Vacation Rentals in Aruba

While in Aruba, do try out local delicacies such as iguana soup, ostrich burgers and the traditional baked cheese products. Aruba's principal towns offer much to choose from: there are the Italian ristorantes, steak-and-chop houses as well as the usual chain outlets. Aruba's national beer, Balashi Beer is a must try while on the island. Golden yellow in color, its name comes from the words 'Balana' and 'Bala Bala' which refer to a closeness to the sea.

Aruba has sunshine all year round so the best time to visit depends on what you want. Mid-December until mid-April is high season, so make sure you book your Aruba vacation rental in advance as the crowds arrive to escape winter in their countries. The carnival season from January to March is filled with music, dance, parties and parades.

The low season which lasts from mid-April to mid-December is recommended to experience Aruba's laid back side.

The historic California Lighthouse on the northernmost tip of the island offers vantage views of the coast. Our Lady of Alto Visto Chapel to the north is quaint and picturesque. For a romantic night out, try the night time Kukoo Kunuku tour bus which takes participants on a fun bar-hopping spree.

A visit to the capital city Oranjestad is a must, particularly for its cultural calendar: there's the Annual Carnival Celebration, the Bon Bini Festival, the Torch Parade and the Soul Beach Music Festival. Stroll down Oranjestad's main drag called L.G. Smith Boulevard/Sasaki Weg which is home to heritage buildings and plenty of shopping options. Cheese lovers, don't forget to pick your Dutch Gouda to nibble on when you get back to your Aruba vacation rental.

Discover Aruba's culture at the Historical Museum which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the island's earliest times. The stone, shell and ceramic artifacts at the Archaeological Museum brilliantly showcase age-old beliefs and traditions of Aruban culture. The Numismatic Museum and Aruba Model Train Museum are worth visiting too.

Take the kids to the Aruba Ostrich Farm where tours are organized around the incubator and pens. The Butterfly Farm is wonderful to learn about metamorphosis, while the observation tower at Bubali Bird Sanctuary, and the Donkey Sanctuary where donkey-petting is permitted are educative visits.

Kids will also love Baby Beach where the sea is no more than five feet at any point, great for snorkelling. The world-famous Eagle Beach has calm, blue waters and miles of soft white sand, with jet skiing and tubing opportunities.

Safely located outside the Caribbean hurricane belt, scenic Aruba begs to be explored. Book your Aruba vacation home today. The isles are waiting!

Plan a day trip to the Natural Pool (Conchi) located off the shore of Aruba. This water pool hidden in a stunning natural rock formation juts into the ocean. Another exciting site is the Natural Bridge at Boca Andicuri. On the way, you could stop by the Bushiribana Gold Mill and ruins of the smelting station. Snorkel tours will take you to the Boca Catalina and Antilla Shipwreck that can be explored by diving or by submarine. For those who fancy lava and limestone formations, the intriguing Arikok National Park awaits. The Hooiberg (Haystack Mountain) in central Aruba offers 360 degree views of the island.

Active types will have their hands full in Aruba: there are jeep safaris, horseback riding, cycle tours, rock climbing, sailing, sea treks, fishing and more. Ask the locals around your Aruba vacation home for insider tips. For windsurfing and adventure sports, your best bet is Bachelor's Beach, Boca Grandi and Hadicurari Beach.

Phillips Animal Garden in Noord

This charming non-profit organisation rescues and tends to wild animals in need. The garden was built up in its entirety by one man, Phillip Conrad Merryweather and houses peacocks, red kangaroos, skunks and much more.

Butterfly Farm in Oranjestad

Explore the lives of butterflies and discover wonderful new species with the help of tour guides at this butterfly house in Palm Beach.

Natural Pool

The glistening waters of this naturally occurring pool are the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. The pool can be reached with an off-road vehicle or by foot using the signposted trail from the park entrance.

Palm Beach

Famous for its pure, white sands this lovely beach in the north of Aruba is perfect for snorkelling and swimming thanks to its calm waters.

Eagle Beach

Situated in the neighbourhood of Oranjestad, Eagle Beach is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the world.