Kick off your first morning in Aruba with a gentle, sun-soaked stroll along Eagle Beach, where powdery white sand and iconic fofoti trees make for perfect photos and a relaxed swim. After working up an appetite, head to the nearby Pega Pega Artisan Market for fresh tropical fruit, local pastries, and a chance to chat with vendors before checking into your 4★ boutique hotel to drop bags and freshen up for the afternoon.
Ease into island time with a late lunch and people-watching on the colorful waterfront at Renaissance Marketplace, followed by a short walk to explore the boutiques and murals around Wilhelmina Park. As the sun softens, rent a paddleboard from Palm Beach Watersports for a calm glide at sunset or choose a chilled cocktail at Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill to watch small craft sail by, keeping the pace relaxed after your morning stroll.
As twilight falls, wander the lively streets to Main Street (Caya G. F. Betico Croes) for casual shopping and colorful Dutch colonial facades, then settle in for dinner at Yemanja Woodfired Grill to savor Caribbean-inspired seafood and wood-oven flavors. After dinner, enjoy a relaxed post-meal stroll along the lit promenade by Queen Wilhelmina Park (different corners than earlier) or grab a nightcap with local rum cocktails at Alto Vista Rooftop Bar, where island breezes and soft music make a mellow end to your arrival day.
Start your day with a sunrise walk and light breakfast at Palm Beach Promenade, then rent a scooter to cruise north along the coast to the dramatic cliffs of Arashi Point for tidepool exploring and early snorkeling before the crowds arrive. After a refreshing swim, stop at Local Store & Café Noord for strong Aruban coffee and a plate of keshi yena-inspired breakfast bites before heading toward the historic California Lighthouse area to continue your midday explorations.
After your morning scooter loop, head to Eagle Beach Boardwalk for a relaxed beachside lunch at Screaming Eagle Beach Bar, then stroll toward the nearby Butterfly Farm for a tranquil hour among colorful tropical species and great photo ops. Continue with a cultural stop at Fort Zoutman and the Historical Museum in Oranjestad to learn about Aruba's maritime past, then treat yourself to a late-afternoon cocktail and live music at Gusto Nightclub & Rooftop overlooking the harbor before dinner.
As the sun dips, take a short taxi to Hadicurari (Fisherman's Huts) for an active wind-watching scene and beachside food trucks serving fresh catches; linger for casual bites and the sunset glow. Afterwards, head to The Old Man and The Sea for a leisurely, waterside dinner with candlelit tables right on the sand, then cap the night with aromatic cocktails at Gusto Tapa Bar-a cozy spot with live acoustic music that keeps the vibe mellow and connected to your day's coastal explorations.
Arrive in Curaçao and start the morning with a strong local coffee and pastelitos at Plasa Bieu before wandering the nearby streets to admire the colorful façades of Punda's Handelskade from a fresh perspective. Then cross the floating Queen Emma Bridge on foot to explore the artisan stalls around Scharloo, finishing with a panoramic stroll up to the historic Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue area and waterfront viewpoints that set the scene for an afternoon at Rif Fort.
Slip into the rhythm of Curaçao with a leisurely lunch at Playa Kanoa Beach Bar & Restaurant, where fresh fish tacos and sea breezes set you up for a scenic coastal drive to Mambo Beach Boulevard for souvenir shopping and a quick dip. Continue by exploring the hilltop Rif Fort complex-browse local craft stalls, grab a specialty liqueur tasting at Curacao Liqueur Distillery nearby, and finish the afternoon with panoramic harbor views from the fort's terrace before an early evening stroll toward Punda for dinner.
After your afternoon at Rif Fort, ease into Curaçao's evening with a sunset cocktail at Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant near Fort Beekenburg, then wander the illuminated streets to sample local bites at Marshe Bieu Night - the beloved community food stalls that offer stewed goat, funchi, and local desserts in a lively, authentic setting. Finish with a leisurely walk across the glowing Queen Juliana Bridge viewpoint for night-time harbor panoramas and a digestif at the intimate Kura Hulanda Café to cap your first night on the island.
Wake early for a scenic coastal drive to Playa Lagun where calm waters and a morning snorkel among turtle-friendly reef gardens set a peaceful tone, then grab a hearty local breakfast of pastechi and strong coffee at the cliffside Fort Nassau Café overlooking the harbor. Continue inland with a short hike through shaded trails at Shete Boka National Park to watch pounding surf in dramatic coves and spot nesting seabirds before heading west toward Christoffel with panoramic views that preview your afternoon adventures.
After your morning at Playa Lagun and Shete Boka, drive up the winding coastal road to Kenepa Grandi (Grote Knip) for a picnic lunch on the cliffs and a refreshing snorkel in crystal-clear waters where reef fish are abundant. Continue inland to explore the historic Savonet Museum for a short cultural stop about plantation life, then head toward the shaded trails of Christoffel National Park Visitor Centre to arrange a late-afternoon guided walk or scenic drive that previews tomorrow's summit options while soaking in sweeping west-side views.
Wind down your Christoffel-side adventure with a scenic drive back toward Willemstad, stopping for a sunset aperitif at Blue Bay Beach & Golf Club where calm waters and a relaxed terrace set a gentle mood. For dinner, savor authentic island flavors at Restaurant Gouverneur de Rouville overlooking the lit Handelskade facades, then finish the night with a slow walk through Punda's Rifstraat to enjoy street musicians and gelato before returning to your hotel.
After your short inter-island flight and hotel drop-off, ease into Bonaire with a leisurely breakfast at Karel's Beach Bar, then stroll the charming waterfront toward Wilhelmina Park to watch local fishermen unload the morning catch. Spend mid-morning exploring the easy shore snorkel at Bamboo Beach-a sandy entry with shallow reefs perfect for spotting colorful tropical fish-and finish the session with a cold refresher at Capriccio Beach Club where beachfront hammocks and local bites recharge you for a relaxed afternoon.
After a restful morning, take a short drive south to Pink Beach (Klein Bonaire viewpoint) for a seaside picnic and gentle snorkeling from the shore amid shallow coral gardens, then wander the nearby tidal pools to spot juvenile reef fish. Later, return to Kralendijk to browse local crafts and cold treats at Soualiga Gift Shop & Café, followed by a sundowner on the waterfront boardwalk at Kaya Grandi Promenade where fishermen and locals gather-perfect for easing into Bonaire's slower pace before dinner.
As twilight falls, enjoy a relaxed seafood dinner at Ingridients Restaurant, savoring locally caught fish and island-style sides while watching harbor lights shimmer. After dinner, take a gentle moonlit stroll along Kaya Gobernador N Debrot to the waterfront, then sample artisanal rums and live local music at Crooked Tree Bar, soaking in Bonaire's mellow evening atmosphere.
Begin with an early island breakfast at Betsy's Bistro before heading north for a guided shore dive or snorkel at 1000 Steps, where clear drop-offs and resident parrotfish make for unforgettable, easy-entry sightings; many operators offer short boat shuttles and iced water so you can focus on the reef. Afterward, drive inland to explore the dramatic salt pans and flamingo habitat around Slagbaai Salt Flats with a short guided nature walk that highlights migratory birds, unique halophytic plants, and great photo stops before returning to Kralendijk for a relaxed seaside lunch.
After a morning full of reef viewing, head to the southern shore for a relaxed afternoon snorkel and beach BBQ at Lac Bay (Kite Bay) where shallow seagrass meadows invite map-sized parrotfish and juvenile rays and local outfitters offer guided reef walks and rental gear. Follow up with a scenic drive to Rincon for a cultural stroll through one of Bonaire's oldest villages-visit a local craft workshop and tuck into a casual late-afternoon plate of kabritu at It Rains Fishes while watching pastel skies, then return toward Kralendijk via the coastal road for a sunset stop at Bonaire Windsurfing Beach to drink in the colors and unwind before dinner.
As daylight softens, return toward Kralendijk for a laid-back waterfront meal at Brass Boer Bonaire, savoring fresh lionfish ceviche and ocean-view plates while watching local fishing boats come in. After dinner, take a short stroll to Harbour Village Marina for a twilight glass-bottom-boat cruise to spot nocturnal reef life, then finish with a nightcap and live acoustic tunes at Kites & Coffee Bar to round out your nature-filled day.
If you have a morning departure, clear last-minute souvenirs and a relaxed breakfast at The Marketplace Café near the terminal, then use the airport lounges at Queen Beatrix International Airport (Aruba) / Hato Airport Lounge (Curaçao) / Flamingo International Airport (Bonaire) to freshen up before check-in. If you're staying on, enjoy a slow morning with a waterside brunch at Zeezicht Terrace followed by a short harbor kayak from Island Paddle Rentals to stretch your legs and catch one last coastal view before packing and an easy transfer to your flight.
If your schedule allows a final island stretch, take a relaxed drive to Mangel Halto for a shallow-reef snorkel and a picnic on the mangrove-edged shoreline, then swing by Bitterbal Snack & Deli (or a local counter equivalent) for quick island bites before heading toward the airport. Alternatively, if you need to stay nearer transit, spend a calm few hours at Jan Thiel Lagoon-rent a SUP from a nearby vendor, sip a cold drink at Lagoon Breeze Bar, and finish with a fast luggage-drop and pre-flight check-in so you leave with time to spare and one last waterfront view.
If you opt to linger on the islands, enjoy a gentle final evening at The Pier Sunset Lounge, where tiki-style seating and panoramic harbor views make an easy spot for reflective cocktails and small plates. Follow that with a stroll through Old Harbor Arts Walk, popping into a handful of independent galleries and artisan stalls for last-minute affordable souvenirs, then finish with a casual dinner of grilled seafood and yucca fries at Harborfront Grill & Cantina, soaking in one last warm breeze before bed or a late-night transfer.
Leave time for a final relaxed breakfast at Café Regulador near the terminal, where strong island coffee and a plate of local pan bati will keep things easy before travel. After checkout, pop into Duty Free Plaza for last-minute gifts and pick up a cold bottle of aloe juice, then use the comfortable seating and charging stations at Transit Lounge Bonaire (or the equivalent lounge at your departing airport) to freshen up and confirm connections with your carrier before heading to security.
If your flight is later in the day, enjoy a relaxed final few hours with a light lunch and last-minute shopping at Plaza Lucha Food Hall, sampling a local sandwich and cold juice before heading to the terminal. Then take advantage of Airport Express Baggage Drop services (where available) to streamline check-in, grab a quiet seat in the Skyline Transit Lounge for charging devices and a final island cocktail, and leave with time to stroll nearby observation terraces for one last harbor or runway view.
If your flight leaves later, unwind with a leisurely dinner at The Tarmac Terrace, a relaxed airport-side bistro offering island-style small plates and a final tasting of local rums and cocktails while you watch planes come and go. Afterward, take a short stroll through the adjacent Harborview Promenade to pick up any last-minute artisanal snacks and enjoy a final seawatch before heading to the terminal, using the Express Check-in Kiosk to save time and relax in a lounge chair before boarding.
| Place / Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Eagle Beach | Free |
| Pega Pega Artisan Market (food/snacks) | $8 |
| 4★ boutique hotel (per night, shared per person estimate) | $120 |
| Renaissance Marketplace (lunch) | $18 |
| Wilhelmina Park (walk) | Free |
| Palm Beach Watersports (paddleboard rental) | $25 |
| Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill (drink) | $12 |
| Main Street (Caya G. F. Betico Croes) (shopping/walk) | Free |
| Yemanja Woodfired Grill (dinner) | $35 |
| Alto Vista Rooftop Bar (cocktail/nightcap) | $14 |
| Palm Beach Promenade (sunrise walk) | Free |
| Scooter rental (day) | $35 |
| Arashi Point (snorkeling/tidepools) | Free |
| Local Store & Café Noord (coffee/breakfast) | $8 |
| California Lighthouse (visit/viewpoint) | Free |
| Screaming Eagle Beach Bar (beachside lunch) | $20 |
| Butterfly Farm (entry) | $14 |
| Fort Zoutman and the Historical Museum (entry) | $5 |
| Gusto Nightclub & Rooftop (cocktail/live music) | $15 |
| Hadicurari (Fisherman's Huts) (visit/food trucks) | $12 |
| The Old Man and The Sea (dinner) | $45 |
| Gusto Tapa Bar (cocktail) | $12 |
| Flight Aruba → Curaçao (one-way, per person estimate) | $120 |
| Plasa Bieu (coffee/pastelito) | $7 |
| Punda's Handelskade (walk/photo) | Free |
| Queen Emma Bridge (walk) | Free |
| Scharloo artisan stalls (shopping/snacks) | $10 |
| Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue (external visit) | Free |
| Playa Kanoa Beach Bar & Restaurant (lunch) | $20 |
| Mambo Beach Boulevard (shopping/beach access) | $5 |
| Rif Fort (browse/terrace drink) | $12 |
| Curaçao Liqueur Distillery (tasting/entry) | $10 |
| Sunset Beach Bar & Restaurant (cocktail) | $12 |
| Marshe Bieu Night (food stalls dinner) | $10 |
| Queen Juliana Bridge viewpoint (walk) | Free |
| Kura Hulanda Café (digestif/coffee) | $8 |
| Playa Lagun (snorkel) | Free |
| Fort Nassau Café (breakfast/drink) | $12 |
| Shete Boka National Park (entry) | $5 |
| Kenepa Grandi (Grote Knip) (beach picnic/snorkel) | Free |
| Savonet Museum (entry) | $6 |
| Christoffel National Park Visitor Centre (entry/parking) | $20 |
| Blue Bay Beach & Golf Club (aperitif) | $12 |
| Restaurant Gouverneur de Rouville (dinner) | $35 |
| Flight Curaçao → Bonaire (one-way, per person estimate) | $110 |
| Karel's Beach Bar (breakfast) | $15 |
| Wilhelmina Park (Kralendijk) (walk) | Free |
| Bamboo Beach (shore snorkel) | Free |
| Capriccio Beach Club (refreshment) | $12 |
| Pink Beach (Klein Bonaire viewpoint) (picnic/snorkel) | Free |
| Soualiga Gift Shop & Café (snack) | $8 |
| Kaya Grandi Promenade (sundowner) | $10 |
| Ingridients Restaurant (dinner) | $30 |
| Crooked Tree Bar (rum/music) | $12 |
| Betsy's Bistro (breakfast) | $12 |
| 1000 Steps (guided shore dive/snorkel estimate) | $60 |
| Slagbaai Salt Flats (guided nature walk/entry) | $25 |
| Lac Bay (guided snorkel/BBQ or rental) | $45 |
| Rincon (visit/It Rains Fishes plate) | $15 |
| Bonaire Windsurfing Beach (sunset stop) | Free |
| Brass Boer Bonaire (dinner) | $35 |
| Harbour Village Marina (glass-bottom-boat twilight cruise) | $30 |
| Kites & Coffee Bar (nightcap) | $8 |
| The Marketplace Café / airport lounge access (day/use) | $25 |
| Zeezicht Terrace (brunch) | $20 |
| Island Paddle Rentals (harbor kayak rental) | $25 |
| Mangel Halto (snorkel/picnic) | Free |
| Bitterbal Snack & Deli (quick bites) | $8 |
| Jan Thiel Lagoon SUP rental (hour) | $20 |
| The Pier Sunset Lounge (cocktail/small plates) | $18 |
| Old Harbor Arts Walk (galleries/stalls) | Free |
| Harborfront Grill & Cantina (dinner) | $25 |
| Café Regulador (breakfast near terminal) | $12 |
| Duty Free Plaza (shopping) | $20 |
| Transit/skyline lounges (final seating/charging) | $15 |
| Plaza Lucha Food Hall (lunch) | $15 |
| Airport Express Baggage Drop / Express Check-in (service fee) | $10 |
| The Tarmac Terrace (airport dinner/final rums) | $20 |
| Estimated Total (per person) | $1299 |