Aruba is located in the southern part of the Caribbean Sea, southwest of all the Caribbean islands. It’s just north of Venezuela and next to the island of Curacao. Believe it or not, Aruba is part of the Netherlands, with the Dutch settling there as early as the 17th Century.While this small Dutch island is only twenty miles long, there is a lot to explore, including stunning beaches, colorful architecture, desert-like landscapes, and a vibrant art scene. The beautiful Caribbean Sea is just minutes away in any direction.