I’m sitting cross-legged on a fluffy beach towel with 100 others at Aruba’s famed Eagle Beach. The atmosphere is completely silent except for the surf and an occasional flying gull. We’re partaking in the Caribbean’s first-ever “Relaxathon,” a competition for the title of the island’s most relaxed person. The stress-free race, hosted by none other than Shaun White, the U.S. Olympic boarding legend, was meant to underscore the level of calm and wellness one feels on this southern Caribbean island.

This was my first trip to Aruba with a group of travel pals. I have avoided Aruba before, thinking it would be overly touristy. And yes, while the island has its share of American chains, I discovered a multicultural blend with over 90 nationalities, including Afro-Caribbean and Latin American cultures. There’s also just enough Dutch influence that I could order my favourite bitterballen and kaassoufflé snacks when I had a hankering (delivered to my beach chair, thank you). But it’s Aruba’s relaxed pace, pristine white sand beaches, and its mindful activities and wellness experiences that stood out.

Our days began with a slow morning routine: an outdoor activity followed by a healthy breakfast. By 11 a.m., it was too hot for much else, so we’d retreat to the water, then explore Aruba’s dining scene in the evening. By day three, I remember thinking, “I haven’t felt this good in a long time.”

Even if you do nothing but breathe fresh air and relax under a shady palapa, you’ll feel renewed. Locals call it “The Aruba Effect”—the rejuvenating vibe that lingers long after you return home.

Day One

On my first morning, I grabbed coffee and took a walk along the white sugar sand beach, stopping to check the roped-off turtle sites. It was turtle nesting season, and the island carefully roped off these sensitive areas to prevent trampling. Some guests were already poolside, sipping smoothies.

Later on, I met my friends for my next beach experience. We joined a sound healing session with Tibetan singing bowls. We lay face down on towels as our instructor placed bowls around us, the gentle vibrations creating a deeply relaxing effect. I was definitely too relaxed to question it.

We then enjoyed a breakfast of fresh fruits and Dutch pancakes at Bucuti & Tara, a chic, carbon-neutral hotel. A bright yellow golden warbler swooped in and made off with a pancake when we weren’t looking—a lighthearted reminder of Aruba’s natural charm.

Day Two

Dutch-born, long-time islander Gea Sougé led us on a sunrise “Mindfulness Beach Walk” at Alto Vista. We practised breathing techniques, did a sensory meditation exercise on rocks overlooking the sea, and learned about the flora and cacti strewn along the path. Afterwards, we enjoyed breakfast tacos and pitaya bowls at Eduardo’s Hideaway, a daytime spot popular with the plant-based crowd.

Beach days were breezy, thanks to Aruba’s trade winds keeping us cool. I also learned that only reef-safe sunscreen is allowed on the island to help keep the sea and sand pristine, and turtle nesting grounds on the beach safe (another feel-good bonus).