Inspired by TikTok videos of Flamingo Beach and the classic Beach Boys song, we traveled to this island paradise to escape the depths of the Boston winter.

We stayed at the Marriott Renaissance, which allowed access to their private island via an in-lobby boat pickup. It was expensive, but worth it to be able to get to the beach at 8am while the flamingoes were still hungry and not overwhelmed by the tourist attention. You also get the pick of the lounge chairs, to enjoy the shade in the afternoon.

Mangrove Walk
Mangrove Walk
Flamingo Cabana
Flamingoes and Cabanas

The short nature walk also has great wildlife, which seemed more active in the morning than later in the heat of the day.

Hermit Crab Closeup
Hermit Crab
Aruban Whiptail Lizard
Aruban Whiptail Lizard

We also enjoyed the Butterfly Farm, where I was able to get a few good shots.

Blue Clipper Butterfly
Blue Clipper
Lacewing Butterfly
Lacewing
Isabella's Longwing Butterfly
Isabella’s Longwing
Blue Morpho Butterfly
Blue Morpho