Top 19 Best Things To Do in Aruba

Hey there! Are you planning a trip to Aruba but not sure what to do? Well, you’re in luck! In this blog post, we’re going to share the top 19 best things to do in Aruba. From relaxing on stunning beaches to exploring top attractions like the Natural Pool, there’s something for everyone. 

Check out our YouTube video on Top 19 Best Things To Do in Aruba – Travel Guide 🇦🇼

Wondering what Aruba is best known for? We’ll tell you all about its beautiful weather, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. And if you’re looking for a more structured experience, we’ve got you covered with some awesome guided tours. So, get ready to discover the best of Aruba and start planning your trip now!

1. EXPLORE THE BEACHES

Aruba is beach heaven! You’ll find tons of beaches here with different vibes, from hype beaches packed with activities and water sports to quiet ones where you can relax with just the Caribbean Sea.

Whether you want to do free things like sunbathe, swim, explore, or take part in activities like windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling, there’s a beach for you. Some of the most famous ones include Eagle Beach, Arashi Beach, Baby Beach, and Flamingo Beach.

We even made a video showing all of them! So, what are you waiting for? Come and explore the stunning beaches of Aruba!

2. EXPLORE ORANJESTAD & NOORD

Exploring the main towns of Aruba is a must-do! Noord and Oranjestad are two great places to visit, especially if you’re into Dutch architecture. After all, Aruba is technically part of the Netherlands!

You’ll find lots of boutiques, street vendors, upscale stores, restaurants, and bars, so you definitely won’t be bored.

These towns are popular with tourists, so prices may be a bit higher, but it’s worth it to get a feel for Aruba and see those beautiful beaches for the first time. There are plenty of fun things to do here, so come and check them out!

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3. BUSHIRIBANA RUINS

Ready to break out of your resort and explore the beauty of Aruba? You’ve got to check out the Gold Mill Ruins, also known as the Bushiribana Ruins!

These abandoned 19th-century ruins are located right next to the Caribbean Sea and surrounded by gorgeous cacti that you’ll find all over the island.

When you’re there, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an episode of “Game of Thrones,” but with more sunshine and less violence. And the best part? It’s totally free!

You can drive there and explore every inch of the ruins, searching for any gold pieces left behind and taking unique shots. So, come and see the Bushiribana Ruins – it’s a must-visit spot in Aruba!

🦩 Read 23 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Aruba 🦩

4. NATURAL CAVE POOL

Get ready to be blown away by a hidden gem in Aruba – the Natural Cave Pool! It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Bushiribana Ruins, but so hidden that we stumbled upon it by accident.

This amazing spot is perfect for snorkeling and cliff jumping and is one of the top attractions in Aruba. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem – it’s one of the coolest things to do on the island!

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Get free 3-Day Aruba Itinerary!

Packed with top-rated tours, daily schedules, and helpful resources, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip!

GET MY ITINERARY ➜

5. SAN NICOLAS

All Glam Girls, unite! Get ready to snap some amazing Instagram shots in San Nicolas, Aruba’s Sunshine City!

This area may be a little quiet, but it’s full of unique charm and colorful murals. It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting Aruba and looking to explore some beautiful art. Plus, it’s free!

While you’re there, check out some of the shops and restaurants. Although it’s been pretty empty every time we’ve visited, it’s a perfect quick stop on your way to Baby Beach. Don’t miss out on this gem of a town!

🛟 Get cheap travel insurance for Aruba

6. ATV TOURS

Looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation? Well, forget about it! Aruba’s ATV tours will give you an adrenaline rush like no other!

These guided tours take you on an adventure to some of the most hidden gems in Aruba, and nothing beats the rush of exploring the island’s unique terrain with no limits. Plus, some tours even include snorkeling stops for even more fun.

Don’t worry about choosing the perfect tour; we’ve got you covered with our top ATV and UTV picks, listed right below. Get ready to ride!

🛺 UTV Rental

🛺 UTV with Tres Trapi

🛺 ATV Off Roading Adventure

🛺 UTV & Flamingo Encounter*

🛺 The Ultimate UTV Island Tour

* Flamingo Encounter on de Palm Island, not Flamingo Beach on Renaissance Island.

7. NATURAL BRIDGE

Let’s talk about the Natural Bridge, or more specifically, the Natural Baby Bridge. You see, the original bridge collapsed in 2005, but this spot is still a top attraction in Aruba because it’s right next to where the original used to be.

The ocean waves have been carving this coastline for ages, and you can check out this amazing sight for yourself when visiting Aruba.

While there may not be a lot to do there, it’s an amazing stop to take in the beautiful sights and landscapes.

And of course, no trip to the Natural Bridge would be complete without a visit to a souvenir store nearby, where you can grab some snacks, pick up some gifts, and even practice your Papiamento, which, fun fact, is one of Aruba’s official languages.

Best of all, visiting this spot is completely free! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take an UTV tour to explore the stunning Aruba landscape.

8. THE CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSE

If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Aruba, the California Lighthouse is a must-see!

You can enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the island any time of day for free or you can go all the way to the top for just $5. While there isn’t much else to do there, it’s definitely worth the visit.

On the other side of the island, there’s the Sero Colorado Lighthouse, which is much shorter and not as impressive.

Unless you’re a lighthouse enthusiast, you can skip this one and enjoy your time exploring other must-see attractions in Aruba.

9. ARUBA’S NIGHTLIFE

Listen up party animals, if you are in Aruba and you are not checking out the South Beach nightlife, you are doing it wrong!

Now, it may not be as wild as the Miami scene you’re used to, but trust me, there is still plenty of fun to have – especially on the weekends.

And for all of you foodies and shopaholics, South Beach has got you covered with tons of amazing restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops all in one place.

While Aruba is known for its laid-back vibes, don’t let that stop you from having a good time. So get out there and live a little – who knows what kind of crazy fun you might have! There are plenty of fun activities to do in Aruba, so don’t miss out.

10. ARIKOK NATIONAL PARK

One of the top attractions in Aruba is the Arikok National Park, and trust me, you’ll want to rent a jeep for this adventure! The terrain is like a wild rollercoaster ride, filled with cacti and rocks.

While you can explore the park in a regular car, you’ll miss out on the best parts that can only be accessed by an all-terrain vehicle. You can even book a guided tour to see all the top spots.

If you’re a nature lover, the Arikok National Park is a must-see destination in Aruba. It covers almost 20% of the island and boasts some of the most beautiful sights you’ll ever see. 

Admission is $11 per day. So rent a jeep, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through Aruba’s breathtaking landscapes.

🏝 Find cool things to do in Aruba

• CONCHI NATURAL POOL •

The Natural Pool in Aruba is a hidden gem surrounded by rocks and coral. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling and a fun and unique thing to do while in Aruba.

Although it takes about 40 minutes to drive there and requires a bit of a hike, it’s definitely worth the effort.

Tip: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning or after 4PM when the tours are leaving.

• BOCA KETO •

Looking for a non-touristy spot to enjoy some secluded beach vibes? Check out Moro Beach, also known as Boca Keto or Little Aruba, thanks to the massive rock that looks oddly similar to the Aruba coastline.

You can get there by off-roading or taking a horseback tour from the Natural Pool. This hidden gem is definitely a 10 out of 10 for a unique and non-touristy beach experience.

• THE CAVES •

If you are up for another adventure, there is another unique thing to do in the Arikok National Park. The park is home to some of the most epic caves on the island, including the famous Fontein Cave with Arawak Indian drawings and a bat colony. But don’t worry, the bats are tucked a little further away.

And then there’s the Quadirikiri Cave, where sunlight streams through holes in the roof, creating your own private natural light show. It is an absolutely unreal experience and definitely a top must-do attraction while visiting Aruba.

Overall, Arikok National Park is a beautiful and unique destination that we definitely recommend to anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Aruba.

Plus, if you’re looking for some adventure, the park offers a bunch of outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and off-roading that you can try out!

11. SNORKELING

You cannot go to Aruba and not go snorkeling. It is an absolute must-do when visiting Aruba!

The crystal-clear waters allow you to explore the vibrant underwater world and discover the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

Tres Trapi is, in our opinion, one of the best beaches to spot turtles, and it was one of our most favorite snorkeling spots too! It was actually the only place where we were able to see sea turtles, and it was such a fun and unique experience.

We highly recommend snorkeling if you want to explore Aruba’s underwater world and all of the amazing marine life.

🤿 Book your Eco-Friendly Snorkel Excursion 🤿

12. BALASHI GOLD MILL RUINS

Balashi Gold Mill Ruins is another quite popular tourist attraction and a historic site. It’s worth a quick visit if you’re in the area, but not necessarily a must-see if you’re short on time.

Nature lovers will enjoy the spot, as there are many amazing cacti and turquoise lizards to see, especially near the Spanish Lagoon.

You can add it to your list of things to do when visiting Aruba and tell us all about your experience in the comments below!

13. THE BUTTERFLY FARM

Okay, I never thought I would be so excited about this, but you have to check out the butterfly farm in Aruba! It is a really unique experience and a top attraction that you definitely don’t want to miss!

For just $16 per person, you can take a guided tour and come back as many times as you want during your stay.

Once you’re inside, you can relax in the butterfly oasis and even make a wish if a butterfly lands on you. Plus, it’s said to bring good luck!

So, if you’re looking for a fun and memorable experience, add the butterfly farm to your list of places to visit in Aruba.

14. ARUBA ALOE FACTORY

You can’t visit Aruba without stopping by the Aloe Factory! The best part? It’s totally free!

With a free guide included, you’ll learn about the history of aloe in Aruba, walk through the aloe fields, and see how their products are made right on site.

And you know what is even cooler? You get to try a slice of this superior aloe for yourself! Now, okay, I may not have been a fan of the taste, but hey…at least now I know.

After you are done with all of the exploring, you can step inside the factory and check out all of their amazing products.

Get your wallets ready, because I assure you that you won’t be able to resist shopping. Their products are top notch quality, and you’re going to fall in love with all of them.

15. THE PARTY BUS

Are you ready to party? Then you need to hop on Aruba’s PARTY BUS! This tour is the ultimate way to have fun and see the island’s hottest bars.

It’s like a moving happy hour, with great music, dancing, and plenty of drinks to go around. You’ll meet tons of fun people who are all ready to have a great time.

Trust us, this is one ride you don’t want to miss! It’s a must-do attraction for anyone looking for fun things to do in Aruba.

🍹 Book the Kukoo Kunuku Happy Hour Party Bus 🍹

16. THE ALTO VISTA CHAPEL

Looking for a peaceful and spiritual experience in Aruba? Look no further than the Alto Vista Chapel!

This hidden gem is the first church ever built on the island and offers stunning ocean views during sunrise.

Not only is it one of the most photogenic spots in Aruba, but it’s also a beloved place for locals, who attend free weekly services there.

If you’re looking for a non-touristy, quiet spot to reflect and find some inspiration, Alto Vista Chapel is the perfect destination for you!

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17. AYO ROCK FORMATIONS

Driving around Aruba is definitely unique, and like anywhere in your travels, you may get lost at some point.

We found this hidden gem by a total accident, and it turns out that these ancient rock formations are considered to be one of the most important archeological sites on the island.

They were created by the ancient indigenous people, the Arawak Indians, for ceremonial and religious purposes.

You can explore them for free, hike through the rock formations, and enjoy the natural beauty of the desert landscape.

It’s important to remember that the Ayo Rock Formations are sacred to the indigenous people of Aruba, so we should treat them with respect.

It’s a unique and non-touristy experience that’s worth checking out if you’re in the area!

18. BIG RED ANCHOR

Our next stop is definitely one of the most popular landmarks and photo spots in Aruba. And the best part? It’s completely free!

The big red anchor is a symbol of honor and remembrance for all sailors who lost their lives at sea.

It’s located in the middle of nowhere, so it’s a great quick stop when you’re on your way to Baby Beach, located nearby. Just be sure it’s not on the way to the nearby prison, unless, you know, that’s your thing.

19. FLAMINGO ISLAND

Alright, I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors by now, and yes, they’re true. There are flamingos in Aruba, and yes, you can hang out with them! 

So, let’s add some pink to your Aruba adventure!

It all starts at the Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort, where you can hop on a boat and sail for a few minutes to the private Renaissance Island.

There, you’ll find a pristine resort island vibe, complete with manicured beaches, fancy amenities, and the main stars of the show: a flock of pink flamingos who are excited to see you – especially if you have snacks.

They’re friendly and playful, just like cats, but be careful, they might bite if you don’t come prepared with some treats. So, make sure to bring some quarters for snacks, and get ready for the ultimate flamingo experience!

Renaissance Island is the perfect getaway within a getaway where you can enjoy the outdoor spa, the beachside restaurant, fancy cabanas, paddleboards, and all sorts of water activities.

Getting the Renaissance Island Aruba Day Pass is a bit tricky, but don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with these step-by-step video instructions on how to get to Flamingo Beach in Aruba.

The Renaissance Island is a top attraction for a luxurious vacation, and the Renaissance Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Aruba. So, make sure to add it to your list of must-visit places!

🦩 Read How To Visit Flamingo Beach in Aruba 🦩

In conclusion, Aruba is a fantastic destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and top attractions, there is no shortage of things to do on this island paradise. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore ancient rock formations, or hang out with flamingos, Aruba has it all.

So, if you’ve been to Aruba before, leave a comment below and let us know what your favorite activity was. We love to hear from you! And if you haven’t been yet, what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and discover the best things to do in Aruba for yourself!

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