12 Best Things to Do in Aruba For Your First Visit

Aruba is one of the most popular travel destinations in the southern Caribbean. It is known for its pristine beaches, warm weather, and vibrant culture. This Dutch Caribbean island offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, and rich local traditions, making it a fantastic destination for all types of travelers. This short guide will showcase the top things to do on this small island that is full of many adventures.

Basic info:

• Name: Aruba
• Location: Southern Carribean
• How long to go for: 7 days
• Activities: See top recommendations
• Hotels: See top options

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Relax on Eagle Beach:

Eagle Beach, often ranked among the top beaches in the world, is famous for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic divi-divi trees. Here are some of the most popular things to do there:

• Activities: The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a leisurely walk along the shore. There are plenty of palapas (thatched umbrellas) for shade, making it a great spot to spend an entire day.
• Amenities: There are several beach bars, water sports rentals, and vendors offering everything from lounge chairs to jet ski rentals.
• Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or around sunset for fewer crowds and the best views.

Explore Arikok National Park:

Covering nearly 20% of the island, Arikok National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers. It’s home to diverse landscapes, including rugged cliffs, rolling hills, and hidden caves.

• Hiking: There are several trails of varying difficulty, offering stunning views of the coastline, cacti-covered hills, and ancient Arawak petroglyphs.
• Caves: Don’t miss Fontein Cave and Quadirikiri Cave, which feature ancient petroglyphs and chambers illuminated by natural skylights.
• Natural Pool (Conchi): This secluded pool, formed by volcanic rocks, is a popular spot for a refreshing swim. It’s accessible via a 4×4 vehicle, guided tour, or a challenging hike.
• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the trails can be rocky and the sun intense.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving:

Aruba’s clear, warm waters and vibrant marine life make it a top destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Here are details on some of the top spots and tours available for this activity:

• Mangel Halto: Located on the island’s southeastern coast, Mangel Halto offers shallow waters with a rich variety of coral and colorful fish, making it perfect for snorkelers.
• Antilla Shipwreck: For scuba divers, the Antilla Shipwreck is one of the largest shipwrecks in the Caribbean. This German freighter sank during World War II and now serves as an artificial reef teeming with marine life, including barracuda, moray eels, and turtles.
• Boca Catalina: This beach is another great snorkeling spot with calm, shallow waters filled with tropical fish. It’s also a popular stop for catamaran tours.
• Tours: Here’s one of the highest rated ones

Visit Oranjestad:

The capital city of Oranjestad is a colorful blend of Dutch colonial architecture, modern shopping, and lively local culture. When visiting, here’s some of the top things to do there:

• Shopping: Stroll through Renaissance Mall and Royal Plaza Mall for luxury brands, local crafts, and duty-free shopping.
• Historical Sites: Visit the Aruba Historical Museum at Fort Zoutman, the oldest structure on the island, to learn about Aruba’s history and culture.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy authentic Aruban dishes like keshi yena (stuffed cheese) and pastechi (savory pastries) at local restaurants and food stands. Don’t miss the fresh seafood, especially when dining at waterfront restaurants.

Experience Aruba’s Nightlife:

Aruba’s nightlife is lively and diverse, offering everything from beach bars to nightclubs and casinos.

• Palm Beach Strip: This area is bustling with activity, featuring beachside bars, lounges, and live music. It’s a great place to unwind with a tropical cocktail and enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe.
• Casinos: Aruba is known for its casinos, which offer a range of games, including slot machines, poker, and blackjack. Popular casinos include the Stellaris Casino at the Marriott and The Casino at Hilton Aruba.
• Gusto Nightclub: Located in Palm Beach, Gusto is one of Aruba’s hottest nightclubs, known for its DJ sets and energetic dance floor.

Watersports:

• Windsurfing and Kitesurfing: Head to Fisherman’s Huts (also known as Hadicurari Beach), where steady winds create perfect conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Rentals and lessons are available for all skill levels.
• Parasailing: Experience breathtaking views of the island’s coastline from above by going parasailing at Palm Beach or Eagle Beach.
• Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Enjoy a leisurely paddle along the calm waters of Mangel Halto or explore the mangroves of Spanish Lagoon.
• See top tours

Go Off-Roading to Natural Bridges and Baby Bridge:

Aruba’s rugged terrain is best explored by 4×4 vehicle or ATV. You can see rental info here but there are a few awesome places to explore:

• Natural Bridge: The original Natural Bridge collapsed in 2005, but its ruins still make for a striking sight. Nearby is the Baby Bridge, a smaller but still impressive limestone arch formed by waves over centuries.
• Guided ATV Tours: Several companies offer guided ATV or UTV tours, taking you through the island’s rocky landscapes, stopping at natural attractions like the Alto Vista Chapel, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, and Andicuri Beach.

Relax at Baby Beach:

Located at the southern tip of the island, Baby Beach is famous for its shallow, calm waters and crescent-shaped shoreline. Great for relaxing beach days but it also features several options for entertainment too:

• Swimming and Snorkeling: The shallow waters are perfect for families and beginners, offering safe swimming conditions and snorkeling areas filled with tropical fish.
• Beach Bars: Enjoy drinks and snacks at the nearby beach bars, where you can sip on a cocktail while taking in views of the turquoise water.

Explore the California Lighthouse:

Perched on the island’s northern tip, the California Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline and rolling sand dunes.

• History: Named after the SS California, a ship that sank off the coast in 1891, the lighthouse is one of Aruba’s most iconic landmarks.
• Sunset Views: It’s a popular spot for sunset viewing, offering a romantic and picturesque end to your day. The nearby La Trattoria El Faro Blanco restaurant is perfect for dinner with a view of the lighthouse and ocean.

Visit the Butterfly Farm:

Located near Palm Beach, the Butterfly Farm is a tropical haven filled with colorful butterflies from around the world.

• Guided Tours: Learn about the life cycle and behavior of butterflies on a guided tour, which offers insights into their habitats and unique characteristics.
• Great for Families: The Butterfly Farm is a wonderful stop for families, providing a peaceful break from the beach with the chance to see butterflies up close.

Discover the Aloe Vera Museum and Factory:

Aruba is home to one of the world’s oldest aloe companies, and the Aloe Vera Museum and Factory offers a fascinating look into the island’s aloe production.

• Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the history of aloe on the island, its medicinal properties, and how it’s processed into skincare products.
• Souvenir Shop: The factory shop offers a wide range of aloe-based products, from lotions to sunscreens, making it a great spot for souvenirs.

Attend a Carnival Festival:

If you’re visiting during January or February, don’t miss Aruba’s Carnival, a lively celebration filled with parades, music, dancing, and colorful costumes.

• Grand Parade: The highlight is the Grand Parade in Oranjestad, featuring floats, dancers, and musicians that showcase the island’s vibrant culture and traditions.
• Street Parties (Jump-Ups): Enjoy local street parties and music competitions, where you can dance to traditional calypso and soca rhythms.

Best Times to Visit: