Paradera is a small town and a census region in the central-northeastern part of Aruba. The census region Paradera encompasses the town of Paradera as well as nearby settlements and neighborhoods within Paradera, including Ayo, Bloemond, Piedra Plat, and Shiribana. At the time of the 2010 census, Paradera proper had a population of 2,486, and the Paradera census region had a population of 12,024. The area is known for its natural landmarks including Hooiberg, a conical hill rising approximately 165 m (541 ft), and the Casibari–Ayo diorite boulder formations, which feature ancient Arawak rock art. Though not a coastal resort zone, it is located close to Oranjestad, offering easy access to beaches and combines combines a laid-back residential atmosphere with vacation rentals, and local eateries.
The census town of Paradera is located the central-northeastern part of Aruba.[2] The census region Paradera encompasses the town of Paradera as well as nearby settlements and neighborhoods within Paradera, including Ayo, Bloemond, Piedra Plat, and Shiribana.[3] The region is characterised by flat-to-gently rolling terrain dotted with the Casibari and Ayo boulder fields. Hooiberg, a conical hill rises approximately 165 m (541 ft) above the terrain.[3]
At the time of the 2010 census, the Paradera census region consisted of four settlements. Paradera proper had a population of 2,486, and the Paradera census region had a population of 12,024.[4]
| Name | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shiribana | 1,755 | 1,945 | 3,700 |
| Paradera | 1,207 | 1,279 | 2,486 |
| Ayo | 1,582 | 1,836 | 3,418 |
| Piedra Plat | 1,203 | 1,217 | 2,419 |
| Total | 5,747 | 6,277 | 12,024 |
Until the previous census, the neighborhood of Bloemond was listed as a part of Paradera.[5]
The region is predominantly residential with a limited presence of vacation-rentals. Limited agriculture is seen near the base of Hooiberg. The area supports local eateries, artisanal shops, and niche tourism—especially centered around natural attractions like rock formations and pools.[6][7] Though not a coastal resort zone, it is located close to Oranjestad, offering easy access to beaches.[3] The St. Philomena's Church, a Roman Catholic church, dominates the skyline relative to the rest of the town's buildings.[8][9] Bushiribana Gold Mill ruins features remnants of a gold mine from the 19th century.[7] The Casibari–Ayo diorite boulder formations, feature ancient Arawak rock art, and the Museum of Antiquities Aruba exhibits artifacts from pre-ceramic times to the modern era and is located at Rococo Plaza in Paradera.[10][11]
