Aruba, known as “One Happy Island,” is a paradise in the Caribbean, famed for its stunning blonde beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and balmy weather year-round. If you’re planning a trip and wonder what to do in Aruba, here’s your ultimate guide to 30 must-do activities that will make your vacation unforgettable.
**1. Relax on Eagle Beach**
Famous for its pristine and soft white sands, Eagle Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don’t miss the iconic Fofoti trees – they make great photo backdrops!
**2. Explore Arikok National Park**
Covering nearly 20% of the island, this national park offers rugged landscapes, unique flora and fauna, caves with ancient Indian drawings, and dramatic coastlines.
**3. Snorkeling at Boca Catalina**
This small bay offers clear waters and a rich marine life. It’s an ideal spot for beginners and seasoned snorkelers.
**4. Visit the California Lighthouse**
Named after a ship called the California which wrecked nearby in 1891, visiting this lighthouse offers panoramic views of Aruba’s western coastline.
**5. Discover Oranjestad’s Charm**
The capital city is vibrant with colorful Dutch colonial architecture, museums, shops, and cafes. Explore on foot or aboard the free trolley.
**6. Sail on a Catamaran**
Book a catamaran cruise to enjoy the beautiful coastline from another perspective while sipping cocktails.
**7. Dive at the Antilla Shipwreck**
The SS Antilla, a German WWII cargo ship now hosts one of the Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks and serves as an exciting dive site.
**8. Flamingo Beach at Renaissance Island**
Accessible via boat from Oranjestad (owned by Renaissance Hotel), this private island lets you chill with resident flamingos.
**9. ATV Tour of the Island**
For adventure seekers, an ATV tour can offer exhilarating rides through desert landscapes and along coastal paths.
**10. Try Local Cuisine by Zeerover**
At Zeerover in Savaneta Village fishers sell their daily catch that gets fried directly in front of you – it doesn’t get fresher!
**11. Kayak through Mangroves**
Exploring mangroves by kayak in Mangel Halto provides you with serene nature scenes and bird watching opportunities.
**12. Butterfly Farm Visit**
A magical encounter awaits at Aruba Butterfly Farm where tropical butterflies flutter in multitudes around you.
**13. Kitesurfing at Hadicurari Beach (Fisherman’s Huts)**
Windy conditions make it an ideal spot for kitesurfing or windsurfing enthusiasts.
**14. Horseback Riding Tours**
Ride through parts of Arikok National Park or along sandy beaches at sunset.
**15: Attend Carnival Celebrations*
If visiting during late January to early March, don’t miss out on vibrant parades celebrating Aruba’s biggest festival – Carnival!
**16: Shop Local Crafts at Cosecha Craft Store & Gallery**
Located in Oranjestad’s historic center offering authentic made-in-Aruba souvenirs crafted by local artists.
**17: See Natural Bridge Ruins*
Though collapsed in 2005 due to natural erosion over time; remains are still visited today alongside existing smaller natural bridges formed near Baby Bridge.
**18- Enjoy Nightlife on Palm Beach strip
From bars clubs casinos there’s plenty evening excitement found right along palm-lined beachfront strip
**19- Play Golf Tierra del Sol Resort **
Offering beautiful 18-hole golf course scenic ocean views challenging terrain perfect golfers all skill levels
**20- Submarine Expedition*
Submarine tours allow non-divers experience underwater wonders without getting wet!
**21- Hike Hooiberg Volcano*
Climb steps reach summit this volcanic formation located center island rewarding view awaits top
**22- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) sessions available multiple locations including popular Surfside Marina
**23- Bubali Bird Sanctuary*
Bird lovers should head Bubali Plas watchtower observe over species birds inhabiting area
**24- Take Historical Museum Tour *
Visit Historical Museum free insight into history culture island housed Fort Zoutman oldest building
**25 – Rejuvenate Spa Resorts *
Many resorts offer luxurious spa treatments incorporating local ingredients like aloe vera
**26 – Visit Donkey Sanctuary *
Interact these gentle creatures have been part traditional Aruban life centuries now cared sanctuary