Comparison Aruba vs Belize – Which is the Better Vacation?

Comparison Aruba vs Belize – Both top beach destinations in the world, Aruba and Belize get compared on their beaches and activities, cost of travel, weather, and ease of getting around.

While Aruba has a great arid and flat climate all year, Belize comes with incredibly good underwater snorkeling and diving activities. Let’s look at various elements below to help you decide on the best vacation for you.

Comparing Aruba vs Belize

Aruba is a desert-like beach which makes it easier to travel any time of the year while Belize is tropical. The good thing about Belize having a tropical climate is that activities are varied, from incredibly blue beaches and white sand, matched with top-notch underwater marine life, it’s definitely a place to snorkel and dive.

Overall, Aruba is perfect for a lounge-type beach vacation, while Belize is better if you want more activity and variety on your trip.

Related Aruba and Belize Guides

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Getting There – Belize vs Aruba

Getting there Aruba

Aruba is a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Venezuela. It is a popular tourist destination and is easy to reach from many major cities in the United States and Europe. Here are a few options for getting to Aruba:

Fly: The easiest and most convenient way to get to Aruba is to fly. The island has an international airport (Queen Beatrix International Airport) that is serviced by several major airlines. There are direct flights available from many major cities in the United States, as well as several cities in Europe and South America.

Cruise: Another option for getting to Aruba is to take a cruise. Several major cruise lines offer itineraries that include a stop in Aruba. This can be a convenient and budget-friendly way to visit the island.

Ferry: There are no ferries that operate between Aruba and other islands. However, it is possible to take a ferry from nearby Curaçao to Aruba. This can be a good option if you are already on the island of Curaçao and want to visit Aruba as a day trip.

Getting There – Belize

Belize is a small country located in Central America, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination and is easy to reach from many major cities in the United States and Europe. Here are a few options for getting to Belize:

Fly: The easiest and most convenient way to get to Belize is to fly. The country has an international airport (Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport) that is serviced by several major airlines. There are direct flights available from many major cities in the United States, as well as several cities in Europe and South America.

Cruise: Another option for getting to Belize is to take a cruise. Several major cruise lines offer itineraries that include a stop in Belize. This can be a convenient and budget-friendly way to visit the country.

Drive: If you are coming from Mexico or Guatemala, it is possible to drive to Belize. Keep in mind that the roads in Belize can be rough and it is a good idea to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle.

WHERE TO STAY IN BELIZE

A total of $15 USD would be the range of your budget for accommodation in Belize in a dorm. There are hotels mid-budget $40-60 USD and you can find luxury accommodations starting from $100 USD.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN BELIZE

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Travel Budget – Aruba vs Belize

The cost of travel will always depend on several factors, like whether you’re traveling during peak or lean season, how many days you’ll spend, how many activities you’ll be doing, the type of accommodations, and your food.

We broke down sample budgets below for both Aruba and Belize, but make sure to make the necessary adjustments that will meet your own trip.

Cost of Travel in Aruba – One Person, One Week

Here is a sample budget for a one-week trip to Aruba for one person:

Transportation:

• Round-trip airfare: $500-$1,000

Accommodation:

• Hotel or vacation rental: $750-$1,500

Food:

• Meals at restaurants: $350-$700
• Snacks and beverages: $100-$200

Activities:

• Beach and water activities: $100-$300
• Sightseeing and tours: $100-$300
• Entertainment and nightlife: $100-$300

Total: $1,800-$4,200

Here is a sample budget for a one-week trip to Belize for one person:

Transportation:

• Round-trip airfare: $500-$1,000
• Ground transportation: $100-$200

Accommodation:

• Hotel or vacation rental: $700-$1,500

Food:

• Meals at restaurants: $350-$700
• Snacks and beverages: $100-$200

Activities:

• Beach and water activities: $100-$300
• Sightseeing and tours: $100-$300
• Entertainment and nightlife: $100-$300

Total: $1,750-$4,100

Things to Do – Aruba vs Belize

Beaches in Aruba for Swimming

Let’s look at Aruba’s best things to do 

Aruba is home to many beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming. Here are a few examples:

Eagle Beach

Located on the western coast of the island, Eagle Beach is known for its wide stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Palm Beach

Located on the western coast of the island, Palm Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is known for its calm waters and is a good option for families with children.

Baby Beach

Located on the southeastern coast of the island, Baby Beach is known for its shallow and calm waters. It is a popular spot for swimming and is a good option for families with children.

Manchebo Beach

Located on the western coast of the island, Manchebo Beach is known for its wide stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Arashi Beach

Located on the northwest coast of the island, Arashi Beach is known for its beautiful white sand and clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.

These are just a few examples of the many beaches in Aruba that are suitable for swimming. No matter where you go, you are sure to find a beautiful stretch of sand and clear water to enjoy.

Mangel Halto

Mangel Halto is a small beach located in Pos Chiquito, which you will find on your way to San Nicolas. The beach is surrounded by mangroves and is a favorite among locals for a relaxing day on the beach. Mangel Halto is also known as a perfect snorkeling and shore-diving spot due to the calm and shallow waters.

Beaches in Aruba for Windsurfing

Aruba is known for its strong trade winds and is a popular destination for windsurfing. Here are a few beaches in Aruba that are popular for windsurfing:

Boca Grandi

Located on the east coast of the island, Boca Grandi is known for its strong winds and is a popular spot for advanced windsurfers.

Fisherman’s Huts

Located on the north coast of the island, Fisherman’s Huts is known for its steady winds and is a popular spot for intermediate windsurfers.

Palm Beach

Located on the western coast of the island, Palm Beach is known for its moderate winds and is a popular spot for both beginner and intermediate windsurfers.

Sint Nicolaas

Located on the southern coast of the island, Sint Nicolaas is known for its steady winds and is a popular spot for intermediate windsurfers.

Arashi Beach

Located on the northwest coast of the island, Arashi Beach is known for its strong winds and is a popular spot for advanced windsurfers.

These are just a few examples of the many beaches in Aruba that are popular for windsurfing. It is a good idea to check the wind conditions and choose a beach that is suitable for your skill level. It is also a good idea to rent equipment and take lessons from a reputable instructor to ensure your safety while windsurfing.

Other Top Things to Do in Aruba

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Aruba offers a wide range of activities and attractions for travelers. Here are a few things to do in Aruba beyond the beach:

Visit the Arikok National Park

Located on the eastern end of the island, the Arikok National Park covers about 20% of Aruba and is home to a variety of plants and animals. The park offers several hiking trails, as well as the opportunity to see wildlife and visit natural pools.

Divi Divi Trees

The Divi Divi tree (or Watapana Tree) is the most unique thing in Aruba and is known as Aruba’s compass. Once you find the Divi Divi tree, you’ll know that it’s always pointing in the Southwestern direction. It’s one of the most unique things in Aruba, and definitely something to see!

Explore the island by jeep

Aruba is home to several off-road trails that can be explored by jeep. Jeep tours are a popular way to see the island and visit remote parts of the countryside.

Conchi Natural Pools

Experience true adventure at Aruba’s most remote, yet also most popular natural attraction, the famous Natural Pool.

In a unique rock formation, volcanic stone circles a small depression, creating a tranquil pool: Aruba’s Natural Pool.

On a deserted stretch of coastline, dramatic shows of water spraying over the rock occur on a regular basis as the tide rushes to shore. The unique natural pool is also known as ‘Conchi’ (bowl) or ‘Cura di Tortuga’ (Turtles Cove) and is located inside Aruba’s national park Arikok.

The location of the Pool is surrounded by some of Aruba’s most rugged terrain, so a visitor truly gets the feeling of having “discovered” something when they reach the site, by either foot, horseback or 4×4 vehicle. Because of the nature of the environment in this secluded area, the site is inaccessible by a regular car. Inexperienced drivers are encouraged to visit the pool on a Jeep Safari.

During the day small snacks and drinks are sold at the top of the stairs that lead to the Natural Pool.

Quadiriki Caves

The Quadiriki Caves are located in Arikok National Park on the island of Aruba. There are three caves, which tourists commonly explore. The caves are located at the base of a limestone cliff. They contain Amerindian petroglyphs. The name of the caves is of Arawak origin

Scuba Diving in Punta Basora

One of the top areas for scuba diving in Aruba is Punta Basora. Punta Basora is the easternmost point of Aruba, from which a narrow reef stretches far out into the sea. On calm days, divers will see tuna, ballyhoo, eagle rays, stingrays, barracudas, dorados, hammerhead sharks, and hawksbill and loggerhead turtles pass by on their way around this point of the island.

Snorkeling in Tres Papi

Tres Trapi (meaning “three steps”) is a tiny sandy cove nestled in the rocky northwestern shore of Aruba. The 10-meter-long beach is accessible by three rustic steps carved into the rock, after which the site has been named. Tres Trapi has white sand, a grey cliff, and pristine placid waters, where hundreds of red cushion starfish lay on the seafloor, making it one of the favorites and most photogenic snorkeling spots of the island.

Visit the Oranjestad

The capital city of Oranjestad is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including Fort Zoutman, the Willem III Tower, and the Historical Museum of Aruba.

Play golf

Aruba is home to several excellent golf courses, including the Tierra del Sol Golf Course and the Divi Aruba Phoenix Beach Resort Golf Course. These courses offer stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and are a popular activity for golfers.

Beaches in Belize

Click here to book online Belize activities and day trips

Belize has many beautiful beaches along its Caribbean coast. Some popular destinations include:

Ambergris Caye

Located off the coast of Belize, Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize and is known for its beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters.

Caye Caulker

Located just off the coast of Belize, Caye Caulker is a small island known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

Placencia

Located on the southern coast of Belize, Placencia is a popular beach destination with a long stretch of sandy beaches.

Hopkins

Located on the southern coast of Belize, Hopkins is a small village known for its beautiful beaches and friendly locals.

Dangriga

Located on the southern coast of Belize, Dangriga is a small town known for its beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage.

Punta Gorda

Located on the southern coast of Belize, Punta Gorda is a small town known for its beautiful beaches and diverse culture.

There are many other beautiful beaches to explore in Belize. It’s a good idea to do some research and choose a beach that meets your specific preferences and needs.

Other Top Activities and Things to Do in Belize

Visit the Maya ruins

Belize is home to many ancient Maya ruins, including Caracol, Xunantunich, and Lamanai. These sites offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Maya civilization.

Explore the Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole is a large underwater sinkhole located off the coast of Belize. It’s a popular destination for scuba diving and offers stunning views of the underwater world.

Visit the Belize Zoo

The Belize Zoo is home to a wide variety of native animals, including jaguars, tapirs, and crocodiles. It’s a great place to learn about Belize’s rich biodiversity.

Go cave tubing

Belize is home to many beautiful caves, and cave tubing is a popular activity that allows you to explore them by floating through the water on an inner tube.

Visit the Cayes

The Cayes are a group of small islands located off the coast of Belize. They are known for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Go snorkeling or diving

Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, and it’s a great place to go snorkeling or diving. You can see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish.

Learn about Belizean culture

Belize is a culturally diverse country, and there are many opportunities to learn about its rich cultural heritage. You can visit museums, attend cultural festivals, or interact with the local people.

Nightlife – Aruba vs Belize

Nightlife in Aruba

Aruba is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant nightlife. Here are a few things to do in Aruba for nightlife:

Visit a bar or nightclub

Aruba is home to a wide variety of bars and nightclubs that offer live music, dancing, and drinks. Popular spots include Moomba Beach, Moomba Club, and Aruba Beach Club.

Go to a casino

Aruba is home to several casinos, including the Stellaris Casino, the Crystal Casino, and the Seaport Casino. These casinos offer a wide range of games, including slot machines, table games, and poker.

Take a sunset cruise

Many companies offer sunset cruises that include drinks and live music. This is a popular activity for couples and is a great way to relax and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

Go to a movie theater

Aruba has several movie theaters that show the latest films. This can be a good option if you want a break from the heat or just want to relax and watch a movie.

Attend a cultural event

Aruba has a rich culture and there are often cultural events and festivals taking place on the island. These events can include live music, dancing, and traditional food and drinks.

Overall, there are many options for nightlife in Aruba, whether you want to party at a nightclub or relax on a sunset cruise. No matter what you choose, you are sure to have a fun and memorable time on the island.

Nightlife in Belize

Belize is a small country with a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. Here are a few things to do in Belize for nightlife:

Visit a bar or nightclub

Belize has a wide variety of bars and nightclubs that offer live music, dancing, and drinks. Popular spots include Shark’s Club and The Spot in Belize City, as well as Wet Willy’s and The Palapa Bar in San Pedro.

Go to a casino

Belize has several casinos, including the Princess Casino and the Princess Hotel and Casino in Belize City. These casinos offer a wide range of games, including slot machines, table games, and poker.

Take a sunset cruise

Many companies offer sunset cruises that include drinks and live music. This is a popular activity for couples and is a great way to relax and watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

Attend a cultural event

Belize has a rich culture and there are often cultural events and festivals taking place throughout the country. These events can include live music, dancing, and traditional food and drinks.

Go to a movie theater

Belize has several movie theaters that show the latest films. This can be a good option if you want a break from the heat or just want to relax and watch a movie.

Overall, there are many options for nightlife in Belize, whether you want to party at a nightclub or relax on a sunset cruise. No matter what you choose, you are sure to have a fun and memorable time in this vibrant and diverse country.

Final Thoughts Aruba vs Belize, Which is Better?

While you can’t go wrong with either, overall Belize offers much more diverse and exciting travel options than Aruba. Belize is better for an activity-based beach vacation while Aruba is a one-stop lounge beach trip.

If you’re happy to do more movement, more activities, experience incredible underwater marine life, do lots of diving and snorkeling, with hiking options, and get some taste of Spanish culture, Belize will be perfect for you. Want to stay in one place and enjoy all the beach time you can get, lounge around and relax all days of your trip, choose Aruba. Aruba and Belize will both surely give you an amazing time.

Let us know what you ended up choosing and have a safe travel!