Aruba - Eagle Beach & Palm Beach Guide from Newark
Aruba, the "One Happy Island," welcomes Essex County travelers with pristine Eagle Beach (#1 Caribbean beach), turquoise Palm Beach waters, and perpetual sunshine outside the hurricane belt. This Dutc...
Aruba, the "One Happy Island," welcomes Essex County travelers with pristine Eagle Beach (#1 Caribbean beach), turquoise Palm Beach waters, and perpetual sunshine outside the hurricane belt. This Dutch Caribbean island combines world-class beaches with friendly locals, unique desert landscapes, and reliable year-round perfect weather (82°F daily). Whether you're lounging under divi-divi trees at Eagle Beach, snorkeling among tropical fish at Mangel Halto, or exploring colorful Oranjestad architecture, Aruba delivers the quintessential Caribbean experience with zero hurricane worries. With cruise ships from Cape Liberty and Manhattan, plus direct flights from Newark, Aruba remains a top destination for New Jersey travelers seeking guaranteed sunshine.
Destination Highlights
Travel Information from Newark
- Flight Time:
- 4 hours 45 minutes direct from Newark, or cruise
- Time Zone:
- See travel details
- Best Time to Visit:
- Aruba unique as it sits OUTSIDE the hurricane belt with perfect weather year-round. Temperature consistent 82°F daily, minimal seasonal variation. Best Caribbean destination for summer travel.
- Average Temperature:
- Perfect 82°F daily. December-April has lowest humidity. Trade winds keep temperatures comfortable. Zero chance of rain disrupting beach days.
- Currency:
- Aruban Florin
- Airlines from Newark:
- United Airlines, JetBlue, Delta
Top Attractions
- Eagle Beach
- Palm Beach
- California Lighthouse & Arashi Beach
- Oranjestad Downtown
- Arikok National Park
Insider Tips for Essex County Travelers
- 1.Public bus to beaches only $2 - cheapest transport option
- 2.Cruise port walkable to downtown Oranjestad (10 minutes)
- 3.Rent bicycles at port ($25/day) to explore independently
- 4.US dollars accepted everywhere - no currency exchange needed
- 5.Sun protection essential - near-equatorial sun intensity
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Aruba really outside the hurricane belt and safe for summer cruises?
YES! Aruba sits at 12°N latitude, south of the hurricane belt. No hurricane has ever hit Aruba in recorded history. This makes it THE safest Caribbean destination June-November when other islands face storm risk. Summer cruises to Aruba have zero hurricane cancellation concerns - enjoy 82°F sunshine with confidence year-round.
What's the cheapest way to visit Eagle Beach from cruise port?
Public L10A bus costs just $2 per ride (pay driver with exact change USD). Bus stops at cruise terminal and runs every 15-20 minutes to Eagle Beach. Total $4 round-trip vs $45-75 cruise excursions. Bring towel or rent beach chairs $10-12. This is by far the best beach value in the Caribbean.
Can I see flamingos on my cruise day in Aruba?
Yes, but expensive for cruise passengers. Renaissance Island (flamingo beach) costs $125 per person day pass for non-resort guests, and space is extremely limited with advance booking required. Better option: Take photos of flamingos from public pier (free), or save flamingos for a future resort stay where island access is included.
Is Eagle Beach or Palm Beach better for cruise passengers?
Eagle Beach wins for natural beauty, fewer crowds, and authentic experience - #1 ranked Caribbean beach for good reason. Palm Beach offers more amenities, water sports, and beach bars. Both accessible via $2 bus. Recommend Eagle Beach for relaxation/photos, Palm Beach for families wanting activities. Can't go wrong with either.
Do I need to book Aruba shore excursions in advance?
No! Aruba is the easiest Caribbean port for independent exploration. Public buses ($2) reach all major beaches, downtown is walkable from port (10 minutes), and taxis abundant with negotiable rates. Save money exploring independently vs $75-145 cruise excursions. Only book in advance if wanting specific tours like UTV adventures or submarine tours with limited capacity.
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