This site uses cookies. Some are essential while others improve your browsing experience and allow us to advertise. For more info visit the privacy policy page.
Your preferences have been updated.
San Nicolas offers iconic beaches and island charm far removed from the glitz and glam of the Palm Beach resorts.
Welcome to the Sunrise side of the island! Although San Nicolas, Aruba’s ‘Sunrise City’, is a quiet coastal town of 32.84 km2 located only twelve miles southeast of Oranjestad, it seems a world away. In the heart of Aruba’s second largest city is a quaint promenade on Zeppenfeldstraat, an art murals, some shops, snack shops, restaurants and bars as well as historic buildings of architectural interest. The metal maze of the refinery dominates the landscape and in its heyday when the oil business was thriving, San Nicolas was the place to be. For tourists looking for authentic Caribbean flair and flavour, San Nicolas has plenty to offer: Beautiful beaches and island charm far removed from the glitz and glamour of the Palm Beach resorts and sparkling new shopping centres.
The town is normally a little on the quiet side, but full of unique charm with fun things to do and see. San Nicolas boasts a long history of steel bands, calypso music and exuberant carnivals, first introduced by refinery workers from Trinidad and the English islands. Although the island is Dutch, many San Nicolas residents have British Caribbean heritage and English is still the first language in their homes. Perhaps nothing captures the island mood more than the music of the steel drum, one of the world’s youngest acoustic instruments.
For years, one of the main reasons that visitors have found their way to this end of the island has been to drop in at Charlie's Bar. This bar has been famous since the 1940s, when scuba divers began to hang their underwater discoveries on the walls there. It has become a bit of a museum in the decades since. San Nicolas is part of our tourist destination and the shopping and restaurant areas on the main street have been renovated to reflect the city's history, when seamen around the world took shore leave to enjoy the local hospitality.
As well as cultural and culinary activities, San Nicolas also boasts beautiful beaches. Bring your family to enjoy the calm waters of Baby Beach, explore the hidden gem of Rodger's Beach or go kitesurfing at Boca Grandi!
Local musicians create an exceptional ambience in the San Nicolas Grand Carnival Parade.
San Nicolas Aruba isn’t called ‘Sunrise City’ for nothing; this cultural epicentre has so much to offer.
There aren’t many San Nicolas hotels and there are no San Nicolas resorts, but a trip to this side of the island is definitely worth your while.
One of the most popular things to do in San Nicolas has to be visiting Baby Beach. Be sure to explore the surrounding abandoned residential areas within The Colony, it will take you back in time.
Once you’re finished exploring, visit one of the great San Nicolas restaurants. You’ll be blown away by the rich Caribbean flavours and family-style atmosphere.
Stay, play and indulge to your heart’s content at one of Aruba’s beautiful all-inclusive resorts.
ExploreThe only thing easier than navigating our happy island is letting a local show you around the Aruba they know and love.
ExploreWe’re just getting started with the amazing effects Aruba has to offer. Dig into your trip details below to unlock a Caribbean experience that will leave you sunnier, happier, and (of course) a little more tanned.