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Entertainment Overview

They pump up the volume at Aruba's resort bars when the sun sets. Unlike many other islands, nightlife here isn't confined to touristy folkloric shows. In addition to spending time in one of the many casinos, you can slowly savor a drink while the sun dips into the sea, dance to the beat of a local band, bar-hop in a colorful bus, or simply stroll along a deserted starlit beach.

Arubans like to party -- the more the merrier -- and they usually start celebrating late in the evening. The action, mostly on weekends, doesn't pick up until around midnight. Casual yet trendy attire is the norm. Most bars don't have a cover charge, although most nightclubs do. Bigger clubs, such as Club Havana, may have lines on weekends, but they move quickly; use this time to start your socializing and you may just end up with a dance partner before you even set foot inside the door. Drink specials are available at some bars, and every establishment will gladly give you a free Balashi Cocktail (the local term for a glass of water). Both bars and clubs have either live bands or DJs, depending on the night.

No matter where you choose to party, be smart about getting back to your hotel. Drinking and driving, of course, is against the law. If you're within walking distance, go ahead and hoof it. Taxis are a good option if your hotel is farther away. The island is safe, and you'll probably wander with swarms of other visitors in town and along Palm Beach.

Casinos

There was a time when women dressed in evening gowns and men donned suits for a chic, glamorous night in Aruba's casinos. In the mid-'80s, however, the Alhambra Casino opened, touting its philosophy of "barefoot elegance." Suddenly shorts and T-shirts became acceptable attire. The relaxed dress code made gaming seem an affordable pastime rather than a luxury.

Aruba's casinos now attract high rollers, low-stakes bettors, and nongamblers alike. Games include slot machines, blackjack (both beloved by North Americans), baccarat (preferred by South Americans), craps, roulette -- even betting on sports events. Theaters, restaurants, bars, and cigar shops have added another dimension to the casinos. Now you can go out for dinner, take in a show, sip after-dinner drinks, and play blackjack all under one roof. In between games, you can get to know other patrons and swap tips and tales. The many local entertainers who rotate among the casinos add to the excitement.