Surfside Beach Aruba dining combines sun, sand, and gourmet meals. Relax on a calm beach, dine barefoot by the sea, or enjoy Argentine steaks in the heart of Oranjestad.
Surfside Beach lies just south of Oranjestad and is known for its calm waters and laid-back vibe. Locals and travelers visit to swim, snorkel, or watch airplanes land nearby. The beach is less crowded than Eagle Beach, making it a hidden gem for those who prefer peace.
Calm, shallow waters ideal for children.
Stunning sunsets with unobstructed ocean views.
Great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming.
Perfect location near downtown Oranjestad.
At Surfside, you can also enjoy beach bars, volleyball, and shaded areas for picnics. Families, couples, and cruise ship passengers often choose it for its proximity to the city.
Barefoot Restaurant sits directly on Surfside Beach, offering guests a rare chance to dine with toes in the sand. Its open-air, lantern-lit setting makes it one of Aruba’s most romantic dining experiences.
Barefoot’s menu blends Caribbean seafood with international flair. Signature dishes include red snapper, fresh lobster tail, and filet mignon. Vegetarian options and creative desserts are also available. Pair these meals with wines or cocktails while listening to waves break softly on shore.
The restaurant’s motto is “Elegant Dining in Flip Flops.” Guests love the balance of fine dining quality with casual island comfort. Service is attentive yet relaxed, creating an experience that appeals to couples celebrating anniversaries or families looking for beachfront charm.
Barefoot consistently ranks among the top romantic restaurants in Aruba, praised for its sunset views, impeccable cuisine, and unforgettable ambience.
Just a short drive from Surfside Beach, El Gaucho Aruba is one of the island’s most iconic restaurants. Opened in 1977, it brought authentic Argentine steak culture to Aruba.
El Gaucho is best known for its massive steaks such as the Gaucho Steak, T-bone, and tenderloin cuts grilled to perfection. It also offers Argentine specialties like empanadas, chorizo, and house-made chimichurri. Wine lovers appreciate the extensive list of South American vintages.
Located in a historic townhouse in Oranjestad, El Gaucho Aruba feels warm, rustic, and inviting. Its live guitar music on select nights adds to the Argentine spirit. For decades, it has been a must-visit for meat lovers, celebrities, and repeat travelers.
Visitors can easily enjoy all three experiences in one day:
Morning at Surfside Beach – swim or paddleboard in calm waters.
Lunch at Barefoot Restaurant – relax with light seafood dishes on the beach.
Dinner at El Gaucho Aruba – end the evening with world-class steaks in Oranjestad.
This combination showcases Aruba’s diversity, from casual beach fun to barefoot romance and traditional Argentine cuisine.
Visit Surfside Beach earlier in the day for fewer crowds.
Reserve Barefoot Restaurant in advance, especially for sunset tables.
Book El Gaucho for dinner on weekends to enjoy live music.
Bring casual yet smart clothing: flip flops for Barefoot, smart casual for El Gaucho.
Pair your visit with nearby attractions like Renaissance Marketplace or Wilhelmina Park.
| Place | Location | Hours | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surfside Beach | South Oranjestad | All Day | Calm waters, family friendly |
| Barefoot Restaurant | Surfside Beach | Dinner, from 5 PM | Beachfront dining with sunset views |
| El Gaucho Aruba | Oranjestad Center | Dinner, from 5 PM | Argentine steaks & live music |
This trio highlights Aruba’s range of experiences. Surfside offers family-friendly relaxation, Barefoot gives romance by the shore, and El Gaucho delivers hearty Argentine flavors. Together, they create the ultimate Oranjestad dining and leisure journey.
The Surfside Beach Aruba dining experience is more than just a meal. It’s a blend of oceanfront tranquility, barefoot elegance, and sizzling Argentine passion. Whether you want a peaceful swim, a romantic sunset dinner, or legendary steak, Surfside Beach, Barefoot Restaurant, and El Gaucho Aruba guarantee unforgettable moments in Oranjestad.
