Aruba's Palm Beach

Aruba’s Palm Beach is that beach – the one that almost every tropical island with a tourist center has — the beach with all of the jet ski and float rentals, the bars and restaurants and a ton of people. It’s located smack in the middle of the Hi-Rise area, where all of the island’s largest and nicest hotels sit. However, unlike a lot of touristy beaches I’ve been to in the Bahamas or in Mexico, Palm Beach does not have people walking up to you trying to sell test tubes of liquor or cheesy t-shirts and jewelry. And that was really nice! It wasn’t that surprising though, given the entire island has a very laid back, friendly vibe. My suggestion would be to snag some shade under one of the dozens of palm trees that line the beach, or the many palapas, grab a drink and proceed to people watch. It’s a real sport at this beach.

Aruba's Palm Beach and Pirate Ship

Keep an eye out for pirate ships here! Jolly Pirates has a snorkeling tour that starts at Palm Beach and takes snorkelers and those who simply want to make merry in the sun on a pirate ship to Malmok and Boca Catalina. The beach closer to the pier where you can board the ships is a bit nicer than the beach in the other direction — it’s simply too crowded with people, boats and tour outfitters. Alternatively, head to the very southern part of the beach, which is also more quiet than the central portion.

We visited Palm Beach on a day when we wanted to do some shopping and be near some restaurants and bars and it worked out perfectly. The huge advantage to Palm Beach is that you never have to worry about finding a bathroom or a bite to eat. And these things are important when you’re too busy relaxing to worry about anything.

A view of Aruba's Palm Beach and Hi-Rise hotel area

IF YOU GO: Take the time to wander around the beautiful hotels along the beach — there are some fabulous gardens and fountains to explore! You can sneak into the Marriott’s lazy river if you’re, well — sneaky. Grab a casual bite at the Pelican Pier Bar - the grouper sandwich was one of the best we had on the island!

Photos: Jenny Bengen-Albert