Our Serene Escape to Aruba
In June 2016, I decided to surprise my husband with a Father’s Day getaway to Oranjestad, Aruba. Six days in paradise, just the two of us, no kids, no responsibilities, no worries—just sun, sand, and the promise of relaxation. The moment we touched down from our flight, I knew we were in for something special. Aruba greeted us with a warm breeze, the kind that immediately puts your mind at ease and makes your shoulders drop a little. We were ready to unwind.
Our home for the week was the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino, nestled in the heart of Oranjestad. This all inclusive haven was exactly what we were looking for, a peaceful escape where the only decision we had to make was which dish or cocktail to order next. The resort’s atmosphere was serene, the perfect blend of luxury and laid-back island vibes.
Day 1: Embracing Paradise
Our first day was all about embracing the art and taking in the culture of the island we landed on. Just the drive from the airport to the resort we were able to take in the colors of everything the buildings varied vibrant colors even the sky somehow felt like it was more blue.
We dropped off our bags to our room which was gorgeous, spacious and clean. The view from our room was had a good view of palm trees overlooking the parking lot and to the left we had a few of the ocean. We let our families know we were at the resort safely and then it was time to officially explore.
After rarely leaving home, it was a welcomed culture shock. The staff were friendly and welcoming and the resort was so clean and open and refreshing. Even though there was a bit of construction they had going on since they were upgrading certain areas, you really couldn’t tell and you could barely hear anything at all.
We walked around the resort to explore what was in our immediate area and spoke to some staff of some of the activities they have available and schedules. Which they did have they had Zumba available on the beach. I would’ve loved that on any other day since I love Zumba but I wasn’t so sure about doing it bright and early on vacation. We easily came across a boardwalk to a nearby shopping center we made mental notes we wanted to explore tomorrow. As we quickly realized food was next on the agenda.
We found a restaurant that’s in the middle of the resort. Plenty of options to choose from, we explored our palates and the one downside they couldn’t make my favorite drink.
Although I’m not a big fan of mint necessarily but I am a fan of a well made mojito. Apparently the restaurant said they ran out of mint. Which I find out throughout my trip was the entire resort was out of mint. @.@
Nonetheless I found other tasty drinks to satisfy me during this mint drought. Which all the bartenders always made me a new substitute so it was fun to have them make me drinks they made recipes for. We dip briefly dip in the pool before the sun was fully set and we just hung out until it got pretty late and we wanted to get a good nights sleep for the adventures to come.
Day 2: Private Island Flamingo Beach
On our second day, we decided to explore the resort’s private island, a short boat ride away. Which is speed boat so be prepared you may get a little wet in transit so have your electronics put away just in case.
This secluded paradise was nothing short of magical. The beaches were pristine, the kind of soft, white sand that feels like velvet beneath your toes. Right on the beach is a shack bar that has finger foods that’s part of the all inclusive. We snorkeled in the clear blue water and saw colorful tropical fish. Then, there were the flamingos—graceful, pink creatures that seemed almost otherworldly as they waded through the shallow waters.
We spent the morning feeding these beautiful birds, their long legs and elegant necks moving in rhythmic harmony. It was a surreal experience, made even more special by the sight of large iguanas basking in the sun nearby. The contrast between the vibrant pink flamingos and the rugged, prehistoric-looking iguanas made for a unique and memorable day.
Day 3: Boardwalk Adventures and Poolside Shenanigans
By the third day, we were ready to venture beyond the resort. The boardwalk outside was bustling with life, a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and entertainment. We stumbled upon a movie theater and decided to catch a showing of Central Intelligence. It was the perfect way to cool off and enjoy a few laughs before heading back to the resort.
That evening, we explored the resort’s sister location across the street. Thanks to the all-inclusive package, we could dine and drink at both properties, doubling our options. Which also helped us with the feeling of being tied to resort, even if a sister location it allowed us to expand without worrying about added expenses.
My husband quickly bonded with our waiter, Peter, who had a mischievous side. Before I knew it, I was being playfully tossed into the pool by my husband, Peter laughing alongside us. Still, no mojito in sight, but the laughter and joy more than made up for it.
We went to the dinner buffet back at our resort where it was accompanied by a steel drum player. Which envelopes us in the ambiance of the island while we enjoyed our dinner. Still no mint on the island, so no mojitos on day 3.
Day 4: Horseback Riding and Casino Wins
The morning of our fourth day began with a horseback riding excursion. My horse, Blanca, had a mind of her own—a natural leader, according to the instructor. I found myself at the front of the group, with my husband trailing behind. As much as I tried to steer Blanca, she was the one in control, confidently leading us along the trail. It was both exhilarating and humbling to realize that sometimes, the best adventures happen when you let go of the reins.
Later that day, we found ourselves in a casino, where the thrill of the game quickly took over. We were up a little over $150 before we decided to cash out, a smart move considering our luck had been anything but predictable so far. That money would come in handy for our planned excursion the next day.
I did however have a bit too much to drink at dinner so it was an early turn in for me, unfortunately. But still no Mojitos.
Day 5: Water Sports and Island Exploration
On day five, we ventured to the other side of the island for some adrenaline-pumping water sports. We started with an inflatable circle ride, being pulled by a speedboat as we laughed and screamed our way across the turquoise waters. Afterward, we rented jet skis and spent hours racing across the waves, the sun shining down as we explored the island’s rugged coastline.
The thrill of the ride was matched only by the beauty of our surroundings—the ocean stretching out endlessly before us, the horizon blending seamlessly with the sky. It was an unforgettable experience that left us both exhilarated and completely content.
We went parasailing which we realize now was a dumb idea for two people who have issues with heights. I ended up tapping out as soon as I could see near the tops of the hotels. You could even see the crashed plane in the water from so high since the water is so clear. Issue is hubby went so high up he experienced vertigo so we ended up wrapping it up and heading back to the resort after spending so much time in the ocean.
I will add that this side of the island has more of the family resorts so there are a bunch of families on the beach. So if you’re looking for a spot to chill, earlier the better.
Day 6: End of the Journey
Our final day in Aruba was spent soaking up every last moment at the resort. Had a great final breakfast, and went around to our favorite spots to try and engrain them in our minds since we don’t know if we’d ever make it back here.
We returned to the swim-up bar, and to my surprise, the bartender presented me with a mojito—mint leaves and all! It felt like the perfect end to our trip, a refreshing reward after days of persistence. We savored our drinks, watched the sunset one last time, and relished in the peaceful atmosphere that had made this trip so special.
As we packed our bags the next morning, ready to head back to reality, I knew that Aruba had captured a piece of our hearts. The island’s beauty, its warm and welcoming people, and the memories we created together made it a place we would always remember fondly.
Aruba is a definite 10 out of 10—a place where peace, adventure, and a bit of playful fun come together to create the perfect getaway.
Stay Information:
Resort: Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
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