Charlie's Bar

Charlie's Bar in San Nicolas has been pouring drinks since 18 September 1941, which makes it one of the oldest businesses still operating in Aruba. Every wall and ceiling is covered in objects left by visitors over the decades, and the kitchen is best known for shrimp and scampi.

What is Charlie's Bar known for?

The Aruba Tourism Authority highlights three things: the shrimp and scampi dishes, a huge collection of international memorabilia, and bartenders who share island stories. Guests are invited to leave a small personal item behind. The bar's own website describes a family business that serves Creole plates and specialises in seafood, and a gathering place for local artists and musicians. The menu listed by the tourism authority also includes surf 'n' turf, churrasco, tenderloin, burgers, fresh Caribbean catch, soups and daily vegetarian specials.

Why go?

After more than 80 years, its walls are a scrapbook of everyone who has passed through. It is the natural place to sit down after the San Nicolas murals or the street art walk, and during the Aruba Art Fair it is on the fair's street.

Practical notes

Opening hours are not published on the bar's website or the tourism listing, so call ahead, especially early in the week. Bring something small to leave if you want to join the tradition. See our San Nicolas guide for the rest of the town.