Aruba Travel Guide: Best Things to See and Do
Introduction to Aruba Travel Guide
Welcome to Aruba—where pastel sunsets meet powdery white beaches and Caribbean charm shines year-round. Nicknamed “One Happy Island,” Aruba is a dreamy escape for sun-chasers, luxury seekers, adventure lovers, and honeymooners alike. This Dutch Caribbean gem promises more than just beach bliss: think desert landscapes, vibrant street art, and an impressively diverse culinary scene.
In this travel guide, you’ll discover everything you need to plan the ultimate Aruba vacation—from top attractions and outdoor adventures to food favorites, cultural highlights, and practical travel tips. Things to do in Aruba
Destination Overview & Neighborhood Breakdown
Located just off the coast of Venezuela, Aruba is part of the Lesser Antilles and boasts a dry climate, rugged terrain, and some of the clearest waters in the Caribbean. Unlike many tropical islands, Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt, making it a safe bet for year-round sunshine.
Oranjestad
The colorful capital of Aruba, Oranjestad is a blend of Dutch colonial architecture and Caribbean flair. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy shopping, museums, nightlife, and waterfront promenades.
Palm Beach
Ideal for luxury travelers and beach lovers, Palm Beach is lined with upscale resorts, fine dining, and high-end boutiques. The calm waters here are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and sunset cruises.
Eagle Beach
Frequently ranked among the best beaches in the world, Eagle Beach offers wide stretches of powdery sand and iconic divi-divi trees. It’s quieter than Palm Beach, appealing to families and honeymooners.
Natural Pool
Tucked into Arikok National Park, this secluded tide pool surrounded by volcanic rock is a hidden gem. The journey requires a 4×4 vehicle or guided tour.
Top Places to Visit
Arikok National Park
Covering nearly 20% of the island, Arikok is home to dramatic rock formations, ancient cave paintings, and desert landscapes dotted with cacti. Book a guided jeep tour or hike to the Natural Pool (Conchi).
Book an Arikok National Park off-road tour on Viator
California Lighthouse
Located on the island’s northwest tip, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the coastline and is a favorite photo spot at sunset.
Explore California Lighthouse Tours
De Palm Island
Just off of the western coast of Aruba, De Palm Island attracts visitors from the main island looking for an all-inclusive beach day.
Explore De Palm Island tours on Viator
Alto Vista Chapel
One of Aruba’s most spiritual and historical landmarks, this tiny yellow chapel is surrounded by peaceful desert views and walking trails.
Alto Vista Chapel Tours and Tickets
Best Time to Visit
Thanks to its desert-like climate, Aruba enjoys warm temperatures and low rainfall all year.
- High Season (December to April): Perfect weather, ideal for beachgoers and honeymooners. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds.
- Low Season (May to November): Quieter and more budget-friendly. Great for travelers seeking deals—plus Aruba lies outside the hurricane belt.
Festival Highlights:
- Carnival (January–February): Aruba’s largest cultural celebration, filled with parades, costumes, and Caribbean beats.
- Soul Beach Music Festival (May): Attracts international performers and partygoers.
Top Things to Do
- Snorkeling & Diving at Mangel Halto or Baby Beach
- Sail aboard a sunset catamaran cruise
- Explore caves in Arikok National Park
- Take a UTV or ATV island adventure
- Windsurfing and kiteboarding at Boca Grandi
- Day trip to De Palm Island for water park fun and snorkeling
Culture & History
Aruba’s heritage is a colorful mix of Arawak Indian, Dutch, and Spanish influences. Here are a few cultural highlights:
- Caiquetio Petroglyphs: Found in Fontein and Quadirikiri Caves, these indigenous cave drawings date back centuries.
- Aruba Carnival: More than a festival, it’s a cultural expression rooted in community pride and celebration.
- Languages: Dutch and Papiamento are official languages, but English and Spanish are widely spoken.
Beaches, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
Eagle Beach
Famous for its soft sands and photogenic divi-divi trees, ideal for relaxing and snorkeling close to shore.
Baby Beach
Shallow, calm waters make it a family favorite, with great visibility for beginner snorkelers.
Boca Catalina
A quiet cove for snorkeling and picnics, perfect for spotting colorful fish and coral reefs.
Hooiberg Hill
Climb 500+ steps for a rewarding panoramic view of the island.
Guadirikiri Caves Aruba
Hidden among Aruba’s white sand beaches and tropical waters lies the Guadirikiri Cave network of underground tunnels, filled with centuries-old rock formations.
Viewpoints & Photo Opportunities
- California Lighthouse – Iconic sunset spot with sweeping ocean views.
- Hooiberg – Best for sunrise and 360° views.
- Eagle Beach – Capture Aruba’s famous windswept divi-divi trees.
- San Nicolas Street Art – Every mural tells a story. Bring your camera!
Local Food & Drink Guide
Must-Try Dishes:
- Keshi Yena – A cheese-stuffed meat dish, rich with island flavor.
- Pastechi – Savory turnovers filled with cheese, beef, or tuna.
- Seafood Platters – Especially at Zeerovers, a local favorite in Savaneta.
Dining Recommendations:
- Budget: Zeerovers, Eduardo’s Beach Shack
- Mid-Range: The West Deck, Driftwood
- Upscale: Barefoot Restaurant, Flying Fishbone (dine with your feet in the sand)
Getting There & Getting Around
Airport: Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), just minutes from Oranjestad.
Transportation Options:
- Taxis – No meters, so confirm fare in advance.
- Car Rentals – Ideal for exploring Arikok and beaches.
- Public Buses (Arubus) – Affordable and convenient between major areas.
- Scooters & UTVs – Fun for short-term exploring.
Tips: Download the “Aruba Taxi” app or Google Maps for real-time navigation and transport updates.
- Rodger’s Beach: Quieter than Baby Beach with excellent swimming.
- Andicuri Beach: Rugged east coast beach ideal for bodyboarding.
- Bubali Bird Sanctuary: Peaceful hideaway for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Frenchman’s Pass: A mysterious, legend-filled gorge popular with locals.
Custom Experiences & Safety Tips
Custom Tours: Private island tours, scuba diving certifications, and horseback rides on the beach are just a few customizable options available.
View private tours in Aruba on Viator
Safety Tips:
- Aruba is very safe, but always watch belongings on the beach.
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen—protect the coral reefs!
- Avoid swimming on the wild east coast unless guided.
Nearby Destinations & Add-On Trips
While Aruba is a standalone gem, travelers often pair it with:
- Curaçao – Known for its Dutch architecture and diving sites. 30-minute flight.
- Bonaire – A diver’s paradise and eco-lover’s dream. Direct flights available.
Practical Travel Tips
Aruba is a small island with a big personality—from its world-class beaches to adrenaline-pumping desert tours and flavorful culinary scene. Whether you’re looking to unwind under the sun, dive into adventure, or explore cultural riches, Aruba delivers it all.
Quick Tips:
- Currency: Aruban Florin (AWG), but USD widely accepted
- Language: Papiamento & Dutch; English is common
- Driving: Right side of the road
- Tap Water: Safe to drink
Ready to plan your tropical escape? Book your Aruba tours and experiences on Viator and make “One Happy Island” your next unforgettable getaway. Visit our Homepage
