On a recent cruise, I had the chance to visit two unique southern Caribbean islands—Curaçao and Aruba—and they absolutely surprised me in the best way. When most of us picture the Caribbean, we imagine lush, tropical greenery and swaying palm trees. But these two islands, located just off the coast of Venezuela and Colombia, offer a completely different kind of beauty.
Both Curaçao and Aruba are more desert-like than tropical, filled with cactus-lined landscapes, rocky cliffs, and arid breezes. And yet, right alongside that desert terrain, you’ll find brilliant blue water and dramatic coastal views. The contrast is stunning.
In Curaçao, my favorite moment was the drive along the coast. Imagine green shrubs hugging the shoreline, waves crashing against dark cliffs, and tall cacti stretching up into the sky. It felt wild and untouched in the best way. A real highlight was visiting Boka Pistol at Shete Boka National Park, where the waves crash into a narrow inlet with a thunderous boom. I also loved walking across the Queen Emma Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge that connects the colorful streets of Willemstad. It’s not just a bridge—it’s an experience.
In Aruba, I explored the Aruba Aloe Museum and Factory, which gave me a new appreciation for the island’s only export—aloe. Both islands rely heavily on tourism for their economy, but Aruba especially shines in sharing its local culture and history with visitors. Learning how aloe is grown, harvested, and turned into skincare products was a surprisingly fun highlight.
Next time I visit Aruba, I’m planning to explore even more by ATV! I want to ride along the sandy coastal trails and see the island’s rugged beauty up close. It looks like an unforgettable way to take in the desert-meets-ocean views that make Aruba so unique.
What I took away most from these stops was this: don’t be afraid to explore beyond the port. Yes, the shops and restaurants near the ship are easy to get to, but the real magic happens when you venture further out—into the heart of the island, its landscapes, and its culture.
If Curaçao and Aruba aren’t already on your cruise wish list, they should be. These desert islands by the sea offer a striking change of scenery and an unforgettable adventure.
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-Betsy
Betsy Walker Travels 