San Nicolas, known as Aruba’s “Sunrise City,” offers a completely different vibe from the island’s resort-heavy northwest coast. Located at the southeastern tip, this former oil refinery town has reinvented itself as the cultural heart of Aruba, filled with vibrant street art, local galleries, and a strong sense of community. Murals by international and Aruban artists cover building walls, turning the streets into an open-air museum that celebrates creativity and island identity.

The town has a rich history as the hub of Aruba’s oil industry, drawing workers from across the Caribbean and leaving a lasting influence on its multicultural character. Today, that diversity is reflected in its food scene, from local seafood shacks to Caribbean and Latin-inspired eateries. San Nicolas also hosts Aruba’s lively Carnival festivities, known for colorful parades, costumes, and steel pan music that keep the city pulsing with energy.

Just minutes away are some of the island’s most pristine and less-crowded beaches, like Baby Beach with its calm, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling. The contrast between the town’s artistic energy and the serene coastline nearby makes San Nicolas a destination where travelers can immerse themselves in both Aruba’s cultural heartbeat and natural beauty.