Aruba: One Happy Island from Newark
Hurricane-Free Paradise with Perfect Weather Guaranteed
Aruba stands apart from other Caribbean destinations as the perfect worry-free vacation choice for Essex County residents, lying safely outside the hurricane belt with less rainfall than any other Caribbean island. This Dutch-influenced paradise offers consistent 82-degree temperatures, cooling trade winds, and only 20 inches of rain annually, making it ideal for travelers who want guaranteed sunshine. Located just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba's unique desert landscape features dramatic rock formations, cactus-studded terrain, and some of the Caribbean's most beautiful beaches, including Eagle Beach, consistently rated among the world's best. The island's "One Happy Island" motto reflects its friendly, safe atmosphere and the highest repeat visitor rate in the Caribbean - many Newark travelers return year after year. With direct flights from Newark Airport, a stable government, excellent infrastructure, and the ability to drink water straight from the tap, Aruba eliminates common Caribbean travel concerns while delivering world-class beaches, casinos, dining, and water sports in a compact, easy-to-navigate island setting.
Destination Highlights
Travel Information from Newark
- Flight Time:
- 4.5 hours direct
- Time Zone:
- Atlantic Standard Time (1 hour ahead)
- Best Time to Visit:
- Year-round destination, April-August for value
- Average Temperature:
- 82°F constant with trade winds
- Currency:
- Aruban Florin (1.8 to USD, but USD accepted everywhere)
- Airlines from Newark:
- United Airlines, JetBlue, American Airlines (seasonal)
Top Attractions
- Eagle Beach (pristine white sand)
- California Lighthouse
- Arikok National Park
- Natural Pool (Conchi)
- Flamingo Beach (Renaissance Island)
- Ostrich Farm
- Butterfly Farm
- Alto Vista Chapel
Insider Tips for Essex County Travelers
- 1.Rent a car for 1-2 days to explore the island
- 2.Book Renaissance Island day pass for flamingo photos
- 3.Happy hours 5-7pm offer great deals
- 4.Local buses to beaches only $2.60 round trip
- 5.Bring reef-safe sunscreen - regular banned
- 6.Casino at night when sun-tired
- 7.Try local seafood at Zeerovers
- 8.US electrical outlets - no adapter needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose Aruba over other Caribbean islands?
Aruba is outside the hurricane belt, has the least rainfall in the Caribbean, and offers the most consistent weather year-round. Add excellent safety, drinkable tap water, English-speaking locals, and direct flights from Newark, and it's the most worry-free Caribbean choice for Essex County travelers.
Is Aruba expensive compared to other Caribbean islands?
Aruba is mid-priced - more than Dominican Republic or Jamaica but less than Turks & Caicos or St. Barts. Expect $15-20 meals, $12-15 cocktails. All-inclusive resorts offer good value. The guaranteed weather and safety make it worth the slightly higher cost.
What's the best beach in Aruba?
Eagle Beach is consistently rated world's top 10 - wide, white sand, calm water, less crowded. Palm Beach has high-rise resorts and more action. Baby Beach offers shallow, calm water perfect for kids. Mangel Halto is best for snorkeling.
When is the best time to visit Aruba from Newark?
Anytime! Aruba has the most consistent weather in the Caribbean. April-August offers lower prices with equally great weather. Avoid Dutch holidays (King's Day in April) when prices spike. January-March is busiest with Newark snowbirds.
All-inclusive or not in Aruba?
Aruba has fewer all-inclusive options than other islands. Many visitors prefer European Plan (room only) to explore the island's excellent restaurants. All-inclusive works if you want to relax at the resort. Car rental gives flexibility to experience local spots.
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