Pos Chiquito, Aruba Travel Guide

Discover Pos Chiquito, Aruba's serene coastal town, perfect for snorkeling, diving, and experiencing authentic island life away from the crowds.

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Pos Chiquito

Pos Chiquito is a charming coastal town in Aruba that offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots. Located on the southeastern coast of the island, it is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Aruba. The town is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. You'll find an abundance of marine life, coral reefs, and underwater wonders right off the shore. As you explore Pos Chiquito, you'll be enchanted by its picturesque scenery and warm, welcoming locals. The area is less commercialized, giving tourists a more authentic and intimate experience. Enjoy leisurely walks along the pristine beaches and take in the stunning sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink. Local eateries offer delicious Aruban cuisine, giving you a taste of the island's rich culinary heritage. Don't miss out on visiting the nearby Mangel Halto, a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding. The calm, shallow waters make it an ideal location for families and novice water enthusiasts. For those interested in history and culture, a short drive will take you to the nearby city of Oranjestad, where you can explore museums, shops, and historic sites. Pos Chiquito truly offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination in Aruba.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Pos Chiquito.

Bring your own snorkeling gear for exploring the rich marine life just off the coast.
Visit local eateries to enjoy authentic Aruban cuisine.
Plan a day trip to Mangel Halto for kayaking and paddleboarding.
Rent a car for easy access to nearby attractions, including Oranjestad.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate coral ecosystems.

Explore Pos Chiquito: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Visit the Donkey Sanctuary Aruba: a loving home for rescued donkeys, offering unique experiences and supporting animal welfare on the island.

4.8

Mangel Halto beach

Discover Mangel Halto, Aruba: A serene snorkeling and diving haven with calm waters, vibrant marine life, and picturesque mangroves.

4.7

De Palm Island

Experience the ultimate tropical escape at De Palm Island, Aruba's premier destination for fun, relaxation, and adventure in paradise.

4.4

Clear Kayak Aruba

Explore Aruba's stunning waters with eco-friendly clear kayak tours and rentals, offering unforgettable views of marine life and vibrant coral reefs.

4.3

Best landmarks in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Donkey Sanctuary Aruba

Discover the charm of Donkey Sanctuary Aruba, a tranquil refuge for rescued donkeys and a unique nature experience for animal lovers.

4.8

Pos Chiquito Beach Park

Discover the tranquil beauty of Pos Chiquito Beach Park in Savaneta, Aruba, where stunning beaches meet a serene atmosphere for relaxation and adventure.

4.7

Sea Trek Underwater Helmet Walk at De Palm Island

Discover the underwater wonders of Aruba with the Sea Trek Underwater Helmet Walk at De Palm Island, an adventure perfect for all ages.

4.6

7 shades of blue

Experience the ultimate retreat at 7 Shades of Blue, a serene lodging in Savaneta, Aruba, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and local charm.

4.9

Best restaurants in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

La Tavola

Experience authentic Caribbean and Latin flavors at La Tavola in Savaneta, Aruba – where family-friendly dining meets exceptional culinary artistry.

4.9

Zeerover

Experience fresh seafood with stunning views at Zeerover in Savaneta, Aruba - where local culture meets culinary delight.

4.6

Flying Fishbone

Discover an exquisite seafood dining experience at Flying Fishbone in Savaneta, where fresh flavors meet breathtaking ocean views.

4.6

Magu

Savor mouthwatering burgers and fast food delights at Magu in Savaneta, Aruba – where every bite is a taste of paradise.

4.7

Best bars in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Marina Pirata Restaurant

Experience the flavors of Aruba at Marina Pirata Restaurant, a waterfront dining haven offering fresh seafood and local specialties.

4.5

Kabayan Snack & Take Away

Discover the flavors of Aruba at Kabayan Snack & Take Away, a must-visit brunch spot in Savaneta for delicious local cuisine and warm hospitality.

4.9

Mangel Halto Bar

Discover the laid-back charm of Mangel Halto Bar in Aruba, where refreshing cocktails and stunning sea views await you.

4.3

Terrace Bar & Cafe

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aruba at Terrace Bar & Cafe, where delicious food and refreshing cocktails await in a lively atmosphere.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Aruba Nautical Club

Discover the perfect blend of fresh seafood and stunning marina views at Aruba Nautical Club, a top dining experience in Oranjestad, Aruba.

4.6

Mangel Halto Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Mangel Halto Bar in Savaneta, Aruba - a local favorite for refreshing drinks and relaxation.

4.3

The New Iceberg

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aruba at The New Iceberg, a premier night club in Savaneta, where music and dance come alive.

5.0

Club Universal

Experience fun and leisure at Club Universal, Aruba’s premier sports club for enthusiasts and explorers alike.

4.0

Best shops in Pos Chiquito

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Shaye Boutique Aruba

Discover unique fashion treasures at Shaye Boutique Aruba, the ultimate shopping destination for stylish attire and accessories on your island getaway.

4.4

Feliz Renterprise

Discover Feliz Renterprise in Savaneta, Aruba – your ultimate destination for educational supplies and teaching resources.

5.0

Kima Terra Pottery

Explore Kima Terra Pottery in Savaneta, Aruba - a vibrant store showcasing unique handmade pottery and local artistry.

5.0

Unico Hardware

Explore the best of DIY and home improvement at Unico Hardware in Savaneta, Aruba, where quality meets local charm.

4.3

Explore Pos Chiquito on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Pos Chiquito, mapped for you.

Pos Chiquito Essentials

Pos Chiquito is located on the southeastern coast of Aruba, approximately 10 kilometers from Queen Beatrix International Airport in Oranjestad. From the airport, you can reach Pos Chiquito by taxi, which takes around 15-20 minutes. Car rentals are also available at the airport for those who prefer to drive themselves. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from Oranjestad to Pos Chiquito; the bus service is reliable and runs frequently.
Pos Chiquito is a small area, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. The Arubus service connects Pos Chiquito with other parts of the island, including Oranjestad and San Nicolas. Biking is also a popular way to get around, with rental shops offering bicycles for daily use.
The official currency in Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Pos Chiquito, but it's always a good idea to withdraw enough cash before venturing into more remote areas.
Pos Chiquito is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. The local police are friendly and responsive to any issues you might encounter.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities and a police station available in nearby Oranjestad. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but remember to wear appropriate attire when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches or religious sites, wear modest clothing and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A friendly 'Bon dia' (Good day) is always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Pos Chiquito like a local, visit the local beaches early in the morning when they are less crowded. Engage with locals in conversation; they are often friendly and happy to share stories about the area. Don't miss trying local dishes like 'pastechi' and 'keshi yena'. For a unique experience, take a snorkeling trip to Mangel Halto, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life.

When is the best time to visit Pos Chiquito?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Pos Chiquito

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Pos Chiquito. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBon dia
  [bon dee-ah]
- GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
- YesSi
  [see]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fah-bor]
- Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-don]
- How are you?Con ta bai?
  [kon ta by]
- Fine. And you?Bon. I bu?
  [bon. ee boo]
- Do you speak English?Bo ta papia Ingles?
  [bo ta pa-pee-ah een-gles]
- I don't understandMi no ta compronde
  [mee no ta kom-pron-de]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi kier mira e menu, por fabor
  [mee kee-air mee-rah eh meh-no, por fah-bor]
- I don't eat meatMi no ta come carni
  [mee no ta ko-meh kar-nee]
- Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi kier paga, por fabor
  [mee kee-air pah-gah, por fah-bor]
- Help!Yudami!
  [you-dah-mee]
- Go away!Bai for di mi!
  [by for dee mee]
- Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [yah-mah poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [yah-mah oon dok-ter]
- I'm lostMi ta perdi
  [mee tah pehr-dee]
- I'm illMi tin malu
  [mee teen mah-loo]
- I'd like to buy...Mi kier cumpra...
  [mee kee-air koom-prah]
- I'm just lookingMi ta solamente mira
  [mee tah soh-lah-men-teh mee-rah]
- How much is it?Kuant' ta costa esaki?
  [kwan-tah tah koh-stah eh-sah-kee]
- That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu caro
  [eh-sah-kee tah moo-choo kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?Por fabor, por baisa e prijs?
  [por fah-bor, por by-sah eh prees]
- What time is it?Kiko ora ta?
  [kee-koh oh-rah tah]
- It's one o'clockTa un ora
  [tah oon oh-rah]
- Half past (10)Mitad di (10)
  [mee-tahd dee]
- MorningMadruga
  [mah-droo-gah]
- AfternoonTardi
  [tar-dee]
- EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
- YesterdayAyera
  [ah-yeh-rah]
- TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
- TomorrowMañan
  [mah-nyan]
- 1Uno
  [oo-no]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuater
  [kwah-tehr]
- 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [sehs]
- 7Siete
  [see-eh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehs]
- Where's a/the...?Unda tin un/e...
  [oon-dah teen oon/eh]
- What's the address?Kiko e adres ta?
  [kee-koh eh ah-dres tah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Por fabor, por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [por fah-bor, por moos-trah mee (ree-bah eh mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kiko ora ta e siguiente (bus)?
  [kee-koh oh-rah tah eh see-gwee-yen-teh (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un ticket (pa ....)
  [oon tee-ket (pah)]

History of Pos Chiquito

Long before European explorers set foot on Aruba, the island was inhabited by the Arawak people. Pos Chiquito, like many other parts of Aruba, bears traces of their presence. Archaeological findings, including pottery and tools, suggest that the Arawak lived in harmony with the island’s natural environment, relying on fishing, hunting, and agriculture.
The Spanish first arrived in Aruba in 1499, led by Alonso de Ojeda. The island, including Pos Chiquito, came under Spanish control, but it was not heavily colonized due to its lack of precious metals. In 1636, the Dutch took control of Aruba, and it became part of the Dutch West India Company. The influence of both Spanish and Dutch rule is still evident in the architecture and cultural traditions found in Pos Chiquito.
In the 19th century, Aruba experienced a gold rush. Although Pos Chiquito was not a central hub for gold mining, the economic boom brought prosperity to many parts of the island, including this quaint village. The remnants of gold mines and the stories of fortune-seekers are part of the local lore.
During World War II, Aruba was of strategic importance due to its oil refineries. Pos Chiquito, with its coastal location, was part of the island’s defense infrastructure. The beaches and nearby areas were fortified to protect against potential Axis attacks. The war left an indelible mark on the community, influencing its development in the post-war era.
The latter half of the 20th century saw a significant shift towards tourism in Aruba. Pos Chiquito, with its charming coastal scenery and tranquil beaches, became a favored spot for visitors. The development of tourism infrastructure, from hotels to recreational facilities, transformed the village into a vibrant destination while retaining its cultural heritage.
In recent years, Pos Chiquito has gained recognition for its underwater marine park, which showcases the rich biodiversity of Aruba’s coastal waters. The park is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, attracting nature enthusiasts who marvel at the coral reefs and marine life. This focus on eco-tourism highlights the community’s commitment to preserving its natural environment.
Pos Chiquito is known for its vibrant cultural festivals that celebrate Aruba’s heritage. Events such as the annual Carnival, with its colorful parades and music, provide a glimpse into the island’s lively culture. Traditional dances, local cuisine, and crafts are an integral part of these festivities, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the community.