Last minute holidays to Aruba

Caribbean qualities

Aruba ticks off all the things you’d expect from a Caribbean island — white-sand beaches, coconut palm forests, rum shacks and beach barbecues. But it’s also part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, so you get a Dutch colonial city in the shape of colourful Oranjestad and the odd beachside windmill. The USA has also put its stamp on the island, so expect plenty of Tex-Mex restaurants and a strong expat community.

A range of daytrips

Aruba might be a small island, but its changeable landscape means that there’s plenty to do. Shipwrecks and coral reefs ring the coastline, making its gin-clear waters top-notch scuba diving territory. And Arikok National Park offers hiking trails that skim past limestone cliffs, low-rise mountains, sand dunes and caves decorated with ancient Arawak Indian rock drawings. If that all feels a touch energetic, travel along the west side of the island on a sunset cruise.

Fancy flying to the Caribbean in the next few weeks — or days? Have a look at our last minute deals on Aruba hotels and flights.