If you’re planning a vacation to Aruba and want to explore beyond the usual tourist hotspots, a day trip to San Nicolas is the perfect choice. Located on Aruba’s southeast coast, San Nicolas is the island’s cultural capital, brimming with vibrant art, rich history, and stunning beaches. While many visitors flock to Aruba’s famous resorts and white sandy beaches, those who venture to San Nicolas discover an authentic, colorful side of the island that often goes unnoticed.
Known as the “Sunrise City”, San Nicolas offers a unique blend of creativity, history, and natural beauty. This lesser-explored town stands apart from Aruba’s bustling tourist centers, offering travelers a chance to slow down and connect with the island’s soul. Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, a day trip to San Nicolas guarantees a memorable experience that immerses you in the heart of Aruba’s culture.
Ready to experience all that San Nicolas has to offer? Book your stay with Casiola Aruba today and make your Aruban adventure unforgettable!
A cultural explosion in San Nicolas
San Nicolas is renowned for its role as Aruba’s cultural hub, and a day trip to San Nicolas isn’t complete without exploring its vibrant art scene. The town’s streets are adorned with breathtaking murals created by local and international artists. These colorful works of art transform San Nicolas into an open-air gallery, showcasing the island’s heritage, wildlife, and traditions.
The murals, primarily located along Beverly Street, are much more than decorations. They tell compelling stories about Aruba’s history, people, and natural beauty. From depictions of native flora and fauna to vibrant portrayals of cultural heritage, every mural holds a unique tale. The immersive art experience is one of the most photographed aspects of a day trip to San Nicolas, making it a haven for both amateur and professional photographers.
Beyond their visual appeal, the murals contribute to the town’s sense of identity, fostering pride among locals and admiration from visitors. If you plan your visit carefully, you might witness live painting sessions, where artists bring their visions to life before your eyes. Events like the Aruba Art Fair further cement San Nicolas’s status as a cultural beacon, drawing art lovers from around the globe to this small but dynamic town.
Step back in time: San Nicolas’s historical legacy
A day trip to San Nicolas offers more than just stunning visuals; it also provides a glimpse into Aruba’s rich history. San Nicolas played a significant role in shaping the island’s economy, thanks to its once-thriving oil refinery. For much of the 20th century, this industrial hub was the economic backbone of Aruba, and its impact can still be felt today.
The Museum of Industry, located in the heart of San Nicolas, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. This fascinating museum tells the story of Aruba’s industrial evolution, from its early days of gold mining and aloe farming to its prominence in oil refining and eventual transition to tourism. Exhibits include tools, photographs, and artifacts that document the ingenuity and resilience of the Aruban people.
Visiting the museum during your day trip to San Nicolas not only deepens your understanding of the island’s history but also highlights the town’s importance in Aruba’s development. The museum serves as a reminder of how San Nicolas has continually reinvented itself, transforming from an industrial hub into a thriving cultural center.
Beaches that take your breath away
No day trip to San Nicolas would be complete without spending time at its stunning beaches. These serene spots, just a short drive from the town center, offer the perfect escape for anyone seeking a break from sightseeing.
Baby Beach, with its crescent-shaped lagoon and shallow, crystal-clear waters, is one of Aruba’s most iconic beaches. It’s ideal for families, as its calm waves are perfect for children to splash around safely. Snorkeling enthusiasts will also be delighted by the vibrant marine life, including colorful parrotfish and angelfish that glide through the waters. The experience of exploring this underwater paradise is reason enough to include Baby Beach in your day trip to San Nicolas.
For a quieter and equally stunning alternative, head to Rodgers Beach. This hidden gem features soft white sands framed by lush greenery and traditional fishing boats. The tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding, whether you’re sunbathing, reading, or simply taking in the views. Rodgers Beach offers a slice of serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere, making it a must-visit destination on your journey.
Taste Aruba: Culinary delights in San Nicolas
A day trip to San Nicolas is not just a feast for the eyes—it’s also a treat for your taste buds. The town is home to some of Aruba’s most authentic dining experiences, offering flavors that reflect the island’s rich culinary heritage.
One iconic spot is Zeerover, a casual waterfront eatery that’s as authentic as it gets. Located right by the water, Zeerover serves freshly caught fish and shrimp, fried to perfection and paired with traditional sides like plantains and fries. Pair your meal with a cold Balashi beer and a dollop of spicy papaya hot sauce for a flavor experience that’s uniquely Aruban.
Dining at Zeerover isn’t just about the food—it’s about the atmosphere. Watching fishermen bring in their catch, hearing the laughter of locals, and enjoying the ocean breeze create a setting that’s as much a part of the experience as the delicious food itself. This authentic Aruban eatery is the perfect stop to refuel and relax during your day trip to San Nicolas.
Practical tips for your day trip to San Nicolas
To make the most of your day trip to San Nicolas, plan ahead. San Nicolas is about a 30-minute drive from Oranjestad, and renting a car is the easiest way to explore the town at your own pace. However, taxis and the local Arubus service are also convenient options for getting there.
Pack essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated under the tropical sun. Comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore the murals and historical sites, and don’t forget a camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant street art and stunning beach views.
If your visit coincides with the San Nicolas Art Walk, be sure to join in. This guided tour provides valuable insights into the stories behind the murals and offers opportunities to meet the artists who created them. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your connection to the town’s creative spirit.
Stay with Casiola Aruba for an unforgettable experience
Your day trip to San Nicolas becomes even more memorable when you stay with Casiola Aruba. Our vacation rentals provide the perfect home base for exploring Aruba, offering easy access to San Nicolas and other top attractions.
Each property is thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience in mind, featuring modern amenities like fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and onsite pools. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, our accommodations are tailored to meet your needs.
What sets Casiola Aruba apart is our commitment to exceptional service. From assisting with booking activities to providing local recommendations, our team is dedicated to ensuring your Aruba vacation is seamless and enjoyable. When you stay with us, you’ll have everything you need to relax and focus on creating unforgettable memories.
Why a day trip to San Nicolas is a must
San Nicolas is a destination that truly has it all: stunning art, rich history, beautiful beaches, and authentic cuisine. A day trip to San Nicolas offers a refreshing escape from the usual tourist trail, immersing you in the heart of Aruba’s culture and natural beauty.
Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant murals, learning about Aruba’s industrial past, relaxing on Baby Beach, or savoring a meal at Zeerover, San Nicolas promises an unforgettable adventure. So why wait? Plan your day trip to San Nicolas today, and let the town’s charm and creativity leave a lasting impression on your Aruba getaway.
Book your stay with Casiola Aruba, and let us help you uncover the magic of San Nicolas!
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1BR Condo Near Beach w/ Resort Perks! Golf Course View!
Condo - Divi Village - Aruba
Welcome to your serene one-bedroom condo in Divi Villages Aruba, perfect for a relaxing island getaway. Step onto the private balcony, where you'll find an outdoor dining table ideal for enjoying meals al fresco while taking in the lush view of the golf course. Inside, the spacious bedroom features a luxurious king-size bed, a smart TV for your entertainment, and an attached bathroom complete with a relaxing tub—your own personal retreat. The fully equipped kitchen boasts sleek stainless steel appliances and a breakfast bar, offering everything you need to whip up a quick snack or a gourmet meal. The tastefully decorated living room is designed for comfort, featuring a cozy queen size sleeper sofa, for accommodating two extra guests, a smart TV, and access to the balcony through sliding glass doors, allowing plenty of natural light. For more formal dining, there’s a dining table for four inside, creating a perfect space to share a meal with family or friends. For added convenience, the condo also includes a washer and dryer, making extended stays a breeze. This Divi resort community is overflowing with amenities, guaranteed to provide endless hours of fun in the sun, including a professional 9-hole golf course (at an extra charge), a beautiful beach with plenty of lounge chairs, a gym, tennis courts, pickleball courts, concierge services, free parking, shared BBQ grills, shopping, a swim-up pool bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and indoor and outdoor restaurants throughout the resort, such as the beach bar. -Property Notes- UTILITIES: All utilities are INCLUDED. (Keep this in mind when comparing rentals as this cost is most often not included). TAXES: The following mandatory taxes are included: - Government Tax: 12.5% - Environmental Tax (as per Aruba tax code): $3 per night Taxes may be subject to change. CHECK-IN/ CHECK-OUT: Check-in time is 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Earlier check-ins and later check-out can be requested 24 hours before and will be granted depending on availability. A surcharge may apply. HOUSEKEEPING: This is a self catering vacation home and as such you are expected to do your own shopping and regular cleaning. We do offer the option of daily or mid-stay, hotel-style cleaning services. This is an extra service and a surcharge applies. Start-up supplies are provided and will be restocked if you request our optional daily or mid-stay hotel-style cleaning service. We provide 1 set bath linen per person max occupancy; extra sets are available at a surcharge. BEACH ESSENTIALS: We provide beach chairs (6), beach towels and a cooler. We do not provide snorkeling equipment or umbrellas. CONCIERGE SERVICE: Our Guest Relations Team can assist with making arrangements for transportation, private chefs, yachts, and other vacation activities. CAMERA(S): This home has a camera outside at the front of the home with a view of the entrance and street. Disclaimer: Please note that upon check-in, the front desk will require a $300 hold on your credit card or accept cash as a deposit. This hold is intended to cover any potential damages to the condo during your stay, as well as incidental charges at the hotel. If no damages or additional charges are incurred, the hold will be released upon check-out. The front desk team will provide further details during the check-in process.- 4
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$162/night -
Charming Apartment w/ Private Patio! *Near Beach*
Apartment - Aruba
Romance takes center stage at this magnificent getaway! If you been searching for an authentic Aruba experience, look no further. Cascading with sultry style and opulent island ambience, there is no end to what this relaxing retreat can do. Things are about to heat up because this boutique kitchenette knows how to get things cooking! Fall in love with an endless array of high-end appliances, sleek cabinetry with additional storage, and a wide-tiled backsplash. Each element feels as if it came straight out of a magazine and pairs perfectly with the banqueting area, dressed with a handsome supper table, seating for four, and a breathtaking view out onto the veranda. The den is both chic and inviting, providing a comfy sofa, rustic end tables, fetching décor, a fashionably textured accent wall, and a wall-mounted flat-screen television. Now, step into a bedroom crafted to make your stay as perfect as possible. Uncover a comfy king size bed, a slim armoire, and bucolic adornments peppered with notes of seafaring décor throughout. In addition, this remarkable dorm houses a private en suite, presenting you with the utmost in luxury. However, perhaps the dreamiest feature of this entire abode is the private outdoor veranda. Rich pastoral lounge furnishings set the scene as decorative lights twinkle in rhythm with the stars. Take a midday siesta on the deluxe swing-bed or dine al fresco, as the pergola above provides just enough exposure for the moon to light each unforgettable night. Adding to the charm, an outdoor shower awaits, allowing you to freshen up under the open sky, enveloped by the gentle island breeze. Get ready to start making memories! -Property Notes- UTILITIES: All utilities are INCLUDED. (Keep this in mind when comparing rentals as this cost is most often not included). TAXES: The following mandatory taxes are included: - Government Tax: 12.5% - Environmental Tax (as per Aruba tax code): $3 per night Taxes may be subject to change. CHECK-IN/ CHECK-OUT: Check-in time is 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Earlier check-ins and later check-out can be requested 24 hours before and will be granted depending on availability. A surcharge may apply. HOUSEKEEPING: This is a self catering vacation home and as such you are expected to do your own shopping and regular cleaning. We do offer the option of daily or mid-stay, hotel-style cleaning services. This is an extra service and a surcharge applies. Start-up supplies are provided and will be restocked if you request our optional daily or mid-stay hotel-style cleaning service. We provide 1 set bath linen per person max occupancy; extra sets are available at a surcharge. BEACH ESSENTIALS: We provide beach chairs (6), beach towels and a cooler. We do not provide snorkeling equipment or umbrellas. CONCIERGE SERVICE: Our Guest Relations Team can assist with making arrangements for transportation, private chefs, yachts, and other vacation activities. CAMERA(S): This home has a camera outside at the front of the home with a view of the entrance and street.- 2
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$71/night -
Mexican Style Villa with Private Pool - Free Utilities
Villa - Aruba
Groundbreaking Mexican design, tropical colors, lush gardens, a swim-up bar at the resort style pool and a heated Jacuzzi all make Villa Aloe one of the most unique Caribbean vacation homes in Aruba! The kitchen is highly stylized, dripping with authentic Mexican flair in both the architecture and décor. In addition to being picturesque, it is functional as well. Inside, you will uncover stainless-steel appliances, rich countertops, vivid cabinetry, and a kitchen island. Care to make suppertime an experience to remember? Be sure take advantage of the fun and festive fondue sets, complete with everything you need! Two deluxe sliding doors open up the kitchen and living area to the covered patios, allowing you to take part in true island indoor/outdoor living. Though there is air conditioning in several rooms throughout the home, it’s layout is designed to allow a natural breeze to effortlessly flow throughout the house. Located on the ground floor are four deluxe bedrooms, each with their own style and charm. Encompassing a true essence of romance, Bedroom #1 showcases a king size bed with an ornate wood carved headboard, cool tiled flooring, textured walls, and several cultural appointments throughout. In addition, you will find double French doors that provide exclusive access to the back terrace, as well as a private en-suite, with a natural stone shower which offers an ideal view of the starry skies above. This opulent boudoir will have you wondering if you’ll ever need a trip to the spa again! Bedroom #2 presents many of the same trappings as Bedroom #1, however in a more classically quaint and understated fashion. Here, you will enjoy a queen size bed, matching nightstands, decorative wrought iron embellishments and a private en-suite. Bedroom #3 and Bedroom #4 (on the 2nd floor) contain 2 twin beds, a communal night table, and additional ornamental enhancements to make it feel like home. Bedroom #5 is a particularly special dwelling, as it is technically a standalone apartment with a kitchen, queen bed, and private en-suite with a walk-in shower! We can almost guarantee you have never seen a backyard quite like this one! Festooned with beautifully landscaped gardens and a myriad of palms, this haven is completely secluded from view! Natural flagstone terraces envelope the five-star resort-style swimming pool and heated Jacuzzi, while hammocks sway lazily in the breeze, setting the scene for your private slice of paradise. You will find just about anything and everything you could want at this luxurious and noteworthy villa, including beach chairs, pool floats, sand toys, and more! Words cannot do this villa justice. You’ll just have to come and see for yourself! And when you arrive, be sure to fix yourself a drink, head out back, catch your breath, and take a look around… this is what life is all about! -Property Notes- UTILITIES: All utilities are INCLUDED. (Keep this in mind when comparing rentals as this cost is most often not included). TAXES: The following mandatory taxes are included: - Government Tax: 12.5% - Environmental Tax (as per Aruba tax code): $3 per night Taxes may be subject to change. CHECK-IN/ CHECK-OUT: Check-in time is 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Earlier check-ins and later check-out can be requested 24 hours before and will be granted depending on availability. A surcharge may apply. HOUSEKEEPING: This is a self catering vacation home and as such you are expected to do your own shopping and regular cleaning. We do offer the option of daily or mid-stay, hotel-style cleaning services. This is an extra service and a surcharge applies. Start-up supplies are provided and will be restocked if you request our optional daily or mid-stay hotel-style cleaning service. We provide 1 set bath linen per person max occupancy; extra sets are available at a surcharge. BEACH ESSENTIALS: We provide beach chairs (6), beach towels and a cooler. We do not provide snorkeling equipment or umbrellas. CONCIERGE SERVICE: Our Guest Relations Team can assist with making arrangements for transportation, private chefs, yachts, and other vacation activities. CAMERA(S): This home has a camera outside at the front of the home with a view of the entrance and street. NOTE: The ice dispenser shown in the picture is not operational.- 10
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$238/night -
2 BR APARTMENT *8 MIN TO BEACH*
Apartment - Aruba
Welcome to Walishali 67, nestled on the first floor of this charming complex. This delightful 2-bedroom apartment offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience for your stay. The master bedroom features a luxurious queen-size bed and boasts the added convenience of an attached bathroom, complete with a refreshing shower. Meanwhile, the second bedroom also offers a cozy queen-size bed, ensuring a restful night's sleep for all guests. Prepare delicious meals in the fully equipped kitchen, which features a convenient breakfast bar and modern stainless steel appliances, adding a touch of sophistication to your culinary experience. After a day of exploration, unwind in the inviting living room, where you'll find a comfortable full-size sleeper sofa, perfect for accommodating additional guests or simply lounging and enjoying quality time together. Step outside to the shared community pool area, where you can soak up the sun on the ample lounge chairs or take a refreshing dip to cool off. Don't forget to soak and unwind in the jacuzzi. The BBQ area, also shared, provides the perfect setting for enjoying outdoor meals with friends and family. Convenience is key with a shared laundry room available for your use, ensuring you can easily freshen up your belongings during your stay. Additionally, a half bathroom by the pool area adds to the ease and comfort of your outdoor relaxation. For moments of tranquility, retreat to your private patio, where you can unwind with a cup of coffee in the morning or savor a glass of wine in the evening, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of your surroundings. With its convenient location just 8 minutes from the beach and array of amenities, Walishali 67 offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway to paradise. -Property Notes- UTILITIES: All utilities are INCLUDED. (Keep this in mind when comparing rentals as this cost is most often not included). TAXES: The following mandatory taxes are included: - Government Tax: 12.5% - Environmental Tax (as per Aruba tax code): $3 per night Taxes may be subject to change. CHECK-IN/ CHECK-OUT: Check-in time is 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM. Earlier check-ins and later check-out can be requested 24 hours before and will be granted depending on availability. A surcharge may apply. HOUSEKEEPING: This is a self catering vacation home and as such you are expected to do your own shopping and regular cleaning. We do offer the option of daily or mid-stay, hotel-style cleaning services. This is an extra service and a surcharge applies. Start-up supplies are provided and will be restocked if you request our optional daily or mid-stay hotel-style cleaning service. We provide 1 set bath linen per person max occupancy; extra sets are available at a surcharge. BEACH ESSENTIALS: We provide beach chairs (6), beach towels and a cooler. We do not provide snorkeling equipment or umbrellas. CONCIERGE SERVICE: Our Guest Relations Team can assist with making arrangements for transportation, private chefs, yachts, and other vacation activities. CAMERAS: There are 2 cameras at the entrance of the home facing the street.- 6
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$104/night
4 of 110 properties
