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Join the Celebration: Aruba Carnival Season 

People dancing during a parade during Aruba Carnival season

Escape to the Caribbean this winter with Blue Aruba Rentals and celebrate Aruba’s rich culture during Carnival Season. What began as a small street festival has evolved into a two-month celebration of Aruban culture full of parades, costumes, music, and dance. Plan your trip during January and February and join the festivities of our island’s most anticipated events. From the Jouvert Morning Pajama Party in San Nicolas to the Grand Parade in downtown Oranjestad, there are endless Carnival events to complement your winter vacation in Aruba!

Brief History of Carnival

Carnival is not a Caribbean invention; similar festivals have been celebrated throughout history, dating back to ancient Rome. Over time, Carnival evolved into a major cultural event celebrated throughout the world. Since the 1950s, Aruba has adopted this traditional festival, incorporating African and Indigenous influences.  Learn more about the history of Carnival in Aruba before your visit!

Signature Events

With two months of Carnival celebrations, there are dozens of events to add to your vacation itinerary. Check out the full 2025 schedule and read on to discover a few of the island’s top events:

  • Lighting Parade: Held in downtown Oranjestad, this is one of the most popular parades of the season, featuring thousands of tiny lights on costumes, road pieces, and floats. 
  • Children’s Parade: The largest children’s parade of Carnival, held in downtown Oranjestad.
  • Jouvert Morning Pajama Party: Late-night revelers abound in San Nicolas for the annual street party that continues through sunrise!
  • Grand Carnival Parade: The carnival season ends with a Grand Parade, starting in San Nicolas and continuing into Oranjestad.
  • Grand Carnival Parade in Oranjestad: The biggest celebration of the season, featuring music, floats, costumes, and decorations. 

Lodging for Aruba Carnival Season

Join the celebration and book your stay with Blue Aruba Rentals during the Aruba Carnival season. We offer luxury condo rentals at some of the best complexes on the island, near the Carnival celebrations in Oranjestad and Noord. From our Harbour House properties in downtown Aruba to our beachfront properties in Oceania, Blue, and Azure Beach Residences, we have lodging for everyone’s needs. Book with us today and experience the excitement of Carnival!

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Aruba Holiday Shopping Guide

Gift bags on the beach with a starfish: Aruba shopping

The holiday season is the perfect time to experience Aruba’s warm white sandy beaches, tropical charm, and festive events. It’s also the perfect opportunity to find gifts from your holiday shopping list. Attend one of our holiday markets in December and embrace the festive cheer while shopping from dozens of local vendors. Or head to one of our boutiques and support our community by purchasing locally made candles, art, jewelry, and souvenirs. Book your stay with Blue Aruba Rentals and find unique gifts for your loved ones in the Caribbean: 

Holiday Markets

December is the most festive time of the year in Aruba. Visit one of our holiday markets and get in the Christmas spirit while shopping for unique gifts:

  • Shop for organic gifts in an open-air setting at the Cadushi Festival
  • Head to Aruba Made for the exclusive Christmas Shopping Nights in December, featuring arts, crafts, food, and drinks all made in Aruba!
  • Visit Hilton Caribbean Resort and find handmade gifts, souvenirs, arts, and crafts at their annual Christmas market.

Local Art Shopping

Purchase a piece of locally made Aruba art this holiday season from these shops:

  • Head to The Atelier for authentic Aruban paintings, jewelry, pottery, and candles from nine local artists. 
  • Visit My Gallery Aruba at the Renaissance Marketplace and shop for handmade art from 13 local artists.
  • Visit The Mask, discover the ancient practices of Mopa Mopa art, and purchase a one-of-a-kind mask. 

Souvenirs and Specialty Stores

Bring back a piece of Aruba for your loved ones at one of these souvenir shops:

  • Shop for locally grown and freshly processed aloe products at Royal Aruba Aloe Store.
  • Head to Coconuts and purchase clothing from Biba Dushi, a local brand sold exclusively at Coconuts, selling t-shirts, flip-flops, and caps. 
  • Find exquisite jewelry during your stay and purchase sea glass jewelry inspired by the shores of Aruba at Gloria Filiciana.
  • If you are staying at Harbour House, we recommend checking out the shops on the boardwalk. Visit Bula Surfshop for beach and surfing gear and Tangerine Aruba for handcrafted canvas bags and accessories.
  • Find clothing from your favorite fashion brands and designers at Renaissance Mall in Oranjestad.

Book an Aruba Holiday Getaway Today 

Book with Blue Aruba Rentals and stay near the island’s best shopping areas this holiday season. Find unique gifts and embrace the season’s splendor with Christmas festivals, lights, food, and live music. Find the perfect lodging for your stay with our collection of over 200 vacation rentals, ranging from studio condos to five-bedroom luxury villas. Enjoy all the comforts of home and take advantage of resort amenities like pools, tennis courts, fitness centers, and beach access. Book your Aruba holiday getaway today!

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Aruba Bike Rentals, Trails, and Tours

Bike rental at the beach on the island of Aruba

Aruba isn’t just about postcard-perfect beaches and scenic vistas; it’s also earned the title of the Caribbean’s best cycling destination. Thanks to our compact size, flat terrain, and easily accessible trails, Aruba sets the stage for an unforgettable biking getaway. Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or are just looking for an easy way to get around the island, biking is the perfect addition to your stay. Explore on your own with an Aruba bike rental, or enlist the help of a local tour guide to find the best route for your skill level. From mountain biking through Arikok National Park to road cycling to the area’s best shops, beaches, and restaurants, there is a biking experience for everyone in Aruba!

Biking in Aruba

If you are interested in exploring the island on your own, we recommend reserving a bike rental in Aruba. Use the map from Tri-Bike to plan your route for mountain biking, gravel biking, or road cycling. Here are a few of the most popular trails to explore on your own:

Bike Rentals and Tours in Aruba

Reserve your bike rental or set out for a guided tour with these local outfitters:

Tri-Bike Aruba

Rentals: Run by Olympic cyclist and three-time Hawaii Ironman finisher Gert van Vliet, the team at Tri-Bike Aruba has everything you need for an epic cycling adventure. Reserve a bike rental and choose from recreational beach cruisers, aluminum hardtail mountain bikes, electric mountain bikes, race road bikes, or electric city bikes. All bike rentals come with a helmet, lock, clip-on pedals, and flat pack. 

Tours: Tri-Bike offers customizable beginner, intermediate, and expert tours based on your preferences. 

E-Bike Aruba

Rentals: Travel around with ease on an electric bike rental with E-Bike Aruba. Browse their e-bike models, such as Ariel rides, juiced rip racers, or juiced cross current, and find the best option for your adventure. Call 297-563-6468 to reserve an e-bike and have it delivered to your vacation rental.

Tours: Head out with their guides on the intermediate Island Adventure Offroad Tour. This tour will take you past Eagle Beach, to local shops for refreshments, a swim at Malmok Beach, and the Ayo Rock Formations.

Aruba Active Vacations

Rentals: Head to Aruba Active Vacations for Cannondale, Giant, and Marin mountain bike rentals. Or reserve one of their mountain e-bikes and cover more ground with less effort. 

Tours: Book their mountain bike tour and cycle along the coast past the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, and beautiful beaches. 

Evikes in Aruba

Reserve Evikes in Aruba and get around the island on a smart electric scooter or bike. Download the Bird app, use the map to find your closest scooter, scan the QR code, and get ready to ride!

Explore Aruba on Wheels with Blue Aruba Rentals

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a casual rider, Aruba is the perfect place to explore on wheels. Plan your biking adventure with Blue Aruba Rentals and stay in one of our vacation rentals in the complexes of Oceania, Blue, Azure Beach Residences, and Harbour House.  With our local expertise and top-notch properties, we ensure you have a home away from home to relax and recharge after your biking adventures.

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Visit Aruba’s Natural Wonders | Bridge, Pool, & Dunes

View of the Natural bridge in Aruba

Escape to Aruba and travel outside Palm Beach and Eagle Beach’s touristy areas to discover our Caribbean Island’s wild side. From Arikok National Park on the east coast to the Sasarawichi Dunes on the north coast, there are endless natural wonders at your fingertips. Explore our mysterious caves, snap photos at the famous Natural Bridge in Aruba, cool down in a serene natural pool, and explore expansive sand dunes. However you want to spend your time in our slice of paradise, Blue Aruba Rentals provides the perfect basecamp for your adventures. Book with us today and visit these natural wonders:

Natural Bridge Aruba

Even though the Natural Bridge in Aruba collapsed in 2005, this natural attraction is still worth a visit! Next to the collapsed bridge, you can take photos of the intact Baby Bridge. Both bridges were shaped over thousands of years by waves chiseling away at the limestone cliffs along the north coast.

Natural Pool Aruba

Located inside Arikok National Park, the Natural Pool is one of our most visited natural attractions. This pool is protected by a volcanic stone circle of rocks, providing a peaceful swimming area for visitors. We highly recommend traveling to the pools with a local guide since the site is inaccessible to regular cars. Tour operators include Rockabeach Tours, De Palm Tours, and ABC Tours. 

Quadirikiri and Fontein Cave

Also located inside Arikok National Park, you can find the unique Quadirikiri and Fontein Caves. Step into Quadiriki and take in views of the stalactites and stalagmites illuminated by the sunlight streaming through the cave roof. Then, head to Fontein Cave and learn island history from the drawings of Arawak Indians on the ceiling. Tour the caves on your own or enlist the help of one of the park rangers. 

Sasarawichi Dunes

Head to the Northeast Coast of Aruba and visit the Sasarawichi Dunes near the California Lighthouse. These massive sand dunes starkly contrast the rest of the island’s environment, offering unique exploration and photo opportunities.  

Hooiberg

Hike up Hooiberg Mountain and immerse yourself in the island’s flora and fauna. Ascend 550 stairs to the top and be rewarded with panoramic views of the island and sea. Keep an eye out for wild goats, parakeets, and lizards along the way! 

From the Natural Bridge to the caves in Arikok National Park, there are dozens of natural wonders throughout Aruba. Book your stay with Blue Aruba Rentals and find the perfect lodging for your Caribbean getaway!

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Explore Aruba’s Capital | Things to Do in Oranjestad

Aerial view of Aruba's capital city: things to do in Oranjestad

Stay in the heart of Aruba’s capital city with Blue Aruba Rentals and experience our island’s rich culture just steps from Harbour House. Stay in our properties overlooking the beautiful Oranjestad Marina and discover fantastic shopping, dining, and museums nearby. Whether you want to learn local history at a museum or find the perfect souvenir at the shopping malls, there are endless things to do in Oranjestad Aruba. Discover everything downtown has to offer and experience the perfect blend of island relaxation and urban living.

Shopping

Oranjestad is the shopping hub of the island, offering something for everyone:

  • Shop from your favorite fashion brands and designers at Renaissance Mall 
  • Visit the Royal Plaza Mall, one of downtown’s most colorful landmarks, and shop from luxury stores, souvenir shops, and jewelers.
  • Enjoy boutique shopping at Renaissance Marketplace, where you can find apparel, eyewear, jewelry, beauty products, and souvenirs. 
  • Hop on the free trolley that travels along Main Street and enjoy panoramic views of downtown. Stop along the way for some fantastic souvenir shopping!

Museums

Learn all about the fascinating history of Aruba at our local museums. Start your journey at Fort Zoutman, the oldest building in Oranjestad, housing the island’s Historical Museum. Learn about the Spanish and Dutch periods through historical documents and the historic Willem III Tower next to the fort. Plan your visit on Tuesday and attend the Bon Bini Festival for a night of folkloric music, dance, local art, and food. 

Visit the National Archaeological Museum of Aruba and learn about over 3,500 years of Aruban culture and history. Walk through the interactive exhibitions and discover the island’s archaeological history!

Dining

Discover many dining options downtown, including Lima Bistro and Ever Restaurant at Harbour House. Stop at Lima for delicious Peruvian cuisine overlooking the marina, and visit Ever Restaurant for an eight-course fine dining experience. And if you are craving something else, there are dozens more downtown restaurants to check out nearby:

Book Your Stay at Harbour House in Downtown Oranjestad 

Book your Aruba getaway at Harbour House and stay close to all the fantastic things to do in Oranjestad. Walk down the road and watch boats come in at the cruise terminal, or walk down for some excellent shopping at the Aruba flea market. Return to Harbour House and take advantage of our on-site amenities like 24-hour security, an elevated pool area, a fitness center, a hot tub, and concierge services. Find the perfect Oranjestad vacation rental with Blue Aruba today!

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The Best Aruba Tours for Your Vacation

People riding on horseback during Aruba tours

Aruba is known for its breathtaking scenery and beautiful Caribbean waters. From watching a stunning sunset to dining at a restaurant on the beach, there are countless ways to take in picturesque views. While you can enjoy self-guided outings, sometimes the best way to explore the island is with a little help. There are several kinds of Aruba tours to choose from, all of which will show off everything this island has to offer. To help you decide which excursions to add to your itinerary, the team at Blue Aruba Rentals has compiled a list of popular options.

Ride Around in a Jeep

A popular way to explore the island is by Jeep. ABC Tours Aruba offers half-day and full-day caravan-style tours, including trips to places like the Natural Pool and Baby Beach. Another excellent option is Isla Aruba Tours, which offers several private tours, including a customized adventure.

Go Below the Surface Snorkeling

Aruba’s picturesque scenery doesn’t stop at the water’s surface. There’s a whole colorful underwater world to explore on snorkeling expeditions. Set sail with De Palm Tours Aruba on one of two different tours, both of which include stops at beautiful locations. For a unique way to reach your snorkeling destination, check out Jolly Pirates Sailing Cruises & Snorkeling.

Set Off Horseback Riding

Not only is the sandy shoreline perfect for romantic strolls, but it’s also the prime location to go horseback riding. There are several services close to our Aruba vacation rentals that are perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. The Gold Mine Ranch Aruba has a few different rides to choose from, and Rancho La Ponderosa offers both a morning and afternoon excursion.

Reserve a UTV or ATV Ride

Going on an ATV or UTV tour takes you to places other motorized tours can only dream of. For more than six decades, De Palms Tours has been showcasing some of Aruba’s hidden gems courtesy of its off-road UTV tour. Choose from a single or double ATV outing from Kini Kini ATV Tour, and you’ll see landmarks like the Cave Natural Pool and Bushiribana Ruins.

Book Your Aruba Home Base

Before reserving your Aruba tours, it’s important to book your home base from Blue Aruba Rentals. Our inventory includes condo rentals at some of the best properties near Eagle Beach, including Azure Beach, Oceania, and Blue Residences. We also have vacation rentals at Harbour House, located in downtown Aruba. Browse our luxury vacation condos and find your dream rental today!

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Where to Witness a Dazzling Aruba Sunset on Vacation

View of Aruba sunset over the beach

After a day of island adventures, we invite you to watch a breathtaking Aruba sunset. As the leading vacation rental company on the island, Blue Aruba Rentals is here to give you insight into the island’s best sunset spots. Witness the sun dip below the horizon from your Eagle Beach condo rental, the California Lighthouse, on a luxurious sail, or from a beachfront restaurant. Check the sunset time during your visit and read on to uncover the best vantage points on the island:

Aruba Sunset Cruises

Witness the Aruba sunset from the water with one of these boat cruises or sailing experiences:

  • Sign up for a Sunset Cruise with Pelican Adventures and sail along Aruba on a luxurious custom-built catamaran. All trips include an unlimited open bar, tropical cocktails, snacks, and music. Pair your cruise with a three-course dinner at Pelican Nest Seafood Grill. 
  • If you visit with kids, Jolly Pirates Sailing offers the perfect outing for the entire family. Reserve the Sunset Pirate Ship Sail Cruise and enjoy scenic sunset views and fun pirate-themed activities. 
  • Discover the ultimate romantic evening on the water with Octopus Catamaran Happy Hour Sunset Sail. Kick back in the luxury lounge seats and enjoy a scenic sunset sail in the Palm Beach area. 

California Lighthouse

California Lighthouse is one of the top places to watch an Aruba sunset, offering 360-degree views of the island. Climb to the top of the lighthouse at sunset and witness the sun descend into the Caribbean Sea, backdropped by beaches and coral shorelines. 

Watch the Sunset from an Aruba Restaurant

Aruba’s beachfront restaurants offer the perfect setting to unwind and watch the sunset. Book your reservation around sunset time and enjoy a delicious meal as you watch the sky transform into a canvas of gold, orange, and pink. Just imagine watching the sunset from one of these beachfront eateries while sipping on tropical cocktails, feasting on fresh seafood, and feeling the sea breeze in your hair:

Watch an Aruba Sunset from Your Condo Rental

Book your getaway with Blue Aruba Rentals and witness Aruba sunsets from your condo rental at Blue Residences, Azure Beach Residences, and Oceania Residences. These condos are steps away from Eagle Beach so that you can watch the sunset from the sand or your balcony overlooking the beach. We also offer Harbour House properties overlooking the Oranjestad Marina with a fantastic sundeck offering 360-degree views. Book your Aruba condo rental with us today!

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Attend the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba

People attending a nighttime concert at Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba

Are you looking for lodging near the Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba? Look no further than Blue Aruba Rentals and our Harbour House properties in downtown Aruba! Stay close to the action and easily access the music concerts at Harbor Arena, just a five-minute drive down the road. Soak up the sun during SBMF and experience a weekend full of star-studded concerts, comedy shows, and beach parties. Book your Aruba condo rental today and read on to learn more about what to expect at this year’s festival:

Schedule of Events

The Soul Beach Music Festival is held in Aruba annually over Memorial Day weekend. The 2024 festival kicks off on Wednesday, May 22nd, and ends on Monday, May 27th. You can find the schedule of events on the official website of SBMF, but here is a preview of what to expect:

  • Concerts are hosted at the outdoor Harbor Arena off LG Smith Road. The 2024 headliners are Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men!
  • The Comedy Concert will be hosted at Renaissance Wind Creek Festival Plaza, just a five-minute walk from Harbour House. The 2024 headliner is Earthquake!
  • Nightclub Parties are hosted at various venues throughout the island, featuring guest DJs.
  • Beach Parties are hosted at Moomba Beach in the Palm Beach area, except for the Sunday party at Baby Beach. 

Read the FAQ page for more information about getting to the island, ground transportation, and ticket information. Purchase your tickets for the music festival today!

Aruba Soul Beach Music Festival Lodging

Reserve lodging for the Soul Beach Music Festival at Harbour House with Blue Aruba Rentals today! Harbour House condos are located downtown and overlook the beautiful Oranjestad Marina. Our rentals range from studio to three-bedroom condos to accommodate groups of all sizes visiting for the festival. No matter where you stay, you can enjoy access to resort amenities, such as:

  • Infinity pool overlooking the Oranjestad Marina
  • Fitness center featuring the latest gym equipment
  • Exclusive sundeck with hot tub
  • Award-winning restaurants on-site: Lima Bistro & Ever Restaurant
  • 24-hour security service
  • High-speed internet access

Reserve your room at Harbour House today, and we’ll see you during the Soul Beach Music Festival!

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5 Aruba Restaurants on the Beach to Try on Vacation

Tables set up at Aruba restaurants on the beach at sunset

Blue Aruba Rentals is proud to offer premium beachfront properties on the beautiful island of Aruba! Book your vacation rental in Eagle Beach with us and enjoy on-site dining at Po-KĂ© Ono and Infini by Urvin Crose. Or stay in Oranjestad and enjoy exceptional dining at Lima Bistro and Ever Restaurant steps from your condo rental. Discover even more dining options at our Aruba restaurants on the beach and enjoy waterfront views, fresh seafood, tasty cocktails, and live entertainment. 

Whether you are looking for a casual eatery where you can watch the sunset or an elevated date night spot for you and your loved one, there is a destination for everyone: 

1. MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant

Enjoy fantastic food, drinks, music, and views at MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant, between the Marriott and the Holiday Inn. Sit in the restaurant’s outdoor seating area and enjoy ocean views as you dine on fresh seafood or pinchos. After your meal, head to the beachfront bar for tasty cocktails and live entertainment!

2. Passions On The Beach

Visit Passions On The Beach for a romantic torchlight dinner on Eagle Beach overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Indulge in some of the island’s highest-quality meat and seafood, including grouper, mahi mahi, red snapper, and filet mignon. They also offer a beach bar for breakfast, lunch, or late-night cocktails!

3. Barefoot Restaurant

Barefoot Restaurant is located in Oranjestad, approximately 20 minutes from our resort area. They are known for offering “elegant dining in flip flops,” combining fine dining with a relaxed beach setting. They offer delicious fish, meat, and vegetarian entrees to appeal to everyone’s taste buds. Pair your meal with an exquisite cocktail or glass of wine!

4. Atardi

If you are looking for Aruba restaurants on the beach for your date night, we recommend Atardi. Enjoy a private beachfront dining experience complemented by romantic sunset views and carefully prepared culinary delights. Their dinner menu highlights the Chilean Sea Bass, but they offer entrees like creole red snapper and Caribbean lobster tail. Elements is another fantastic date-night restaurant!

5. Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant

If you are looking for a casual beachfront eatery, we recommend Matthew’s Beachside Restaurant. Stop in for their daily happy hour, take in water views, and enjoy tasty seafood like grouper, corvina, octopus, seabass, and more!

Book Your Aruba Beachfront Vacation Rental

Many of these Aruba restaurants on the beach are just a short drive away from our Aruba vacation rentals in Eagle Beach. Browse our collection of Aruba condo rentals near the beach in Blue Residences, Azure Beach Residences, and Oceania Residences. Discover even more condo rentals at Harbour House overlooking the beautiful Oranjestad Marina. Enjoy amenities like beach access, pools, fitness rooms, tennis courts, and on-site dining. Book your Caribbean getaway in Aruba today!

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Long-Term Rentals in Aruba for the Ultimate Workcation

Person sitting on the beach and working on their laptop, long term rentals in Aruba for your workcation

Thanks to the flexibility of remote jobs, workcations have become a popular way to combine work and play! Workcations or working vacations offer a fantastic opportunity to break out of your routine and travel to an inspiring location while working remotely. Discover inspiration on the beautiful island of Aruba with Bue Aruba Vacation Rentals. Reserve our workcation special and save up to 30% on select long-term rentals in Aruba. Plan your extended stay and take advantage of our free WiFi, amazing views, and open spaces!

Aruba Workcation Special

Blue Aruba Rentals is offering an exclusive promo for extended stays now through November 30, 2024. Receive up to 30% discount on a stay of more than 28 days on certain units. Please contact us directly at info@bluearuba.com or +1 844 999 2425 for more information about the properties available for extended stays. Let us assist you with planning the perfect workcation!

Benefits of Working Remotely with Blue Aruba Rentals

  • Free high-speed WiFi in our vacation rentals
  • Amazing views to inspire you and provide a scenic backdrop for meetings
  • Access to open spaces, including beaches, gardens, tennis courts, and pools 
  • Use of amenities like fitness center and tennis courts
  • On-site wellness activities, including yoga, tennis clinics, and paddleboard tours.
  • 24/7 security 

Aruba Long-Term Rentals Amenities

Blue Aruba Vacation Rentals represents properties in Harbour House, Oceania, Blue, and Azure Beach Residences. No matter where you stay, you will have access to essential amenities on your property, such as:

  • Kitchen
  • Private Entrance
  • Parking
  • WiFi with speeds of 100mbps
  • Washer and dryer
  • Air conditioning
  • Access to swimming pool, spa, and gym

Top Activities in Aruba

After you clock out for the day, check out everything our island paradise has to offer. Read through our Blue Aruba blog posts for vacation inspiration!

  • Spend time unwinding at our picturesque Aruba beaches: Eagle Beach, Palm Beach, and Arashi Beach.
  • Explore Arikok National Park and hike through the native flora and fauna of the Caribbean.
  • Discover endless water activities like fishing, kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

Book Long-Term Rentals in Aruba Today

Start planning your Caribbean workcation today and discover the best long-term rentals in Aruba for your getaway! Blue Aruba is the number one vacation home rental company on the island, offering more than 200 condos to suit your needs. Please contact us directly to confirm availability and request a personalized quote. Your Aruba workcation awaits!

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