Bocobay Neighborhood Guide: Palm Beach, Aruba
Welcome to the stunning Palm Beach, Aruba! This sun-kissed paradise is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the amazing things that Palm Beach has to offer.
Planning a visit?
Looking for a home away from home?
Just looking for a little trip away from the comfort of your chair or sofa?
We've got you.
In this in-depth neighborhood guide, we'll explore Palm Beach's hidden gems, best dining experiences, and activities that will make your stay in Aruba genuinely unforgettable.
So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Palm Beach, Aruba.
An introduction to Palm Beach
Palm Beach is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Aruba, known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant local culture.
We've been living our lives here for decades, soaking up the culture, becoming part of it, and exploring everything it has to offer. It's a beautiful place - a striking balance between being an escape from the modern world while very much still being a part of it.
A true gem among the Caribbean islands, it boasts pristine white sand, crystal clear turquoise waters, and warm sunshine; it's no wonder that it attracts visitors from around the world.
The beach itself is a haven for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of water sports to enjoy, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing.
As you stroll along the shoreline, you'll also find several beachfront resorts, restaurants, and bars, offering a perfect blend of comfort and luxury.
Dining and nightlife
No vacation would be without its food, and Palm Beach does not disappoint.
The city offers a diverse selection of dining options, ranging from local delicacies to international cuisine. You're spoilt for choice, and it really doesn't matter what you're in for; the real problem is deciding what culinary delight you'll explore next.
Here are some great places to get started!
The Old Cunucu House
This five-star rated restaurant is an absolute gem on the Palm Beach strip and one of the best places to treat yourself to an authentic Aruban dining experience.
As the name suggests, The Old Cunucu House is set in a traditional Arubian cunucu (country) house and serves up delicious local dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and pan bati (cornmeal bread).
Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill
Looking for more of a summer hit?
There are few things in life that hit as nicely as a grill on the beach in the summer sun. It's moments like this that make memories that will last for a lifetime - and the Bungloe makes it all oh so easy.
Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy live music, refreshing cocktails, and tasty snacks.
With its prime location on the Palm Beach pier, this lively bar offers stunning sunset views and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a hotspot in every sense of the word.
Papillon Restaurant
For a truly memorable dining experience, visit Papillon Restaurant. This upscale bistro combines French and Caribbean flavors to create a unique and delicious menu.
Be sure to try their signature dishes, like the Aruban-style Bouillabaisse or the mouthwatering Filet Mignon with a black truffle sauce.
Lola Taqueria
Get ready for a fiesta at Lola Taqueria!
This trendy spot offers a variety of fresh, authentic Mexican dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Don't miss their famous fish tacos, loaded with crispy fish, tangy slaw, and a zesty lime sauce and make sure to pop in for Taco Tuesday.
Journey, the Gift of Breakfast
Who says food and dining are all about the evening? Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day!
And what better way to start your day off right with a visit to Journey, the Gift of Breakfast.
This charming café serves up delicious and hearty breakfast dishes, like fluffy pancakes, savory omelets, and tropical smoothie bowls. It's the perfect fuel for a day of exploring Palm Beach.
Activities and Attractions
With beaches, food, and drink catered for, now it's time to think about how you'll fill the rest of your hours in Palm Beach. Sure, sunbathing on the beach, reading a book by the pool, and just exploring
There are plenty of activities and attractions to explore in Palm Beach, ensuring you'll never have a dull moment during your stay. Here are some recommendations:
Butterfly Farm
One TripAdvisor review says it all;
"This is a dream come true."
The Aruba Butterfly Farm is the best place to experience a lush, tropical oasis filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies worldwide. It's a very unique attraction and a mystical, natural world that will take you away and captivate your heart.
The facility offers plenty of guided tours, each where you'll learn about the life cycle of butterflies and have the opportunity to feed and interact with these delicate creatures.
Palm Beach Plaza Mall
Who doesn't like a bit of retail therapy?
Head to Palm Beach Plaza Mall, and you'll find a wide selection of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. This open-air mall also features a cinema, bowling alley, and a rooftop lounge, providing plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.
Basically, a day or two's worth of fun right on your doorstep!
Watersports
For the thrill-seekers, try watersports for adrenaline-pumping activities. From jet skiing and banana boat rides to flyboarding and paddleboarding, there's something for everyone here.
Be sure to book a session and make a splash during your stay in Palm Beach.
Sopranos Piano Bar
Looking for a night of fun and entertainment? Sopranos Piano Bar is the place to be. This lively venue offers live music, talented piano players, and a fantastic cocktail menu. It's the perfect spot to let loose and dance the night away.
Getting to and exploring Palm Beach
Palm Beach is one of the main areas of Aruba, so it’s safe to say it’s super easy to get in, out, and around.
When it comes to getting around Palm Beach and exploring the rest of the island, there are plenty of convenient transportation options.
Renting a car is a popular choice, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. There are also numerous taxi ranks throughout the area, making it easy to hail a cab whenever you need one.
For those who prefer public transportation, Aruba's public buses offer an affordable and reliable way to travel between Palm Beach and other parts of the island. The bus routes are well-connected, allowing you to visit various attractions and points of interest with ease.
Finally, if you're looking for a more scenic and leisurely way to explore the island, consider renting a bicycle or joining a guided bike tour. This eco-friendly option allows you to soak up the beautiful surroundings while getting some exercise and fresh air.
Where to stay in Palm Beach
Whether you’re staying in the area or using it as a base camp, it’s safe to say Palm Beach has everything you need and more!
Bocobay has a stunning collection of luxury vacation rentals in the area so you can enjoy the neighborhood to its fullest.
Ready to explore Palm Beach?
Bocobay has a stunning collection of luxury vacation rentals located in Palm Beach for your next Aruba vacation
