Flights to Oranjestad

Situated on the northeast coast of the "happy island" of Aruba, Andicuri Beach is a secluded locale renowned for its clear water, white sand, and limestone rock formations.

It can be a bit of a trek to get here, but hop in a car or rent a 4×4 and make your way to this hidden island treasure perfect for a relaxing afternoon or a picnic with friends.

Catch a glimpse of what's left of the famous Natural Bridge, which collapsed more than a decade ago, or simply watch the waves crash over the rocks.

While it's ideal for kitesurfing and bodyboarding, Andicuri's waves are a bit too tumultuous for swimmers and snorkelers.

There are no facilities at the beach, so come prepared with everything you'll need for the day.

Nearby attractions are the Aruba Numismatic Museum, which features a collection of coins and paper money from all over the world, and Bushiribana, ruins of two former gold smelters built in 1825.

Visitors can also check out the impressive Ayo Rock Formations and the walking trails around them. From this vantage, you can see the entire island, and maybe even the coast of Venezuela.

When visitors to Arashi Beach recount their experiences at this tropical paradise, you start to notice "unsurpassed snorkeling" as the recurring theme.

Of course, the underwater life here gets top billing, but credit also goes to the tranquility of water at this beach, which is ideally situated on the northwestern side of Aruba, dubbed "One Happy Island."

Go early, claim a thatch-roofed hut and let the rest of your Aruba beach trip fall into place.

Keep in mind that while Arashi boasts excellent views, cooling trade winds and heavenly warm water, it's seriously lacking in the facilities department: You won't find bathrooms or eateries here.

A little planning and preparation can make up for this, of course, and if you get lucky, you might get a visit from a local food truck.

Parking is abundant and free here, and taking a cab is also an option. Looking to save a bit? Try the bus, which runs about every half hour and only costs a few dollars.

If you have a vehicle and some time to spare, continue up the road to the not-to-be-missed California Lighthouse, or make the most of your day and visit nearby Malmok Beach.

Though Aruba's trendy Palm Beach is dotted with high-rise hotels and luxury resorts, this two-mile strip of sand still manages to be down-to-earth, attracting beach-lovers from all walks of life.

Surely, the consistently sunny weather and immaculate sands have something to do with it, but it's also because this area is the most happening. Vacationers love to rise early to claim a shady spot, and soon thereafter, the main water sport activities get underway.

Palm Beach's calm waters are ideal for taking a dip, especially if you're not a strong swimmer or you've got young ones in tow. Rent snorkel gear and see if you can spot some tropical fish swimming close to shore. Otherwise, you can rent equipment for paddle-boarding, parasailing, jet-skiing, or any other water sport that interests you.

Divers will love seeing the SS Pedernales, a tanker that was torpedoed in 1942 while anchored at the island.

Take a break from the sun and head to a beach bar for a cold piña colada or a mojito, or stop in at a barefoot dining establishment, something that doesn't sound so odd when you're on vacation.

Looking for a place to shop? That's easy here. There are two piers with shops and eateries, and the Palm Beach Plaza not only has shops and restaurants, but also bars, a theater and an impressive fountain display.

At night, the soothing beach experience gives way to the pulse of nightlife. Jump in a public bus and head to one of the clubs located inside the hotels that line the beach.

Palm Beach's clean sand and calm, clear water make it an excellent choice as a family-friendly destination, but its draws don't end there.

Take the little ones to Kibaima Miniature Village and Park, or to one of the nearby parks or playgrounds. You can even rent bicycles and let them explore the island; that is, if you can lure them away from the sand.