Aruba is a playground for adventurous travelers, thanks to a perfect combination of climate and culture that keeps this desert island feeling fresh and exciting. You can bask on blissful beaches and swim in crystal-clear waters, but you can also explore rocky desert landscapes, ride horses along pristine coastlines, scuba dive on wartime wrecks, and board the party bus in Oranjestad. Your days in Aruba will never feel empty!
While most people stay in the resorts on Aruba’s northwest coast, it pays to explore beyond the infinity pools. The island’s pocket-sized capital, Oranjestad, offers bustling nightlife and candy-colored architecture. Many of the island’s sand-sprinkled beaches are also busy hubs for water sports, including scuba diving, surfing, and kite surfing.
Moreover, the island’s mangroves and volcanic national park are havens for wildlife and bases for more adventures. Whether you’re looking for waves, thrills, or natural wonders, here are the top things to do in Aruba.
1. Plunge into a Natural Pool at Arikok National Park
Covering about 20% of Aruba, Arikok National Park hosts a breathtaking natural pool where visitors can swim and cliff jump amidst crashing waves. Conchi Natural Pool is located on Aruba’s rugged northeastern coast; from the park entrance, hikers can follow a 3.5-mile trail or travel here by rented Jeep.
Planning tip: The lone road leading to the pool snakes around the Sero Arikok Volcano. If you travel under your own power, you’ll need to rent a 4WD vehicle.
2. Take an Off-Road Tour Through a Dramatic Volcanic Landscape
For a change of pace from basking on the beach, Arikok National Park offers a labyrinth of roads and trails that meander through arid volcanic landscapes. Adventure tours by 4WD cost about US$100, providing a fun exploration of this rugged landscape. It is important to note that other kinds of off-road vehicles were banned from the park in 2021.
3. Dive World War II Shipwrecks on the Northwest Coast
In February 1942, a German U-boat torpedoed the British tanker SS Pedernales off the Aruban coast. Parts of the ship remain on the seabed, creating an artificial reef teeming with marine life. This wreck is accessible to divers of all experience levels and is a frequent stop for dive shops operating on the island.
Just along the coast lies the cargo ship SS Antilla, submerged in 55ft of water. Measuring 400ft in length, this German ship was scuttled at the onset of World War II, remaining one of the most popular dive sites in the Caribbean today.
4. Ride the Wind at Hadicurari Beach
Windsurfers and kitesurfers will feel right at home on Hadicurari Beach, known for hosting major windsurfing competitions. Beginners can take lessons while experienced surfers can rent gear and hit the shallow waters.
5. Take a Glass-Bottomed Kayak Through Aruba’s Mangrove Forests
A glass-bottomed kayak allows you to get close to vibrant fish and marine life that flourish along Aruba’s coast. Tours of the island’s largest mangrove forest let you glide between trees while enjoying a unique marine ecosystem.
6. Skydive to the Beach for Whole-Island Views of Aruba
For adrenaline junkies, a skydive provides an exhilarating plunge towards the Earth or the chance to enjoy breathtaking views of the entire island of Aruba. It’s an experience that includes views from Oranjestad to Arikok before descending to a drop zone next to the beach.
7. Lounge Under Divi Divi and Fofoti Trees
To capture a quintessential photo of Aruba, seek out the island’s famous fofoti and divi divi trees. These windswept trees line the beaches and always point towards the southwest, thanks to the prevailing trade winds.
8. Explore the Guadirikiri and Fontein Caves
Delve into the pre-Columbian history of Aruba at the Guadirikiri and Fontein caves, which feature petroglyphs left by the Arawak people. Hiking to the caves offers a glimpse of ancient life in the Caribbean and unique geological formations.
9. Catch the Party Bus in Oranjestad
Oranjestad’s vibrant party bus offers a fun-filled tour that perfectly kicks off a night on the town after spending a day by the beach. Options range from outdoor dinners to a lively pub crawl.
10. Dive Beneath the Caribbean on a Submarine
For those less confident in the water, a submarine adventure lets you admire coral reefs and marine life through the windows of tourist submarines. These tours provide impressive views without the need to dive.
11. Explore the Countryside on Horseback
Aruba’s dry landscape is perfect for horseback riding, allowing you to soak in the stunning scenery. Operators across the island offer horseback excursions, including popular beach rides.
12. Catch the Sunset from the California Lighthouse
Aruba’s California Lighthouse, towering at 180ft, is an iconic spot to enjoy striking views during sunset. The experience can be enhanced by joining tours that lead you to a viewing deck, providing expansive vistas of the island.
This article showcases the diverse experiences and adventures that await in Aruba, making it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
