Where Is Aruba Located? Everything You Need to Know

Q: East Coast

The east coast is dominated by Arikok National Park , which covers 18% of the island. This park offers caves with ancient drawings, volcanic landscapes, and the Natural Pool. The island’s highest point, Jamanota Hill, stands at 617 feet (188 meters) within the park.

Where is Aruba Located?

Where is Aruba Located? Aruba, a gem of the Lesser Antilles, lies in the Southern Caribbean Sea. Just 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela, the island’s southeastern vantage point offers views of the South American mainland on clear days.

The Lesser Antilles form an arc stretching from Puerto Rico to the northeastern coast of South America. Among these islands are popular destinations like the Virgin Islands, Saint Martin, Grenada, Barbados, and Aruba’s neighbors: Curaçao and Bonaire. Together, Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao make up the Leeward Antilles, along with Venezuelan islands like Los Roques and Margarita Island.

Details About Aruba’s Location

Geographical Coordinates:
Aruba is located at approximately 12.5211° N latitude and 69.9683° W longitude, placing it in the southern Caribbean Sea.

Part of the Dutch Caribbean:
Aruba is one of the three islands in the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) and is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This gives it a unique cultural and historical identity that blends Dutch and Caribbean influences.

Proximity to Major Countries:
Aruba lies just 15 miles north of Venezuela, making it one of the closest Caribbean islands to South America. It’s also about 1,150 miles from Miami, Florida, with direct flights connecting the island to major U.S. cities, Colombia, and other international hubs.

Easy Access to Aruba

Aruba welcomes weekly cruise ships and more than 150 flights daily from cities across the United States, Canada, South America, Europe, and other Caribbean islands.

Non-stop flights to Aruba take:

30 mins from Curaçao
45 mins from Bonaire
2 hours from Bogotá
3 hours from Miami
4.5 hours from New York
10.5 hours from Amsterdam

Why Aruba’s Location Matters

Outside the Hurricane Belt:
Aruba’s location places it safely outside the hurricane belt, making it a reliable destination for year-round travel with minimal weather disruptions.

Accessibility:
With its close proximity to the U.S. and South America, Aruba is easily accessible via direct flights from Miami, New York, Bogotá, and more, allowing travelers to reach this tropical oasis with ease.

Perfect Weather Year-Round:
Located in the tropics, Aruba enjoys sunny weather almost every day of the year, with average temperatures of 82°F (28°C). The island’s cooling trade winds make it an ideal vacation spot, even during the hottest months.

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What to do in Aruba?

Aruba is full of amazing things to do for every kind of traveler. Whether you want exciting water activities, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the island’s culture, there’s something here for you. Check out these popular experiences to make your trip unforgettable:

Aruba’s Coastal Highlights

North Coast

Rugged and untamed, Aruba’s north coast features strong ocean currents, sand dunes, and iconic landmarks like the California Lighthouse, Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins, and the Natural Pool. Swimming here is not recommended due to rough waters.

West Coast

The west coast is home to Oranjestad, Aruba’s capital, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Eagle Beach. This area boasts most of the island’s all-inclusive resorts and top-rated hotels.

East Coast

The east coast is dominated by Arikok National Park, which covers 18% of the island. This park offers caves with ancient drawings, volcanic landscapes, and the Natural Pool. The island’s highest point, Jamanota Hill, stands at 617 feet (188 meters) within the park.

South Coast

The south coast features historic Savaneta, Aruba’s oldest town, and San Nicolas, the island’s second-largest city, known for Baby Beach and windsurfing hotspots.