Aruba, a tiny Dutch Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela, boasts dry, sunny weather, blond beaches and gentle surf. Consistently beautiful weather, and a lack of tropical storms are just some reasons why Aruba is a popular island destination. Here’s a guide to the 20 best places to visit in Aruba that ensure a fabulous getaway.
#### 1. **Eagle Beach**
One of the most beautiful beaches in Aruba, Eagle Beach offers powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters along with low-rise resorts that give it an exclusive feel. It’s famous for its picturesque Fofoti trees.
#### 2. **Palm Beach**
Known for its nightlife, high-rise hotels, fancy restaurants, and water sports, Palm Beach is where you go for fun both on and off the sand.
#### 3. **Arikok National Park**
Covering nearly 20% of the island, this national preserve features unique geological formations, indigenous flora and fauna, and historical sites. It’s perfect for hiking and exploring Aruba’s natural beauty.
#### 4. **Oranjestad**
The colorful capital of Aruba is great for shopping (especially at Renaissance Mall), dining, and sightseeing. Don’t miss Fort Zoutman and the Historical Museum for a touch of history.
#### 5. **California Lighthouse**
Named after the steamship California which wrecked nearby in 1891, this lighthouse near Arashi Beach offers panoramic views of the island’s western coastline.
#### 6. **Baby Beach**
Located in Seroe Colorado at the southeastern end of the island, this sheltered bay is ideal for snorkeling with calm waters that are crystal clear.
#### 7. **Hooiberg**
Hooiberg or ‘Haystack’ stands out in Aruba’s landscape as a volcanic formation located almost at the center of the island offering expansive views from its summit.
#### 8. **Arashi Beach**
Near California Lighthouse lies Arashi Beach – perfect for swimming with soft sands and abundant marine life making it an ideal snorkeling spot as well.
#### 9. **Bubali Bird Sanctuary**
Nature lovers will appreciate Bubali Bird Sanctuary where you can observe many species of birds from an accessible observation tower.
#### 10. **Alto Vista Chapel**
This small Catholic chapel known as “Pilgrims Church” is reached by following a winding road lined with crosses marking Stations of the Cross leading to this peaceful site offering spiritual solace since it was built in 1750.
#### 11. **Butterfly Farm**
Visit early morning when butterflies are most active at this tropical garden where you can walk amongst butterflies from around the world flying freely.
#### 12. **Natural Pool (Conchi)**
Accessible only by four-wheel drive or on horseback within Arikok National Park, this secluded pool formed by volcanic rock circles is great for swimming away from strong ocean currents.
#### 13. **San Nicolas**
Often referred to as ‘Sunrise City’, San Nicolas is known for its vibrant street art scene including murals that transform local streets into art exhibits making it an emerging cultural hotspot.
#### 14. **Antilla Wreck**
Dive or snorkel around Antilla Wreck – one of Caribbean’s largest shipwrecks which sunk during World War II now serving as an artificial reef teeming with marine life.
#### 15. **Mangel Halto Beach**
This secluded beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities thanks to its rich marine ecosystem along with peaceful spots perfect for picnicking under mangrove trees.
#### 16. **Kukoo Kunuku Party Bus**
Experience nightlife on wheels with Kukoo Kunuku party bus; dance under stars while traveling between various pubs and clubs across Island making new friends along way.
#### 17 .**The Quadirikiri Caves**
Located within Arikok National Park these caves are notable not just their natural beauty but also because they house several species bats – watch your head!
#####18 .**Lourdes Grotto**
Built into rock face Sabaneta by local faithful who wanted place pilgrimage grotto provides tranquil space prayer reflection adorned religious statues flowers candles.
#####19 .**Smith Boulevard Promenade (Linear Park)**
Stroll down Smith Boulevard Promenade – long pedestrian walkway linking Oranjestad Surfside Marina providing scenic walks jogging cycling routes alongside coastline
#####20 .**Casibari Rock Formations**
Marvel at unusual tonalite boulders stacked atop each other Casibari Rock Formations climb up surrounding steps gain views surrounding countryside panoramas entire Island!
Whether you’re looking relaxation adventure culture history simply spectacular views every corner turn has something special offer travelers all ages!