casino is open 24 hours a day.
5. Soaking in the scenery on a sunset sail
It doesn't get much more romantic than embarking on a sunset sail along a beautiful tropical island. Through De Palm Tours, couples will climb aboard a luxurious catamaran for a tour of Aruba's stunning shoreline. To complete the experience, you'll be treated to an open-bar, tropical snacks, music, and ample views of the Caribbean Sea and beautiful coast.
6. Visiting the vibrant capital city of Oranjestad
Aruba's historic capital is highlighted by classic Dutch architecture, pastel-hued buildings, tons of shopping and restaurants, a convenient waterfront location, and even a tram, which takes visitors from the shoreline to the main downtown shopping district.
7. Booking a couples massage experience at Mandara Spa
No trip to Aruba would be complete without a rejuvenating spa experience at Mandara Spa. This immaculate 6,500-square-foot facility features 12 spacious treatment rooms, 4 couples treatment rooms, saunas, a relaxation lounge, and full salon services. Newlyweds can even have treatments done directly on Tradewinds Beach, located at Aruba Marriott Resort.
8. Getting up close to underwater wonders while snorkeling or diving
With active sea life, colorful coral formations, and numerous shipwrecks, Aruba is widely-regarded as one of the top snorkeling and diving locations in the Caribbean. Book a memorable snorkeling sail through De Palm Tours, which takes guests to three different snorkeling sites (including two historic shipwrecks) and then later provides lunch along with an open bar.
9. Touring spectacular Arikok National Park
Covering nearly 20% of the island, Arikok National Park stands out due to its desert-like landscape, hilly terrain dotted with towering cacti, ancient caves, natural pools, well-maintained hiking trails, and more. Considered Aruba's national treasure, it's truly a wonderful place to spend an entire day, whether it be viewing historic Indian cave paintings, cliff jumping at the park's natural pool, taking a guided nature walk, or zipping around in a 4x4 vehicle.
10. Savoring tropical drinks with a view
Delicious cocktails and a beautiful sunset or vantage point are a honeymoon match made in heaven. A few of our favorite spots include Waves Bar & Grill at Aruba Marriott Resort (which is set right on a white sand beach), Bugaloe Beach Bar (known for its "over the water" location, daily happy hour, and live music), and MooMba Beach Bar (where you'll sit beneath two giant palapas).
---
In 2019, Traveler's Joy will be giving one lucky couple a FREE honeymoon to Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino. To enter, couples simply need to add the Aruba Marriott Resort Instant Registry as their honeymoon registry for travel between May 1, 2019 and December 20, 2019. The Instant Registry can be found within a couple's Traveler's Joy account (simply click on "Add Suggested Item" to get started).
Read the official Terms & Conditions for this sweepstakes here.
In case you missed it:
4 Perfect Days in Aruba: A Honeymoon Itinerary