Maybe you have seen the pretty pictures on social media, or maybe you can just imagine it: a calm beach-goer gleefully feeding an elegant pink flamingo against a crystal-blue ocean backdrop. This is an experience limited to a few places on earth, and one of them is Flamingo Beach, Aruba. There is only one beach in Aruba with flamingos (as they are not widely native to the island), and it can be found on Flamingo Island, which is owned by the Renaissance hotel, and it is a short water taxi ride away from the mainland. If you decide to take the leap and partake in the flamingo-feeding, there are a few things to know—follow along for our top 5 tips for visiting Flamingo Beach, Aruba!
Book a massage on the Island
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To get the most for your money when visiting Flamingo Island, book a massage. Massages on the island cost $160 per person plus an additional $25 service fee. A day pass to the island costs $125 per person, so for an additional $60, you can enjoy a 50-minute massage and spend the rest of the day lounging on the beach. Massage spots fill up fast, so call ASAP. Check out the spa options here.
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Plan your pass ahead of time!
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It is important to note that you can only access Flamingo Beach if you are a guest at the Renaissance Hotel, or if you have purchased a day pass. If you are not a guest at the Renaissance Hotel, buy a pass as early in advance as possible, because they often run out! Day passes are approximately $125/ person and they include a free drink at the bar.
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Remember, kids are only allowed 9-10 am
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Flamingo Beach is technically on the “adults only” side of the island, so kids are only specially allowed on that side of the island from 9-10 am! As you will see next, however, this isn’t a bad thing, since the earlier you can go, the better.
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Go as early as possible to avoid crowding
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The beach can get pretty crowded in the afternoon (especially in the summer), so come as early in the morning as possible if you want some time interacting with the birds! Additionally, the birds are more likely to still be hungry, and therefore more willing to interact with you to get food the earlier you come, so we recommend coming at least before lunch!
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Bring quarters to get bird food from dispensers
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If you want to feed the flamingos, you will need some food that is acceptable for them to eat: this can be found in dispensers on the island, but these only take quarters, so make sure to come stocked with quiet a few!
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Be gentle with the birds
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The birds are accustomed to humans in their habitat, however, it is always a good idea to kneel down near the birds so you are less intimidating, hold out an open palm of food, and not make any quick or sudden movements that could scare them! This will result in happy, fed birds, and a cool experience, and some awesome pictures!
We hope these tips were helpful and that you have a majestic, sunny, stress-free, and exciting experience at Flamingo Island, Aruba!
