The Noord region of Aruba encompasses some of the best beaches on the island and its hotels and beachfront resorts ensure that visitors can get their fix of sun, sea and sand. Watch the clear waves rush into the golden shore, take part in a range of outdoor activities and visit the island’s landmark California Lighthouse.
Noord, which translates to “North” in Dutch, is located on the northwest tip of the island. While the town itself is colorful and authentically Aruban, most out-of-towners stay in oceanfront resorts instead, which provide easy access to the region’s pristine beaches, as well as high-end casino and spa resorts.
Go to the amenity-packed Palm Beach for calm waters and to experience the glamor of its beachfront resorts. Chic bars, clubs, restaurants and casinos entertain after dark. Further north at the rocky Hadicurari Beach, watersports are the number one pursuit, with wind and waves providing perfect conditions for windsurfers and kitesurfers. Join the locals on the quiet Arashi Beach or dive in at Malmok Beach, where clear shallow waters are well-suited for snorkeling, and wrecks and reefs keep scuba divers happy.
When you need a break from lolling on the sands, Noord can deliver alternative activities. Play a round at the Tierra del Sol Golf Course, enjoying ocean views as you navigate the cacti- and tree-dotted course. Be sure to stop by St. Ann’s Church, a prominent religious landmark with a history that dates back to the 1770s and the peaceful Alto Vista Chapel, the island’s most important religious site.
Spend a sunset at the California Lighthouse, which is named after a ship of the same name that was wrecked in these waters before its construction. Located on an elevated position on the north coast, the views from here are some of the best on the island. Take a stroll along the frequently deserted and wonderfully romantic California Sand Dunes or rent a jeep and go off-roading.
The best times to visit Noord are between January and August. If you plan to spend most of your time at the beach, then taxis and bus services can help you get around, but if you wish to explore the island further, consider renting a four-wheel drive.
