This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Aruba Tourism Authority for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

With its turquoise waters, soft sand and laidback attitude, the Caribbean has completely won me over. I’ve visited seven islands, but somehow I haven’t made it to Aruba yet. But it’s on my short list, and here are five reasons why I’ve got to get to Aurba (aka One Happy Island).

1. Calm water with soft sand: There’s nothing like swimming in the warm, tranquil Caribbean Sea. Just thinking about it is relaxing! Many of Aruba’s hotels are on Palm Beach and Eagles Beach, which means that you walk out of your hotel room and onto the best beaches in the Caribbean. I’d also like to check out Roger’s Beach, which is where the locals go.

2. Rough water and rocks: To experience rugged beauty, Aruba’s Wild Coast can’t be beat. While I would’t actually swim in this rougher water, I would love to take a dip in the Natural Pool (which is sort of like a giant tide pool).

3. Arikok National Park: I know it would be tough to tear myself away from the beach, but I would have to so I can explore Arikok National Park. The dramatic desert landscapes full of cacti look amazing. It would be cool to spot unique species  like the Aruban Burrowing Owl and the Aruban Whiptail Lizard.

4. Great Dining: Between all of that beaching and exploring, I will have worked up quite an appetite… As foodie who can be somewhat picky when it comes to what I eat, I love that Aruba has developed a fine dining scene that’s miles ahead of many of the neighboring islands. 

5. Fun Nightlife: And when I’m done with dinner, I’ve got plenty of bars to choose from, which is a nice contrast to many of the islands that can be quite sleepy well before I’m in the mood to go to sleep.

Why do you want to visit Aruba? Learn more about Aruba travel.