Aruba's Best-kept Summer Travel Secret: September and October
Dreading the post-Labor Day blues? September tends to sneak up on unsuspecting summer lovers, but a well-timed Aruba vacation can help outsmart the seasons. Escape to Aruba for the perfect summer-extending getaway and shore up that Vitamin D supply before the winter doldrums set in.
Fall in Aruba: the price is right
Since Aruba's peak tourism period runs from November through May, great deals abound during the low season for travelers. Frommers estimates that Aruba travel and accommodation rates are reduced between 20 and 50 percent from April through December, meaning fall tourists can score the same Aruba vacation one might take in February for half the price.
Airfares tend to be much cheaper from June through October, and choosing to travel mid-week when the skies are generally emptier can help save when booking tickets. Aruba resorts similarly look to draw tourists in September and October when capacity is down, so stay alert for vacation package deals and multi-night stays for less.
Was the fall trip to Aruba an afterthought to a domestic summer break? Fear not, as last-minute travelers can often save even more when planning September and October trips to Aruba. Travel sites and message boards advertise Aruba vacation packages for up to 70 percent off for carefree tourists ready to jet off at a moment's notice.
The season of change... for everyone else
From leaves to weather, fall represents a season of transition on many a home front; not so in Aruba, where a near-perfect summer climate is enjoyed all year. The average year-round temperature is 82 degrees, which climbs slightly higher in August and September (noted as two of the island's sunniest months of the year).
Aruba is often noted for being one of the driest islands in the Caribbean, a distinction lent due to its desert roots and minimal rainfall. Aruba gets less than 20 inches of rain per year, with the "rainy" season hitting from November through January. Major storms are also never a worry, as Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt.
Trade winds keep Aruba comfortable throughout the year, making beach trips more enjoyable even during the warmer September period. June tends to be Aruba's windiest month, so gusts have slowed down considerably by fall. Water sports and activities are also made more pleasant by spiked autumn water temperatures, which make the ocean warmer than the spring months.
No reservations needed for Aruba's fall itinerary
Aside from giving your wallet a rest, vacationing in Aruba outside of the hectic high season also means a break from the crowds. September and October visitors can enjoy a more tranquil escape, as beaches are emptier and popular restaurants and Aruba attractions are easier to get into.
For music and culture buffs, Aruba also has a number of festivals and events to enjoy during a fall vacation. The Annual Aruba Piano Festival celebrates its fifth anniversary this September, featuring renowned musicians from all over the world. For October visitors, the Caribbean Sea Jazz Festival is scheduled for the first weekend of the month and features international sensations including American R&B artist Angie Stone and Grammy-winning pianist Eddie Palmieri.
Aruba's fall event slate also has the active types and adrenaline junkies covered with a couple of fun outings that will get your blood pumping. Adventurous groups or couples might want to check out the Aruba Paradise Open, an international paintball tournament set for early September. Philanthropists and workout buffs can participate in the 10K Turibana to Santa Cruz run on September 4. The coastal jaunt raises money for local charities including the Environmental Committee, which is committed to keeping the coral reefs and coastline clean and free of litter. The race is open to all, and runners can sign up starting August 1 through race day.
Erin Keaveney writes articles about Aruba travel for the Aruba Marriott Resort and Stellaris Casino.
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