This island is truly a couple’s paradise that offers far more than those romantic walks along beautiful beaches for those seeking to spark up or enhance a relationship. There are a host of ways to turn up the heat here, so, let’s look at some pastimes ideally designed for two, Aruba for lovers, if you will.

For sea and sunset lovers

Of course, after an idyllic beach day, sharing a spectacular sunset over the sea is a perfect romantic pastime. How about from a rooftop infinity pool perch to add to the enchantment? Sunset Bistro atop Radisson Blu is the spot for that. And Hilton’s aptly named Sunset Grille also affords an excellent elevated Palm Beach sundown view.

Casa Nonna at the Ritz-Carlton is another superb sunset watching spot if you book a table outside, enjoy firepits later and soft live music while dining on amorous Italian fare. Or take in the sunset framed by the famous Fofoti trees on Eagle Beach and then snag a table for two by tiki torchlight for toes-in-the-sand dining at Passions on the Beach right beside them. Another spot for playing footsie under the table in the sand is Barefoot, where the backdrop of sparkling lights of cruise ships on the water add to the romantic sunset aura.

Another location conducive to romance is atop the California Lighthouse in a private cubicle for two where you can book a catered dinner with a spectacular view. The lovely poolside garden grounds at Papiamento Restaurant also invite couples to reflect in each other’s glory while dining in style. Steam up the night further by ordering their famous plates of hot stone specials served still sizzling at your table. You’ll also find a sizzling delight at Zucchini Restaurant Aruba where they showcase a love for fine Mediterranean food and serve a fabulous flaming cheese wheel pasta designed for two. And if French is the language of love, you and your significant other will adore the steamy French/Caribbean fusion fare and vibe at Papillon Restaurant.

For fine food lovers

There is no dearth of spots for great gourmet fare here, but some locations are more conducive to couple canoodling than others like Quinta del Carmen’s tapas and cocktail garden that exudes romance. The beautifully landscaped main lawn of the century-old estate-style mansion restaurant has been devoted to unique bites and creative craft libations surrounded by brilliant blooms, and twinkling fairy lights. Choose a private table in a quiet corner and choose from an eclectic selection of artfully presented dishes. Pair succulent shareables with exotic drinks like a Watermelon Caipiroska or their signature Quinta’s Orange Cosmo, and you can also order fine wines by the glass. You’re bound to feel a closer connection as you feed each other delightful nibbles there.

Finish up with a Chocolate or Espresso Martini, or perhaps their signature Keoke Coffee before you head out into an electric tropical night. Your garden visit will also give you a chance to preview their main dining menu and see what kind of special evening you can enjoy in the courtyard dining area another time which can be very romantic in its own right, too.

But wherever you dine, if you don’t see Aruba Heat hot sauces on the table, ask for them! They really spice up your experience and are made from locally grown Madame Jeanette peppers- named after a very “hot” woman from Surinam.

Or if you’d like to carve out your own secluded corner to enjoy gourmet fare in total solitude, head to Ling & Sons Food Market and pack up some prime choices for picnic fare, grab a blanket, and head to the wild, rugged north coast beaches like Dos Playa for scenes right out of a bodice-ripper novel.

For nightlife lovers

If cuddling in the dark towatch a first-run movie is your idea of date night, check out the new Gloria IMAX complex on Eagle Beach for VIP seating and stellar light and sound experiences. But every night can be date night on this island, fire up the mood for a night out on the town with fancy cocktails at the Lobby Lounge at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba, or Hilton’s Mira Solo Lobby Bar. Then, trip the light fantastic along the Palm Beach Strip and stop wherever the mood and music move you.

Go clubbing late-night at The Office or go alfresco dancing downtown at spots like Cuba’s Cookin’ (sultry live Latin music) or sleuth out a secret escape called Amante (which means lover) for Spanish tapas paired with craft cocktails serenaded by live romantic music. Late-night date nights can also include seducing Lady Luck with your partner in the glitzy casinos all over the island; the power of two just might increase your good fortune!

For activity lovers

If you and your mate love to get physical, the options here are legion for getting the heart pumping ensemble. But if too much activity takes a toll on your body, you can receive the best relief in a romantic way here, too. How about a beachfront couple’s massage at Hilton’s- Eforea Spa and Vivant Spas also have couples’ packages including stress release facials, and after-sun aloe wrap treatments. And if you’ve really overdone it on the muscle strain front, the Clinical Massage Spa in Casa del Mar has in-depth treatments you can also enjoy together. And there’s a good reason why Aruba is one of the most popular islands in the Caribbean for proposals, destination weddings, vow renewals, and anniversary celebrations, too! It truly is a lovers’ paradise.

Enjoy!

Article written by Susan Campbell