Last Minute Holidays to Aruba

Nicknamed 'One Happy Island', Aruba is the choice for a last minute getaway

Aruba is just over nine hours from the UK, then you can be snorkelling in candy blue waters or simply spending your days lazing on a white sand beach. There are many beautiful seaside towns in Aruba that are ideal for a last minute holiday.

Oranjestad, the historic colonial city and capital, is sure to delight with its Dutch Caribbean charm. Its multi-ethnic influences are reflected in its pastel-coloured architecture, palm-lined streets and beachfront restaurants. White sand beaches, casinos, shopping malls and watersports such as snorkelling are all within walking distance.

If you prefer a more tranquil region with low-rise hotels then Druif Beach on

the west coast of the island is just the place for you. Expect 11 kilometres of pristine white shores offering either perfect relaxation, watersports such as snorkelling, kayaking, fishing and sailing, or playing on one of Aruba’s finest golf courses near the beach. For dining outside of your hotel, Oranjestad and Palm Beach are only a few minutes away from each other by taxi, providing lots of choice.

Palm Beach is an upscale seaside town filled with luxurious hotels, chic international restaurants and high-end stores and casinos. For the active holidaymaker try windsurfing or snorkelling and diving, including at the site of a World War II shipwreck. Those who prefer not to get wet can explore under the sea on the Atlantis Submarine.

The best time of year to book your last minute holiday

Some of the best deals to Aruba can be found by booking last minute, which is anywhere from eight weeks before your planned departure date to just before you want to go. You can save even more by visiting outside of Aruba’s high season, which is December to April, coinciding with the dry season. During this period the temperature averages 28°C.

Low season is cheapest, ranging between June and October, making it worthwhile to book a last minute getaway then. However, keep in mind that low season is the wet season, so expect occasional rainfall, which reaches its peak in August, but fortunately Aruba is outside of the hurricane alley. If you’re planning to travel during the wet season do a little research beforehand on rainy day activities.

Other last minute holidays to have a look at

If you’re good and ready for a last minute holiday but still aren’t entirely sure where to go, we’ve got you covered. Have a look at other Caribbean destinations like Jamaica, Antigua and Barbados for more sand shores with all the same sun. But if your heart’s still set on Aruba, take a peek at our travel guide for more information on this dreamy Caribbean spot. In the meantime, here are our picks for Aruba’s top last minute hotels.

Riu Palace Antillas

This adults-only, All Inclusive hotel is situated on Aruba’s famous Palm Beach and has sprawling grounds with lagoon pools complete with water fountains and a swim-up bar. There’s a buffet restaurant serving Caribbean cuisine as well as three gourmet restaurants and a Mexican poolside dining venue. Active holidaymakers can enjoy watersports such as windsurfing, snorkelling and kayaking, and you get an introductory scuba diving lesson in the pool. Evenings are filled with entertainment and discos six nights a week or you can play at the casino. On Palm Beach’s doorstep for further vibrant nightlife, the capital Oranjestad is only a short taxi ride away.

Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusive Suites At Divi Dutch Village

A last minute escape to the 4* All Inclusive Tamarijn Aruba is a rewarding experience as you get a no-holds-barred pass to the hotel complex’s generous pool and dining scenes. The luxury suites are located just steps from the beach, or if you prefer not to be on the sand you can lounge at one of six pools across the resort. There are nine restaurants to choose from, serving a range of delicious international and Caribbean dishes and for dining outside the hotel, the capital Oranjestad is only a short taxi ride away. Activities available include snorkelling, windsurfing lessons, canoeing, beach volleyball, golf and climbing a 30-foot rock climbing wall by the sea.

Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino

This 5* hotel is one of Aruba’s most exclusive hotel complexes, with former guests including the Queen of Holland and Monaco’s royal family. The hotel is divided into two zones, which sit on opposite sides of the marina and combined have three swimming pools, a range of international restaurants and a casino with local entertainment. The casinos, shopping malls, restaurants and nightclubs of Oranjestad are all just a stroll away. The complex also includes a private island, Renaissance Island, which is a tropical paradise with flamingos where guests can take the complementary short water taxi ride to spend the day relaxing on the beach.