Aruba is Bida

There is an island where every sunrise feels like a fresh beginning, where trade winds hum through the palms, and the ocean glows in colors you did not know existed. This is Aruba, small in size but rich in soul.

“Aruba is Bida” means Aruba is life, and that is exactly what this page celebrates: the rhythm, color, and kindness that make our island unforgettable.

Essentials with Island Soul

Before you dive into the magic, here are a few things to know. Aruba is part of the Dutch Caribbean. Its capital, Oranjestad, charms visitors with Dutch-inspired facades painted in tropical pastels. We speak many languages here: Papiamento and Dutch officially, but you will also hear English and Spanish everywhere you go.

The local currency is the Aruban florin, though US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. We live by Atlantic Standard Time and never change our clocks, because the sun keeps its own schedule here. Electricity runs on 110 volts (like in the US), and our tap water, made from desalinated seawater, is famously pure and refreshing.

With sunshine nearly every day of the year, Aruba’s climate is dry, warm, and balanced by a constant ocean breeze. Just remember your sunscreen, your smile, and the island will take care of the rest.

Say it the Aruba Way

Papiamento is not just a language; it is music. It carries the warmth of the people who speak it. When someone says Bon bini, they are not simply saying “Welcome.” They are opening their heart to you.

Learn a few local phrases, and you will see faces light up:

Dushi means sweet, lovely, or delicious.
Masha danki means thank you very much.
Bon dia, bon tardi, and bon nochi mean good morning, good afternoon, and good evening.
Hopi bon means very good.

Speak slowly, smile first, and do not worry about perfection. In Aruba, kindness is understood in any accent.

How we live in Aruba

Life in Aruba moves at the pace of the sun: steady and easy. People greet one another, take the time to connect, and share stories over food. You will notice that locals always say hello, even to strangers, and that a small gesture of kindness is part of everyday life.

When it comes to food, Aruba’s kitchen tells its own story of heritage and creativity. You will find pastechi (a savory pastry), keshi yena (stuffed cheese), and pan bati (a soft pancake served with almost anything). Every dish carries a blend of Caribbean and European roots.

Respect comes naturally here too. We protect our coral reefs, keep our beaches clean, and give nesting sea turtles the quiet space they deserve. A few simple choices, such as using reef-safe sunscreen or picking up litter, help preserve the paradise that welcomes us all.

Places That Breathe Aruba

Every corner of Aruba has its own heartbeat.

Eagle Beach is where time slows down. Powder-white sand stretches for miles, and fofoti trees, twisted by the wind, seem to point you toward the horizon. It is one of the island’s most photographed beaches, and if you visit during turtle nesting season, you might witness new life hatching beneath the moonlight.

Arikok National Park is the island’s wild soul, rugged, wind-carved, and rich with history. Here, ancient caves whisper stories of the Arawak people, and curious goats wander freely. Hidden inside the park is Conchi, the Natural Pool, a secret spot where waves crash dramatically against volcanic rock.

At the California Lighthouse, the world feels endless. Perched at Aruba’s northwestern tip, it offers the best sunset views on the island. The lighthouse was named after a ship that once wrecked off the coast, but today it stands tall as a symbol of guidance and light.

San Nicolas Street Art transforms old walls into canvases of color. Once a quiet town, San Nicolas has become a creative hub where local and international artists leave their mark. Each mural tells a new story, blending Caribbean culture with imagination.

Mangel Halto feels like a secret lagoon. The mangroves frame turquoise waters where snorkelers drift lazily among coral and fish. It is peaceful and perfect for reflection, especially at sunset when the water mirrors the golden sky.

And then there is Tres Trapi, a tiny cove with three steps carved into stone, which is what its name means in Papiamento. Slip into the water early in the morning when the sea is calm and clear, and you might find yourself surrounded by colorful reef fish or even sea stars resting in the sand.

Practical Information

Getting around Aruba is easy, and island life is even easier. Taxis, rental cars, and local buses connect the main areas, while the small size of the island means every destination is just a short drive away. If you explore the north coast, take your time; the views deserve it.

Most places accept credit cards, though it is handy to carry small cash for local cafés or beach bars. Wi-Fi is widely available, and if you need more, a local SIM or eSIM keeps you connected on the go.

Safety here is part of daily life. Hydrate often, protect your skin, and always listen to local guides about ocean conditions. For emergencies, dial 911. Most of all, relax. Aruba moves at its own pace, and it is contagious.

Responsible Travel

Aruba’s beauty is a shared treasure, and it is our responsibility to protect it. When you snorkel, float above the reef instead of standing on it. Give sea turtles space and never chase them for a photo. Choose reef-safe sunscreen, skip plastic bottles, and leave no trace behind.

Every small action helps keep this island just as breathtaking for the next person who arrives with a dream of turquoise water and golden sand.

Feel Aruba with Us

Now that you have learned a little about the island, it is time to feel it for yourself.Whether you are gliding over calm waters on a luxury catamaran or snorkeling gently alongsidesea turtles, Pelican Aruba invites you to make every moment count.

Our experiences are crafted for comfort and connection, from turtle-friendly snorkeling to sunsetsails with unlimited beverage service, all led by a team that calls Aruba home.

Let the wind carry you, the waves welcome you, and the island remind you: Aruba is Bida.