If you’re planning your next beach vacation, you probably have a long list of destinations you’d like to visit. If Hawaii and Aruba are some of your top picks, you may need some help deciding between the two. Both offer stunning beaches, days of sunshine, and fabulous resorts. Whether you’re going on a romantic vacation for two or planning a family getaway, Hawaii and Aruba offer endless fun. So, which one should you pick? Let’s break down what makes each destination special so that you can decide between Hawaii vs Aruba.
Hawaii Vs Aruba: Beaches
An important factor in deciding between Hawaii vs Aruba is finding out which destination has the best beaches. Of course, since Aruba is just one small island, there are fewer choices for beaches. Aruba has a coastline of about 40 miles, while Lanai, the smallest inhabited Hawaiian island, has almost 50 miles of coastline. The islands of Hawaii have over 750 miles of combined coastline. So, there are more beaches to choose from in Hawaii. However, this doesn’t mean that Aruba’s beaches aren’t worth visiting! Here are some of the best beaches in Aruba and Hawaii.
Hawaii Beaches
From black sand beaches to lush tropical coves, Hawaii has almost every type of beach you can imagine. If you’re staying on The Big Island, visiting Punalu’u Beach is a must. Not only will you see the awe-inspiring black sand beach, but you can also catch some sea turtles sunning themselves on the shore. The beaches in Kauai, known as “the garden isle,” offer coastlines of white sand and views of lush mountains in the distance. Maui’s Ka’anapali Beach has three miles of picture-perfect beaches near some of the most popular resorts in Hawaii. It’s also a great spot to go snorkeling over the island’s colorful coral reefs!
Aruba Beaches
As you’d expect from a Caribbean island, Aruba has white sand beaches and crystal clear water. The waters in Aruba are much warmer than the Pacific waters of Hawaii’s beaches. Eagle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Aruba and is the country’s widest beach. Palm Beach is closer to the touristy areas of Aruba, so it may be a bit more crowded, but the waters are calmer than at Eagle Beach. If you stay at a Renaissance resort, you can visit a private island that has flamingos mingling on the beach. Any beach that you visit in Aruba will offer pristine white-sand shortlines and sparkling turquoise waters.
Hawaii Vs Aruba: Activities
When deciding where to go on vacation, day-to-day activities are something to consider. This is especially true when traveling with kids! Luckily, there are many things to do in both Hawaii and Aruba, so there will never be a dull moment during your vacation. Here are some of the fun things you can do in Hawaii vs Aruba.
Things To Do In Hawaii
Every Hawaiian island has something unique to offer visitors. Plus, since there are multiple islands, you have almost endless opportunities for fun! So, even if you’ve been to Hawaii before, you’ll likely find something new to experience each time. Hawaii is rich in history, so there are many ways to appreciate the culture of the islands. Explore ancient temples, appreciate the art of hula, or attend a traditional luau. Other popular activities in Hawaii include helicopter tours, snorkeling, golf, surfing, kayaking, ziplining, and so much more!
Things To Do In Aruba
There are so many fun things to do all over the island of Aruba. If you’re having a day away from the beach, you can visit Arikok National Park. Visitors can explore the park’s caves, limestone cliffs, and natural pools. Another way guests can enjoy Aruba is through sightseeing tours. Whether you’re touring on horseback or in an ATV, you’ll get a unique viewpoint of the island. Depending on the time you visit Aruba, you can attend various local events and festivals. Carnival, which is one of the biggest celebrations each year, is one of the best times to visit Aruba.
Hawaii Vs Aruba: Food
One of the most exciting parts of vacationing is trying the local foods! Luckily, if you’re traveling to Aruba or Hawaii, you’ll have the chance to enjoy some authentic cuisine. Knowing the food options beforehand is a great way to choose where to dine during your trip. Plus, if you’re traveling with a picky eater, you’ll need to plan to ensure everyone has choices.
Hawaii Cuisine
There are many popular traditionally Hawaiian food that you must try when visiting the islands. You’ll see influences from all over the world in Hawaii’s local flavors, including Japan, China, and the Philippines. Many of the ingredients found in Hawaii’s cuisine come from the islands, as sustainability is important to the people of Hawaii. If you’re attending a luau, some of the dishes that you should expect to see include kalua pork, poi, mac salad, and poke. Luaus are a great way to try many local Hawaiian dishes! If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in luck! Hawaii has many traditional sweet treats, including shaved ice, pies, coco puffs, and kulolo.
Aruba Cuisine
When visiting Aruba, one of the best ways to experience the island’s culture is through food! Of course, you’ll find many flavors of the Caribbean, but you will also see the influences from Holland and South America. Ninety different nationalities call Aruba home, so you can expect unique fusions in addition to more traditional dishes. Not to mention, you will find some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever had all over the island. The national dish of Aruba is keshi yena, a casserole of spiced meat served in a cheese shell. If you’re craving something sweet, try cocada, a coconut candy, or Dutch pancakes, which are served all day.
Hawaii Vs Aruba: Resorts
One of the biggest factors in choosing where to vacation is deciding where to stay! Both destinations have fabulous resorts, so it can be difficult to decide between Hawaii vs Aruba. It’s important to consider accommodation options, resort amenities, and location when finding the right lodging for you. Here are a few of our favorite timeshare resorts in Hawaii and Aruba.
Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations
Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations is one of the most beautiful Hilton timeshares in Hawaii. This lush resort is in the heart of Waikoloa on Hawaii’s Big Island. HGVC Kings’ Land has panoramic views of the rocky Kohala Coast and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a view of Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano, in the distance! Ocean Tower is within the Hilton Waikoloa Village resort, so guests can take advantage of all 62 acres of incredible amenities.
Grand Pacific Resorts Hanalei Bay
Grand Pacific Resorts Hanalei Bay is a tropical Hawaiian paradise surrounded by lush green mountains and impressive waterfalls. This resort overlooks Hanalei Bay, a scenic beachfront area on the north shore of Kauai. From award-winning hospitality to a world-class lagoon-style pool, guests will experience a truly laid-back Hawaiian getaway when staying here. Head to the resort’s Happy Talk Bar and Lounge for refreshing cocktails, tasty snacks, and unforgettable views.
Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club
Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club is one of two Marriott timeshare Resorts in Aruba. This resort is on Palm Beach, so you’ll find plenty of fun things to do nearby! However, you don’t need to leave the resort to have fun! Amenities include a lazy river, on-site dining, watersports, and a kid’s club. This is one of the most family-friendly resorts in Aruba! Accommodations at Marriott’s Aruba Surf Club Resort include one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas.
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort
Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort is the only resort in Aruba that gives guests access to a private island. Guests can take a complimentary water taxi to Renaissance Island. The island is home to private cabanas, a beachfront bar & grill, and Flamingo Beach, where real flamingos roam freely. The resort itself offers fabulous amenities in the heart of Oranjestad, which means fun activities and attractions are just moments away!
Timeshare For Sale or Rent in Hawaii and Aruba
Browse timeshares in Hawaii or timeshares in Aruba available now for sale and rent. Buy a timeshare to enjoy memorable vacations each year, or rent a timeshare to try before you buy.
