5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Aruba

  1. Day 1: Oranjestad
    21 minutes (7.2 miles) from Queen Beatrix International Airport

    Explore the capital of Aruba, Oranjestad, starting with a walk on the Linear Park, a waterfront promenade with artistic murals and sculptures. Visit Historic Museum Aruba, showcasing the island's history through artifacts and exhibits. End the day at the Wilhelmina Park, a public park with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

  2. Day 2: Arikok National Park
    35 minutes (12 miles) from Oranjestad

    Take a hike in Arikok National Park, home to diverse wildlife, scenic vistas, and ancient cave paintings and rock formations. Visit the Fontein Cave and its stalagmites, stalactites, and Indian drawings. Experience the Natural Pool, a secluded swimming hole formed by volcanic rock and waves crashing in.

  3. Day 3: Eagle Beach
    16 minutes (7.2 miles) from Oranjestad

    Unwind at the world-famous Eagle Beach, a pristine white sand beach with turquoise water and palm trees. Relax under a shade or go swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, or windsurfing. Take a stroll on the Butterfly Farm, a nature sanctuary with hundreds of colorful butterflies and exotic plants.

  4. Day 4: San Nicolas
    29 minutes (17.9 miles) from Eagle Beach

    Discover the cultural hub of Aruba, San Nicolas, known for its street art, carnival celebrations, and local cuisine. Wander around the alleyways to see murals from international artists on the Aruba Art Trail. Dine at Kamini's Kitchen, a family-owned restaurant serving authentic Aruban dishes with a twist. Check out the Salt Ponds, where flamingos and other birds gather.

  5. Day 5: Baby Beach
    26 minutes (11.3 miles) from San Nicolas

    End the trip at Baby Beach, a secluded hideaway with shallow calm water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and soak up the sun on the beach. Try the fresh seafood at Big Mama Grill, a local favorite.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Historic Museum Aruba (1 hour, free)
  • Wilhelmina Park (30 minutes, free)
  • Arikok National Park (4 hours, $11 entrance fee)
  • Butterfly Farm (1 hour, $15 per person)
  • Kamini's Kitchen (1 hour, $10 per person)
  • Big Mama Grill (1 hour, $20 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $56 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other beaches like Palm Beach and Malmok Beach, taking a yacht tour around the island, or shopping at Renaissance Mall. If you have less time, you can combine Day 1 and Day 4, or Day 3 and Day 5. Make sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, comfortable shoes, and cash, as some places do not accept credit cards.

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