Aruba is a hotspot for those looking to escape the cold winter weather. And honestly, no island in the world compares to Aruba.
But if you want a secluded island with some Arubian luxuries but without the touristy crowds, explore one of these 9 places like Aruba to visit right now.
I’ve dived deep into the research to find the top alternatives to Aruba.
These are the criteria for choosing these similar destinations to Aruba:
Top 9 Places Similar to Aruba
From lush tropical forests to sun-kissed rocky bays, these similar islands to Aruba will surely provide you with the same Aruban experience.
1/ Curacao
Curacao is a small island off the coast of Venezuela that is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming.
And there is no shortage of activities to keep you busy on this small island.
Curacao has fantastic dining places, but you’ll not find high-rise hotels like Aruba. Willemstad, the capital, is picturesque and vibrant both day and night.
The weather in Curacao is very similar to the weather in Aruba. Both islands are located in the Caribbean and have a tropical climate.
This means the weather is hot and humid all year round, with average temperatures ranging from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit. And you can reach the island easily with 25-minute direct flights from Aruba.
These are the famous beaches in Curacao:
2/ Grenada
Grenada is an island nation located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. The island is famous for its spice plantations, rainforest hiking trails, and stunning beaches.
Grenada is an excellent place for an island vacation, a little bit off the beaten path.
While the island is not as developed as some other islands in the Caribbean, it still offers visitors plenty of activities and amenities.
If you’re looking for a sunny, warm getaway this winter, go for Grenada. The average temperature there is a balmy 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
These are some of the most popular beaches in Grenada:
3/ Bonaire
Bonaire is another small island located in the southern Caribbean Sea. Like Curacao, Bonaire is known for its beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters.
The island is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, as there are over 60 dive sites to explore. And if you’re looking for a place to relax, there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants.
Bonaire has a tropical climate, which means the weather is hot all year round. The average temperature on the island ranges from 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit.
These are the best beaches in Bonaire:
4/ Barbados
Barbados is a small island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests.
Barbados is a place where you will never be bored. There are always things to do, from exploring beaches and hiking trails to enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife.
Barbados is the perfect destination if you want to escape the cold weather.
The average temperature in Barbados is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature there is about the same as in Aruba. So, it’s one of the great places like Aruba to visit.
These are the best beaches in Barbados:
5/ Anguilla
Anguilla is a small British Overseas Territory island in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Anguilla is an excellent option if you’re looking for an island vacation that’s a little different from the usual Caribbean destinations.
Anguilla is worth visiting Aruba alternative because of its easygoing atmosphere and amazing beaches. The average temperature on the island is 80 degrees Fahrenheit. So go for it if you desire a sunny, warm winter escape.
These are the best beaches in Anguilla:
6/ St. Lucia
If you’re looking for an alternative island to Aruba, look no further than Saint Lucia, which has it all, gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and more.
St. Lucia is located in the eastern Caribbean Sea and is known for its dramatic landscape, towering mountains, and volcanic beaches. And you can explore the island’s rainforest trails, waterfalls, and botanical gardens.
The average temperature on the island is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
These are the most popular beaches in St. Lucia :
7/ Saint Vincent and Grenadines
Let me introduce you to an island quickly gaining popularity, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. It’s a small island chain located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. There are 32 islands in the chain, with St. Vincent being the largest.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is paradise if you long for a warm escape from the frigid temperatures. The average temperature on the islands is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
These are the top beaches in St. Vincent and the Grenadines:
Like Aruba, St. Vincent and Grenadines is a great place to go diving and snorkeling, as there are many dive sites to explore.
8/ Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos is an island chain located in the southeastern Caribbean Sea. The islands are known for their white sand beaches, blue waters, and lush greenery.
T&C’s 40 islands are some of the best places like Aruba.
T&C offers travelers a white sand beach experience with crystal-clear waters. The average temperature on the Turks and Caicos Islands is about 80 degrees Fahrenheit. And the weather is excellent all year round.
However, the islands are much less crowded than Aruba, making it an excellent alternative for those looking for a quiet island getaway.
These are the best beaches in Turks and Caicos:
9/ Dominica
Dominica is an island located in the eastern Caribbean Sea. The island is famous for its lush vegetation, dramatic landscapes, and beautiful beaches.
Although often overshadowed by other Caribbean islands, the island is a fantastic vacation spot for those looking for something unique.
Dominica is the perfect place for those who want to experience a more natural side of the Caribbean.
The island is home to the Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is known for its volcanoes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
The weather is great all year round, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
These are the famous beaches in Dominica:
FAQs for Similar Islands and Places Like Aruba
In this section, I’ll answer some of the most common questions about Aruba alternatives.
What countries are close to Aruba?
Aruba is located in the Caribbean Sea, about 15 miles off the coast of Venezuela. Other nearby countries include Netherlands Antilles, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Virgin Islands, Colombia, Curacao, Bonaire, and more.
Which Caribbean island is the prettiest?
There is no single Caribbean island that can be declared the prettiest. Every island has its unique charm and beauty.
For example, Aruba is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, while St. Lucia offers stunning landscapes with mountains, rainforests, and volcanic beaches. And the list goes on!
Which places should I visit, Aruba or Capri?
Visit Aruba for white sand beaches, natural pools created by waves, and never-ending stretches of blue ocean. And choose Capri instead for the rugged landscape, top-notch hotels, and enticing shopping opportunities.
Many travelers choose Capri island to witness Blue Grotto, a unique sea cave with electric blue water.
What island is similar to Aruba?
There are many islands and places like Aruba, from Bonaire, Curacao, and Barbados to St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Vincent, the Grenadines, Dominica, Martinique, and more. Which ones are you going to visit in 2023?
