When you’re in need of some serious relaxation, an escape to the Caribbean can be the perfect Rx. The feel of powdery, soft, white sands beneath your toes, the smell of the salty sea air, the rhythmic sound of the waves, and water that reflects the color of the nearly always brilliant blue skies, seems to melt all stress away.
There have been many studies that show being at the beach promotes relaxation by reducing stress and even inducing a mild meditative state. But now we have the results of a study that tells us which beach in the Carribean is the most relaxing of all, ensuring an especially blissful getaway. According to an analysis of Tripadvisor reviews by the Hot Spring spas company, ranked by how often the word “relaxing” appeared, that’s Eagle Beach in Aruba.
While Palm Beach, the most developed and most popular in Aruba, also boasts calm, shallow blue waters and white sands, it’s a different kind of experience. There are many internationally known hotels and resorts attracting families who come to enjoy water-based activities and fun on the sand. But head just a little further down the coast, just northwest of the capital city, Oranjestad, and you’ll find the pace starts to slow.
The Scene
One of the world’s most visually stunning beaches, Eagle Beach was also named the very best beach in the Caribbean in Tripadvisor’s 2025 Travelers’ Choice Awards, highlighting its soft white sands, warm waters, and spectacular sunset views. Despite its appeal, it’s managed to remain less crowded compared to the more commercialized beaches like Palm Beach. There are no high-rise hotels, although you will find beachfront dining venues and several low-rise to mid-sized properties.
The beach is exceptionally wide and long, spanning roughly four miles along the coastline, which means plenty of space for lounging. There are fewer vendors and fewer loud, motorized water sports. While they are available, the size of the beach makes it easy to find quiet spots for sunbathing and peaceful strolls, enjoyed with views of the Fofoti trees and the vivid aquamarine waters stretching as far as the eye can see.
Beyond Relaxation
While Eagle Beach is popular for relaxation, when you want to enjoy activities, just head to one of the water sports vendors. You’ll find jet skis and waverunners for rent, along with opportunities for parasailing for a bird’s-eye view of the coastline. Plus, the water is calm, shallow, and strikingly clear, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. In fact, both snorkelers and divers can see the SS Antilla shipwreck. The German freighter that sank during WWII is the largest of its kind in the Caribbean. It’s covered by tube sponges and coral formations, and teeming with marine life like moray eels, parrotfish, bluehead wrasse, angelfish, and the occasional sea turtle.
When to Go
While the most popular time to visit Eagle Beach is in the winter, to enjoy it at its best, visit between April and August when the weather is typically outstanding, and there are fewer visitors. As one of the “ABC” islands outside of the hurricane belt, the odds of a tropical storm or hurricane hitting during the season are low.
