VIEW THE POST
After traveling to some of the most sought-after islands across the Caribbean—from St. John and St. Thomas to St. Lucia, St. Kitts, British Virgin Islands, and The Bahamas—I didn’t expect Aruba to stand apart the way it did.
But it does.
Aruba is effortlessly welcoming, incredibly safe, and visually stunning in a way that feels both elevated and relaxed. What makes it even more appealing—especially when planning ahead—is its location outside of the hurricane belt, making it a reliable escape year-round.
This small, arid island offers an unexpected contrast of landscapes. Think desert terrain meeting turquoise water, rugged national parks paired with soft white-sand beaches, and a balance of adventure and indulgence that feels thoughtfully curated.
View photographs captured by Aruba Destination Wedding Photographer, Michelle Behre Photography as she explored the One Happy Island in Spring 2026. Planning your proposal and wedding and interested in having a Photographer who is familiar with the landscape and island? Inquire for further details on our availability and destination wedding photography.
ED Card, US Passport Getting There + Getting Around
Flying into Queen Beatrix International Airport AUA is seamless and efficient—an easy start to the trip from Newark Liberty International Airport EWR.
To enter the island as a US resident, Aruba customs requires Passport and travelers to complete an online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card before arrival and a fee. The ED card was uploaded to the Airline Carrier upon check-in. I also recommend for you to have this information printed and on-person.
For more information on the ED Card click here, to retrieve your ED Card click here.
Prior to Traveling here is my go-to to-do:
- Check-in with Air-fare (24 hours)
- Print Itineraries (72 hours prior)
- Download What’sApp and to update your mobile carrier when you are traveling out of the US for an International Day Plan (for AT&T) (72 hours prior)
- Notify your major credit card companies as well (72 hours prior)
- Finalize Packing (72 days)
For exploring, renting a car is essential. Aruba isn’t an island you want to experience passively—you’ll want the flexibility to move.
- Sunset Car Rental — reliable for standard vehicles
- RealDeal Car Rental Aruba — ideal if you plan to explore more rugged terrain, would recommend a Jeep Wrangler if you plan to drive through the Arikok National Park
Landscapes That Feel Unexpected
One of the most surprising elements of Aruba is how diverse the terrain feels.
At Arikok National Park, you’ll find a desert-like landscape filled with cacti, rugged coastline, and expansive views that feel completely different from the typical Caribbean aesthetic.
I would skip some of the more crowded cave excursions next time and prioritize open landscapes and coastline drives—they feel more aligned with the overall experience Aruba offers. Plan time for the beauty of Boca Keto and Natural Pool, and Boca Prins.
Packing Tip: I highly recommend packing hat, sunscreen, swim-shoes, swimwear, SPF rash guard, towels, change of clothes if planning on swimming, sneakers, and water to stay hydrated. Also, the mud will stain your rash guards, so I would recommend to possibly wear a rash guard that is “newer” or a potential favorite that you can part with as it may get stained with the mud of the park pending the terrain.
For planning your route, the lanes are one way to the Boca Keto and Natural Pool, one way to Boca Prins, one way to the caves and exiting SE towards Baby Beach or exiting NW towards Natural Bridge and Baby Bridge towards the Lighthouse. Plan your route thoroughly to make the most of your day.
The Beaches Worth Planning Your Days Around
Aruba’s beaches are where the island really defines itself—each one offering a slightly different experience all worth exploring.
Avid snorkelers and free-divers? See this list for the best snorkeling in Aruba and a list of the top beautiful beaches visited and photos below:
West Coast
- Arashi Beach — calm, clear, ideal for snorkeling
- Palm Beach — lively, polished, and resort-forward
- Surfside Beach — relaxed and understated, beneath the airport runway, ideal if you like watching the planes take off
- Baby Beach — shallow, warm water that feels almost unreal, diving spot
- Mangel Halto — one of the most unique spots on the island, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking through mangroves, diving spot
East Coast
- Boca Grandi – ideal for kite-surfing, high winds and currents, diving spot
- Bachelor’s Beach – high winds and currents
If I were refining the itinerary, I would skip stops like Boca Grandi and Bachelor’s Beach and go straight to Baby Beach—it’s simply more worth your time.
Experiences Beyond the Beach
Aruba isn’t just about relaxing—it’s about layering experiences.
- Swim in Conchi Natural Pool and hot baths, tucked within the national park
- Explore shipwreck diving sites (even if just by snorkel)
- Visit Aruba Aloe for a more local, wellness-focused stop learning about Aruba’s history of their economy and leading global exports with Royal Aruba Aloe pioneering modern cosmetic, sun care, and skincare exports .. my personal favorite and purest form if Aloe is Alyhydran, reducing new and existing scars healing skin.
And for a more elevated reset, book a treatment at Mandara Spa at Marriott Ocean Club.
I began the morning with an organic breakfast, followed by a morning walk and outdoor activity and transitioned into spa treatments. Including thermal and cryotherapy experiences followed by Coconut Poultice Massage followed by some time spent beachside prior to concluding the day with further activities and a sunset dinner nearby.
Where to Dine on the Island
Dining in Aruba is less about spontaneity and more about intention.
For the best experiences, reserve beachside tables at least one week in advance.
Favorites include:
- Marea at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar
- Elements Aruba at Bucuti & Tara
- Passions on the Beach
- Barefoot Restaurant
For something more elevated, I would plan a dinner at Akira Back Aruba—especially after a spa day.
For a more casual lunch and evening:
- Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant or The Grand Fish for shopping and exploring downtown along the Royal Plaza Mall, Renaissance Mall, And Cruise Terminal
- Surfside Bar for casual sunset views
If you’re aiming for a good spot—timing matters here especially in season.
A Small Detail That Makes a Big Difference
For beach days, renting chairs and essentials ahead of time through Travel Light Aruba makes everything feel effortless—one of those small decisions that elevates the entire experience.
And if I were returning, I would further plan to design each day with flow—movement, reset, and experience continuing to explore each area of the Island intentionally, leaving space to simply enjoy the natural beauty and prioritize fewer locations now that I have explored the majority of the spaces.
View a curated collection of photographs captured in Aruba by luxury destination wedding photographer Michelle Behre. With a deep understanding of the island’s most scenic locations, we specialize in elevated wedding photography experiences. If you’re planning a destination wedding or engagement in Aruba, inquire for availability and tailored coverage.
VIEW THE POST
After traveling to some of the most sought-after islands across the Caribbean—from St. John and St. Thomas to St. Lucia, St. Kitts, British Virgin Islands, and The Bahamas—I didn’t expect Aruba to stand apart the way it did.
But it does.
Aruba is effortlessly welcoming, incredibly safe, and visually stunning in a way that feels both elevated and relaxed. What makes it even more appealing—especially when planning ahead—is its location outside of the hurricane belt, making it a reliable escape year-round.
This small, arid island offers an unexpected contrast of landscapes. Think desert terrain meeting turquoise water, rugged national parks paired with soft white-sand beaches, and a balance of adventure and indulgence that feels thoughtfully curated.
View photographs captured by Aruba Destination Wedding Photographer, Michelle Behre Photography as she explored the One Happy Island in Spring 2026. Planning your proposal and wedding and interested in having a Photographer who is familiar with the landscape and island? Inquire for further details on our availability and destination wedding photography.
ED Card, US Passport Getting There + Getting Around
Flying into Queen Beatrix International Airport AUA is seamless and efficient—an easy start to the trip from Newark Liberty International Airport EWR.
To enter the island as a US resident, Aruba customs requires Passport and travelers to complete an online Embarkation/Disembarkation (ED) card before arrival and a fee. The ED card was uploaded to the Airline Carrier upon check-in. I also recommend for you to have this information printed and on-person.
For more information on the ED Card click here, to retrieve your ED Card click here.
Prior to Traveling here is my go-to to-do:
- Check-in with Air-fare (24 hours)
- Print Itineraries (72 hours prior)
- Download What’sApp and to update your mobile carrier when you are traveling out of the US for an International Day Plan (for AT&T) (72 hours prior)
- Notify your major credit card companies as well (72 hours prior)
- Finalize Packing (72 days)
For exploring, renting a car is essential. Aruba isn’t an island you want to experience passively—you’ll want the flexibility to move.
- Sunset Car Rental — reliable for standard vehicles
- RealDeal Car Rental Aruba — ideal if you plan to explore more rugged terrain, would recommend a Jeep Wrangler if you plan to drive through the Arikok National Park
Landscapes That Feel Unexpected
One of the most surprising elements of Aruba is how diverse the terrain feels.
At Arikok National Park, you’ll find a desert-like landscape filled with cacti, rugged coastline, and expansive views that feel completely different from the typical Caribbean aesthetic.
I would skip some of the more crowded cave excursions next time and prioritize open landscapes and coastline drives—they feel more aligned with the overall experience Aruba offers. Plan time for the beauty of Boca Keto and Natural Pool, and Boca Prins.
Packing Tip: I highly recommend packing hat, sunscreen, swim-shoes, swimwear, SPF rash guard, towels, change of clothes if planning on swimming, sneakers, and water to stay hydrated. Also, the mud will stain your rash guards, so I would recommend to possibly wear a rash guard that is “newer” or a potential favorite that you can part with as it may get stained with the mud of the park pending the terrain.
For planning your route, the lanes are one way to the Boca Keto and Natural Pool, one way to Boca Prins, one way to the caves and exiting SE towards Baby Beach or exiting NW towards Natural Bridge and Baby Bridge towards the Lighthouse. Plan your route thoroughly to make the most of your day.
The Beaches Worth Planning Your Days Around
Aruba’s beaches are where the island really defines itself—each one offering a slightly different experience all worth exploring.
Avid snorkelers and free-divers? See this list for the best snorkeling in Aruba and a list of the top beautiful beaches visited and photos below:
West Coast
- Arashi Beach — calm, clear, ideal for snorkeling
- Palm Beach — lively, polished, and resort-forward
- Surfside Beach — relaxed and understated, beneath the airport runway, ideal if you like watching the planes take off
- Baby Beach — shallow, warm water that feels almost unreal, diving spot
- Mangel Halto — one of the most unique spots on the island, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking through mangroves, diving spot
East Coast
- Boca Grandi – ideal for kite-surfing, high winds and currents, diving spot
- Bachelor’s Beach – high winds and currents
If I were refining the itinerary, I would skip stops like Boca Grandi and Bachelor’s Beach and go straight to Baby Beach—it’s simply more worth your time.
Experiences Beyond the Beach
Aruba isn’t just about relaxing—it’s about layering experiences.
- Swim in Conchi Natural Pool and hot baths, tucked within the national park
- Explore shipwreck diving sites (even if just by snorkel)
- Visit Aruba Aloe for a more local, wellness-focused stop learning about Aruba’s history of their economy and leading global exports with Royal Aruba Aloe pioneering modern cosmetic, sun care, and skincare exports .. my personal favorite and purest form if Aloe is Alyhydran, reducing new and existing scars healing skin.
And for a more elevated reset, book a treatment at Mandara Spa at Marriott Ocean Club.
I began the morning with an organic breakfast, followed by a morning walk and outdoor activity and transitioned into spa treatments. Including thermal and cryotherapy experiences followed by Coconut Poultice Massage followed by some time spent beachside prior to concluding the day with further activities and a sunset dinner nearby.
Where to Dine on the Island
Dining in Aruba is less about spontaneity and more about intention.
For the best experiences, reserve beachside tables at least one week in advance.
Favorites include:
- Marea at JOIA Aruba by Iberostar
- Elements Aruba at Bucuti & Tara
- Passions on the Beach
- Barefoot Restaurant
For something more elevated, I would plan a dinner at Akira Back Aruba—especially after a spa day.
For a more casual lunch and evening:
- Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant or The Grand Fish for shopping and exploring downtown along the Royal Plaza Mall, Renaissance Mall, And Cruise Terminal
- Surfside Bar for casual sunset views
If you’re aiming for a good spot—timing matters here especially in season.
A Small Detail That Makes a Big Difference
For beach days, renting chairs and essentials ahead of time through Travel Light Aruba makes everything feel effortless—one of those small decisions that elevates the entire experience.
And if I were returning, I would further plan to design each day with flow—movement, reset, and experience continuing to explore each area of the Island intentionally, leaving space to simply enjoy the natural beauty and prioritize fewer locations now that I have explored the majority of the spaces.
View a curated collection of photographs captured in Aruba by luxury destination wedding photographer Michelle Behre. With a deep understanding of the island’s most scenic locations, we specialize in elevated wedding photography experiences. If you’re planning a destination wedding or engagement in Aruba, inquire for availability and tailored coverage.
April 28, 2026
VIEW THE POST
Charleston, South Carolina: historic charm, Southern hospitality, and unparalleled wedding inspiration.
When couples envision the ideal destination wedding, Charleston, South Carolina inevitably rises to the top — and our editorial shoot at the iconic The William Aiken House perfectly showcases why. This historic estate in the heart of downtown — nestled on Upper King Street among world-class shopping, dining, and culture — offered the perfect backdrop for a day infused with romance, refined style, and some of the most timeless impressions in wedding photography captured by Charleston Wedding Photographer Michelle Behre.
The Venue: Historic Romance Meets Modern Elegance
The William Aiken House is a historic 1807 mansion on King Street that blends 19th-century architecture with sophisticated design elements — manicured gardens, majestic magnolia trees, and grand ballrooms give every wedding a narrative of depth and allure. The estate’s private courtyards and expansive piazzas complement every newlywed portrait with natural light and elegant compositions that make destination weddings unforgettable.
Located steps from beloved Charleston favorites — including Charleston Place for luxury shopping and stylish hotel stays — and surrounded by excellent cafes and restaurants like Palmetto Cafe, Husk Charleston, and Black Door Cafe for coffee — this neighborhood is as guest-friendly as it is picturesque.
Location Choice: Why Charleston Inspires
Charleston’s combination of historic sites, cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and Lowcountry light makes it a dream destination for weddings and for photography alike. Couples traveling from near and far find a perfect blend of Southern grace and cultural life — from boutique exploration on Upper King Street to historic tours of landmark buildings — that makes photography days feel like vacations in their own right.
Top local experiences for destination couples:
- Charleston Place — Exceptional shopping and relaxation, just moments from your wedding events.
- Palmetto Cafe — Casual yet refined bites before or after rehearsal dinners.
- Husk Charleston — Chef-driven Southern cuisine that defines Charleston’s modern food scene.
- Black Door Cafe — A perfect coffee stop between shoots or for guest meetups.
Fashion and Beauty: Channeling Charleston Style
Inspired by Charleston’s timeless charm and Southern wedding inspiration, the bridal fashion in this shoot blended classic silhouettes with modern elegance — from ethereal ceremony gowns to reception looks with contemporary edge. Fine estate jewelry and heirloom gems added another layer of narrative — heirlooms that spoke of legacy, history, and refined taste.
Beauty choices stayed true to the venue’s surroundings: soft, luminous skin, subtle yet impactful touches that held up under Southern sunlight, and looks that transitioned beautifully from garden portraits to ballroom receptions for this Charleston Wedding.
Photography Inspiration: Crafting a Visual Love Story
As a Charleston destination wedding photographer, my approach in Charleston centers around embracing place as a character in your love story. Here’s how I translate this into photography:
- Architectural storytelling: Using historic doors, gardens, and grand interiors as intentional backdrops.
- Natural light mastery: Charleston’s soft golden hour light enhances skin tones and scene depth.
- Directional emotion: Posing that feels natural yet elevated — capturing moments as they unfold, while anchoring images in timeless elegance.
Photography isn’t just about moments — it’s about meaningful context. Every bride and groom deserve imagery that feels both personal and cinematic.
Vendor Team
Here’s the incredible team behind the original Inspired By This editorial — each a best-in-class vendor perfect for destination Charleston weddings:
Featured Inspired by This Charleston Wedding Venues: The William Aiken House, PPHG Charleston Photographer: Michelle Behre Photography Cake: Miri Nadler Cakes Florals: The Gardeners Green – thegardenersgreen.com Hair & Makeup: Charleston I Do Jewelry: Croghan’s Jewel Box Bridal Atelier: Bridal House of Charleston Bridal Designers: Atelier Beccar, Justin Alexander Signature Rentals: Curated Events Charleston Invitations: Every Little Something Wedding Planner: Tara LeClaire Wedding
Curating Your Own Destination Wedding in Charleston
Whether you’re captivated by historic elegance, artisanal details, or dreamy Lowcountry landscapes, Charleston offers a destination wedding experience that feels intimate, stylish, and timeless.
If you’re planning your own Charleston celebration — and you want imagery that elevates both the destination and your love story — let’s start a conversation. Your wedding deserves to be remembered with beauty, intention, and images that stand the test of time, contact us to check your date.
February 18, 2026
VIEW THE POST
Every year Adam and I enjoy traveling during the winter months. I find travel off-peak season the best time for us as well. We have found attractions not too busy. During this time, we visited the beautiful, sunny beaches of the sunshine-state, Florida. During our travels we love to kick back, relax, soak in some sun and explore the beautiful locations that the sunshine state has to offer. We have visited Tampa and Clearwater, Florida and explored this beautiful seaside city.
During this trip we rented our vehicle directly at from Enterprise car rental at the Tampa International Airport (TPA). Travel time was less than 2 hours from Newark International Airport (EWR). Having a rental vehicle allowed for us to travel as we pleased instead of relying on Uber. The rate for the rental car was pretty reasonable considering the amount of locations per day that we visited and parking our rental in the city was also not an issue as there was an abundance of street parking available.
I find to that the CityPass is a hidden gem. I love to plan my days while traveling and purchase CityPass tickets to utilize a discounted rate while traveling if visiting the major attractions. As we were traveling during the COVID-19, unfortunately some of the beautiful destinations were closed. So we’ll definitely want to travel back to visit the beautiful ChiHuly Collection and Ringling Musuem of Art. Otherwise, we enjoyed an abundance of locations and also hitting up the beautiful local beaches, as well!
Check out a few favorite photographs below and our Tampa travel guide for a relaxing and family-friendly trip while visiting Clearwater, Tampa and Tampa Bay, Florida!
Comments? Questions? Drop them in the comments below!
Places to Stay in Tampa
- The CURRENT Hotel, beautiful ocean views
- Le Méridien Tampa, The Courthouse, stunning architecture in the heart of downtown
- Tampa Marriott Water Street, waterfront views and a rooftop pool
Things to Do in Tampa
Parks/Excursions
Shopping
Museums & Art Galleries
- Ringling Museum of Art, Sarasota, Florida
- ChiHuly Collection, St. Petersburg
- Tampa Bay History Center
- The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts
Beaches & Outdoor Recreation
- Madeira Beach
- Tropics Boat Tours
- Siesta Key
- Kai Lani Catamaran, Sunset Sail in Clearwater
- Beach, Caladesi Island (ferry departs at 10am from Honeymoon Island Docks every 30 mins)
- John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk at Madeira Beach
- Treasure Island
- Hog Island at Honeymoon Island (ferry to Caladesi departs at 10 from Honeymoon Island)
- Fort de Soto Park, Tierra Verde (40 mins from Tampa)
Places to Eat in Tampa
Casual Dining
- Bar Taco
- Crabby’s Beachwalk Bar & Grille
- Green Lemon
- Salt Shack On the Bay
- Sparkman Ward Downtown
- Frenchy’s Rockaway Grille
- Hog Island Fish Camp Seafood Restaurant & Bar
- Salty’s Island Bar & Grille
VENDORS
Venues: Atlantis, Paradise Island, Bahamas, Flying Cloud, Powerboat Adventures
Bahamas Destination Wedding & Engagement Photography: Michelle Behre Photography
Inquire today to learn all about our New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and destination wedding photography services. Visit Nassau, Paradise Island, Dunmore Town, and Harbour Island to see more photos from this property. We can assist you in photographing your romantic engagement session and your wedding day! Inquire with Michelle for availability and more details, today!
Comments? Leave them below!
Questions? Contact us to learn more about our wedding photography services.
September 30, 2021
MICHELLE BEHRE, THE PHOTOGRAPHER
GET TO KNOW her
xoxo,
Michelle
With cheerful energy, a contagious smile, and an intentional eye, award-winning celebrity New Jersey wedding and commercial photographer, Michelle Behre, captures love stories to stand the test of time.
She uses her refined fine art photography skills to expertly capture the wedding day. From the excitement as the champagne pours to your picture-perfect portraits, Michelle expertly blends editorial documentary, and photojournalism photography in fine art curation of your special wedding events and day.
She confidently empowers each client who steps in front of her lens. During your time together, she illuminates your personalities, genuine compassion, and captures the joy that you and your families bring to one another in an unobtrusive fashion.
