If you’ve ever dreamed of a Caribbean escape that blends swaying plam trees with colorful towns, clear waters, rich culture, and just the right dose of adventure, the ABC islands – Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao – could be what you’re looking for.
Nestled off the coast of Venezuela, these Dutch Caribbean islands are magic in a bottle. They each have their own personality, but they share an easygoing charm, a love of the sea, and a knack for making you feel like you’ve truly made an escape from everyday life.
Whether you love dining, diving, exploring, or doing absolutely nothing under a palm tree, you’ll find your rhythm in these islands. What do you say we hop our way through the ABCs and see which one has just the right siren call?
Aruba: Where to Stay
Aruba is all about easy beach days and sunny luxury, and there’s a place to stay for every type of traveler. If you want beachfront bliss with plenty of amenities, you’ll find Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is a romantic, adults-only haven. Located onEagle Beach, people love this spot for its peaceful setting and personalized service.
Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, set in a former coconut plantation, features charming casitas that feel like your own private slice of paradise. They’re perfect, whether you’re traveling with your lover or flying solo.
If you’re after something cozy and a little more budget-friendly, Wonders Boutique Hotel is another adults-only spot tucked away in a quiet neighborhood near Oranjestad. It has a beautiful garden and a saltwater pool that’s perfect for unwinding after a day at the beach.
Here are 15 more hotels in Aruba for every type of traveler.
Aruba: Where to Eat
Aruba’s dining scene is flavorful and fun. For toes-in-the-sand dining with a side of sunset, you can’t beat Barefoot Restaurant. Picture fresh seafood, the warmth of an island breeze, and candlelit tables on the beach.
If you’re in the mood for something stylish and elevated, Wilhelmina Restaurant is a hidden gem tucked away in Oranjestad. They serve up fantastic modern cuisine in a serene garden setting.
For local flavor, head to Zeerover, a local Aruban bar where you can order freshly caught fish by the pound and dig in with your hands like the locals do. It’s messy, delicious, and oh-so fun.
Aruba: What to See and Do
There’s no denying Aruba has some of the best beaches in the world. But, there’s a lot more to explore once you’ve rinsed the saltwater from your hair. Eagle Beach and Palm Beach are obvious crowd-pleasers, and for good reason. They have that soft white sand and turquoise water that barely ripples.
But, for something a little wilder, head to Arikok National Park. This rugged expanse covers nearly 20% of the island and features surprising desert landscapes, ancient cave paintings, and a natural pool where you can cool off in a dreamy, wave-filled cove.
Don’t miss the colorful capital, Oranjestad, either. It’s great for shopping, sipping cocktails, and admiring the pastel Dutch colonial architecture. For a quieter, lesser-known outing, visit the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins or go snorkeling at Mangel Halto, a tucked-away spot with calm waters and vibrant marine life.
We’ve also prepared an adventure guide to family fun in Aruba if you plan on bringing the kiddos.
Bonaire: Where to Stay
Bonaire is quiet, soulful, and especially beloved by divers and nature lovers. Stay at Delfins Beach Resort if you want a modern, stylish resort right on the beach with one of the island’s top restaurants on-site. It’s ideal if you enjoy upscale comfort without the crowds.
For a more intimate stay, consider Bamboo Bonaire Boutique Resort. This adult-only hideaway is full of cozy bungalows, hammocks, and tropical gardens. You’ll feel instantly relaxed as soon as you step foot on their grounds.
Captain Don’s Habitat is a legendary eco-resort that loves to cater to divers because it’s able to offer easy access to the island’s world-famous reefs in laid-back accommodations.
Bonaire: Where to Eat
The dining scene in Bonaire might be small, but it’s full of surprises. At Brass Boer, the island’s culinary crown jewel, you’ll find gourmet dining with a Caribbean twist. It’s set right on the water and has the prettiest sunset views. To be fair, it’s a bit of a splurge, but worth every dollar.
If you’re craving local cuisine, head to Posada Para Mira in Rincon, where you can try goat stew and other Bonairean specialties with magical views over the hills.
Then there’s Kite City, a casual food truck parked by the beach that serves up some of the best tuna burgers and ceviche on the island. All you need to do is grab a beach chair, kick back, and relax.
Bonaire: What to See and Do
Bonaire is best known for its diving, and you’ll quickly see why. The island is one giant marine park, and the reefs are pristine. Even if you’ve never been diving before, it’s a great place to start. Snorkeling is just as rewarding, especially at 1000 Steps or Andrea I.
When you’re on dry land, don’t miss Washington Slagbaai National Park – a rugged, beautiful expanse with salt flats, cactus forests, and blowholes. You might spot flamingos or iguanas as you explore.
For something a little more off-the-radar, check out the mangrove kayak tours in Lac Bay, where you can paddle through a peaceful, protected ecosystem. Or, you can swing by the town of Rincon, one of the oldest settlements in the Dutch Caribbean. There, you’ll get a real feel for the island’s roots.
Without a doubt, Bonaire is on our list of the 15 most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
Curaçao: Where to Stay
If we were to describe Curaçao, we’d use adjectives like colorful, quirky, and charming. You’ll find a wide range of places to stay here, from boutique hideaways to full-on resorts. Avila Beach Hotel is a longtime favorite. It has a private beach, sleek rooms, and a great location, close to Willemstad.
For something a bit artsier, you can try BijBlauw, a boutique hotel right on the ocean with a trendy, boho feel and one of the best restaurants in town.
Then there’s Scuba Lodge, a relaxed and cheerful stay that’s perfect for divers and travelers who want to be right in the heart of the action.
Curaçao: Where to Eat
Curaçao’s food is a lively mix of Caribbean, Dutch, and international influences. At the Grand Café Gouverneur de Rouville in Willemstad, you’ll dine on a breezy terrace with beautiful harbor views and classic dishes like Keshi Yena – baked cheese stuffed with spiced meat.
If you’re in the mood for something casual and delicious, Plasa Bieu (the Old Market) is a must. Locals line up for plates of stewed goat, fried plantains, and fresh fish here.
For a romantic dinner with ocean views, you can also head to Fort Nassau, perched high above the city in a historic fort with sweeping views and a lovely menu to match.
Curaçao: What to See and Do
There’s no place quite like Willemstad, with its technicolor buildings and floating Queen Emma Bridge. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and just strolling the streets of Punda and Otrobanda is a delight.
Also, try to make time for the Kura Hulanda Museum to learn more about the island’s history, especially its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
When it’s beach time, you have a ton of options. Grote Knip and Cas Abao are two fan-favorites, with calm, swimmable waters and superb snorkeling.
For something a little more unique, you can head to Shete Boka National Park, where wild waves crash into rocky coves. Or, you can explore the Hato Caves, where you’ll find ancient limestone formations and hidden pools.
One of the most unexpected finds is the Blue Room, a hidden sea cave that’s accessible by boat or a swim. It’s simply unforgettable because the sunlight filters through the water, turning everything into an otherworldly hue of blue.
Curaçao holds a special place in our hearts and we hope you’ll fall in love, as well. It’s a chart-topper on our list of Caribbean destinations for unbeatable beach days.
A Caribbean Escape You’ll Never Forget
The ABC islands aren’t your average beach destinations. They each bring their own flavor to the table – Aruba with its polished beaches and luxury comforts, Bonaire with its wild nature and underwater wonders, and Curaçao with its bold colors and cultural richness.
Together, they form a trifecta of Caribbean goodness that can’t be beat. Whether you hop between them or dive deep into just one, you’ll return home with more than a tan. You’ll bring back stories, sunsets, and a sense of calm you didn’t know you needed.
But, before you pack your sunscreen, come on over and check out our library of destination guides. We’ve covered the Caribbean, from coast to coast, and are here to help you make the perfect island choice.
15 Beautiful Caribbean Islands That Will Transport You to Paradise is a good starting point. There’s a special slice of paradise out there for you, and we’ll help you find it.