Aruba

The Perfect Aruba Itinerary:

What We Did, What We Loved & What I’d Do Differently Next Time

If you’re planning a trip to Aruba and want a mix of adventure, good food, relaxation, and a little nightlife, here’s exactly what we did plus honest thoughts on what I’d change for next time. This trip had everything: crystal-clear water, great restaurants, a little luxury, and one unforgettable day with flamingos.

Whether you’re building your Aruba itinerary or just looking for the best things to do in Aruba, here’s a breakdown of our favorites.

🎣 1. Driftwood Fishing Charter — 5/5

If you’re even slightly into fishing or just want a uniquely Aruban experience Driftwood Fishing Charter is a must.

Captain Elvis and the crew make the entire day effortless. They’ll help you catch whatever’s biting (wahoo, mahi-mahi, barracuda, tuna), and the best part? They cook your catch at Driftwood Restaurant that same night. It’s one of the most authentic, farm-to-table-but-make-it-ocean experiences on the island.

Highly recommend: Morning departure for calmer water + booking dinner after. Bonus tip .... don't drink too much the night before.

🍽️ 2. Dinner at Madame Janette — 5/5

If you love restaurants that feel cozy, romantic, and tucked away from tourist chaos, Madame Janette is truly a gem. It’s located slightly “in the woods,” surrounded by soft lights and greenery, which makes the whole setting feel magical.

The menu is huge, everything is delicious, and it was easily one of the best meals of our trip. Make a reservation — this place is popular for a reason.

🦩 3. Renaissance Spa Package (Flamingo Island Access)

There are a lot of TikToks and Instagram posts about Flamingo Island, but here’s the insider tip most people don’t know:

Booking a spa package at the Renaissance is the BEST and easiest way to get access to Flamingo Island.

Here’s why:

• The spa package includes the private boat ride to Renaissance Island

• You get full-day access to Flamingo Island

• Many packages include a fruit platter, drinks, and water

• It’s often cheaper (and way more enjoyable) than trying to buy a regular day pass — which usually sells out and requires you to get up REALLY early!
  

We booked the Spa Cove Massage and spent the rest of the day on the beach with flamingos walking around. Truly a bucket-list day.

🎲 4. Nightlife in Aruba

If you want a little glam at night, head to The Ritz-Carlton Aruba. The bar scene is lively without feeling chaotic, and the casino is fun for a late-night drink + a few rounds of blackjack or slots.

It’s a great place to dress up a bit, grab a cocktail, and enjoy a more elevated vibe compared to the busier hotel bars.

⛵ 5. Catamaran Cruise

No Aruba itinerary is complete without a Catamaran cruise and ours ended up being one of the most relaxing parts of the trip. We went on Christmas Day!

Expect:

• Calm turquoise water

• Snorkeling stops

• Open bar

• A smooth sail with great music and island views

Whether you choose a sunset cruise or a daytime snorkel cruise, this is the must-do activity in Aruba.

What I’d Do Differently Next Time

Travel is all about learning what works for you. As much as we loved Aruba, here are the things I’d tweak for round two:

✨ Stay Away From the Cruise Port

We stayed farther from the main cruise-port area, and I’m so glad we did. The cruise traffic can make certain parts of Aruba feel extremely crowded and touristy — almost like being in Florida during peak season. If you want a more relaxed experience, stay on the Palm Beach or Eagle Beach side.

✨ Avoid Christmas Week

I would not visit again during Christmas — the island was packed, restaurants were booked out, and everywhere felt a little overwhelming. Visit in:

• Late January–April

• May–early June

• September–early December

All are great times with fewer crowds.

✨ Skip the All-Inclusive

For couples or adults traveling without kids, an all-inclusive in Aruba isn’t necessary. We didn’t use the perks — we ate dinner out every night and explored new bars and restaurants.

If you love exploring the island and trying local spots, opt for a regular resort or boutique hotel.

Final Thoughts

Aruba is an amazing island for relaxation, great food, and beautiful ocean views. Our favorite experiences were the fishing charter, Madame Janette, and the Renaissance spa day all worth adding to your itinerary.

If you’re planning a trip or tweaking your existing plans, use this as a guide. And if you have questions about Flamingo Island, where to stay, or what to skip, I can help!